Artword Artbar 2009 – 2019

Artword Artbar was a cabaret-style venue at 15 Colbourne Street, Hamilton, close to James Street North, run by Ron Weihs and Judith Sandiford. It had live music, theatre and dance performances four nights a week (or more). We offered simple but delicious food prepared to order, good beer, wine and spirits. There was an art gallery downstairs and art on the walls.

In 2019, after 10 wonderful years, we received an offer from an architectural design company to buy the building. We sold it. On Saturday, November 16, 2019, The Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band played our last concert.

Three months later? The pandemic arrived.

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What happened in 2019

Here’s 2019 at Artword Artbar in review. Thanks to all the wonderful performers and audiences. The performers represented in this video are not, by any means, all! There were nights when I was just too busy to take photos.

 

Posted in Music, Music-bluegrass, Music-Blues, Music-cabaret, Music-Classical, Music-country, Music-folk, Music-funk, Music-Improvisors, Music-Jazz, Music-Latin, Music-pop-etc., Music-rock, Music-roots, Music-singer/songwriter, Music-Soul/R&B, Music-World, News, Theatre | Comments Off on What happened in 2019

News (Big News!): We’ve sold Artword Artbar.

Artword Artbar Sept 4, 2019, Ronald Weihs and Judith Sandiford. Photo Cathy Coward Hamilton Spectator

Announced September 4, 2019: News (Big News!): We’ve sold Artword Artbar. Our lovely place on Colbourne Street.
This fall will be our last! And it will be a blast! So don’t be downcast. Don’t look aghast. Just get here real fast.
We’ve been doing this for ten years, and it’s time to celebrate. This fall, we’re featuring some of the musicians that have been through the journey with us. We’ll be going like always until November 16, when The Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band will be serenading us out with some lovely harmonies and ultra-fancy picking. (Due to demand, we’ve added a second Hill Brothers show on November 17 at 3 pm.)
Starting December 5, 2019, 15 Colbourne Street will become the new home of SMPL Architectural Design Studio.    …What happened?  Continue reading

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CLOSED Nov 18 – Dec 4, CLOSED permanently from Dec 4 onwards

Artword Artbar at 15 Colbourne is closed from Nov 18 to Dec 4, 2019, while we clear out the restaurant equipment and our theatre gear. The new owners of the building take possession on December 5, 2019.
Is there Artword life after December 5?
YES! The Artword Theatre folks, Ron and Judith, continue to live in Hamilton and will create theatre projects and workshops in various venues (to be determined.)

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Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band, Sat Nov 16 @8pm, Sun Nov 17 @3pm

Our final two shows at 15 Colbourne Street:
*Saturday, November 16, 2019, at 8 pm, and
*Sunday November 17, 2019, at 3 pm.
$15.00.
Both shows are SOLD OUT. Sorry, there are NO last-minute tickets at the door. 

The Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band:
Randal Hill mandolin, vocals; Rocky Hill guitar, vocals; with Tim McDonald banjo, vocals and Greg Street, bass.
Randal first performed on the 15 Colbourne stage on March 28, 2010, and has been back at least 13 times. We first met Randal and Rocky in the Blue Angel Gallery, just around the corner on James Street, during an Art Crawl when we had first moved to Hamilton in 2007. Here is the bio that Randal sent up to post back in 2010. Continue reading

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Two Artword special “Farewell to 15 Colbourne” shows, Thurs Nov 14, Fri Nov 15

Thursday, November 14, 2019 at 8 pm. The Musicians Special… featuring musicians who have appeared on the 15 Colbourne stage over the past 10 years.

Friday, November 15, 2019, at 8 pm. The Artword Theatre Show, excerpts selected by director-playwright Ronald Weihs from over 11 years of making theatre in Hamilton, featuring members of the Artword Theatre Ensemble. Performers confirmed so far: Charly Chiarelli, Shavini Fernando, Will Gillespie, Paula Grove, Val Kay, Ryan Sero, Jay Shand (Mr. Jay), Tim Ninehouse on piano.
NOTE: Artword Theatre will continue to create theatre in Hamilton! Watch for our 2020 projects in various locations. Make sure you are on Ron’s Newsletter email list.

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Joe Crookston is back, Wed Nov 13

Wednesday November 13, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve, call 905-543-8512, or email artword @artword.net, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

A return visit by Joe Crookston, songwriter, guitarist, painter, fiddler, slide player, eco-village member and believer in all things possible. His songs are universal, his rhythm infectious and in concert, he is funny as hell one moment and transcendent the next. Oklahoma towns, rattlesnake tails, turbary thieves, Galway heather, meter maids and drunk roosters. At the end of the night, you’ll leave inspired. http://www.joecrookston.com/
Whether he’s picking his 48 Gibson, weaving through lap slide songs or looping his fiddle, he will draw you in.
Watch a YouTube video. It’s good, but it’s not the same. You gotta come to a show. With unwavering courage to be himself, he is literate, poignant and funny as hell.

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Steel City Jazz Festival, events at Artword, Nov 6 to 10

November 6 to 10, 2019. Artword Artbar at 15 Colbourne St. is pleased to host five events for 2019 Steel City Jazz Festivalsteelcityjazzfest.com
Regular $20, Students $10. BUY Tickets: www.bruha.com/event/5048#buytickets
Phone reservations for the Nov 6, Nov 7 and Nov 9 concerts only: call Artword 905-543-8512.

*Wednesday, November 6, at 8 pm: opening the Festival is the Paul Benton Trio: renowned jazz pianist Paul Benton, with Thomas Altobelli on bass and Sean Parker on drums. Paul Benton has a deep history with jazz in Hamilton. He was an organizer of the Bay Area Jazz Society (in the 1990’s). Their jazz festival ran for a number of years, mostly at Dundurn Park, and was the highlight of the jazz community at that time.

*Thursday, November 7, at 8 pm: the Nick Maclean Quartet, featuring Brownman Ali on trumpet and Nick Maclean on keyboard, with Ben Duff bass, and Jacob Wutzke drums. The Quartet embarks on a month-long national tour across Canada,from their hometown of Toronto to the Pacific coast and everywhere in between. Led by 26-year old fast-rising piano star Nick Maclean (Global Music Award winner), this contemplative and thrilling quartet explores modern jazz in the vein of 60’s Blue Note era Herbie Hancock.

*Friday, November 8, at 8 pm: The Jason Logue Sextet: Jason Logue trumpet; Kelly Jefferson saxophone; William Carn trombone; Nancy Walker piano; Mark Godfrey bass; Ernesto Cervini drums.

*Saturday, November 9, at 8 pm, the Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, led by Waleed Abdulhamid, combines the ancient rhythms of Africa with the jazz harmonies of modern times. Waleed Abdulhamid (Composer/Band Leader) explains:  “We play melody on top of traditional jazzy chord progressions with a twist of African ancient rhythms. There is a place for African instruments such as gombri, lakoumbe, marimba in the music.”  Waleed Abdulhamid bass,vocals, percussion; Joseph Callender soprano and tenor saxophone; John Ebata keyboard, piano, accordion; Aaron Ferrera drums, percussion; Cory Sitek alto and soprano saxophone, flute.

*Sunday November 10, at 7:30 pm: The Evelyn Charlotte Joe quintet, led by Evelyn Joe on bass, with a group of their favourite players and mentors to provide a night of jazz standards in a contemporary style. Evelyn Charlotte Joe upright bass; Bob Shields guitar; Adam Fielding drums; Ashley Urquhart piano; Mike Malone trumpet.

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Skye Consort & Emma Björling, Sat Nov 2, 3 pm & 8 pm

Saturday November 2, 2019, TWO SHOWS: 3 pm & 8 pm. $20 reg, $10 students. To reserve tickets (and seating),  Book online BUY_tix_button

or call 905-543-8512, or email artword@artword.net

Skye Consort & Emma Björling perform trans-Atlantic arrangements of traditional Nordic/Celtic/Québecois music as well as original compositions. Voices, fiddle, nyckelharpa, cello, bouzouki, banjo, and percussion. whirling polskas, groovy reels, passionate love songs, breathtaking hymns, and more. www.skyeconsort.org/
Amanda Keesmaat (cello & vocals) is a member of La Nef, a vibrant presence in the Montréal early music community, and has recorded and performed with many prominent singers and renowned ensembles.
Emma Björling (lead voice, shruti box, perc.) is an award-winning Swedish singer, composer, arranger, active in the renowned Scandinavian bands Kongero and Lyy. Both bands have toured the world, and are busy in the European Folk/Trad scene. Emma teaches and conducts workshops all over the world.
Seán Dagher (cittern/bouzouki, banjo & vocals) is the artistic director of La Nef and an active performer, arranger, and composer of music from various folk and classical music traditions. He participated in the Adisq-winning CD, La Traverse Miraculeuse with La Nef and Les Charbonniers de l’enfer.
Alex Kehler (fiddle, nyckelharpa & vocals) is a member of La Nef, Soulwood, a Kehler Williams duo, Les Siffleurs de nuits, and also busy playing with Suzie LeBlanc, Jeremiah McLane, Timmothy Cummings.

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Diana Braithwaite & Chris Whiteley, cd release, Fri Nov 1

Friday November 1, 2019, at 8 pm. Tickets $20.
To reserve tickets (and seating), call 905-543-8512, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

 

Two of our favourite performers, vocalist Diana Braithwaite and Chris Whiteley (guitar, trumpet) are returning to Artword Artbar with a new blues CD with G-ThreeJazz Label. The CD is called Gold Cadillac and the theme of the album: unique & funny blues tunes.

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Acoustic Moments, w. The Riddim Riders Unplugged, Thurs Oct 31

Thursday October 31, at 8 pm. Admission $15 if you wear red, gold and/or green. General admission will be $25.
Mr. Jay hosts another fabulous Acoustic Moments show, featuring world-class reggae music by The Riddim Riders Unplugged.
Band members Franklin Joseph (guitar), Mike Rajczak (lead vocals, drums), Lauren Mikayla (background vocals) and Carl De Souza (bass). The Riders break away from their usual reggae-rockers vibe with this configuration, presenting an acoustic-soul vibe featuring acoustic and classical guitars, djembe, conga and hand percussion and a big focus on rich vocal harmonies. This event will be hosted by Mr. Jay from the Artword Theatre Ensemble (James Street, Scroogissimo) and host of the I.R.S. radio show (International Reggae & Soca) on CFMU 93.3 FM.
Artword Artbar has been the venue for this event for the past four years. Come and take in some sweet reggae vibes one more time before they close their doors for good in December 2019.

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Brownman’s HALLOWEEN THRILLER, Wed Oct 30 at 7:30

Wednesday October 30, 2019, early show 7:30-10:30 pm. Brownman’s HALLOWEEN THRILLER. Acclaimed jazz / hip-hop trumpet player Brownman Ali leads an all-star quartet through his popular annual HALLOWEEN THRILLER concert! Tickets: $15 advance, $20 door, $10 students. Advance tickets call 905-543-8512, or,  Book online BUY_tix_button

With Nick Maclean keyboards & ghoulishness; Max Wilson electric bass & creepiness; Agneya Chikte drums & ghastliness. The BROWNMAN ELECTRYC TRIO + 1 will perform the entire Michael Jackson Thriller recording, interpreted and re-worked in the Miles Davis-esque fashion. In addition to performing Thriller from top to bottom, other MJ classics will be featured through the night.
For this unique Halloween jazz party, costumes and Thriller video dance moves are encouraged!  It’s a spectacular not-to-be-missed event!
www.Thriller.Brownman.com

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Sophia Perlman and Adrean Farrugia, Sat Oct 26

Saturday October 26, 2019, at 8 pm, $15/10. For our 10th Anniversary concert series, our all-time favourite dynamic duo of Sophia Perlman and Adrean Farrugia are essential. They will perform “our usual eclectic mix of songs we love, and some of Sophia’s originals” says Adrean.
They first played at Artword Artbar on July 21, 2011 (see photo left taken at that concert by John Douglas, a jazz fan). Here’s what we posted then from their publicity: “Sophia Perlman has made a name for herself as one of Canada’s most promising young vocalists, impressing audiences and seasoned musicians alike with her musical maturity and her impressive ability as an improviser. Multi-award winning pianist and composer Adrean Farrugia is one of Canada’s most distinct voices on the piano. Fusing many diverse musical influences he has forged a personal sound which generates a uniquely individual creative statement.”
And several concerts later, in fall 2014, Sophia and Adrean capped off our Steel City Jazz Festival week (photo right). And on… we are big fans.

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Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial, Fri Oct 25

Friday October 25, 2019, at 8 pm $15. To reserve tickets (and seating), call 905-543-8512, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

Stuart Laughton brings us another edition of Radio Dial for our 10th Anniversary season. Always wonderful, always full of surprises.

Special guest for Oct 25 is music veteran Denis Keldie on accordion (photo right), who calls the evening “a fantastic musical adventure.”
And the usual Radio Dial gang: Rebecca Campbell on vocals/guitar, Martin Worthy on drums/vocals, and Steve Lucas on bass, and of course multi-instrumentalist Stuart Laughton on everything else.

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Mark McNeil’s Hamilton for Beginners + Les Smith, Thurs Oct 24

Thursday, October 24, 2019, at 8 pm. $15.
To reserve tickets (and seating), call 905-543-8512, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

Hamilton for Beginners: a show of stories, songs and photos featuring singer-songwriter-journalist Mark McNeil. Followed by a song-swap with Mark and harmonica wiz Les Smith.
Hamilton for Beginners: Fresh from the Hamilton Fringe, singer-songwriter and long-time Spectator journalist Mark McNeil performs a special expanded version of his one-man show about the quirky city we live in. If you’re new to the terrain — maybe fleeing TO’s ridiculous housing prices — or whether you’re a longtime Hamiltonian looking for a refresher, Hamilton for Beginners is a must see. In words, songs and photos, Mark takes you on a tour of the strange history and odd practices of the “the biggest small town on the planet.”
The show will be followed by a song-swap session with Mark and singer-songwriter and harmonica wiz Les Smith. Les has performed around the area for decades with bands such as Crowbar and Trickbag and runs the Hamilton Regional Songwriters Group, an offshoot of the Songwriters Association of Canada.

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“Mohawk loves Artword” a showcase thank-you, Wed Oct 23

Wednesday October 23, 2019, at 7:30 pm, $5. “Mohawk loves Artword” is a night celebrating the history of performances at Artword Artbar by members of the Mohawk College music program. This showcase is a special thank-you from current and former students of Mohawk College for Artword’s support of young musicians in the city.
Organized by singer-songwriter Aisha Barrow (Soul and R&B artist LifeandtheTribe).
Line-up. Garrett Lajoie, Julianna Jones, Lauren Perreira, LTtheMonk, LIFEandtheTRIBE, and a Mohawk Jam.

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Bluegrass: New Cumberland Band, Sun Oct 20, 2 pm

Sunday October 20, 2019. Afternoon show 2 to 5 pm, $15. A Sunday show! Yes, the only day we could the whole band together this fall at Artword. To reserve tickets (and seating) call 905-543-8512, or,  Book online BUY_tix_button

 

An Artword favourite: The New Cumberland bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns vocals and guitar,  Blair Heddle vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge string bass, and Darrin Schott fiddle. Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. http://newcumberlandband.com/

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Latin Peña: music and poetry with Marcelo Puente, Sat Oct 19

Saturday October 19, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Join us for a Latin American Peña (coffee house), an evening of poetry and music, featuring Marcelo Puente and friends.
Marcelo Puente [is] one of the outstanding exponents of the “nueva cancion” tradition in this (or any) country. Marcelo Puente came to Toronto in the aftermath of the coup in Chile in 1973, bringing his songs and poetry. In the late seventies he co-founded the popular Chilean- Greek band Los Compañeros, a group of anti-fascist exiles who discovered a common musical language.” [Wally Brooker’s Music Notes Newsletter]

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The Amy Project, stories/songs of Amy Winehouse, Fri Oct 18

Friday October 18, 2019, at 8 pm, $15.
To reserve tickets (and seating), call 905-543-8512, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

 

The Amy Project returns to Artword Artbar! The show is a musical and storied journey outlining the short but tragic life of Amy Winehouse, the late British soul, blues and jazz singer. The performers are: Marni Shuster as the voice of Amy,  Anthony Caradonna guitar/vocals, Ian Taylor bass/vocals, Amy DiNino piano/synth/vocals and Dominic DiNino drums.
Amy Winehouse was nominated for 63 World Music Awards and won 25 times for her songs and recordings before her death in 2011 at the age of only 27. The Amy Project performance will cover most of the songs from her two main albums Frank and Back to Black, plus many more of her other recordings, and some unreleased covers and collaborations.

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Double-bill: Tom Shea and Will Gillespie, Thurs Oct 17

Thursday October 17, 2019. at 8 pm, $10. Two singer-songwriters who go ‘way back with us at Artword Artbar.

Tom Shea is a Hamiltonian, a writer, a singer, a musical jack-of-all-trades. In his first and final solo gig at Artword Artbar, he’s pleased to premiere Post-Apocalyptic Bard: Love Songs from After, a new collection of darkly lyrical songs and transcendent narrative poems that struggle to put the little pieces back together after the great collapse. Kevin Wolfe accompanies on cello and mandolin.

Will Gillespie, songwriter. guitarist, entertainer, has a diverse and eclectic catalogue of original songs. He is an evocative guitar player and a dynamic performer, combining elements of folk, rock & roll and cabaret. He wrote and directed the musical play Diamond in the Rough (Audience Choice award at the 2019 Hamilton Fringe Festival), and Swinging’ in St. John’s (Best of Venueat the 2017 Hamilton Fringe and is now being remounted at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. Will also had several roles in Artword Theatre/Gallery on the Bay production of MacBush the Musical.

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Jazz with the Elena Kapeleris Quintet, Sat Oct 12

Saturday October 12, 2019, at 8 pm, $15 regular, $10 students.
To reserve tickets (and seating), call 905-543-8512, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

 

The Elena Kapeleris Quintet, a Toronto-based quintet, led by Elena Kapeleris, is joining forces with two of Hamilton’s top jazz musicians: Mike Malone and Adrean Farrugia! The line-up for October 12: Elena Kapeleris on saxophone and vocals, Mike Malone on trumpet, Adrean Farrugia on piano, Lauren Falls on bass and Mark Micklethwaite on drums.
Elena Kapeleris is a Toronto based saxophonist and vocalist, who leads her own jazz quintet. She is also a member of Rita Chiarelli and Sweet Loretta, Kellylee Evans band, Surefire Sweat led by Larry Graves, and Jay Danley’s Ethiojazz Project, and others. Her eclectic taste has led her from jazz to R&B to world music and more. She has shared the stage with  Pat LaBarbera, Hilario Duran, BrandiDisterheft, Jully Black, and Tanya Tagaq.
Mike Malone, trumpet player and composer/arranger, has been part of the Canadian Jazz music scene since the early 1970s. He has recorded with Nimmons ‘N’ 9 plus 6. The Ted Moses Quintet, Dave McMurdo Jazz Orchestra, Ranee Lee, Ted’s Warren Commission, The Alex Dean Quintet and John MacLeod and the Rex Hotel Orchestra. He was a member of the music faculty at Mohawk College in Hamilton for 25 years and currently directs the Jazz Band at McMaster.
Adrean Farrugia fell in love with the piano at age 12. He began extensive classical studies and at the age of 18 was bitten by the Jazz bug and has never looked back. Continue reading

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closed, Fri Oct 11

Friday October 11, 2019, closed

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Alt-Country w. Rae Billing & her band Crybaby, Thurs Oct 10

Thursday October 10, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve tickets (and seating), call 905-543-8512, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

 

Rae Billing and her Alt-Country band CRYBABY: Rae Billing vocals and acoustic guitar, Andrew Aldridge lead guitar, Greg Brisco keys, Carrie Ashcroft bass and Josh Sticks Hicks drums. Special guest Michael Vallely.
CRYBABY is an alt-country band originally formed in Toronto in the mid-1990’s and reformed in Hamilton in late 2016 with a blend of Toronto and Hamilton players. Their music has been described as tangy country soul” and “late night, pan-Americana rootsy songs… handled with gutsy femininity.”

