A quick update:

The Senator week in Toronto (Feb 14th-20th) turned out to be a fantastic experience and great fun in various ways. Having the Montréal band from the Movie Songs album along for the ride was an absolute delight, and I couldn't have asked for a better time or better vocal accompaniment. Finally, closing the week by sharing the stage with the charming Sophie Milman and Richard Whiteman's trio was more than I could have hoped for. My thanks to all the jazz regulars who came out, and to all the new faces who made this special Senator engagement such a treat.

It goes without saying but on this occasion simply shouldn't: my deepest gratitude for these Senator engagements goes to Sybil Walker, whose care in presenting artists at the Senator is well-known and respected around the globe. Walker's support of local musicians (myself included) has helped to create stability in our arts community, and her appreciation for and understanding of both the music and business of jazz has made her one of our local treasures. (Take the opportunity to tell her that when you're in the club this week to hear David Braid and his stellar group.)

Thanks to the media:

Once again my face made it to air in the media as a part of TVO's Studio 2 promotion of the “Here Come The Boys” Canadian crooner project. (Surely they missed the memo stating that after the events of 2004, I am officially over-exposed). Performing together with John Alcorn and (this time around) Pat Lacroix was such a relaxed pleasure, and everyone at TVO did a spectacular job in bringing the piece to air. Our special thanks to hard-nosed interviewer/hostess Paula Todd, who treated the subject of male oppression in jazz vocal circles with respect (and great good humour).

Much More Music in March:

The early reports of the demise of the Toronto jazz club scene circulating recently should be regarded with the utmost suspicion and a raised eyebrow. As the number of new venues is expanding quarterly and established venues are newly presenting jazz on a regular basis, one can safely conclude that the jazz scene is in fact healthier than ever. While the business is surely cyclical and established venues may close or convert for various reasons, it certainly isn't for lack of any loyalty in the Toronto jazz audience.

One of the established venues newly presenting a regular, high-quality jazz event is Revival show bar and restaurant, which established a stunning jazz brunch policy this past fall. Programmed and hosted with care by beloved Toronto vocalist Julie Michels, the Revival Jazz Brunch has a growing weekly following and great roster of artists appearing on stage. On March 13th, Reg Schwager's trio will accompany me on a return trip to Revival and we would love for you to be there to share in the music and wonderful food on offer, all at a reasonable price!

Hope to see you all out in the clubs,

George Evans (March 1, 2005)