There's plenty of Canadian music to savour at this year's Markham Jazz Festival, with Andrea Superstein giving us one of the best reasons why. Andrea has come all the way from Vancouver to present songs from her third album, "Oh Mother," which was nominated for the 2025 Juno Award for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year. Based on conversations with almost 100 mothers, the recording examines the challenges and joys of parenthood. Andrea, a vocalist, composer and arranger, has completed multiple tours across Canada. www.andreasuperstein.com

It's a big year for Caity Gyorgy (pronounced George). In March, she received her third Juno award, for her album "Hello! How Are You?" In April, she released "Asking For Trouble," featuring the music of Frank Loesser played with pianist Mark Limacher. And, on August 22, just after the Markham Jazz Festival ends, her next album will appear – "Caity Gyorgy with Strings: Arranged and Conducted by Mark Limacher." Calgary-born Caity composes songs in the style of the Great American Songbook. Come early for her show! www.caitygyorgy.com

Play it loud! That's what Jay Douglas loves to do. After a lifetime of struggle, the charismatic singer has earned his reputation as a key figure in the history of Caribbean and Canadian music. The recent TVO documentary "Play It Loud! How Toronto Got Soul" tells Jay's story, and his latest album "Confession" is a testament to his connection with blues and jazz. Jay will be joined in performance by his long-time band, the All-Stars. He likes to share the stage with the best. www.jaydouglasmusic.com

While jazz is a universal language, it can sometimes sound like Norwegian. At least it does when the Oddgeir Berg Trio takes the stage. This Oslo-based piano trio has been touring the world since the release in 2024 of its fifth album, "A Place Called Home." It is a concept album about the magic of nature, the spaces hidden in memory and the bonds that family provides. Berg's compositions are inspired by the tiny island of Rolla, population 900, where his father was born. www.oddgeirbergtrio.com

Wild stage antics are not the only reason the Shuffle Demons have been jazz stars for 40 years. All their stunts are backed up by high-quality professional playing. Their style is on display in their 10th album, "Are You Really Real," which was released this year. Shuffle Demons have won several music awards, done numerous TV and radio appearances and have toured nationally and internationally, including 25 cross-Canada tours. Expect lively romps in the crowd, free jazz moments, danceable funk, poetry, ground-breaking solos and more. www.shuffledemons.com