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Leonard, Burns & Dell, + Hogan, Sun Oct 6 at 8 pm

Sunday October 6, 2019, 8-10 pm. A special concert. $15 door, $10 adv. To reserve tickets (and seating) call 905-543-8512, or,  Book online BUY_tix_button

Alison Hogan is a veteran west coast singer/songwriter who started out in Vancouver clubs and coffeehouses in the 1970s. As part of the gypsy-jazz quartet The Kitsilano Kat Kickers (aka Mystery Pacific), she played the first years of the Vancouver Folk Festival before going on to record her original material. Alison’s 2018 album Songs From the Third Act showcases the varied genres of Alison’s writing. Described by one reviewer as “a stunning, sad, funny, sexy and lovely collection of songs”. Her live performances showcase her love of classic country, blues and roots music, delivered with a wry sense of humour and some intricate acoustic guitar work.
Leonard, Burns & Dell (Sue Leonard, Brennagh Burns, and Cindy Dell) are a powerhouse harmony trio based out of Hamilton singing sultry blues and roots.

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Fresh Flute! Colleen Allen and Darcy Hepner, Sat Oct 5

Saturday October 5, 2019, at 8 pm, $15 regular, $10 students. To reserve tickets (and seating), call 905-543-8512, or  Book online BUY_tix_button

Fresh Flute! An evening of Jazz Flute with Colleen Allen and Darcy Hepner. From Be-bop to Funk,
a celebration of the flute in jazz.
With: Nancy Walker piano, Paul Intson bass, Joel Haynes drums.

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Featured Post: James Gordon “Emergency Climate Musical” Fri Oct 4

Friday October 4, 2019, at 8 pm. $20. Singer, songwriter, storyteller James Gordon returns with his latest project Emergency Climate Musical. Here is his plot:
Before the last federal election, songwriter/activist James Gordon barnstormed his way across the country with his hugely successful one-man show Stephen Harper: the Musical.
It worked. You’re welcome.
Now he’s back with his Emergency Climate Musical: a ninety-minute theatrical investigation of what surely is THE issue in these uncertain times. Filled with compelling songs, videos, images, stories, rants, laughter, tears, audience participation, a creepy puppet and some concrete ways to face this crisis, James promises to entertain, inform, and leave you with homework.
Follow along as he outlines his premise that we need a total political, societal and economic make-over to face the incredible challenge ahead. This time he’s got the cred for the job: James moonlights as a Guelph City Councillor, where he’s introduced climate change motions, and he’s a member of the National Climate Leadership Caucus.
To reserve tickets (and seating) call 905-543-8512, or,  Book online BUY_tix_button

 

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Dynamic double-bill: Doug Murphy + Aaron Zukewich, Thurs Oct 3

Thursday October 3, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Double-bill! Two of Artword’s far-out favourite jazz composers – pianist Aaron David Zukewich and guitarist Doug Murphy.
8 pm set Guitarist Doug Murphy plays his own compositions in the fusion psychedelic jazz mode, with extended guitar “trips” laid on top of a steady bass line. His first concert at Artword was in 2012. His band “It Is What It Is”: Alana Gunn bass, Oscar Galbraith drums, Mike Ricci saxophone and flute.
9: 30 pm set: Jazz pianist and composer Aaron David Zukewich delivers an adventurous blend of intricate rhythms, modern harmonies, and singable melodies that embrace the diverse landscapes of contemporary jazz, world and popular music. His first concert at Artword was in 2011. His band: Clark Johnson bass and Joel Haynes drums.

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J.P. Riemens book launch, Sun Sept 29 from 3 to 5 pm

Sunday September 29, 2019, from 3 to 5 pm, $10 (includes a free cd). Singer-songwriter J.P. Riemens reads from his new book Slightly Below the Surface, and sings some songs from his cds.
Slightly Below the Surface is the story about a life journey, spanning over 60 years under the watchful eye of the 250 year old spirit, Elizabeth Watts. The Boy is born on the hundredth anniversary of her death in 1856. She had been a teacher in the old schoolhouse where he grew up and currently resides. Beginning in rural Ontario in the 1960’s, the Boy discovers his calling to be a songwriter. In his early teens, he leaves his isolated rural home and hitchhikes across Canada with his guitar and encounters a variety of characters that shape his future.
Copies of the book will be for sale.

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Alison Schott & Darrin Schott, Sat Sept 28

Saturday September 28, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve tickets (and seating),  Book online BUY_tix_button

or call 905-543-8512.
Darrin and Alison Schott are a picking, singing and song-writing duo from Norfolk County. Expect beautiful vocal harmonies, and virtuoso playing on fiddle, mandolin, guitar, banjo and dobro. Their original songs are rooted in the life and history of Norfolk County. Darrin has played often at Artword with the New Cumberland bluegrass band, and Alison has appeared with the Sandplains Pickers.
Artword is very pleased to bring Alison and Darrin Schott to our stage for our final fall season!! Please come. They are wonderful!

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The Emily Kemp Quintet, Fri Sept 27

Friday September 27, 2019, at 8 pm, Regular $15, students $10. To reserve tickets and seating, call 905-543-8512
or Book online   BUY_tix_button

Guess who is kicking off our 10th Anniversary Celebration concert series? Emily Kemp, jazz, funk and pop singer, set up her first concert at Artword Artbar on September 11, 2010 (we opened in Sept 2009). And she and the fellas have been playing together ever since. The original five  – The Emily Kemp Quintet – will be playing this celebration concert: Emily Kemp (vocals), Tom Altobelli (bass),Chris Bruder (keys), Scott McIntosh (guitar), Jordan Snider (drums), members of the band now known as The Beelays. They will be playing jazz, some originals and their own take on some pop covers.

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Planet of the Loops: Andrew Aldridge and guests, Thurs Sept 26

Thursday September 26, 2109, at 8 pm, $10. The Planet of the Loops returns! Noted guitarist Andrew Aldridge and his legendary Planet of the Loops live at Artword Artbar. Special guests for Thurs Sept 26 are cellist Cheryl O and Steven Sauvé on keyboard / laptop, both members of quasiMODAL, a floating electro-accoustic improv trio.
Join us for a night of live improvised recycling of sounds! Anything can happen, and frequently does! Andrew explains: “In 1998 I started a Collective event called Planet of the Loops. It’s an improvisational/ experimental night consisting of 3-4 players. It ran in Toronto until 2005. Then I moved to Hamilton and occasionally had some Planet events in various locations. I was touring a lot too and couldn’t do a regular monthly event.” In 2017 Andrew brought his Planet of the Loops to Artword Artbar. VJ improviser Judith Sandiford joins in with real-time visual “looping”.

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Ewan Macintyre Trio, Scotland-Quebec, Wed Sept 25

Wednesday September 25, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve tickets and seating, call 905-543-8512 or Book online   BUY_tix_button

Scottish musician Ewan Macintyre is on tour with his band: Ewan Macintyre: vocals, guitar, mandolin; Karine Bouchard: violoncelle/ cello (from Montreal); Peter Menzies (pronounced mingus): fiddle (from Moray Scotland). They are touring this summer and autumn across the UK, Europe and Canada.
“Cowboy campfire meets Celtic grooves.” Ewan weaves his own blend of folk pop traditions, featuring beautiful string arrangements, ripping solos, soaring harmonies and heartfelt lyrical content.  http://www.ewan-macintyre.org/

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Paul Lisson, The Perfect Archive, book launch, Sun Sept 22 at 4 pm

Sunday September 22, 2019, at 4:00 pm. Book launch: The Perfect Archive by Paul Lisson, published by Guernica Editions.
The Perfect Archive is a story in verse about an archivist who moves beyond his role as protector and cataloguer of others’ work and begins to question the very nature of a “pure and accurate” archive. The role of a government Archivist is to organize and catalogue books, statutes, and memoranda. What happens when these documents are weaponized?

“Paul Lisson creates intricate Kafkaesque worlds in art galleries, on the stage, and on the page. A coal black seam of humour runs through all of his work but I mostly feel like I’ve walked through a dystopic door and I have this prickly feeling that somebody’s going to lock that door behind me.” Jeff Mahoney, columnist with The Hamilton Spectator

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Clic-Clac: Flamenco dance and song, Sat Sept 21

Saturday September 21, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve tickets and seating, call 905-543-8512
or Book online   BUY_tix_button

Flamenco ensemble, Clic-Clac: Angela Deiseach (dance), Shirley ‘la Pili’ Pincay (vocals), Amilia Cervantes (violin), and Juan D Toledo (guitar). Rooted in traditional flamenco music and dance, Clic-Clac also incorporates influences from other genres and styles. Their performance celebrates expression and storytelling through song and dance, drawing on their collective knowledge and experience of the multifaceted flamenco genre. Formed earlier this year and based in Toronto, Clic-Clac made their debut as part of the Tablao Flamenco Toronto showcase at Supermarket. The group has since been featured in the Dance Matters Into the Fire Series at Toronto’s Pia Bouman School.

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Tia McGraff and Tommy Parham, Fri Sept 20

Friday September 20, 2019, at 8 pm. $15. To reserve tickets and seating, call 905-543-8512
or Book online   BUY_tix_button

Americana-country songstress Tia McGraff, and singer-guitarist Tommy Parham return to Artword Artbar. This time they are bringing Duane Rutter to play electric guitar with them. Their friend singer/songwriter David Wells will play an opening set. The concert will be followed by a meet-and-greet.
“Tia McGraff and Tommy Parham continue proving they are one of the best creative duos working today with the release of Stubborn in My Blood (2018).” Tia and Tommy have earned a respect in the music industry and a global fan base. The duo have a gift for getting to the heart of the matter and writing relatable songs about life, love and this crazy world we live in.   www.tiamcgraff.com/

Tia McGraff is an award-winning Americana/Country singer-songwriter from Port Dover, ON. Tia’s talent has been described as “haunting and soul-gripping.” Tia’s 2015 release Crazy Beautiful, produced by Colorado native, husband and longtime collaborator Tommy Parham, immediately impressed radio programmers in the USA, Canada and Europe. Tommy, who moved to Nashville in 1998 with a staff songwriter deal in hand, soon became one of Music Row’s sought-after hit-writers, and is credited with cuts by major label artists and film placements.

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Cantrip (Scottish music trio), Thurs Sept 19

Thursday September 19, 2019, at 8 pm. $15 advance/$20 door.
To reserve tickets and seating, call 905-543-8512
or Book online   BUY_tix_button

Cantrip, a high energy Celtic trio, is releasing a new live album in celebration of their 20 year history. Come enjoy an evening of good humour, companionship and music from the Celtic isles and beyond. Jon Bews (fiddle, vocals), Eric McDonald (guitar, bouzouki, vocals), Dan Houghton (pipes, flute, whistles, guitar, bouzouki, vocals). www.cantrip-music.com/index.html
“Cantrip” is an Old Scots word meaning a charm, magic spell or piece of mischief. It aptly describes the unexpected twists and turns in their musical arrangements, likewise the compelling potency of their musicianship. Cantrip sprung from a local session in Edinburgh nearly twenty years ago. With their first album “Silver” (2001) in hand, Cantrip made its way across the water to the United States.  www.ericmcdonaldmusic.com

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Bill Lutes and the Art Crawlers, Supercrawl weekend, Sun Sept 15 at 3 pm

Sunday September 15, 2019, from 3 to 6 pm, tip jar. Supercrawl Weekend. The original Art Crawl band! Bill Lutes and the Art Crawlers: Bill Lutes guitar, vocals; Lilia Lutes very cool vocals; Kenny Clark guitar, vocals; Hank Paton guitar, vocals; Robert Louis guitar, vocals; Bob Rudy bass, vocals; Phil Dales drums, playing all your favourite tunes.

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Cellist Rob Knaggs + Dave Gould, Supercrawl weekend, Sat Sept 14, at 6 pm

Saturday September 14, 2019, at 6 pm. Supercrawl Weekend. Introducing Rob Knaggs. Avant-cellist Rob Knaggs, originally from Brisbane Australia, is known for his atmospheric walls of sound and live performances that transport audience to the northern reaches of his adopted home in the Canadian sub-arctic. In the last five years, he’s performed concerts for beluga whales and beneath the northern lights, collaborated with throat singers, played support to Montreal sound wizard Tim Hecker, represented Manitoba at travel conferences across North America, and captivated audiences at the renowned Woodford Folk Festival in Australia.  www.robknaggs.com

Joining Rob is Hamilton’s own musical adventurer Dave Gould. Dave is a visual and audio artist/musician who explores many art mediums. Gould has made instruments since 1998. He currently makes exotic instruments out of rare things like whalebones, antlers and toilets. He enjoys drumming and creating original music with a plethora of artists and bands internationally.  Dave provided improvised and composed soundscapes for Artword Theatre’s recent production of Whoever You Are.   www.davegould.ca

 

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Beg To Differ Quartet, Supercrawl Weekend, Fri Sept 13, 9:15 pm

Friday September 13, 2019, at 9:15 pm, tip jar. Supercrawl Weekend. An Artbar favourite, Beg To Differ Quartet, are back with a special late concert.
Tim Ninehouse on keyboards, vocals; Doug Sikma on guitar; Steve Foster on drums and new member Ryan Ethier on bass. Unique renditions of blues, jazz and funk songs, drawing from a large musical repertoire from early blues roots to jazzified contemporary songs. http://reverbnation.com/begtodiffertrio

Posted in Event, James North events, Music, Music-Blues, Music-funk, Music-Jazz, Music-rock | Comments Off on Beg To Differ Quartet, Supercrawl Weekend, Fri Sept 13, 9:15 pm

Joshua Pascua, ADVM, and Skylar Valli, Supercrawl weekend, Fri Sept 13 at 6 pm

Friday September 13, 2019, 6 to 9 pm, $5. Supercrawl Weekend. Pop-rock music showcase from Mohawk music program: Joshua Pascua, ADVM, and Skylar Valli.

Seating limited! MUST REGISTER! No charge to register. People on the registration list are guaranteed to be able to get in. You will pay $5 cash at the door. Click the link below to register on Eventbrite.
REGISTER HERE

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Rebekah Hawker w. Emma Elena Grace & Shealagh Rose, Thurs Sept 12

Thursday, September 12, 2019, at 8 pm, $10.
To reserve tickets and seating, call 905-543-8512
or Book online   BUY_tix_button

 

Artword welcomes back singer-songwriter Rebekah Hawker with a concert celebrating the release of her new EP release Careful Women.
With guest sets by singer-songwriters Emma Elena Grace and Shealagh Rose.

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closed from Aug 25 to Sept 11, 2019

Sunday, August 25 to Wednesday September 11, 2019:  CLOSED
Fall programming starts up Thursday September 12, 2019

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Marcelo Puente, fundraiser for his trip to Chile , Sat Aug 24

August Special Concert #4. We will be open for only these special events:

Saturday, August 24, 2019, at 8 pm. Admission by donation. Marcelo Puente, singer-songwriter, gives a fundraiser concert for his trip: “I was invited to Chile to play in October at the Museo de la Memoria. It is for me a great honour to be part of that, the memory of the atrocity of the dictatorship.” Marcelo is among the many Chileans forced into exile by the brutal Pinochet dictatorship after the military coup in 1973 against President Allende.

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Sarah Beatty and Dana Sipos, Fri Aug 16

August Special Concert #3. We will be open for only these special events:

Friday August 16, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Two singer-songwriters on tour: Dana Sipos, plus Sarah Beatty with lead guitarist Peter Horvat.
Dana Sipos is an acclaimed Canadian songwriter who tours internationally, extensively and often by alternative means; tall ship, train, canoe, bicycle. Nominated for numerous Canadian Folk Music Awards, Dana is touring in support of her 2018 release, Trick of the Light, described as a “luminous and compelling work (Exclaim!).” Her work is described as “beautifully crafted, slightly strange and completely mesmerising (Gold Flake Paint UK).”  www.danasipos.com
Quirky and captivating, songwriter and scientist Sarah Beatty is known for enchanting audiences with warmth, wit, and messages that make people think. She is touring with virtuoso lead guitarist Peter Horvat, from Austria. Her album, Bandit Queen, released in February 2017 peaked at #1 on Canada’s Roots charts, recognized by bloggers and industry insiders as one of those albums that people need to hear, is on international playlists from Nashville to The Netherlands.  www.sarahbeatty.ca/

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Alyssa Giammaria and Devon Savas, reunion concert, Sat Aug 10

August Special Concert #2. We will be open for only these special events:

Saturday August 10, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Alyssa Giammaria vocals and Devon Savas bass. Alyssa and Devon began collaborating as students at Mohawk. Then each pursued further musical studies in other cities. This concert is a hometown reunion. They will be revisiting favourite past selections and venturing in new directions in a one-off genre-boundless performance, with one set as a duo and the second set with a band of special guests: Levi Kertesz (drums), Ian Brown (piano/keys), Michael Morabito (alto sax), and Aoife-Louise Doyle + Stephanie Sloss (background vocals).

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Anthems of the Void, w. guest Jill McKenna Trio, Wed Aug 7

August Special Concert #1. We will be open for only these special events:

Wednesday August 7, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Anthems of the Void: Caylie Staples vocals, Bradford Reed pencilina and modular synthesizer, and Geoff Gersh guitar, from New York, on an August tour in Canada. Guest set by Jill McKenna Project: Adrean Farrugia piano, Mackenzie Read drums, Jill McKenna bass.

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Singer-songwriter Bonnie Hamilton, special show, Wed Jul 31

Wednesday July 31, 2019, at 8 pm, $25. Reservations a must! Call 905-543-8512 or Book onlineBUY_tix_button

Bonnie & The Midnight Daydream Presents: “When Stars Collide”. A special concert by singer-songwriter Bonnie Hamilton: “Bonnie’s Birthday & Album Release”.
Bonnie Hamilton & the Midnight Daydream will be playing Bonnie’s new album content. Band members: Sabian Crosswell drums, Eric Trimmer bass, Sean Royle guitar/vocals, Keon Crosswell lead guitar, and Bonnie Hamilton lead vocals and piano.

Plus guest performances: singer-songwriter Brennagh Burns, and writer Laura Furster, reading from her new book.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz, Music-Soul/R&B | Comments Off on Singer-songwriter Bonnie Hamilton, special show, Wed Jul 31

Fringe BYOV: Bungalow, six shows July 19 – 28

July 18 to 28, 2019: Artword Artbar BYOV hosts three plays in the Hamilton Fringe Festival. Tickets: $12 (Fringe Backer Button required)
Advance Tickets: hamiltonfringe.ca/shows/bungalow/
Bungalow is a new play written and directed by Sky Gilbert, performed by Shaun McComb and Tim Walker. Bungalow is a play you might find happening in your front (or back) yard. Sky’s take on gentrification is to write plays in which members of Hamilton’s working class — the ‘hardcore Hamilton’ survivors — take centre stage, and often face off with Hamilton’s more wealthy, sometimes newly arrived, prosperous elites. Kiefer runs a coffee shop and Lloyd is, well — kind of a grifter who likes a drink once in awhile. They are next door neighbours. They meet on Kiefer’s porch. Kiefer would prefer that Lloyd would go away. But he doesn’t, and through their meetings we learn a lot about the two men, and about the class distinctions that sometimes separate us.
Running time: 60 minutes.
Showtimes: 19 Jul Fri: 9:00 pm. 20 Jul Sat: 5:00 pm, 21 Jul Sun: 3:00 pm
26 Jul Fri: 9:00 pm, 27 Jul Sat: 5:00 pm, 28 Jul Sun: 3:00 pm

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Fringe BYOV: Charly’s Piano, nine shows July 18 – 27

July 18 to 28, 2019: Artword Artbar BYOV hosts three plays in the Hamilton Fringe Festival. Tickets: $12 (Fringe Backer Button required)
Advance Tickets: hamiltonfringe.ca/shows/charlys-piano/
Charly’s Piano, performed by Charly Chiarelli, written by Charly Chiarelli and Ronald Weihs, directed by Ronald Weihs, songs by Charly Chiarelli.
Charly’s Piano tells the true tale of Charly as a young hippie looking for work in Toronto in 1972. He gets a job in a psychiatric hospital, and organizes a fundraising concert by patients and doctors to buy a piano.
Running time: 60 minutes.
Showtimes:
18 Jul Thu: 9:00 pm,
19 Jul Fri: 7:00 pm,
20 Jul Sat: 9:00 pm,
21 Jul Sun: 7:00 pm,
23 Jul Tue: 9:00 pm,
24 Jul Wed: 7:00 pm,
25 Jul Thu: 9:00 pm,
26 Jul Fri: 7:00 pm,
27 Jul Sat: 9:00 pm

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Fringe BYOV: Tiny Bill Cody Sees the Devil, nine shows July 18 – 27

July 18 to 28, 2019: Artword Artbar BYOV hosts three plays in the Hamilton Fringe Festival. Tickets: $12 (Fringe Backer Button required)
Advance Tickets: hamiltonfringe.ca/shows/tiny-bill-cody/
Tiny Bill Cody Sees the Devil, written and performed by musician and storyteller Tor Lukasik-Foss.
Tiny Bill Cody Sees the Devil uses story and song to recount the true story of meeting the devil on a Hamilton street in the 1980’s. It also a story about regret, hesitation, a mid life crisis, and the city’s best falafel.
Running time: 60 minutes.
Showtimes: 18 Jul Thu: 7:00 pm, 19 Jul Fri: 5:00 pm, 20 Jul Sat: 7:00 pm, 21 Jul Sun: 5:00 pm, 23 Jul Tue: 7:00 pm, 24 Jul Wed: 9:00 pm, 25 Jul Thu: 7:00 pm, 26 Jul Fri: 5:00 pm, 27 Jul Sat: 7:00 pm

 

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Jazz w. the MOJO Octet, Saturday July 13, 2019.

