YAC presents... 2022-23

October 17, 2022  

With a decade and a half of bringing their special blend of Gypsy jazz and revisited cover songs, Christine Tassan et les Imposteures have made a name for themselves on the music scene. The latest show of these four exquisitely talented musicians brings together some of the best works by Django Reinhardt, Félix Leclerc and American swing composers.   

With a singular mix of virtuosity, daring and humour, the string band draws inspiration from one artist’s poetry and the other’s swing to weave a rich new musical universe. They’ve expanded their concept to the wonderful swing music of some contemporary "friends" of Django and Félix. They revisit hit songs created by George Gershwin, Louis Prima or Charlie Chaplin and blend them nicely with Django’s beautiful melodies.

www.christinetassan.com/en/artist/christine-tassan-et-les-imposteures/ 

January 13, 2023  

The earliest version of the santur dates back to as far as Babylonian stone carvings (669 BC). Now, Prairie Debut audiences have the opportunity to hear the evocative sound of this ancient Persian instrument performed in contemporary style that traverses time. The long resonating tones of Farhad Khosravi’s santur weave naturally with the earthy sounds of Daniel Stadnicki’s percussion, creating a seamless musical journey.   

Their second collaborative album, Mosàfer, was released in August 2020 to critical acclaim. Farhad and Daniel have performed in multiple venues and festivals in Edmonton including Royal Alberta Museum, Winspear Centre, Alberta Culture Days, Mile Zero Dance, and the Yardbird Suite. 

www.prairiedebut.com/2021-22-khosravi-stadnicki/

February 17, 2023  

Imagine a concert program blending the adventurous spirit of Nordic explorers with the shimmering allure of the Northern Lights, and you’ll have an inkling of what you might hear in the collaboration of clarinet and marimba duo Catherine Wood and Victoria Sparks. The two come together as Viðarneistí (pronounced vee-thar-nest-ee). The Icelandic term for “woodspark” is an apt description for what happens when the rich, sultry tone of the clarinet meets the percussive punch of marimba.   

The recognition of their shared Icelandic heritage serves as a spring board for Wood and Sparks, as they delve into themes from their Nordic roots. Viðarneistí invites audiences to experience this fascinating and unusual musical combination, as these warm and personable artists innovate from a variety of styles and genres. 

www.prairiedebut.com/2021-22-vidarneisti/

November 19, 2022  

A veteran singer, songwriter, and storyteller, Chris Henderson weaves his stories and music together for an evening that will leave you laughing, crying, and hopefully a few emotions in between.   

With four albums to his credit and more than 15 years of touring across Canada, Henderson brings a charisma and charm to the stage that leaves audience members feeling like they’ve known him for years and have lived the stories in his songs. Backed by some of Western Canada’s finest musicians, the show works well for all ages, and is sure to be an enjoyable evening.

www.chrishendersonmusic.com/

February 4, 2023  

With ringing endorsements from Motown icons like Lamont Dozier, who collaborated on Luke’s 2018 Icons Of Soul album, and Smokey Robinson who shouted him out on Twitter “Check out @lukemcmaster’s cover of my song ‘Ooh Baby Baby,’” adding, “Amazing job, Luke!”   

Luke confidently honors the Motown era that we know and love while crafting new soulful hits for the next generation. Referring to Luke’s latest release, the five-song EP Time, Bob Mersereau of CBC says “Time is a slow burn, McMaster unveiling his silky falsetto over a rich groove and layers of irresistible harmonies... Its timeless, classic sound is perfect right now.” 

Join Luke and his band for an evening of your favourite old and new, soulful songs, behind-the-scenes stories, and a whole lot of feel-good. You’ll be humming and smiling all the way home. 

www.lukemcmaster.com/ 

May 10, 2023  

Derina Harvey leads the award-winning Celtic Rock sensation, the Derina Harvey Band (dHb), who were very well-received on their 2018 Saskatchewan tour. dHb returns this season with new original music and reimaginings of traditional folk songs—songs that are streamed over a million times per month across the globe.   

Derina’s vibrant personality takes centre stage with humour, storytelling, and her world class vocals. dHb has been likened to a “rockier” version of Great Big Sea... if fronted by Adele! They’ve brought their high-energy east coast kitchen party across North America, leaving many an audience outof-breath and hollering from their seats! 

www.derinaharvey.com/