Saturday July 13, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve, call 905-543-8512 or Book onlineBUY_tix_button

The MOJO Octet brings together great players from the Hamilton and surrounding area, and a great repertoire to challenge them. Featuring five horn players: John Bialy trumpet; Don Templeton trombone; Darren Blundel alto sax; Lindsay Paul tenor sax; Dave Runbicini baritone sax; AND Brandon Walker piano; Tom Altobelli bass; Ken Bower drums. This dynamic octet takes an uncompromising approach to their own brand of jazz. Join the Men Of Jazz Octet for a great evening of hard bop and beyond from composers such as Don Sickler, Dave Holland and Bill Cunliffe.

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Jazz w. Lorne Lofsky guitar & Adrean Farrugia piano, Fri July 12

Friday July 12, 2019, at 8 pm, $20 regular / $10 students. Call 905-543-8512 or Book online   BUY_tix_button

Modern instrumental improvised music with The Lorne Lofsky / Adrean Farrugia Quartet: featuring Lorne Lofsky guitar; Adrean Farrugia piano; Kieran Overs acoustic bass; Chris Wallace drums.
Lorne Lofsky is an internationally recognized jazz guitarist. Born and raised in Toronto, he has been playing professionally for the last 42 years. He has played/toured or recorded with a who’s who of the jazz world, including Oscar Peterson, Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, Chet Baker, Joey DeFrancesco, Pepper Adams, Ray Brown, Neils Henning Orsted  Pederson, Rosemary Clooney, Kirk MacDonald, Dave Holland, and many other respected members of the international jazz community.
Award winning pianist and composer Adrean Farrugia is one of Canada’s most distinct voices on the piano. Since the late 1990s Adrean has been in high demand as a freelance performer and educator. Keeping a busy touring schedule, mainly as a sideman, Adrean has toured extensively across Canada and the United States as well as in venues across Europe, Australia, the UK, Israel and in Japan. Adrean has performed/recorded with some of music’s greatest and most diverse artists including: Sheila Jordan, Ernie Watts, Brad Goode, Pat Labarbera, Adam Nussbaum, Curtis Fuller, Cyrille Aimee,  Lorne Lofsky, Molly Johnson, Jane Bunnett, Joel Frahm, Dafnis Prieto, Kinan Azmeh, Kenny Wheeler, Don Thompson.

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The Vagabond Duet, Thur July 11, EARLY 7:00 pm show

Thursday July 11, 2019, 7:00 pm.  *ALL PROCEEDS TO SACHA; Sexual Assault Centre for Hamilton and Area. Pay What You Can!*
The Vagabond Duet brings you cello, harp and two voices. Things are hard and there is beauty in music and that matters.
Music will include original arrangements of 60s & 70s folk, contemporary alternative, and oh, some early 18th century and/or late 19th century genius most likely. And original songs, music for rage, hope and love. Geoff Ball: cello, guitar, voice; Rachel Nolan: pedal harp, lever harp, voice.
Special guests to be announced!

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Carissa Kimbell’s Going Away/EP Fundraising Show, Wed July 10

Wednesday July 10, 2019, at 8 pm. Carissa Kimbell‘s Going Away/EP Fundraising Show. Tickets are $25 (includes digital download). Ticket link Eventbrite.

Singer-songwriter Carissa Kimbell is performing original songs from her new album Like Water, with Andrew Aldridge on lead guitar.

Like Water is Carissa Kimbell’s debut EP and features a collection of six songs reflecting the journey of deep self-discovery. The songs explore our relationship to water, a psychological symbol of that which is subconscious or hidden. Like Water offers honest and heartfelt songs about one woman’s experience and choice to swim in the waters of Self in search of freedom and control.
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Latin-american folk music/ Canto popular latinoamericano, Sat July 6

Saturday July 6, 2019 at 8 pm, $15. Another of our Peña evenings, this time performed by Los Quatro: Marcelo Puente, Pepe Sanhueza, Nano Valverde, Miguel Vásquez. An evening of Latin-american folk music / Canto popular latinoamericano.

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Jazz with the Nick Maclean Quartet, w. Brownman Ali, Fri July 5

Friday July 5, 2019 at 8 pm,
$15 at door, $10 advance online: Book online   BUY_tix_button

Jazz with the Nick Maclean Quartet: Nick Maclean piano, Brownman Ali trumpet, Jesse Dietschi bass, Tyler Goertzen drums.
The award-winning Nick Maclean Quartet makes Artword Artbar the second stop of their September tour. Led by 26-year-old fast-rising piano star Nick Maclean, this contemplative and often thrilling quartet explores modern jazz in the vein of 60’s Blue Note era Herbie Hancock. The quartet features Brownman Ali, internationally acclaimed jazz trumpet iconoclast: “Canada’s preeminent jazz trumpet player” (NYC Village Voice).
Nick Maclean – piano (www.NicholasMaclean.com)     Brownman Ali – trumpet (www.Brownman.com)
Jesse Dietschi – bass (www.JesseDietschi.com)     Tyler Goertzen – drums

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CANCELLED: Water Bear: songwriters Tom Dusome & Alex T., Thurs July 4

CANCELLED Thursday July 4, 2019, 8 pm. Alt-Rock act Water Bear (songwriters Tom Dusome & Alex T.)

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Singer-songwriter night, host George Douglas, Thur June 27

Thursday June 27, 2019, at 8 pm. $10/pwyc. George Douglas hosts a singer-songwriter night at Artword Artbar, with Marcus Starr, Gavin O’Sullivan and Jesse Macrae. They will be serving up some tasty handcrafted songs for your entertainment and enjoyment. Start your Canada Day weekend on Thursday night!

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Vocalist Julianna Jones w. an evening of pop & RnB, Wed June 26

Wednesday June 26, 2019, at 8 pm, $10.  Twenty-one year old independent singer/songwriter and recording artist, Julianna Jones hosts an evening of her own original Pop and RnB songs. Plus a special guest, folk singer/songwriter Cassidy Taylor (photo right).
Musicians include: Spencer Devolin bass, James DeGeer guitar, Santiago Rozo keys, Cameron Watson bass, Adam Inrig drums.

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Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Sat June 22

Saturday June 22, 2019 at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or Book online   BUY_tix_button

The Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble is back for their summer show at Artword. This ensemble combines the ancient rhythms of Africa with the jazz harmonies of modern times. Waleed Abdulhamid (Composer/Band Leader) explains:  “We play melody on top of traditional jazzy chord progressions with a twist of African ancient rhythms. There is a place for African instruments such as gombri, lakoumbe, marimba in the music.”
Band members are: Waleed Abdulhamid bass, vocals, percussion; Joseph Callender soprano and tenor saxophone; tba keyboard, piano, accordion; Ilios Steryannis, drum kit.

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The Acoustics, world music and more, Fri June 21

Friday June 21, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or Book online   BUY_tix_button

Back at Artword, The Acoustics: Bonnie Bell on violin, Vince Spoto on guitar and vocals, and Alfonso Spoto on accordion, playing their own lively and original folk/rock, world/roots compositions with distinctive musical arrangements.
For the past 16 years, they have been cultivating their unique music for local fans and venues. During this period they have released three studio CD’s, their debut CD (Dec. 2003) A Thousand Yesterdays, their second CD, Forever and a Day (Dec. 2007), and their third CD, Erie Long (Jan. 2013).

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World Refugee Day Celebration, Thurs June 20

Thursday June 20, 2019, at 8:00 pm, $20 or pwyc. World Refugee Day Concert hosted by the Emergency Support Committee for Refugees, in support of family reunification for refugees.
Arabic songs by Moutaz Al-Shalabi on oud and Marah Assaf on vocals.
Music of Latin America by Lil America and Marcelo Puente.
Eclectic roots rock by Babbage Industries.

Donations over $20 are eligible for an income tax receipt!

From the United Nations website: “In a world where violence forces thousands of families to flee for their lives each day, the time is now to show that the global public stands with refugees. On World Refugee Day, held every year on June 20th, we commemorate the strength, courage and perseverance of millions of refugees. This year, World Refugee Day also marks a key moment for the public to show support for families forced to flee.”

 

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“Hamilton, Durand, Pub & Parlour” Capella Intima vocal quartet- Tues June 18 at 9 pm

Tuesday June 18, at 9 pm, free admission (sponsored by Hamilton Arts Council and the Downtown BIA). Part of Hamilton Arts Week.
Special event at Artword Artbar: The Capella Intima vocal quartet (Sheila Dietrich soprano, Jennifer Enns Modolo alto, Bud Roach tenor and Artistic Director, David Roth bass) performs Hamilton, Durand, Pub & Parlour, the story of the founding of Hamilton, with music and readings from early 19th to 20th centuries. Fun, enlightening programme on the city’s early days: settlement, growth, war, court system, pub songs, churches, development. Readings are from Public Library archives. Runs 45 minutes. www.capellaintima.com
Founded by tenor Bud Roach (of Hammer Baroque) in 2008, Capella Intima has carved out a niche for itself in the Toronto/Hamilton early music scene by presenting the vocal chamber music of the 17th century in exciting concerts of rarely-heard gems. With motets and cantatas for up to four voices interspersed with readings from composers, performers and critics of the period, audiences are given context to music
https://www.hamiltonartscouncil.ca/artsweek
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Edgar Breau and Jean Caffeine “From punk to present” Sat June 15

Saturday June 15, 2019, at 8 pm, $15 door, $10 advance. Call 905-543-8512 or Book online   BUY_tix_button

From punk to present: Edgar Breau and Jean Caffeine bring songs and stories from their storied pasts.
Edgar Breau is a local and national treasure steeped in folk and Canadiana. Playing a style of guitar he describes as ‘Canadian primitive’, Edgar’s songs run the gamut from folk to blues to country to pastoral with a lyricism rare in this age of instant communication. Joining him on stage will be jazz vocalist extraordinaire, Colina Phillips of the legendary girl group, The Tiaras and a charter member of Toronto’s super session singers, THE GIRLS.
Jean Caffeine is an Austin-based genre-fluid artist who writes folk pop/folk punk and Americana hooky tunes that will burrow into your ear. In the mid aughts, Jean spent two years in Hamilton and a year in TO. During that time Jean collaborated musically with Mike Trebilcock. Mike T. will be backing Jean up at the show. Mike has played in the Killjoys, Simply Saucer and the low heels and composes music for ghoulish movies and musicals.

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Martin Verrall and Raphael Smith Keelan, Fri June 14

Friday June 14, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Local legend singer-songwriter Martin Verrall is doing a full evening at Artword Artbar, with a guest set by singer-songwriter Raphael Smith Keelan. Martin’s band: Michael Williams bass, Joseph Hansen percussion, Chris Wilson guitar,
Martin Verrall is “… a prolific singer/songwriter, painter, and urban wanderer. [He is] a scribe who details the plights and triumphs of the human heart with dark romanticism, and captures the lonesome ambience of a rainy afternoon or a sleepless night.”  https://martinverrall.bandcamp.com/

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Paul Linklater and Dale Morningstar, Thurs June 13

Thursday June 13, 2019, at 8 pm, $10/$15. Singer-songwriter guitarist Paul Linklater (of the Pinecones ) and multi-instrumentalist Dale Morningstar (of Dinner is Ruined) team up for a musical picnic. Paul is joined by Doug Friesen on bass.
“Linklater thrives on thwarting the sonic convention of the strumming troubadour.”  www.paullinklater.com

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Improvisors, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Paul Linklater and Dale Morningstar, Thurs June 13

New Orleans jazz with Red Hot Ramble, Sat June 8

Saturday June 8, 2019, 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
A return visit! New Orleans-style jazz with Red Hot Ramble: Roberta Hunt  lead vocals, piano; Jamie Stager vocals, trombone; Jacek “Jack” Zorawski vocals, acoustic bass; Glenn Anderson vocals, drums, and Jacob Gorzhaltsan vocals/reeds.
“New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz music is also the home of great blues, rhythm & blues, second lines and ‘street beats’. Red Hot Ramble throws them all into the pot with and dishes them out in generous portions with a distinct taste of Canadiana thrown in! To borrow an old Louisiana saying, ‘Come as you are, leave different’, Red Hot Ramble, now in their 8th year together, has a well-earned reputation for their performances living up to that motto.” Website:  www.redhotramble.ca
Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on New Orleans jazz with Red Hot Ramble, Sat June 8

McCurlie, Doidge and Wiles, Fri June 7

Friday June 7, 2019, at 8 pm, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

McCurlie, Doidge and Wiles will perform local story songs and new originals from Caroline Wiles’s new album Living In The Now. Mike McCurlie, Bob Doidge and Caroline Wiles are an Ancaster-based trio who perform original folk-rock music and great story songs, many based on Ancaster’s history. These seasoned musicians are award winning songwriters/artists who sing fabulous three part harmonies. Mike McCurlie and Bob Doidge have been making music together since their early teens. Then along came Caroline Wiles, a songwriter from Montreal. They all start playing together, harmonizing, creating a groove with guitar, mandolin and bass.
www.mccurliedoidgeandwiles.com   and   www.carolinewiles.com.

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Marshall Veroni, w. Emma Elena Grace, Thurs June 6

Thursday June 6, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Singer-songwriter Marshall Veroni, w. guest set by Emma Elena Grace. Marshall Veroni is a contemporary folk singer-songwriter from Owen Sound, Ontario. With the release of his first studio record In Fields, he intends to share his music with all of Canada. From October to December of 2018, he toured across Ontario. He is touring Ontario again in June before heading for western Canada this July. 
Marshal has a sound that rings with a raw honesty about the human condition that turns his performances into something intimate and personal, regardless the size of the audience.  https://marshallveroni.com/
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Alt-Country w. Rae Billing & her band Crybaby, Sat June 1

Saturday June 1, 2019, at 8:00 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

Rae Billing and her Alt-Country band CRYBABY: Rae Billing vocals and acoustic guitar, Andrew Aldridge lead guitar, Greg Brisco keys, Scott Bell bass and Lucky Pete Lambert drums. CRYBABY is an alt-country band originally formed in Toronto in the mid-1990’s and reformed in Hamilton in late 2016 with a blend of Toronto and Hamilton players.

Their music has been described as tangy country soul” and “late night, pan-Americana rootsy songs… handled with gutsy femininity.”

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James Gordon, new cd “The Heritage Hall Sessions”, Fri May 31

Friday May 31, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

The wonderful singer-songwriter James Gordon returns to Artword to promote his new album The Heritage Hall Sessions, which has just been released to a really enthusiastic response. With a fresh-baked batch of new songs, some Hamilton favourites, and an electric car full of instruments, James will use his usual combination of historical, hysterical, politically charged and poignant material to engage with one of his favourite venues!
https://borealisrecords.com/product/the-heritage-hall-sessions/?v=3e8d115eb4b3

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Hamilton Poetry Centre Open Reading, Thurs May 30, 7-9 pm

Hamilton_Poetry_Centre_400x400Thursday May 30, 2019, 7 pm. Free. The Hamilton Poetry Centre presents its annual Open Reading. Everyone is welcome to attend and to read. Doors open 6:30, reading starts at 7:00. Please arrive by 6:45 to register
Established in 1983, the Hamilton Poetry Centre works to support and encourage the writing and appreciation of poetry, by conducting workshops and hosting Canada Council sponsored readings. http://hamiltonpoetrycentre.com/

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Special #2: Jazzkia+with Saskia Laroo, Wed May 29, 7:30pm

Wednesday May 29, at 7:30, $15. Special Concert #2. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

Jazzkia+, Saskia Laroo‘s innovative world music jazz project, comes to Hamilton, ON for a special performance! Saskia Laroo trumpet and vocals, Warren Byrd keyboards and lead vocals, Alvin Carter, Jr., drums and vocals, Jocelyn Pleasant, percussion and vocals, David Chevan bass and vocals.
Saskia Laroo’s Jazzkia+ goes Afro-Semitic featuring David Chevan and Warren Byrd (Kind of Cool meets Klezmer Soul). An evening of bebop, Latin, klezmer, funk, gospel and soul!

Jazzkia+ is Amsterdam-born trumpeter Saskia Laroo‘s Jazz Quartet plus guests. She got her nickname of “Lady Miles Davis” when the American press compared her improvisation style to this giant, one of her Jazz trumpet heroes. She met her pianist/vocalist, and husband Warren Byrd from Hartford, Connecticut in 2001 and was introduced by him to Jewish bassist David Chevan from New Haven, Connecticut.  Chevan and Byrd are the co-founders of the Afro-Semitic Experience. Saskia is honored to be part of this eclectic group and is proud to return the favor by inviting the bandmembers into her Jazzkia+.

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Special #1: Two-Shekel Swing, klezmer/swing band, Tues May 28, 7:30pm

Tuesday May 28, 2019, at 7:30 pm. $15. Special concert #1.
Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

Two-Shekel Swing, coming to the GTA for Jewish Music Week in Toronto, and then on to Hamilton! The musicians are Yoni Battat violin/vocals, Travis Pullman guitar, David Chevan bass, Jesse Chevan drums. Two-Shekel Swing blurs the lines between Klezmer, the folk music of Eastern European Jews, and Gypsy Jazz, the Parisian swing music of the 1930s.

The Boston-based ensemble is led by fiddler and vocalist, Yoni Avi Battat, who has performed this music for wide-ranging audiences in Lisbon, Tel-Aviv, New York and more. His fresh arrangements draw on his academic studies in Yiddish language along with his love for improvisation and experimentation. Yoni is joined by bassist David Chevan of the Afro-Semitic Experience, guitarist Travis Pullman of the Somerville Symphony Orkestar, and drummer Jesse Chevan who plays brass band, afrobeat, jazz, hip hop, and klezmer music in New York City.

Their unique blend of Yiddish Swing and old-world nostalgia will have you clapping, stomping and singing along to these historic melodies, reimagined with nuance, spirit and flair. The group performs in Jewish and secular venues, from synagogues to jazz clubs, and is working towards the release of their debut album.

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THEATRE: Whoever You Are, a science-fiction play, May 14 to 26

May 14 to 26, 2019. Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online

Artword Theatre presents Whoever You Are, a play written and directed by Ronald Weihs, based on a 1952 science fiction short story by Judith Merril.

The human race has built a web around the Solar System that traps alien life forms. A SolSys scout ship returns with aliens aboard and is caught in the web. When a young recruit boards the ship and investigates, it becomes evident that the aliens have what may be an irresistible weapon: they love everybody.

Do we dare let them in? On Phobos (one of the moons of Mars), three people must decide what action to take: two men, a military commander and a psychologist, and one woman, the public information officer.

Performed by Jordan Campbell, Paula Grove and Jay Shand as the team at Phobos Base, and Pamela Gardner as Private Fromm, the new space recruit.
Live soundscape by Dave Gould (and voice of Sergeant Bolster).
Video effects by Ronald Weihs and Judith Sandiford.

Show times: Preview $10 Tues May 14 at 8 pm.
Wed to Sat $20: May 15 to 18 at 8 pm.
Tues to Fri $20: May 21 to 24 at 8 pm.
Matinees $15: Sat May 18, Sat May 25 and Sun May 26 at 3:30 pm

Written in 1952, Whoever You Are was Judith Merril’s answer to the “Fortress America” paranoia at the beginning of the cold war, and her protest against the emotional and sexual repression that fueled it. Although the lines today are less sharply drawn, fear of the alien is as prevalent today as it was then.
Like most of Judith Merril’s work, Whoever You Are has fun with the science fiction setting, but uses it to make some serious points. Merril had a major influence on science fiction as one of the main voices for more human themes and complex issues. In her own fiction, and in a series of key anthologies, she championed the position that Science Fiction was about exploring alternative realities.

The play by Ronald Weihs was first developed in 1997, when Ron asked her permission to adapt one of her short stories for the stage. Judith Merril died on September 12, 1997, when the project to put Whoever You Are on the stage was well underway. Just before she went to the hospital, she read a draft of the script. Her most significant comment was that the play must convey the sense of inward-looking paranoia, fear and sexual repressiveness that underlies nationalism and xenophobia.

It seems even more urgent to revisit these themes now, in 2019, 22 years after our first presentation of the play (in our first Artword Theatre on Portland Street), and 67 years after Judith Merril wrote the original story.

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Trumpeter Brownman Ali and his Electryc Trio, Sat May 25

Saturday May 25, 2019, at 8:00 pm, $20 door, $15 advance, $10 students. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

The amazing jazz trumpeter Brownman Ali returns to Artword Artbar with his Electryc Trio on their May tour.

The trio, Brownman Ali on electric trumpet, Sean Dennis on 6-string electric bass, and Jacob Aylward on drums, explore the later compositions of Miles Davis.

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Pint of Science, Mon May 20, Tues May 21, Wed May 22, 5 to 7 pm

Monday May 20, Tuesday May 21, Wed May 22, 2019, from 5 to 7 pm. Pint of Science: Hamilton comes to Artword Artbar. Pint of Science is an international festival over 3 days in May. The idea is to bring some of the most brilliant scientists to your local pub to discuss their latest research and findings with you. You don’t need any prior knowledge. It’s a chance to meet the people responsible for the future of science (and have a pint with them). https://pintofscience.ca/team/Hamilton%20Team.    https://pintofscience.ca/events/hamilton-on

Monday May 20, 5:30 pm: A Trip to Quantumland: What if I tell you that the world in the smallest imaginable scales has nothing to do with what we know?
* Bosons versus Fermions: with Duncan O’Dell (Professor, Department of Physics & Astronomy, McMaster University)
* A Universe in Every Material, with James Lambert ( PhD Candidate)
7:00 pm: Linger afterwards for “Currently Brewing”, mingle and ask questions

Tuesday May 21, 5:30 pm: How to make good blood? Get your answer while drinking a beer.
* Blood, ketchup, and other complex fluids: with Adam Fortais (PhD Candidate)
* Under the Radar: Bionic Blood Cells to Fight Diseases: with Sebastian Himbert (PhD Candidate)

(Followed at 8:00 on Tues May 21 and Wed May 22 by Artword’s science-fiction play Whoever You Are.)

Wednesday May 22, 5:30 pm: Seeing is believing. In a galaxy far far away, a black hole and a big space rock walks into a bar.
* The World is Your Telescope: Our first ever image of a supermassive black hole: with Toby Brown (Postdoc)
* Is a big rock in space coming to destroy us all? The threatening, the nonthreatening, and the straight up make-believe: with Ben K. D. Pearce (Ph.D. Candidate Physics & Astronomy – Astrobiology McMaster University)

Posted in Event, Special event | Comments Off on Pint of Science, Mon May 20, Tues May 21, Wed May 22, 5 to 7 pm

60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Sat May 11, TWO shows — 3:30 & 8 pm

Saturday May 11, 2019, at 3:30 and 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone (Spring 2019 edition) returns with a two-show Saturday. We had to turn people away last time, so Sue, Michelle, Dwight and Tony have added a second show.
The 60s Folk Revival sing-along concert features Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening in a 1960s coffeehouse in Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today, from songwriters including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk | Comments Off on 60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Sat May 11, TWO shows — 3:30 & 8 pm

Jazz w. the Nick Arseneau Sextet, Friday May 10

Friday May 10, 2019 at 8:00 pm, $10. Jazz with the Nick Arseneau Sextet: Nick Arseneau compositions and upright & electric bass, Marie Goudy trumpet, John Nicholson tenor sax, Patrick O’Reilly guitar and effects, Josh Smiley piano, and Harry Vetro drums.
The Nick Arseneau Sextet takes a unified, organic approach to modern jazz. Playing Nick’s original compositions, the group strives to create one voice, rather than playing as a group of divided individuals. When this is accomplished, the improvisational elements of listening and interacting come through strong and clear. Nick’s compositions range from straight-ahead jazz to free jazz, often incorporating elements of punk rock, math rock, and hip hop. Based in Toronto, the group gigs regularly at local clubs. The Sextet is scheduled to release their first full-length recording in Fall 2019.  https://nickarseneau.bandcamp.com
http://nickarseneau.com

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Cats Cove Media presents Joe Bass, The Do-Gooders, Tim Collins, Thurs May 9

Thursday May 9, 2019, at 8 pm, door $15 cash only, $12 advanced online. Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Cats Cove Media presents an artist showcase featuring Joe Bass, The Do-Gooders and Tim Collins.
Tim Collins
:  singer-songwriter in the folk and folk-rock genre.
The Do-Gooders:  a hard-acoustic trio made up of Hamilton cellist Geoff Ball, and Burlington guitarists Stu Gritter and Dan Murray. Possessing a penchant for storytelling, they tend to snag bits and pieces from different genres in order to find what best suits their whimsically grim (Grimsical?) tales.
Joe Bass is a guitar, mandolin and bass banjo trio: Sandy James, Eric Marcotte, and Garrett Stratford. Modern folk tales, rootsy genre-bending anthems, and just a dash of small-town nostalgia, Joe Bass offers an adventurous spin on alternative-folk music.

Joe Bass
The Do-Gooders
Tim Collins

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Bluegrass: New Cumberland Band, Sat May 4

Saturday, May 4, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
An Artword favourite: The New Cumberland bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns vocals and guitar,  Blair Heddle vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge string bass, and Darrin Schott fiddle. Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. http://newcumberlandband.com/

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Western Swing Band, w. Sonny Sinclair, Fri May 3

Friday May 3, 2019 at 8 pm, $10. The Western Swing Band with Sonny Sinclair guitar/ vocals; Peter Arthur bass / vocals; Doug Johnson pedal steel, Domenic Di Nino drums.

Inspired by the country swing style of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, George Strait, The Time Jumpers and Asleep at the Wheel, this band celebrates that great tradition. From country two-step, western swing and Texas waltzes, with sweet vocal harmonies, it’s a bit like travelling back in time to the original days of western swing.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-country | Comments Off on Western Swing Band, w. Sonny Sinclair, Fri May 3

David Essig returns! Thurs May 2

Thursday May 2, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online

The wonderful David Essig returns to Artword on his “short and sweet spring tour – it’s a good chance to catch up with dear friends and audiences and to share some new tunes.” (Only 6 other stops in Ontario.)  http://davidessig.com/cms/

DAVID ESSIG was introduced to Canadian audiences in 1971 as a “talented newcomer” at the legendary Mariposa Folk Festival. Now, nearly 50 years later, he continues to pursue an international career as one of Canada’s finest roots music performers. He has appeared at every major folk festival in Canada and at concerts throughout the world. David uses the traditions he grew up with – Bluegrass and Delta Blues – to create timeless original songs. He has released 25 albums and continues to tour across Canada and in Europe, where he has a strong following, especially in Italy. David is a compelling live performer with contemporary original songs that always pay tribute to their roots in traditional country music and Delta blues.  Many of his songs, like “Albert’s Cove” and “High Ground,” are considered classics of Canadian roots music. As a producer, David has done over 60 albums with other artists, including the first three albums by both Willie P Bennett and Fred Eaglesmith.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk, Music-roots, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on David Essig returns! Thurs May 2

Special concert: The Sinners Choir, Sat Apr 27

Saturday April 27, 2019, at 8 pm, $15.00. Nearly sold out. For ticket info, email Trevor Powell <trevpowell16@gmail.com>
A special concert: Tracey and Trevor Powell present The Sinners Choir, a trio comprised of three generations of seasoned Toronto sidemen: bassist Terry Wilkins, drummer Adam Warner and guitarist Adam Beer-Colacino. The Sinners Choir takes each player out of their sideman role, showcasing themselves as composers and as singers with a resonant 3-part harmony.

Terry Wilkins is a veteran of the Canadian music scene and represents the 70-something demographic. He has been a member of bands ranging from Rough Trade to Lighthouse as well as David Wilcox and a string of visiting jazz and blues artists like Dr. John, John Hammond and Levon Helm among others.
Adam Warner has been in the trenches as a drummer supporting a who’s-who of Canadian musical aristocracy, Steven Page, Jill Barber, and White Cowbell Oklahoma, to name a few. As a singer/songwriter he has released 3 solo albums. Adam represents the 40-something demographic.
Adam Beer-Colacino, the youngest member of the band, represents the 20-something group. Adam has been honing his craft mostly in Toronto, working with such people as Devin Cuddy, Whitney Rose and members of Downchild Blues Band. His guitar playing is influenced by Pops Staples and Freddie King.

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Alex Pangman and her Alleycats, Fri Apr 26

Friday April 26, 2019, at 8 pm, $15.
SOLD OUT. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512 for more info.
A return visit from the wonderful jazz vocalist, Canada’s Sweetheart of Swing: Alex Pangman & Her Alleycats: Alex Pangman (leader/vox), Peter Hill (piano), Chris Banks (bass), John Macleod (cornet/flugelhorn), Glenn Anderson drums.
Reservations recommended. Her last show at Artword sold out!
www.alexpangman.com/
“It would be hard to find a box of musical bonbons more beguiling than this collection of post-Jazz Age treats… Her earnest vocals and sharp Alleycats band make each song sparkle.” Toronto Star review by John Terauds.
Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Alex Pangman and her Alleycats, Fri Apr 26

Keegan Larose hosts singer-songwriter evening, Thurs April 25, 7:30

Thursday April 25, 2019, at 7:30, $10. Keegan Larose hosts an artist showcase featuring Hamilton-based songwriters sharing their songs and the stories behind them.
Lineup for April 25:
7:30-8:00 Jesse Macrae
8:10-8:40 Keegan Larose
8:50-9:20 Jamie Shea
9:30-10:00 Dave Pomfret

https://keeganlarose.wixsite.com/keeganlarose

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private event, Wed April 24

Private event on Wednesday April 24, not open to the public.

Posted in Event, News | Comments Off on private event, Wed April 24

Eli Wallace piano improvisations + Eugene Martynec live electronics + Judith Sandiford live video mix, Tues Apr 23

Tuesday April 23rd, 2019 7:30 pm, $10. Special Concert, a double bill of two outstanding solo improvisors: Eli Wallace, from New York on his Barriers solo piano release tour, and Eugene Martynec, from Toronto, performing live electronics. Judith Sandiford will perform live video-mix projections.
Known for creating solo piano improvisations informed by his melange of diverse influences that are directed by his strong compositional sensibilities, Eli Wallace will play an uninterrupted single improvised piece; as similarly displayed on his recent release, Barriers.
Eugene Martynec is a staple of the Toronto improvised music community and will perform a solo electronics set using live interactive music software. Eugene has a long history of collaboration with Artword Theatre (Ronald Weihs and Judith Sandiford) in their Toronto days. He has created electronic sound scores for several of their theatre projects. For four years he hosted Eugene’s Sunday Series, every Sunday evening at Artword Theatre on Portland Street, where the improvising community had a chance to explore and experiment.
It was Eugene who got Judith Sandiford started with her VJ software explorations. In the past they have collaborated on various live-video performances. This concert will be a reunion “duet”.

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Jazz w. Alex Tomowich Quartet, Sat April 20

Saturday April 20, 2019, at 8 pm, $15 /students $10. Jazz with the Alex Tomowich Quartet: Michael Morabito on saxophone(s), Victor Agrippa on EWI (electronic wind Instrument), William Fachin on drums, Alex Tomowich on piano. Alex writes: “We’re back with another evening of wacky and exciting originals, with arrangements of compositions ranging from Joe Satriani to Adrean Farrugia. And some new material!”

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closed Good Friday Apr 19

Posted in Event | Comments Off on closed Good Friday Apr 19

Joe Crookston, songwriter, guitarist, fiddler… Thurs April 18

Thursday April 18, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
ANNOUNCING a special appearance by Joe Crookston, songwriter, guitarist, painter, fiddler, slide player, eco-village member and believer in all things possible. He’ll surprise you and awaken the cynics. His songs are universal, his rhythm infectious and in concert, he is funny as hell one moment and transcendent the next.  http://www.joecrookston.com/
HE BELIEVES IN STORIES: Come to a show. Mystical, and humorous roads, twisting through vivid cinematography. Oklahoma towns, rattlesnake tails, turbary thieves, Galway heather, meter maids and drunk roosters. At the end of the night, you’ll leave inspired.
THERE IS A LONG NOTE & JOE IS REACHING FOR IT: “The Long Note”, a phrase in Irish culture, is that place of resonance and transcendence where the music, the voices, the instruments, and the community ALL come together and unite. Whether he’s picking his 48 Gibson, weaving through lap slide songs or looping his fiddle, he will draw you in. It happens every time.

Watch a YouTube video. It’s good, but it’s not the same. You gotta come to a show. With unwavering courage to be himself, he is literate, poignant and funny as hell.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk, Music-roots, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Joe Crookston, songwriter, guitarist, fiddler… Thurs April 18

Surefire Sweat: jazz, funk, world rhythms, Sat April 13

Saturday April 13, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Surefire Sweat‘s debut appearance at Artword Artbar features the group’s inventive blend of jazz, funk and worldly rhythms. Players are: Dave Chan percussion, vocals; Larry Graves drums, vocals; Elena Kapeleris tenor sax, vocals; Paul MacDougall guitar, vocals; Liam Smith bass, vocals.
The music, composed by Juno-nominated drummer Larry Graves, is original, drawing on an amalgam of funk, jazz, brass-band, blues and Afrobeat. Inventive arrangements act as a vehicle for the all-star cast of musicians to engage listeners through improvisational explorations and danceable arrangements. Some new music will be explored as well as repertoire from the band’s up-coming release (supported by The Canada Council for Arts and The Ontario Arts Council).  surefiresweat.com

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Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial, back! Fri April 12

Friday April 12, 2019, at 8 pm $15.
Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Stuart Laughton brings us another edition of Radio Dial. Always wonderful, always full of surprises.

Stuart writes “Stuart Laughton’s RADIO DIAL is back with more great musicianship and fun (and 10 new tunes!) featuring Rebecca Campbell on vocals/guitar, Burke Carroll on pedal steel guitar, Martin Worthy on drums/vocals, and Steve Lucas on bass. Oh, and Stuart on everything else.” Note: Morgan Childs will sit in for Martin Worthy on drums.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz, Music-roots, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial, back! Fri April 12

The Vagabond Duet: Rachel Nolan harp & Geoff Ball cello, Thurs Apr 11 7:30

Thursday April 11, 2019.
TIME CHANGE, start now 7:30 pm !! $10.
The Vagabond Duet: Geoff Ball on cello, guitar and vocals, and Rachel Nolan on pedal harp, lever harp and vocals. The Vagabond Duet mixes and mashes musical genres with reckless abandon. Cello and harp and two voices come together to bring you folk & baroque, old and new, fierce and lilting, existentialism and hope. In addition to their original compositions, you will hear Simon & Garfunkel, Claude Debussy, The Tea Party, Fleetwood Mac and more, as you have never heard them before.
Featuring an opening set by Teal Booth, song artist and existentialist, serenading on guitar and vocals.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Classical, Music-folk | Comments Off on The Vagabond Duet: Rachel Nolan harp & Geoff Ball cello, Thurs Apr 11 7:30

(Dub)Poetically Speaking: host Klyde Broox, Wed Apr 10

Wednesday, April 10, 2019, at 8 pm, pwyc. (Dub)Poetically Speaking: a spoken word evening hosted by our longtime friend Klyde Broox. The evening includes a line-up of poets, plus an open-mic to follow.

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Poetry: Tamaracks: Canadian Poetry, celebration, Sun April 7 at 2 pm

Sunday April 7, 2019, from 2 to 5 pm. As a celebration of National Poetry Month, Artword Artbar hosts a poetry reading featuring Tamaracks contributors. In fall 2018, Tamaracks: Canadian poetry for the 21st century was published by Lummox Press, a California publisher. The volume was edited by James Deahl. This is the first comprehensive survey of Canadian poetry to appear in over three decades. It presents the work of 113 Canadian poets, many from the Toronto-Hamilton area.
Readers for April 7 are:
Becky D. Alexander, Cambridge; Sharon Berg, Sarnia; Robert A. Boates, Hamilton; Rebecca Clifford, Caledonia; Patrick Connors, Toronto; James Deahl, Sarnia; G. W. Down, Hamilton; Gertrude Olga Down, Hamilton; Jennifer Lynn Dunlop, Ancaster;
Ronda Wicks Eller, Mitchell; Kate Marshall Flaherty, Toronto; Jennifer L. Foster, Hamilton;
Ryan Gibbs, London; David Haskins, Grimsby; Debbie Okun Hill, Camlachie;
Eryn Hiscock, Toronto; Lawrence Hopperton, Stouffville; Laurence Hutchman, Oakville;
Keith Inman, Thorold; Eva Kolacz, Oakville; John B. Lee, Port Dover; Norma West Linder, Sarnia;
Mori McCrae, St. Catharines; Michael Mirolla, Oakville; Deborah A. Morrison, Hamilton;
Gianna Patriarca, Toronto; Stella Mazur Preda, Waterdown; Kathy Robertson, Kitchener;
Lynn Tait, Sarnia; Ed Woods, Dundas; Anna Yin, Mississauga

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word | Comments Off on Poetry: Tamaracks: Canadian Poetry, celebration, Sun April 7 at 2 pm

Robin Benedict & Friends, Sat April 6

Saturday April 6, 2019, at 8 pm, $20. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online

A high-powered show organized and hosted by high-powered musician Robin Benedict. Her co-performers for the evening — Pamela Gardner, Brennagh Burns, Joe Towers, and Aaron Di Carlo (Dub Donor) — will be collaborating and combining their talents to put on an unforgettable, intimate performance.

Robin Benedict has been playing music independently throughout Southern Ontario and the United States since her first EP, Ride of my Life, released in 2012. A video of Robin singing Blondie’s ‘Heart of Glass’ went viral throughout Facebook in 2014, reaching 5 million people. A successful crowd funding campaign allowed her to record a second EP of 6 songs, Dance Away the Darkness. In 2017 she took to the road with fellow singer-songwriter Brennagh Burns, on a winter-escape tour throughout the US. She is a full-time musician based in Hamilton, playing solo to pay the bills. Recently she has developed a personal Janis Joplin Tribute Show stacked with some of Ontario’s most renowned players. Robin prides herself in her ability to share a positive attitude on life through her original songs, which speak of soul-searching and new beginnings. Music is the air Robin breathes. Her voice can both jolt like a firecracker and lull a baby to sleep. When she opens her mouth to sing, she means it every time.

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Koopa Troop, jazzed up vintage video-game music, Fri Apr 5

Friday April 5, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. The Koopa Troop band play classic video-game music: Wilson McLeish / Luigi (guitar),Tom Altobelli /Mario (bass), Tyler Goertzen /Link (drums), Chris Bruder /Toad (piano). [Fifth member Chelsea McBride is not available for this concert.]
Koopa Troop brings the nostalgic sounds of video games to life in a quirky ensemble. Donning their Nintendo-themed costumes, these Toronto jazz musicians embrace their inner nerd and become a live, musical nostalgia machine. Koopa Troop aims to induce flashbacks as they cover all the classic video game soundtracks from Mario to Megaman. Bringing the best video game composers to the forefront, Koopa Troop’s jazz, rock, funk, and swing-infused arrangements bring the epic pixelated melodies of the past into the real world. 

Posted in Event, Music, Music-funk, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Koopa Troop, jazzed up vintage video-game music, Fri Apr 5

Andrew Aldridge – Planet of the Loops, Thur April 4

Thursday April 4, 2019 at 8 pm, cover $10. The Planet of the Loops returns! Noted guitarist Andrew Aldridge is bringing back his legendary Planet of the Loops  live at Artword Artbar with special guests Big TRBL and Dave Gould.
Join us for a night of live improvised recycling of sounds! Anything can happen, and frequently does! Andrew explains: “In 1998 I started a Collective event called Planet of the Loops. It’s an improvisational/ experimental night consisting of 3-4 players. It ran in Toronto until 2005. Then I moved to Hamilton and occasionally had some Planet events in various locations. I was touring a lot too and couldn’t do a regular monthly event.”
In 2017 Andrew brought his Planet of the Loops to Artword Artbar, where VJ improvisor Judith Sandiford joined the musicians for some real-time visual “looping”. She’s looking forward to another trip to the Planet.
Photos left from 2017: Andrew Aldridge. with Wally Jericho, Tim Tickner,
 https://www.andrewaldridgemusic.com/

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The Mingus Appreciation Society, 7 musicians play Mingus, Sat Mar 30

Charles Mingus at the Monterey Jazz Festival, September 20, 1964 (© Ray Avery/CTSIMAGES)

Saturday March 30, 2019, at 8 pm, $15.
Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
The seven-piece Mingus Appreciation Society brings together unique musicians and pays tribute to the quirky music of Charles Mingus.
Featuring members of the Blunt Object collective from Toronto, Hamilton, and Kitchener/ Waterloo: Francis Smith saxophone; Robin Habermehl saxophone
Jesse Malone trumpet; Robin Jessome trombone; Andriy Tykhonov piano; Tom AltobellI bass; Jordan Snider drums.Weaving complex arrangements with group improvisation, the personality and sense of humour in Mingus’ timeless compositions reflect a man who was an eclectic and uncompromising musical force, and hugely influential on jazz musicians that followed him.

Image right is one of Artword’s favourite Mingus albums: Charles Mingus, Oh Yeah, 1961 Atlantic. album art by Loring Eutemey

From Wikipedia: Charles Mingus Jr. (April 22, 1922 – January 5, 1979) was an American jazz double bassist, pianist, composer and bandleader. A major proponent of collective improvisation, he is considered to be one of the greatest jazz musicians and composers in history, with a career spanning three decades and collaborations with other jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Dannie Richmond, and Herbie Hancock.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on The Mingus Appreciation Society, 7 musicians play Mingus, Sat Mar 30

Jazz: Aubrey Wilson Quartet, Fri Mar 29

Friday, March 29, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. An Artword favourite returns! Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, featuring Chris Bruder on piano, Tom Altobelli on bass, Sean Bruce Parker on drums and bandleader Aubrey Wilson on vocals.
https://www.aubreywilsonmusic.com/
Aubrey has been actively involved in the performing arts since the age of 6. In 2012 Aubrey completed a diploma in vocal jazz performance from Mohawk College. The Aubrey Wilson Quartet  (Chris Bruder on piano, Tom Altobelli on bass, Sean Bruce Parker on drums and bandleader Aubrey Wilson on vocals) has been actively gigging in both the Hamilton and Toronto areas since 2012. “Together the band has a dynamic, high-energy sound over a range of jazz standards. They represent the next wave of jazz players in the city, bringing their own energy, experience, and musical sensibilities wherever they play.” – SteelCityJazzFestival

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Emma Elena Grace, Shealagh Rose, Rebekah Hawker, Thurs Mar 28

Thursday March 28 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Join Emma Elena Grace, Shealagh Rose, and Rebekah Hawker, three rising singer-songwriters, for an intimate evening of stories and songs.
Emma Elena Grace is an alt-country singer-songwriter from Hamilton, Ontario. She walks the line between the genre’s old and new. She grew up with the traditional country music her father used to play her. Yet, labeling Emma Elena Grace is a hard thing to do. She possesses a voice and constantly growing style that stands on its own. Emma Elena Grace graduated from Fanshawe’s Music Industry Arts Program in 2015, and released her debut album, This Side of the Room in August, 2015. Emma also won Best Singer/Songwriter at the 2016 Toronto Independent Music Awards. She is currently working on her second studio album, set to release in 2019. Socials: @Emma Elena Grace
Shealagh Rose: Originally from Hamilton, Ontario, Shealagh Rose is a folk singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who blends storytelling lyrics with sweeping melodic lines and open tunings. Shealagh moved to Toronto where she received her Bachelor of Music (2016) from Humber College as a vocal major. She began performing under the name Shealagh Rose and released her debut EP Island in July 2016. Shealagh Rose brings a new feel to a classic genre, with lush with soulful vocals and beautiful string sections. Socials: www.shealaghrose.com    @shealaghrose
Rebekah Hawker: For the past five years, Rebekah Hawker has been singing for Toronto audiences in crowded rooms. Her accolades in songwriting and vocals include Summerfolk Youth Discoveries, Seneca’s Got Talent competitions and Barrie Folk Society’s Youth Songwriters Showcase. Rebekah transforms the grievances of her peers, her audience, and herself, into something that satisfies our thirst for honest representations of life beyond artifice. In February 2019, Rebekah will journey to Vancouver with the Via Rail Artist-on-Board Program, to make her first solo EP in the folk genre: Careful Women. Socials:  www.rebekahhawker.com   @rebekahhawker

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Emma Elena Grace, Shealagh Rose, Rebekah Hawker, Thurs Mar 28

Devin Patten, jazz bassist, new compositions, Sat March 23

Saturday March 23, 2019, at 8 pm, $15/$10.
Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Devin Patten is a Toronto-based jazz bassist and composer. On this occasion at Artword Artbar, he will be leading a six-piece ensemble highlighting his original music. The ensemble: Brad Eaton trumpet, Kyle Tarder-Stoll tenor saxophone; Nebyu Yohannes trombone; Claire Lee piano; Devin Patten upright bass; Eric West drums. Devin’s compositions draw influence from the music of Wayne Shorter, Joe Henderson, Bill Evans and Claude Debussy.

Devin was a regular performer at Artword during his student days at Mohawk College. He always had an ambitious musical project on the go. We are delighted to have him back!

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Swing Into Spring w. jazz pianist Paul Benton, Fri Mar 22

Friday March 22, 2019, at 8 pm, $15.
Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Artword Artbar is pleased to announce the return to Hamilton of noted jazz pianist and vocalist Paul Benton. He celebrates his homecoming with a Swing Into Spring concert, a pianistic cocktail mixing original compositions and classic tunes, with vocals in four languages.
Accompanying him on bass is his daughter Jen Benton (half of the Benton Jazz Duo). She is the bassist for Stiletto Flats, for the David Bowie tribute band “I Will Be King”, as well as songstress Meredith, pop/duet band Bathurst Station, and electro/pop/rock band Last Hologram. She also performs rock, jazz, pop, country, and funk gigs throughout the GTA with various musicians. http://www.jenbenton.com/

Paul Benton has been a professional musician for over 45 years, playing jazz, Latin and classical styles, and bringing fresh interpretations to the American Songbook. Based in Hamilton, he has performed in Europe and throughout North America. From 1988-1995, he and Roxanne Horbett-Benton, artist and designer, ran the Bay Area Jazz Society, producing festivals and a jazz magazine, The Riff. He has played Ontario Place, Roy Thompson Hall, Hamilton Place, Redeemer College, Hess Street Jazz Festival and Festival of Friends. For the last few years, he has been living in Victoria BC.
Review: “Benton was in raging form at the piano, striding and strutting around with two-fisted blizzards of note-filled solos in contrast with lyric vocals.” Hugh Fraser (Music Critic for Hamilton Spectator)

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Swing Into Spring w. jazz pianist Paul Benton, Fri Mar 22

Tragedy Ann and Moonfruits, two folk duos, Thurs March 21

Thursday March 21, 2019 at 8 pm, $15 at door/$10 advance.
To reserve, call 905-543-8512 or   Book online   BUY_tix_button
Acclaimed folk acts Tragedy Ann (Liv Cazzola and Braden Phelan) and Moonfruits (Alex Millaire and Kaitlin Milroy) bring us an intimate bilingual evening of laughs, reverie and vocal harmonies.
** The award-winning music of Guelph folk duo Tragedy Ann, Liv Cazzola and Braden Phelan, craft something simultaneously familiar and fresh. Cazzola’s multi-instrumental menagerie and Phelan’s dynamic guitar flavours provide a lush backdrop to their powerful narratives, reminding you that you do indeed love the accordion—you just never heard it played this sweetly. tragedyannmusic.com
** Fronted by partners Alex Millaire and Kaitlin Milroy, Ottawa-based Moonfruits are makers of art-folk bilingue. In a forest of banjo, guitar, kalimba and glockenspiel, their voices burrow and soar. Four-time 2019 Trille Or nominees, Moonfruits have toured Canada coast to coast. Their début full-length Ste-Quequepart (2017) \saint-kehk-pahr or Saint Somewhere\ is an elaborate small town fiction that explores the faces of gentrification, isolation and community. moonfruits.ca

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk, Music-pop-etc., Music-rock, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Tragedy Ann and Moonfruits, two folk duos, Thurs March 21

THEATRE: Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy, March 9 to 17, 2019

March 9 to 17, 2019. All tickets $15.00. Call 905-543-8512
Artword Theatre is bringing back its timely and sensitive piece of documentary theatre, Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy, written and directed by Ronald Weihs and produced by Judith Sandiford. Dancer-choreographer-actor Learie Mc Nicolls plays the role of Langston Hughes and character actor Howard Jerome plays The Interrogator.

Is poetry subversive? U.S. Senator Joe McCarthy thought so. On March 24, 1953, Langston Hughes, renowned poet of the Harlem Renaissance, was summoned before the Senate Committee on Investigations. Did his poems contain communist ideas? In reply, Langston Hughes tells about his personal encounters with racism in America. The script is based on the actual transcript of his testimony, interwoven with the controversial poems, and incorporating dance, music and powerful images of the era.
Only 8 performances! Running time: 60 minutes. Show dates and times:
Saturday March 9 at 7:30 pm, OPENING Special, includes admission to the Beg To Differ concert, following at 9 pm.
Sunday March 10 mat at 3:00 pm, Tuesday March 12 at 7:30 pm, Wednesday March 13 at 7:30 pm, Thursday March 14 at 7:30 pm, Friday March 15 at 7:30 pm, Saturday March 16 mat at 3:00 pm only, Sunday March 17 mat at 3:00 pm, final show.


Read Gary Smith’s review March 13, 2019 in the Hamilton Spectator:

Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy is a moving and probing drama

“Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy,” playwright Ron Weihs’s probing drama, packs a lot of power into an hour. This short play, interspersed with elegant stage moves, as well as haunting poetry by the iconic Hughes, is a fusion of art forms that sits neatly on the Artword Artbar stage.

The room is small. So is the stage. But the ideas are large.

Continue reading

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Latin American Peña, music and poetry, Sat March 16

Saturday March 16, 2019, at 8 pm, $15 at the door.
(advance closed).
Another of our regular Latin American Peñas, with music and poetry from South and Central America.

Performers include: musicians Marcelo Puente, Lil America, and Fito Molena, and poets Ama Luna, Jessica Carrasco and Constanza Durán.

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Tiny Bill Cody Sees the Devil, Friday March 15 at 9 pm

Friday March 15, 2019, at 9:00 pm, $10. Tiny Bill Cody Sees the Devil. (This is a late show after the 7:30 performance of Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy.) Call 905-543-8512.
Tor Lukasik-Foss (aka Tiny Bill Cody) has been delivering off-kilter original songs in this city for two decades, and has recently cut his teeth as a storyteller with the Hamilton Seven. Join him as he presents Tiny Bill Cody Sees the Devil, an interconnected song and story cycle on hesitation, regret, social anxiety, and Satan!

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The Purple, White and Green: the story of the Scottish Suffragettes, Thur Mar 14, 9 pm

Thursday March 14, 2019, at 9:00 pm, $10 or by donation. (This is a late show after the 7:30 performance of Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy.) Call 905-543-8512.
COMBO TICKET $20 with Langston Hughes vs... at 7:30, call or Book online   BUY_tix_button

The Purple, White and Green: the story of the Scottish Suffragettes. Written to mark the 1918-2018 centenary of (some) women’s right to vote in the UK, this powerful piece of storytelling is both timely and compelling. Storytellers Nicola Wright and Lea Taylor (from Edinburgh, Scotland) present with verve and vigour this mix of historical facts and prose, where deeds and words come together.

Nicola Wright and Lea Taylor performing The Purple, White and Green: the story of the Scottish Suffragettes.

Photo left: performers Lea Taylor and Nicola Wright marching down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, 2018.

Their performance has enthralled audiences and even played at the Scottish Parliament before MSP’s and children.
They will also be performing this show at the Toronto Storytelling Festival on or near International Women’s Day.

Posted in Event, Storytelling, Theatre | Comments Off on The Purple, White and Green: the story of the Scottish Suffragettes, Thur Mar 14, 9 pm

Beg to Differ Quartet, Sat March 9, at 9 pm

Saturday March 9, 2019, at 9:00 pm, $10. An Artbar favourite, Beg To Differ Quartet, are back with a special late concert. Tim Ninehouse on keyboards, vocals; Doug Sikma on guitar; Steve Foster on drums and new member Ryan Ethier on bass. Unique renditions of blues, jazz and funk songs, drawing from a large musical repertoire from early blues roots to jazzified contemporary songs. http://reverbnation.com/begtodiffertrio

This show follows the performance of Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy from 7:30 to 8:30 pm.

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Beelays: Jazz Quartet, + Nosey Neighbour, double-bill, Fri March 8

Friday March 8, 2019, at 8 pm, $15. A double bill of jazz and funk.
Beelays: Jazz Quartet, with Jordan Snider on drums, Tom Altobelli on bass, Chris Bruder on piano and Scott McIntosh on guitar, is a stripped down instrumental edition of Hamilton’s hard-hitting funk rock band The Beelays. The quartet formed ten years ago while studying music at Mohawk College. The quartet features compositions written by all members of the group that fuse elements of improvisation with the energy of live music to make a unique performance every time.

Nosey Neighbour, with Juno-nominated guitarist & bandleader Paul MacDougall, George Ouellette on bass and Costa Chatzis on drums, is a group based in Brantford, born from a shared love of jazz, fusion and funk. Nosey Neighbour‘s style fuses catchy heads and adept improvisation much like John Scofield, Medeski Martin & Wood, and Miles Davis.

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Guitar Magic: James Bryan and Emma Rush, Thurs Mar 7, at 7:30

Thursday March 7, 2019, at 7:30 pm, $20. Two of Canada’s finest guitarists, James Bryan (McCollum) and Emma Rush come together for a night of pure guitar magic. Jazz meets pop meets folk meets classical. Originals meet classics. Tickets:  www.eventbrite.com/e/guitar-magic-tickets-55478289056

James Bryan is a member of the Philosopher Kings and duo Prozzak.
Hamiltonians know Emma Rush as the force behind Guitar Hamilton.
A must for all fans of the guitar.

www.facebook.com/jamesbryanmusic/

http://emma-rush.com/

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Sad Boys Literary Society, readings, music, Wed Mar 6

Wednesday March 6, 2019, at 8 pm. Admission by donation.
The Sad Boys Literary Society returns with music, readings, and new chapbooks. Host Ben Robinson.
Performers include:
Elise Arsenault, Anthony Easton, Melissa Payne.

 

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RESCHEDULED Jazz: The Jill McKenna Project, Tues Mar 5, 2019

NEW date: Tuesday March 5, 2019. Early! 7 to 9:30 pm. To reserve: call 905-543-8512.
Jazz with The Jill McKenna Project: Jill McKenna bass, Adrean Farrugia piano, Mackenzie Read drums. They will be exploring some new music and pushing the boundaries of what’s done in a normal jazz trio setting.

www.jillianmckennamusic.com

www.youtube.com/channel/UCMMlhvhJHDw0hLBwTZ-Z5pw

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Jazz with the Carolyn Credico Quartet, Sat Mar 2

Saturday March 2, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Artword welcomes back “sweet and soulful” jazz singer Carolyn Credico with the Carolyn Credico Quartet: Chris Bruder piano, Jordan Snider drums, Victor Vrankulj bass. Join us for an evening of beautiful jazz standards. Special guest is Mike Malone on trumpet.
Carolyn Credico is a jazz, R&B, and pop singer from the Hamilton area.  After graduating from the Applied Music Programme at Mohawk College, Carolyn recorded her first full-length jazz album titled Pieces of Dreams with Don Thompson, Reg Schwager and Pat Collins. She performs in Toronto for some of 91.1 Jazz FM events organized by Jaymz Bee, and sings at local venues and private events throughout the GTA, Hamilton, and Niagara Region.  www.carolyncredico.com

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The Amy Project, stories/songs of Amy Winehouse, Fri March 1

Friday March 1, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Online ticketing closed. Call 905-543-8512 or 905-912-9083 for ticket availability.
Amy Project returns to Artword Artbar! The show is a musical and storied journey outlining the short but tragic life of Amy Winehouse, the late British soul, blues and jazz singer. The performers are: Marni Shuster as the voice of Amy,  Anthony Caradonna guitar/vocals, Ian Taylor bass/vocals, Amy DiNino piano/synth/vocals and Dominic DiNino drums.
Amy Winehouse was nominated for 63 World Music Awards and won 25 times for her songs and recordings before her death in 2011 at the age of only 27. The Amy Project performance will cover most of the songs from her two main albums Frank and Back to Black, plus many more of her other recordings, and some unreleased covers and collaborations.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-pop-etc., Music-rock, Music-Soul/R&B | Comments Off on The Amy Project, stories/songs of Amy Winehouse, Fri March 1

Kongero, a capella quartet from Sweden, Thurs Feb 28, 2019

Thursday February 28, 2019, at 8 pm, $15 regular / $10 students/seniors.  Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
Kongero, the a capella Swedish vocal group returns to Artword Artbar. Singers Lotta Andersson, Emma Björling, Anna Larsson and Anna Wikénius draw traditional Swedish music out of the past and into the present. They take the listener on a fabulous journey, an all-embracing Scandinavian folk music experience. www.kongero.se

“This group is a revelation. The beauty of the four voices is equaled only by the pristine, flawless arrangements. They provide a stunning example of a marriage between the traditional and the innovative. This magical Swedish music very much deserves to be heard far and wide.”  – Jeff Meshel, Music journalist

Artword has assembled a little sampler of Kongero’s beautiful singing.

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Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Sat Feb 23, 2019

Saturday February 23, 2019 at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

The Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble returns again for Black History Month! This ensemble combines the ancient rhythms of Africa with the jazz harmonies of modern times. Waleed Abdulhamid (Composer/Band Leader) explains:  “We play melody on top of traditional jazzy chord progressions with a twist of African ancient rhythms. There is a place for African instruments such as gombri, lakoumbe, marimba in the music.”
Band members are: Waleed Abdulhamid bass,vocals, percussion; Joseph Callender soprano and tenor saxophone; John Ebata keyboard, piano, accordion; Aaron Ferrera drums, percussion; Cory Sitek alto and soprano saxophone, flute.

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Alternative funk & soul: Olivia Brown Quartet, Fri Feb 22, 2019

Friday February 22, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. Alternative funk and soul with the Olivia Brown Quartet: “Billie Holiday, James Brown, and the Pixies collide in an evening of refreshingly original music.”
Olivia Brown bass and vocals, Jake Franiczek guitar, Justin McHugh drums, Ian Aisling piano.

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Psychedelic jazz, guitarist Doug Murphy, Thurs Feb 21, 2019

Thursday February 21,2019, at 8 pm, $10 / $5 students. Fusion psychedelic jazz with  guitarist Doug Murphy and his band “It Is What It Is”: Alana Gunn bass, Oscar Galbraith drums, Mike Ricci saxophone and flute. Guest set by Stef of KILLTHEOPPRESSOR.

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Jazz, Alex Tomowich Quartet, Sun Feb 17, 2019 at 7 pm

Sunday February 17, 2019 at 7 pm, $15 / $10 students. Special early Sunday concert. Jazz w. the Alex Tomowich Quartet:  Ted Warren on drums, Pat Collins on bass, Michael Morabito on saxophones, and Alex Tomowich on piano. The quartet plays a range of music including innovative originals inspired by Joe Satriani, Bud Powell, and Joey Calderazzo, along with covers of music by Adrean Farrugia and more.

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Acoustic Moments: The Riddim Riders Unplugged, Sat Feb 16, 2019

Saturday February 16, 2019, at 8 pm.
$15 advance, $20 at the door. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
Mr. Jay hosts another fabulous Acoustic Moments show, featuring world-class reggae music by The Riddim Riders Unplugged.
Core members Franklin Joseph and Mike Rajczak are joined by vocalist Lauren Mikayla. and Lorne Hinds on lead guitar, plus guest Russ Wilson on bass. The band breaks away from their usual reggae-rockers vibe with this configuration, presenting an acoustic-soul vibe featuring acoustic and classical guitars, djembe, conga and hand percussion, and a big focus on rich vocal harmonies.

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Diana Braithwaite & Chris Whiteley “Morning Sun” Black History Month, Fri Feb 15, 2019

Friday February 15, 2019, at 8 pm.
$15 advance, $20 door.
Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

The wonderful blues/gospel duo Diana Braithwaite and Chris Whiteley are bringing us a very special show: “Morning Sun” – a celebration in song for Black History Month.
Chris and Diana’s most recent appearance at Artword Artbar was in October 2018 in the Steel City Jazz Festival with a show of vintage jazz and blues.
Chris and Diana’s website

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Valentine Special with Em and Joss, Thur Feb 14, 2019

Thursday February 14, 2019, at 8 pm. $15. Artword Artbar hosts a date-night Valentine’s Day special, a romantic evening of music with our wonderful friends Em and Joss (Emily Kemp and Jocelyn Russell). They will sing their favourite love songs. Piano, acoustic guitar, rhythm instruments and rich vocal harmonies.

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Jazz w. the Winona Collective, Sat Feb 9, 2019

Saturday February 9, 2019, at 8 pm, $10. The Winona Collective is a group of five jazz musician friends: Dan Pitt and Harry Bartlett on guitars, and Jill McKenna and Caleb Klager on upright basses. They are exploring the possibilities of this unusual instrumentation. New arrangements are possible, where each member can take on a different role in the ensemble. Their compositions will feature aspects of jazz improvisation, as well as new takes on standards.
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The SoulCypher: featuring Aisha Barrow & Viktoria Csik, Fri Feb 8, 2019

Friday February 8, 2019, at 8:30 pm, $10. The SoulCypher features up-and-coming Soul and R&B artists LifeandtheTribe (Aisha Barrow vocalist and band) and Viktoria Csik and band. The evening will showcase modern and classic R&B and Neo-soul.
Lifeandthetribe: Aisha Barrow vocals (listen to video below); Nathanael Pollard keys; Jason Osario guitar; Spencer Devolin bass; Jadon Haughton drums.
Viktoria Csik and band: Viktoria Csik vocals; Santiago Rozo keys; Cameron Watson bass; Lucas Hibbs drums.
+ guest set by Julianna Jones.

Click here to read the wonderful article by Ric Taylor of View Magazine (Feb 7-13, 2019 Issue), interviewing Aisha BarrowAISHA BARROW ViewMag article

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OPENING Event: Kyp Harness, w. Tania Gill & Dale Morningstar, Thurs Feb 7, 2019

Thursday February 7, 2019, at 8 pm, $10 / pwyc. First event of 2019. Songwriter Kyp Harness, musician and writer, is celebrating the release of his second novel The Abandoned as well as his 14th album, self-titled Kyp Harness. Joining him is pianist Tania Gill and multi-instrumentalist Dale Morningstar of Dinner is Ruined.
Also participating in the evening is Chris Bailey, a poet/fisherman from Prince Edward Island, who splits his time between Hamilton and PEI. He will be reading from his book What Your Hands Have Done.
https://kypharness.net/

“If you aren’t familiar with Kyp Harness, then you’ve been missing one of the most important bodies of work any Canadian singer-songwriter…. With each new release, media outlets have hailed him as a genius, and his songs have been covered by Ron Sexsmith, Daniel Lanois and Mary Margaret O’Hara, among others. Sexsmith has called Harness, ‘my favourite songwriter. It’s his lyrics that set him apart. They are every bit as powerful as the best Dylan, Cohen and Lennon combined.’”

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December 2018, January 2019, in London, England

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Artword Artbar closed to Feb 6, 2019

From Dec 16, 2018 to Feb 6, 2019, Artword Artbar will be closed.
Programming resumes from Thurs February 7, 2019. Watch the website for programming updates for February and March 2019.

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Scroogissimo! is delightful and charming (review by Gary Smith)

GARY SMITH: Scroogissimo! is delightful and charming

WhatsOn December 11, 2019, 12:02 PM by Gary Smith, Special to The Hamilton Spectator

www.thespec.com/whatson-story/9075444-gary-smith-scroogissimo-is-delightful-and-charming/

It’s the best Scrooge I’ve seen all year.

With apologies to Charles Dickens, this Hamilton version of the transformation of a crusty old skinflint to a giving and caring benefactor of humanity, will make you believe in something more than ersatz holiday entertainment.

We’re in Hamilton, where Bob Cratchit (Jon-Gordon Odegaard) and his family live at 487 Barton St. Cratchit scratches out a living in the office chambers of Ebenezer Scrooge a wily old Sicilian played of course by the irrepressible Charly Chiarelli.

As in Dickens, you’ll go with those three spirits of Christmas, Past, Present and Future (Pamela Gardner, Paula Grove and Valeri Kay) as they force the grumpy old miser to confront the waste of his life. Continue reading

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THEATRE: Scroogissimo is coming back! Dec 1 to 15, 2018

NEWS: remaining 4 shows selling fast. Fri Dec 14 is SOLD OUT.
Friday Dec 1 to Saturday Dec 15, 2018.
Times: Wed to Sat at 8:00 pm.
Sun matinées Dec 2 & Dec 9 at 3:00 pm.
Tickets: Adults $25,  Child 14 & under $10.
To reserve call 905-543-8512. On-line ticketing no longer available.

Artword Theatre’s delightful Christmas comedy Scroogissimo returns for a fourth time to Artword Artbar. Hamilton’s North End meets Charles Dickens in a wacky script by Ryan Sero and Charly Chiarelli, directed by Ronald Weihs.
With the original cast!
Charly Chiarelli as Ebenezu Scroogie
Pamela Gardner as Christmas Past and ensemble
Paula Grove as Christmas Present and ensemble
Valeri Kay as Christmas Future, Mrs. Cratchit and ensemble
Jon-Gordon Odegaard as Bob Cratchit and ensemble
Jay Shand as Marley’s Ghost, nephew Fred and ensemble
Musical support by Alex Tomowich on piano.

A sell-out hit in 2013, 2014 and 2016, Scroogissimo features Charly Chiarelli as “Ebenezu Scroogie”, a Christmas-hating old Hamiltonian from Racalmuto, Sicily, who finds himself haunted by three ghosts of the Past, Present and Future.

Our favourite review, from the first production in 2013: “Artword Theatre is cramming a whack of seasonal fun into their tiny package of a space. Mixing local Sicilian–Canadian storyteller Charly Chiarelli and “Charly” Dickens makes a Christmas–cracker exploding with musical and comedic goodies that will make an addition to your festive season you will never forget….” Robin Pittis for View Magazine.
(The show is as much fun and even more, as we add new things in each remount.)

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SPECIAL: Brownman Ali’s Jazz Xmas show, Tues Dec 11, 7:30 pm

Tuesday, December 11, 2018, at 7:30 pm, $15/$10 students. Special show just added! Brownman Ali’s Jazz Xmas show is a unique reading of classic holiday tunes by the BROWNMAN AKOUSTIC QUARTET with Brownman Ali on trumpet, Nick Maclean on piano, Jesse Dietschi on bass and David Steinmetz on drums. All tunes have been specially arranged by Brownman. Imagine:
— “Frosty the Snowman” with a Cuban twist
— “We Three Kings” as a hip-hop track
— “Rudolph” as a hard-swinging tune
— “Jingle Bells in 7/8”
— “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire” as a Brazilian Samba
— “Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” like a 50’s Miles tunes
— “Do You Hear What I Hear” as down-tempo soul
— “Silent Night” as a ballad.

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Sikuris St. Lawrence, music from the Andes, Sat Nov 24

Saturday November 24, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
From Toronto, the Sikuris St. Lawrence band who play traditional South American music from the Andes: a special concert for their new cd Vidala.
Band members: Ernesto Cardenas (vocals and Andean wind instruments), Rodrigo Chavez (guitar, charango, percussion), Marco Frangini (vocals and sikus), Jose Sanhueza (vocals, guitar and small percussion), Nano Valverde (guitar, Andean wind instruments and bass), Miguel Vasquez (Andean wind instruments and percussion). The sikus is South American pan-flute (Aymara language); a sikuris is a person who plays the sikus.
The story: In 1983 a group of South American musicians living in Toronto gathered every Saturday at the legendary St Lawrence Market to play their music, exchange ideas and practice their instruments. Now, the SIkuris are gathering again to share their music and pay respect to the ancient music of the South American Andes. Instruments include the sikus, spanish guitar, charango, venezuelan cuatro guitar, kena, bombo, bass drum.
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New Orleans jazz with Red Hot Ramble, Fri Nov 23

Friday November 23, 2018, 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
New Orleans-style jazz with Red Hot Ramble: Roberta Hunt  lead vocals, piano; Jamie Stager vocals, trombone; Jacob Gorzhaltsan sax/clarinet;  Jacek “Jack” Zorawski vocals, acoustic bass; Glenn Anderson vocals, drums. Jacek and Glenn backed up Alex Pangman’s sold-out concert last July, and wanted to come back with their other band Red Hot Ramble. Here’s how they tell it:
“New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz music is also the home of great blues, rhythm & blues, second lines and ‘street beats’. Red Hot Ramble throws them all into the pot with and dishes them out in generous portions with a distinct taste of Canadiana thrown in! To borrow an old Louisiana saying, ‘Come as you are, leave different’, Red Hot Ramble, now in their 8th year together, has a well-earned reputation for their performances living up to that motto. The ‘Ramble’ is looking forward to performing for old and new friends at Hamilton’s Artword Artbar!” Website:  www.redhotramble.ca
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Adam Carter, Pamela Gardner, My Flying Machine, Thurs Nov. 22

Thursday November 22, 2018, at 8 pm, $10/Pay What You Can.
Melodic Pixel Media presents The Human Race: Adam Carter, featuring Pamela Gardner on aerial silks, with visuals by Judith Sandiford.
Special guest set by My Flying Machine (Brandon General)

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The Sad Boys Literary Society, readings & music, Wed Nov 21

Wednesday November 21, 2018, at 8 pm. Admission by donation.
The Sad Boys Literary Society returns with a night of readings and musical performances from Meredith Park, Kira Moolman, Tim Selles, Tim Martin, Ben McCullough, Ben Robinson.
The evening is hosted by Ben Robinson.

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An Intimate Evening With Dwayne Morgan, Sat Nov 17

Saturday, November 17, 2018, at 8 pm,
$15 reg, $12 student/senior.
Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button

Dwayne Morgan is a master storyteller. Known affectionately as the Godfather of Canadian Spoken Word, Morgan brings his 25th anniversary celebrations to Hamilton. Join us for An Intimate Evening With Dwayne Morgan. dwaynemorgan.ca/

Dwayne’s biographyDwayne Morgan began his career as a spoken word artist in 1993. In 1994, while still in high school, he founded Up From The Roots entertainment, to promote the positive artistic contributions of African Canadian and urban influenced artists. A member of the Writers’ Union of Canada, Morgan has received both the African Canadian Achievement Award, and the Harry Jerome Award for Excellence in the Arts. Morgan is the winner of 3 Canadian Urban Music Awards (2001, 2003, 2005). In 1998, Morgan introduced regular poetry slams to Toronto, and has watched them blossom across the GTA and beyond ever since. In 2005 he was recognized as Poet of Honour at the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word in Vancouver.  Continue reading

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Acoustic Moments: the R&B and Soul Edition, Fri Nov 16

Friday November 16, 2018, at 8 pm.
Tickets $20 door. Call 905-543-8512. Advance tickets closed.

Acoustic Moments: the R&B and Soul Edition hosted by Mr. Jay Maca. presents three powerhouse R&B / Soul performers:
Shanika Maria: Shanika Maria is a singer-songwriter from Hamilton, currently living in Toronto. She explores themes of empowerment, societal expectation, identity and relationships through her music. She has been performing around Southern Ontario since 2014. In 2017, she released her debut EP Childish Games. Shanika is set to release her full length album Subtle Uncertainties in January 2019. The album takes on a full sound with styles that range from pop electronic, beach rock, dark country and folk. http://www.shanikamaria.com/
Jamila B.:
Jamila B. is a Canadian r&b/pop singer who was born to a Nigerian father and a British-Caribbean mother in Hamilton, Ontario. Always a lover of music, Jamila B. began singing and writing at the age of eleven. In a short time, she found herself performing locally and had the opportunity to open for headliners such as The Clipse, Choclair, Derrick Morgan, The Ink Spots, Tanya Stephens, Bobby Valentino, Black Sheep, and Redman. Jamila B. likes to focus on music that has a positive message and sings about matters of the heart. She has a small but mighty team of producers creating her sound for her debut album, Love & Confidence, an EP that chronicles the ups and downs in life and the sweetness of love. soundcloud.com/jamilaonline
Bonnie Hamilton
.: Bonnie Hamilton is a singer, songwriter and keyboard player, the genres of soul, funk, jazz, ska, reggae. “I am on a journey to discovering true love, peace, identity, and my purpose. Time to make music.”
https://www.facebook.com/bonniehamilton78/

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CANCELLED: Linda McRae, Laura Pitkanen, Osypa, Thurs Nov 15

SHOW CANCELLED Thursday November 15, 2018 at 8 pm, Call 905-543-8512. UPDATE  Musician Linda McRae, has bowed out of the show on doctor’s orders. The other musicians (Laura Pitkanen and Osypa (Alexandra Babiak), who were to play with her, have decided to cancelled their part of it.
Artword Artbar cannot put together a replacement show on such short notice.

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Sympoesis2: poet John Terpstra, musician Glenn Macdonald, Wed Nov 14

Wednesday November 14, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Sympoesis2In the first Sympoesis, held in May, writer and poet John Terpstra and singer/songwriter and cartographer Glenn Macdonald wove together an evening of readings and song into an interdisciplinary artistic event that included the piano of Bart Nameth and the videography of John Farr, all around a theme of water. For Sympoesis2, they will dive a little deeper into some of the same thematic waters, and invite other artists to contribute. Expect to be entertained.
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New Cumberland bluegrass band, Sat Nov 10

Saturday, November 10, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
Back with some blazing hot bluegrass: The New Cumberland bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns vocals and guitar,  Blair Heddle vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge string bass, and Darrin Schott fiddle. Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. http://newcumberlandband.com/

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Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial, new edition, Fri Nov 9

Friday, November 9, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
Stuart Laughton‘s Radio Dial fall 2018 edition! Radio Dial is currently celebrating 5 years together and their 75th show. The November 9 lineup will feature Rebecca Campbell (vocals), Burke Carroll (pedal steel), Jeff McLeod (keys), Steve Lucas (bass) and Martin Worthy (drums), led by multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire Stuart Laughton. And there will be new material! http://www.radiodial.ca/

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Jurij Fedynskyj, bandura player, w. Juliana Lachance, Thurs Nov 8

Thursday November 8, 2018 at 8 pm, $10. Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
Musician Jurij Fedynskyj presents The Lost Instruments of a Forgotten Ukraine, the original torban, kobza, and bandura, on his North America tour. This show at Artword Artbar is organized by Juliana Lachance, one of his bandura students, and a Hamilton musician.
For the past fifteen years, Jurij Fedynskyj has worked to resurrect these original and unique, Ukrainian instruments, by researching their construction from a handful of surviving instruments in Ukrainian museums, and mastering the techniques required to make and play new instruments. He is one of several makers who create exclusive and professional examples of these instruments presently, and the only player who regularly performs traditional repertoire on all three. He teaches making and playing in a small Ukrainian village in the Poltava region.  http://www.kobzarskiytabir.bravesites.com/

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“Micah Barnes At The Sands” recreating the legendary Vegas showroom, Sat Nov 3

Saturday November 3, 2018, at 8 pm.
$15 ($10 seniors/students). Call 905-543-8512 or
Book online   BUY_tix_button
Micah Barnes At The Sands”: Former Nylons frontman Micah Barnes recreates a night in the legendary Las Vegas showroom! Pianist Patrick Hewan will be joining Micah. This concert evening will transport you back to the early 60s, when the hottest entertainers in the world made their home at the Sands Hotel! In this special solo performance, Micah will be paying tribute to the classic entertainer, with songs made famous by Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Lena Horne, Mel Torme, Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra. Come feel the sizzling glamour of the classic Vegas era with one of Canada’s best loved vocalists!
“Barnes plans to go from small New York clubs to to glitzy strip showrooms in an effort to capture the sound of vintage Las Vegas. Considering how successful he was at injecting the spirit of a city into his current collection (New York Stories) the next should have you feeling like you’ve just caught aces at The Sands!” Canadian Musician.

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CANCELLED Master Class for Singers with Micah Barnes, Sat Nov 3, 1 to 5 pm

WORKSHOP CANCELLED Sat Nov 3, 2018, from 1 to 5 pm. Master Class for Singers with Former Nylon Micah Barnes.
Yes, the concert is on as planned, at 8 pm.
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Folk-blues duo Jennis, Fri Nov 2

Friday November 2, 2018, at 8 pm. FREE! No cover! Call 905-543-8512 to reserve seating. Back with a video shoot show: Jennis. Guelph-based Dennis Gaumond’s original blues and folk with the diverse musical experiences of Toronto multi-instrumentalist Jen Gillmor. The unique blend of cello and dobro is augmented by the unusual sounds of the didgeridoo, custom-tuned harmonicas, flute, wah-guitar, jaw harp and wazinator.  www.jennis.ca
“Jennis electrified our audience with their music and their personalities. To say that Jen and Dennis are excellent musicians would be an understatement. Their versatility and energy is absolutely amazing.” ~George Auer of Auerhouse Concerts

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk, Music-roots | Comments Off on Folk-blues duo Jennis, Fri Nov 2

NEW! All Saints Day show by Big Rude Jake! Thurs Nov 1

Thursday November 1, 2018, at 8 pm, $6 at the door. When those saints come marching in on All Saints Day, Big Rude Jake will be singing that number. Jake Hiebert brings his intimate solo show to Artword Artbar.  Join Jake for a bit of blues, some snazzy jazzy numbers and a touch of swing. There will be a tip jar to show your appreciation if you are so inclined.

This show replaces the Thursday November 1 show by jazz pianist and composer Aaron David Zukewich …which was cancelled.

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Halloween Thriller Concert: Brownman Ali Electryc Trio + 1, Mon Oct 29

Monday October 29, 2018, 7:30 pm, $15.00, $10 students. Book online   BUY_tix_button
Special event at Artword Artbar!
Acclaimed jazz / hip-hop trumpet player Brownman Ali will lead an all-star quartet through his popular annual Halloween Thriller concert.
Brownman Ali – electric trumpet (Jay-z, Guru, Missy Elliot)
Nick Maclean – synthesizer (Snaggle, Robert Ball, Ori Dagan)
Sean Dennis – 6-string electric bass (Brownman Electryc Trio)
Jacob Aylward – drums (KC Roberts & The Live Revolution)
The much lauded Brownman Electryc Trio + 1 will perform the entire Michael Jackson Thriller recording, interpreted and re-worked in the Miles Davis-esque fashion this multiple National Jazz Award winning improviser has become known for.  In addition to the quartet performing Thriller top to bottom, other MJ classics will be featured through the night for this unique Halloween jazz party series.  Costumes and Thriller video dance moves encouraged.  http://www.thriller.brownman.com/

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Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018, Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio

Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018, Sunday October 28, 7:30 pm. Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio. Pianist Thompson Egbo-Egbo, drummer Jeff Halischuk, and bassist Randall Hallhttps://egbomusic.com/
Artword Artbar. $15/$10 for students.

https://steelcityjazzfest.com/

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Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018, Brad Cheeseman Group, Sat Oct 27

Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018.  Saturday October 27, 8:00 pm. Brad Cheeseman Group: Brad Cheeseman – electric bass; Robert Chapman – guitar; Sam Kogen – piano; Marito Marques – drums; James Bayford – sax.  bradcheeseman.com
bradcheeseman.bandcamp.com

Brad Cheeseman is a JUNO-nominated bassist and composer from Hamilton, Ontario. Cheeseman’s lyrical bass playing and melody-driven compositions have been featured on Canadian, American, and European stages, and captured on four original recordings. Cheeseman’s newest recording, The Tide Turns, chronicles a period of change, self-discovery and reinvention, and reinforces the cornerstones of his music: engaging melodies, playful rhythms, and an honest, emotional core. In 2016, his acclaimed Brad Cheeseman Group won the Montreal Jazz Festival’s coveted Grand Prix de Jazz.
Venue: Artword Artbar, $15/$10 for students.

**SCJF second event on Saturday October 27, 8:00 pm. The Jazz Connection Big Band. This concert is at The Music Hall at Main & McNab. $20/$15 for students.

https://steelcityjazzfest.com/

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Steel City Jazz Festival 2018, Broadsway: Heather Bambrick, Julie Michels, Diane Leah, Fri Oct 26

Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018. Friday October 26, 8:00 pm. Smordin Law Artist-in-Residence Series – Heather Bambrick.
Broadsway: vocalists Heather Bambrick and Julie Michels, pianist Diane Leah. https://thebroadswayshow.com/
Artword Artbar. $15/$10 for students.
https://steelcityjazzfest.com/

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Steel City Jazz Festival 2018, Diana Braithwaite & Chris Whiteley, Thurs Oct 25

Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018. Thursday October 25, 8:00 pm. Diana Braithwaite & Chris Whiteley. Classic & vintage jazz & blues. Diana Braithwaite vocals, Chris Whitely trumpet & cornet, John Sheard piano, Ron Johnston bass, Vince Macaroni on drums. http://hotblues.ca/
Artword Artbar $15/$10 for students.
https://steelcityjazzfest.com/

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Steel City Jazz Festival 2018, Heather Bambrick Quartet, Wed Oct 24

Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018. Wednesday October 24, 8:00 pm. Smordin Law Artist-in-Residence Series – Heather Bambrick Quartet. Join vocalist Heather Bambrick (JUNO / ECMA Nominee) and her all-star quartet (Adrean Farrugia, Ross MacIntyre, and Colleen Allen) for this show that will be musical, funny, and highly entertaining.  https://www.heatherbambrick.ca/
Artword Artbar, $15/$10 for students.
https://steelcityjazzfest.com/

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Steel City Jazz Festival 2018, Allison Au Quartet, Tues Oct 23

Steel City Jazz Festival, 2018. Tuesday October 23, 8:00 pm. Allison Au Quartet:
Allison Au alto saxophone, Todd Pentney piano, Jon Maharaj bass, Fabio Ragnelli drums. Allison Au earned her first Juno nomination for her debut album The Sky Was Pale Blue, then Grey in 2013, and in 2016 seized the Juno for Best Jazz Album of The Year: Group for Forest Grove.
https://www.allisonau.com/
Artword Artbar, $15/$10 for students.
https://steelcityjazzfest.com/

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Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band, Sat Oct 20

Saturday October 20, 2018, at 8:00 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. Book online   BUY_tix_button
A return visit from the renowned Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band. The band: Randal Hill mandolin and vocals; Rocky Hill guitar and vocals; Tim McDonald banjo and vocals; Owen Mahoney bass and vocals.

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Collette Savard and The Savants, Fri Oct 19, 2018

Friday October 19, 2018 at 8 pm, $15.
Book online   BUY_tix_button
A return visit from the delightful singer-songwriter Collette Savard and her band The Savants: Rebecca Campbell back vocals and rhythm, Megan Worthy keys and back vocals, Tim Posgate electric guitar,  Martin Worthy drums, John Switzer bass. And Collette Savard brings the songs, the one-liners, and more instruments than she has sense.
With her palette of acoustic folk instruments, Collette whittles out of her imagination beautiful song gems. She brings them to you wrapped in the exciting package of her band of seasoned masters. www.collettesavard.com/

Continue reading

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Jonas Pearson Paavola, Scott Taplay, Dave Hollingshead, Justin Mchugh, Thurs Oct 18

Thursday October 18, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Jazz musicians Jonas Pearson Paavola (bass), Scott Taplay (guitar), Dave Hollingshead (piano) and Justin McHugh (drums) have a new project they would like to showcase at Artword Artbar. They are calling this the Collective of Bad Decisions. “Each composition has a different concept in it … Essentially we’re borrowing existing concepts from avant garde classical music and adding as much improvisation as possible and any other crazy ideas we can imagine.” Artword has known these musicians for a long time, so we are up for whatever adventures you fellas are up to.

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CANCELLED: Whoever You Are, a play reading, Tues & Wed Oct 16 & 17

CANCELLED/ Unfortunately we are not able to proceed with this planned reading. We will try again in 2019….
[Tuesday October 16 and Wednesday October 17, 2018, at 8 pm. $10/pwyc. Artword Theatre presents a reading of Whoever You Are, a play by Ronald Weihs, based on a short story by science fiction writer Judith Merril. Continue reading

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Rae Billing and her band Crybaby, Sat Oct 13

Saturday October 13, 2018, 8 pm, $15. Book online   BUY_tix_button
Alt-country songstress Rae Billing returns to Artword Artbar with her full band Crybaby: Rae Billing on vocals and acoustic guitar, Andrew Aldridge on guitar, Greg Brisco on keys, Scott Bell on bass and Lucky Pete Lambert on drums. Opening set by singer-songwriter Dave Pomfret. Rae will be showcasing songs from the new CD “Still”
“New album called ‘Still’ contains tales of aching hearts and lost landscapes and a spine-chilling version of Bobby Gentry’s classic “Ode to Billy Joe.” June 2018, Graham Rockingham, Hamilton Spectator
(Photo by Mike Cameron). http://www.raebilling.com/

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James Gordon, iconic singer-songwriter, returns! Fri Oct 12

Friday October 12, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Book online   BUY_tix_button
Back at Artword Artbar for a solo concert.
Iconic Canadian songwriter James Gordon got his start in show business in the clubs, festivals and recording studios of Hamilton. He returns to his roots with songs about Canada’s roots in a solo concert at the Artword Artbar. A multi-instrumentalist, we’ll hear him on guitar, piano, banjo, harmonica and penny whistle at this intimate performance. His latest album Sunny Jim on Borealis Records made it to #2 on the national airplay charts in the roots/folk category, and he’ll be previewing some material from his NEXT album at this concert . Find out more at www.jamesgordon.ca

Continue reading

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Singer-songwriter double bill: Jennifer Foster & Paul Linklater, Thurs Oct 11

Thursday October 11, 2018, at 8 pm, $10.  Jennifer Foster + Paul Linklater: singer-songwriter double bill.
Jennifer Foster is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter and musician who has released three solo albums and collaborated with some of the country’s finest acts. Her last cd earned a JUNO nomination for Canadian producer Michael Phillip Wojewoda. Jennifers sophisticated songwriting draws on pop, prog and folk influences, and shell be showcasing brand new material on acoustic guitar, accompanied by Doug Friesen on standup bass.http://jenniferfoster.net/
Paul Linklater returns to Artword Artbar, this time with Paul, Doug and Matias, Paul Linklater guitar, Doug Friesen bass, Matias Recharche drums. Paul Doug and Matias is a trio featuring Canadian guitarist Paul Linklater (Pinecones, Bidiniband) and his longtime buddy/collaborator bassist Doug Friesen (John K Samson).  Matias Recharche is the featured percussionist and he brings major dynamics — weird worlds! “Linklater thrives on thwarting the sonic convention of the strumming troubadour.”  www.paullinklater.com

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Water Bear: songwriters Tom Dusome & Alex T. Wed Oct 10

Wednesday October 10, 2018, 8 pm, $10/pwyc. Our friends Water Bear (songwriters Tom Dusome & Alex T.) are back. “We write songs about resistance, resilience, and home.”
https://waterbear.bandcamp.com

Plus a guest set by The Do-Gooders: Dan Murray guitar/vocals,
Stu Gritter guitar/vocals, and Geoff Ball guitar/vocals.

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Jazz w. the Alex Tomowich Quartet, Sat Oct 6

Saturday October 6, 2018, 8 pm,
$10/ $5 students. An evening with the Alex Tomowich Quartet: William Fachin on drums, Michael Morabito on saxophone(s), Victor Agrippa on EWI (electronic wind instrument), Alex Tomowich on piano. The quartet is an exhilarating group based out of the GTA whose music covers the spectrum of musical genre: from innovative originals to Joe Satriani to Bud Powell to AC/DC to Joey Calderazzo. The band consists of students of award-winning musicians such as Adrean Farrugia, Pat Collins, Kevin Dempsey, Kirk MacDonald, Robi Botos, and Kelly Jefferson.

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Singer-songwriter Will Gillespie, Fri Oct 5

Friday October 5, 2018, at 8:00 pm, $10. Singer-songwriter Will Gillespie returns with a solo show. You will recognize him as author/star of Swingin’ in St. Johns, and for his role in MacBush the Musical, both at Artword Artbar.
Born and raised in South Porcupine, Northern Ontario, now finding a home in Hamilton, Will Gillespie has developed an elegant and eccentric sound all his own. He is a dynamic performer with a diverse catalogue of original songs, combining elements of Folk, Rock & Roll and Cabaret. https://www.willgillespie.ca/
“From songwriter to crooner and cabaret man to power pop genius, Will Gillespie is always evolving his artistry.”

Posted in Event, Music, Music-cabaret, Music-country, Music-rock, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriter Will Gillespie, Fri Oct 5

Tragedy Ann (Liv Cazzola & Braden Phelan) + Sophia Perlman, Thur Oct 4

Thursday October 4, 2018 at 8 pm. $15 at door, OR $10 advance Book online   BUY_tix_button

Guelph-based folk duo Tragedy Ann (Liv Cazzola vocals, accordion, ukulele, singing saw and Braden Phelan vocals, guitars) have a debut full-length album Matches, out in September. Artword Artbar is a stop on their Canadian tour (ON, QC, BC, NS, NB) in support of the new album.

Their special guest for the evening is our good friend and stunning jazz vocalist Sophia Perlman, with some new songs and old.

https://www.tragedyannmusic.com/home

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60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Sat Sept 29

SOLD OUT!!  Saturday September 29, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 for info.
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone (the Fall 2018 edition) returns to Artword Artbar. The 60s Folk Revival sing-along concert features Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening in a 1960s coffeehouse in Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today, from songwriters including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

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Latin American electro-acoustic music: Nano Valverde, Edgardo Moreno and Juan D. Toledo, Fri Sept 28

Friday September 28, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. A Latin American Peña hosted by Constanza Duran and Marcelo Puente. The September edition features minimalist electro-acoustic improvisational soundscapes with an Andean vibe performed by Edgardo Moreno (of Firefly Project), Nano Valverde, (of Sikuris Andean band), and Juan D. Toledo (of Santerías),
(The group originally scheduled to perform on this date, Las Brujas del Barrio, has unfortunately had to cancel.)

Posted in Event, Music-Latin, Music-World | Comments Off on Latin American electro-acoustic music: Nano Valverde, Edgardo Moreno and Juan D. Toledo, Fri Sept 28

Jazz: Chris Bruder new compositions, Thur Sept 27

Thursday September 27, 2018, 8 pm, $10. Jazz pianist Chris Bruder, a regular at Artword Artbar, is showcasing his new compositions, with Brad Cheeseman on bass, Geoffrey Bruce on drums and Scott Neilson on sax.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz: Chris Bruder new compositions, Thur Sept 27

Acoustic Moments, reggae show, Riddim Riders, Sat Sept 22

Saturday September 22, 2018, at 8 pm, $20 door. Advance tickets $15   Book online   BUY_tix_button

Mr. Jay hosts another fabulous Acoustic Moments show, featuring world-class reggae music by The Riddim Riders Unplugged. Core members Franklin Joseph and Mike Rajczak are joined by vocalist Lauren Mikayla and lead guitar Keon Crosswell.

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Jazz vocalist Maureen Kennedy, Fri Sept 21

Friday, September 21, 2018 at 8 pm, $15. Book online   BUY_tix_button

Noted jazz vocalist Maureen Kennedy is coming to Artword Artbar! Her fans have been asking for her! Here is Maureen’s description of her plan for us:
“For my first gig at Artbar I would like to introduce a Hamilton audience to my love of repertoire. Through the years I have stockpiled an extensive collection of tunes, many of them rare gems. It would be fun to showcase songs done by some of the wonderful composers and singers who’ve inspired me. The setting will be intimate. I have been working consistently with two fine Toronto musicians, guitarist Ben Bishop and bassist Jon Meyer.”  www.maureenkennedy.com/site/

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz vocalist Maureen Kennedy, Fri Sept 21

Jazz: Nick Maclean Quartet, Thurs Sept 20

Thursday September 20, 2018 at 8 pm. Jazz with the Nick Maclean Quartet: Nick Maclean piano, Brownman Ali trumpet, Jesse Dietschi bass, Tyler Goertzen drums.
$15 at door.
The award-winning Nick Maclean Quartet makes Artword Artbar the second stop of their September tour. Led by 26-year-old fast-rising piano star Nick Maclean, this contemplative and often thrilling quartet explores modern jazz in the vein of 60’s Blue Note era Herbie Hancock. The quartet features Brownman Ali, internationally acclaimed jazz trumpet iconoclast: “Canada’s preeminent jazz trumpet player” (NYC Village Voice).
Nick Maclean – piano (www.NicholasMaclean.com)     Brownman Ali – trumpet (www.Brownman.com)
Jesse Dietschi – bass (www.JesseDietschi.com)     Tyler Goertzen – drums

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Supercrawl: Melodic Pixel Media hosts Mother Tareka + The Human Race, Sat Sept 15

Supercrawl Weekend, Saturday September 15, 2018, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, $10 / pwyc. Melodic Pixel Media presents a Supercrawl Saturday double-header at Artword Artbar:
* Mother Tareka: Sax blasting, direct acting, flute tooting, pedal pumping MC Mother Tareka is an adopted Hamilton son. One part activist, one part musician, all parts amazing. Tarek will be backed by Aleef Mehdi (guitar), Jonas Paavola (bass) and Matthew Pullicino (drums). http://www.mothertareka.com
https://www.facebook.com/TAREKFUNK85
* The Human Race: Melodic, honest, quirky and weird. The Human Race is the music of Adam F Carter. This set will be performed partially solo, and partially with Pamela Gardner contributing her fantastic vocal harmonies.  http://www.thehumanrace.ca
https://www.facebook.com/thehumanracesings

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Supercrawl Weekend, Bill Lutes and the Art Crawlers, Fri Sept 14

Supercrawl Weekend, Friday September 14, 2018, 7 to 10 pm. Bill Lutes and the Art Crawlers. Tip Jar for the band. An old-fashioned art-crawl, just like the good ol’ days, with Bill Lutes and The Art Crawlers: Bill Lutes guitar, vocals; Lilia Lutes very cool vocals; Kenny Clark guitar, vocals; Hank Paton guitar, vocals; Robert Louis guitar, vocals; Bob Rudy bass, vocals; Phil Dales drums, playing all your favourite tunes.

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Supercrawl Weekend, LTtheMonk & Friends, Thurs Sept 13

Supercrawl Weekend, Thursday September 13, 2018, 8 pm, tip jar. LTtheMonk & Friends. Rapper LTthe Monk returns with his band: Liam Tyndall vocals, Santiago Rozo piano, Cam Watson bass, Lucas Hibbs drums + guest opening band.

 

 

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Richard Garvey, Sarah Beatty, Jack Garton, Wed Sept 12

Wednesday September 12, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Launching our Fall 2018 season:
Richard Garvey, a regular visitor from Kitchener, hosts an evening of singer-songwriters. Guests are Jack Garton, from Galiano, BC, and Sarah Beatty, a long-time friend from Hamilton.

Sarah Beatty (Hamilton, ON) www.sarahbeatty.ca
Richard Garvey (Kitchener, ON) www.richardgarvey.ca
Jack Garton and the Demon Squadron (Galiano Island, BC) www.jackgarton.com

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closed for August, back Sept 12

Closed from Monday July 30 until Tuesday September 11, 2018. Programming starts up on Wednesday September 12, 2018.

Posted in Event, News | Comments Off on closed for August, back Sept 12

Reviews “The Man in the Vault” an Artword Theatre production

Reviews! –“Rather than feel satisfied that the play’s wrapping up, you’ll want more.”
–“a play that had me on the edge of my seat, like an unproduced Twilight Zone episode scripted by a young John Le Carré.”
–“a very compelling script. The highlight of this show is the acting.” Click MORE for full reviews. Continue reading

Posted in Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Reviews “The Man in the Vault” an Artword Theatre production

Reviews for shows in the Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival

The Fringe reviewers have been busy! Great reviews for all three shows at Artword Artbar BYOV! Here are the links we know about:

https://www.raisethehammer.org/fringe

https://www.thespec.com/whatson-story/8757842-hamilton-fringe-shakespeare-russian-conspiracies-and-three-acrobatic-witches/

Posted in Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Reviews for shows in the Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival

Fringe BYOV Artword Artbar: The Man in the Vault

July 19 to 28, 2018. Part of the Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival.
The Man in the Vault
(Artword Theatre).
Performed by Mariam Bekhet, Jordan Campbell, Jason Thompson
Written and directed by Ronald Weihs
Produced and designed by Judith Sandiford
A Russian spy defects with information about Lee Harvey Oswald and the Kennedy assassination. James Angleton, the CIA’s legendary head of counterintelligence, is convinced he is a disinformation agent sent by the KGB. The defector is kept in a concrete vault in a secret location while interrogators try to extract the truth from the man in the vault. Based on true events in the 1960s that resonate with today’s headlines.
Drama, All Ages, Running Time: 60 minutes
Tickets: $10 (Fringe Backer Button required)  hamiltonfringe.ca/tickets/

Show Times: Thursday, July 19 @ 9pm, Friday, July 20 @ 4:30pm
Saturday, July 21 @ 7pm, Sunday, July 22 @ 8pm
Tuesday, July 24 @ 9pm, Wednesday, July 25 @ 7pm
Thursday, July 26 @ 9pm, Friday, July 27 @ 5pm
Saturday, July 28 @ 6pm  (Final show)

Posted in Event, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Fringe BYOV Artword Artbar: The Man in the Vault

Fringe BYOV Artword Artbar: The Decision

July 19 to 28, 2018. Part of the Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival.
The Decision (Gallery on the Bay).
Performed by Jordan Campbell and Jason Thompson.
Written by David Laing Dawson, directed by Ronald Weihs
Produced by Marlaise Dawson, design and lighting by Judith Sandiford
Amsterdam, May 16, 1940: Two young officers in the Royal Netherlands Army meet secretly. Their orders are to report to Gestapo Headquarters in the next morning.

Drama, Parental Guidance, Strong Language. Running Time: 60 minutes
Tickets: $12 for Adults, $5 for Children under 12. (Fringe Backer Button required)
hamiltonfringe.ca/tickets/

Show Times: Thursday, July 19 @ 7pm, Friday, July 20 @ 7pm
Saturday, July 21 @ 9pm, Sunday, July 22 @ 6pm
Tuesday, July 24 @ 7pm, Wednesday, July 25 @ 5pm
Thursday, July 26 @ 7pm, Friday, July 27 @ 7pm
Saturday, July 28 @ 4pm  (Final show)

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Fringe BYOV Artword Artbar: Romeo & Juliet: An Escapist Comedy

July 19 to 28, 2018. Part of the Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival.
Romeo & Juliet: An Escapist Comedy (Make Art Theatre).
Performed by Tyler Brent, Natalia Bushnik, Kristian Reimer, Ryan M. Sero, Liz Kalles, Laura Welch.
Written by Ryan M. Sero, Directed by Tyler Brent.
Winner of the Critics’ Choice Award at the 2014 Hamilton Fringe! The sell-out fan favorite returns! Romeo is distraught: his girlfriend just dumped him, he can’t find meaning in the universe, he’s worried there is no God, plus he can’t even get a table at Steinman’s! Shakespeare meets Woody Allen in this comic re-imagining of the Bard’s classic tale.
Comedy, All Ages, Running Time: 60 minutes.
Tickets: $10 (Fringe Backer Button required)  hamiltonfringe.ca/tickets/

Show Times: Thursday, July 19 @ 5pm, Friday, July 20 @ 9pm
Saturday, July 21 @ 5pm, Sunday, July 22 @ 4pm
Tuesday, July 24 @ 5pm, Wednesday, July 25 @ 9pm
Thursday, July 26 @ 5pm, Friday, July 27 @ 9pm
Saturday, July 28 @ 8pm (Final show)

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Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Sat July 14

Saturday July 14, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
The Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble returns! This ensemble combines the ancient rhythms of Africa with the jazz harmonies of modern times.
Waleed Abdulhamid (Composer/Band Leader) explains:  “We play melody on top of traditional jazzy chord progressions with a twist of African ancient rhythms. There is a place for African instruments such as gombri, lakoumbe, marimba in the music.”
Band members for July 14 are: Waleed Abdulhamid bass,vocals, percussion; Joseph Leo Callender soprano and tenor saxophone; John Ebata keyboard, piano, accordion; Ilios Steryannis, drum kit, and Gustavo “Repique” Rosa, percussion and hand drums.

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Jazz: Adrean Farrugia/Kelly Jefferson/Dan Fortin/Ernesto Cervini: Explorations, Fri July 13

SOLD OUT! Friday July 13, 2018, at 8 pm, $15/$10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online Adrean Farrugia / Kelly Jefferson / Dan Fortin / Ernesto Cervini: Explorations. Juno award winning pianist Adrean Farrugia joins internationally acclaimed friends, saxophonist Kelly Jefferson, bassist Dan Fortin and drummer/percussionist Ernesto Cervini for an exploration of song. The result will be an eclectic mix of beauty, groove, surprise and that joyous place that music can bring us to. Continue reading

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closed July 12 for Fringe rehearsals

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FRÄNDER, Swedish-Estonian folk group, Wed July 11

Wednesday July 11, 2018, at 8 pm. $15/$10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online Swedish-Estonian group FRÄNDER blends traditional music from their respective countries and uses it as a springboard for creating a captivating experience. Natasja Dluzewska vocals, fiddle; Säde Tatar flute, vocals; Gabbi Dluzewski string instruments, vocals; Daniel Dluzewski bass, vocals. The four family members create harmonies and inventive arrangements produce a musical landscape focusing on stories filled with warmth, charm and love of adventure. [Note: Mirva Tarvainen, musician, multi-instrumentalist, composer and performer from Finland, is on tour with the band, stepping in for Natasja.]
www.frander.se 
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Kongero, a capella quartet from Sweden, Sat July 7

Saturday July 7, 2018, at 8 pm $15/$10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online Kongero is a Swedish vocal group of the four female folk music singers Lotta Andersson, Emma Björling, Anna Larsson and Anna Wikénius.

The highly acclaimed folk vocal group Kongero draws traditional Swedish music out of the past and into the present. A concert with Kongero will take the listener on a fabulous journey, an all-embracing Scandinavian folk music experience. Blue notes, amazing vocal polyphony, groovy, powerful, and intimate. The band was formed in 2005 and besides doing concerts they also conduct well-received workshops in traditional Swedish vocal music and vocal harmonies.
www.kongero.se/index.php/en/

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Swing jazz vocalist Alex Pangman & her Alleycats, Fri July 6

Friday July 6, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Jazz with Juno-nominee vocalist Alex Pangman & Her Alleycats (Trio): Peter Hill piano, Glenn Anderson drums, Jack Zorawski double bass. This vibrant young vocalist is proud to be known as Canada’s Sweetheart of Swing.   www.alexpangman.com/
“It would be hard to find a box of musical bonbons more beguiling than this collection of post-Jazz Age treats… Her earnest vocals and sharp Alleycats band make each song sparkle.” Toronto Star review by John Terauds.

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Folk-roots: Allison Brown and String Bone, Fri June 29, 2018,

Friday June 29, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Two folk-roots musicians on the road return to Artword! String Bone (Barry James Payne) is a great songwriter and tells a great story in a song, folk/roots Americana style. A mix of folk, blues, country, bluegrass, hillbilly and even other contemporary and traditional elements harder to define.  www.stringbone.ca
Roots songstress Allison Brown, likes her religion a little bit gritty, takes her country music with a side of syrup and keeps her folk as dusty as the ol’ cabin floor. Allison’s crafted originals matched with classic roots repertoire reflect the striking conviction she brings to her sweet and powerful singing. Allison Brown  www.allisonbrown.ca

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Ben Bowen, Tom Shea, Mario Laquintana, music composed around poetry, Thurs June 28

Thursday June 28, 2018, at 8 pm, $10.  Cloctawr: Ben Bowen on electric guitar, poetry samples, and trumpet; Tom Shea on electric guitar; Mario Laquintana on drums. Music primarily composed around various pieces of local poetry (by Gary Barwin, John Terpstra, Sarah Farr, and Kathy Rupcic, among others), with lots of melodic content and improvising, It’s playful, poppy, hook-centric music.

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Music, Music-Jazz, Music-pop-etc. | Comments Off on Ben Bowen, Tom Shea, Mario Laquintana, music composed around poetry, Thurs June 28

Jazz vocalist Sienna Dahlen, pianist Amanda Tosoff, Sat June 23

Saturday June 23, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Jazz vocalist Sienna Dahlen and pianist Amanda Tosoff, in an intimate evening of original French and English music in the styles of Cole Porter, Leonard Cohen and Lhasa de Sela.
Montreal-based Juno award-winning vocalist, Sienna Dahlen teams up with Toronto-based Juno-nominated pianist Amanda Tosoff to present an intimate evening of lesser-known standards and original French and English repertoire that stylistically-speaking, lies somewhere between the work of the late great Leonard Cohen and Lhasa de Sela.
According to All About Jazz writer, Pascal Denis Lussier, “Dahlen has an extremely alluring voice, one that could sell rainwater in a snowstorm.” And in the words of the Edmonton Journal’s Roger Levesque, Tosoff’s music “….incorporates dreamy beauty and spare realism and fresh song forms, quite beyond conventional standards fare.” In short, Amanda and Sienna are two of this country’s most talented jazz composers and musicians and this is a show that you won’t want to miss.
www.siennadahlen.com/
amandatosoff.com/

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So Long Seven (guitar, violin, tabla, banjo) + Adrean Farrugia, Fri June 22

Friday June 22, 2018 at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
So Long Seven, a delightful quartet — Neil Hendry (guitar, mandolin), William Lamoureux (violin), Ravi Naimpally (tabla) and Tim Posgate (banjo) — returns to Artword Artbar. So Long Seven brings their new CD/Vinyl Kala Kalo back to the town where they recorded it. Plus special guest Adrean Farrugia (another Artbar favourite) will play a set of solo piano.
So Long Seven performs richly textured acoustic music that brings their diverse influences into a distinctly Canadian voice. Influenced by bands such as Punch Brothers, Shakti, Oregon and many others the band is breaking new ground. Together they are creating a seamless tapestry of sound through their original music, blending composition and improvisation.  www.solongseven.com

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Allan Merovitz w. Lightstone/Katz/Koller Klezmer Trio, Thurs June 21

Thursday June 21, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
A stellar concert of Klezmer music with our good friend singer Allan Merovitz and an all-star Klezmer Trio: Brian Katz (guitar, piano), Jonno Lightstone (clarinet, flute), George Koller (bass). Allan is widely known as a singer with Flying Bulgar Klezmer Band and some of the world’s top Yiddish and Klezmer ensembles including the Ot Azoj Klezmer Band of Amsterdam and the Montreal based Merovitz Project. Artword Theatre has directed and produced numerous remounts of his celebrated play If Cows Could Fly.
The Lightstone/Katz/Koller Klezmer Trio: Brian Katz (guitar, piano), famed jazz and Jewish music artist, Jonno Lightstone, acclaimed klezmer clarinettist / flutist and the great “all over the map” bassist, George Koller—all who have worked with Allan in various settings over many years—combine their talents to explore their fresh take on klezmer. Bringing together a multitude of musical styles and experience, the trio creates a variety of diverse moods by weaving the melodies of klezmer with the sounds and textures of jazz, Indian raga, Yiddish song, chamber music, and down home rock’n blues! Dancing shoes and a whacky hat required!  www.allanmerovitz.com,   www.briankatz.com,   www.klezconnection.com,   www.georgekoller.com

Continue reading

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World Refugee Day Celebration, Wed June 20

Wednesday June 20, 2018, at 8 pm (by donation). An evening of Syrian and Latin American music, hosted by the Emergency Support Committee for Refugees. Special guest is Syrian oud player Moutaz. Also performing are singer Lil America from El Salvador via Cuba, and local band Babbage Industries. More details coming.
Event on Facebook: www.facebook.com/events/129236804593724/

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Exchange for Change, for Under The Willow, Tues June 19, at 6 pm

Tuesday June 19, 2018, from 6 to 9 pm. All ages. Exchange for Change – a clothing swap fundraiser in support of Under The Willows, arts and garden program where children who experience adverse life circumstances may joyfully express themselves as creative individuals of value. www.underthewillows.org
What: Snazzy duds, rad tunes, yummy treats and chill zones for relaxing. All donated items are up for grabs for $2 each!
How: Bring your still-wearable but no longer-for-you clothes. to the swap itself. Or have them picked up for a fee of $5 with proceeds from pickup going to UTW, Email singfromthestart@gmail.com to arrange pickup.
Why: Because UTW is amazing. Because clothes left over will be donated to
Drama Dressup. Because your closet needs a refresh so why not do it
for a good cause. Because $2 is a ludicrously lovely price to pay for your
new favourite top/pants/dress/skirt/shoes/hat/mitts/tux. Because Artword is
a super fun place to hang out. Because YOLO and FOMO. Because you want to!

Posted in Event, Special event | Comments Off on Exchange for Change, for Under The Willow, Tues June 19, at 6 pm

Jazz with the Brad Cheeseman Group, Sat June 16

Saturday June 16, at 8 pm, $10.  Jazz with Brad Cheeseman electric bass, Robert Chapman guitar, Matt Lagan tenor sax, Marito Marques drums, Chris Pruden piano. Performing music from the JUNO-nominated album THE TIDE TURNS.
bradcheeseman.com

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Singer-songwriters Richard Keelan, and Raphael Keelan, Fri June 15

Friday June 15, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. The Keelan Family Show. Singer-songwriter Richard Keelan of the legendary folk-rock band in the 60s/70s The Perth County Conspiracy, teams up with daughter singer-songwriter Raphael Smith Keelan.
Background: Richard Keelan‘s music career began in the late ’50s with his first teenage rock band, the Swinging Shepherds. He was a Greenwich Village folkie in the mid-60s, performing on the same circuit of clubs that spawned Bob Dylan. He recorded and released singles in the psychedelic era with the Spikedrivers and its spin-off duo, Misty Wizard. He has delved into the worlds of both traditional and fusion-jazz having worked with both the Washingtons and Brian Griffith respectively. He’s best known for his work with the folk group the Perth County Conspiracy (Does Not Exist) based in Stratford, Ontario. Back in 1998, he put out his solo CD “Chameleon”. (richard-keelan.blogspot.com/)
and an article at www.criticsatlarge.ca/2014/12/a-pining-spirit-perth-county.html
Raphael Smith Keelan: “Born amidst the creative fruits of the Perth County Conspiracy, this singer songwriter was infused in ‘utero’ with many artistic influences. Raphael began her journey towards musicianship at the age of six with the piano….continuing over the past twenty years with songwriting and self-taught guitar playing. Her lyrics inspire the listener to reflect on the spiritual as her rich vocals soothe the soul….” www.facebook.com/Raphael-Keelan-432264416849634/

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The Sad Boys Literary Society, readings & music, Thurs June 14

Thursday June 14, 2018 at 8 pm. Admission by donation. The Sad Boys Literary Society will be celebrating their 1st birthday with a night of readings and musical performances at Artbar Artbar. This will also be your only chance to pick up theirr super-special limited-edition Sad Boys chapbook featuring our most earth-shattering poems from this past year. Performers may include:
Benjamin McCullough, Benjamin Robinson, Kira Moolman, Mark Standish, Tim Martin, Tim Selles.

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Celebration of Life: Glenn Hardcastle, Sun June 10, 4 to 7 pm

Sunday June 10, from 4 to 7 pm. Our good friend Glenn Hardcastle died at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Saturday May 26, 2018 in his 79th year after a short illness. His partner Valerie Kay has asked us to host a celebration of Glenn’s life, with lots of music and memories and love. Some Artword favourites will perform a song or two: Charly Chiarelli, Tim Ninehouse, Paula Grove, Gordon Odegaard, and more.
Glenn was a frequent concert-goer and theatre enthusiast, at Artword Artbar and other arts hangouts. He was also an artist, musician and nature lover. Valerie has been a member of Artword Theatre Ensemble since 2008 in Hamilton, appearing in You Are What You Do, Rascals and Numskulls, James Street, and Scroogissimo. Glenn was Val’s devoted supporter at all of these. Glenn, we will miss your sparkling eyes and cheeky smile!

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Songwriters-in-the-Round, host Duane Rutter, Sat June 9

Saturday June 9, 2018, at 8 pm, $20 / pwyc. The next edition of Songwriters-in-the-Round, hosted by Duane Rutter. Guests for June 9 are: Cindy Dell, Dave Pomfret and Danny Medakovic. NOTE: Brennagh Burns sits in for Cindy Dell, who won’t be able to come.

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Book Launch, Summer Issue TOWER POETRY, Sat June 9 at 2 pm

Saturday, June 9, 2018, 2:00 to 4:30 pm, free. Book Launch of Summer Issue of TOWER POETRY. Due to the closing of Bryan Prince Bookseller, the launch is being held at Artword Artbar. The launch is a free event and open to the public; members are encouraged to bring guests. All are welcome.   http://towerpoetry.ca/

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Latin American peña, an evening of poetry & music, Fri June 8

Friday June 8, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Latin American peña (evening of poetry and music),  with musicians guitarist-singer Marcelo Puente, singer Lil America, musician/laptops Edgardo Moreno, singer Nancy Reyes, musician Jose Lobos, and singer-songwriter Fito Molena. Poetry by Ama Luna and Constanza Durán.

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Music, Music-Latin, Music-World | Comments Off on Latin American peña, an evening of poetry & music, Fri June 8

The Polka Dogs, a Toronto legend, BACK w. new CD, Thurs June 7

Thursday June 7, 2018 at 8 pm, $15. After an over 25-year hiatus, The Polka Dogs, Toronto’s beloved theatre based band returns with an Ontario tour and new CD June 2018. The revived, renascent, and reformed Toronto theatre-based band, THE POLKA DOGS, have returned after a 25-year hiatus. Starting as a theatre pit band in 1989, the band wowed the world in the 90s with an explosive, raucous, joyous sound of trombone, tuba, banjo, drums and that sultry, fantastic voice of theatre staple John Millard. The band returns with the same original sound, and features all five of its founding members including, Tom Walsh on trombone, Tiina Kiik on accordion, Colin Couch on tuba, John Millard on banjo and vocals, and Ambrose Pottie on drums.
Tour dates: June 2, 8pm at Burdock, Toronto; June 7, 8pm at Artword Artbar in Hamilton; June 8, 8pm at Silence in Guelph.

“The Polka Dogs are a boiling pan-cultural stew that bastes you, roasts you and serves you up well done. Please, Polka Dogs, can I have some more?” – Tom Allen, CBC

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Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial, Sat June 2

Saturday June 2, 2018, at 8 pm, $15.
Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Stuart Laughton‘s wonderful show Radio Dial is back. Multi-instrumentalist Stuart Laughton and his merry band Rebecca Campbell (vocals), Martin Worthy (drums), Burke Carroll (pedal steel) and Steve Lucas (bass) share their astonishing versatility and sense of fun.

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Blues with Morgan Davis, Fri June 1

Friday June 1, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Blues with the one and only Morgan Davis. For 45 years Morgan Davis has been on the road travelling across Canada, the United States and Europe. His performances draw from a rich tradition of country blues, as well as his own contemporary songs infused with wit and a large dose of humour. Originally from Detroit, Davis grew up listening to a prolific mix of rhythm and blues. The music of Jimmy Reed, Ike and Tina Turner, Chuck Berry and Fats Domino was in the air. He moved to Canada in 1968 and settled in Toronto, where he immersed himself in the study of Delta Blues, especially the music of Robert Johnson. Toronto’s music scene in the early 1970’s was the perfect place for Davis to see and play with many legendary performers, such as Bukka White, Johnny Shines, Sunnyland Slim, Snooky Pryor, Hubert Sumlin, and John Hammond.

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Newfoundland singer-songwriter Sherry Ryan, Thurs May 31

Thursday May 31, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Special treat! Singer-songwriter from Newfoundland Sherry Ryan on tour with Darren Browne on mandolin.
“It’s not hard to understand why Sherry Ryan has devoted fans. Drifting between country, blues and folk and beautifully marrying these genres with her distinct Newfoundland roots, she’s been releasing heart-stealing originals across each album. Ryan’s rich vocal style has been described as  “so good – so distinct – it’s absolutely unforgettable” (Exclaim!)  sherryryan.com/

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Folk troubadour Ken Dunn w. Anna Green, +Piper Hayes, Wed May 30

Wednesday May 30, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Folk troubadour Ken Dunn returns to Hamilton, Ontario for an evening of original acoustic music, with vocal harmonies by partner Anna Green, The opening act will be local Hamilton singer-songwriter Piper Hayes with partner Carson Ritcey-Thorpe.
B.C. folk troubadour Ken Dunn combines finger style acoustic guitar and harmonica with “strong, distinctive vocals” (R2, Dublin). His engaging stories and songwriting “provide refreshing insight into human complexities” (The Late Bill Powell, Festival of Friends). Backed by “the tight vocal harmonies of Anna Green, the music is alternately haunting, uplifting and always deeply touching” (Morovino, Avila Beach, California).

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Collette Savard & The Savants, Sat May 26

Saturday May 26, 2018 at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Singer-songwriter Collette Savard and her band The Savants: Rebecca Campbell, Martin Worthy, Tim Posgate, Megan Worthy, John Zytaruk. With her palette of acoustic folk instruments, Collette whittles out of her imagination beautiful song gems. She brings them to you wrapped in the exciting package of her band of seasoned masters.

Continue reading

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The Amy Project, stories/songs of Amy Winehouse, Fri May 25

Friday May 25, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
The Amy Project is a musical and storied journey outlining the short but tragic life of Amy Winehouse, the late British soul, blues and jazz singer. The show is performed live by five talented performers: Marni Shuster as the voice of Amy,  Anthony Caradonna guitar/vocals, Ian Taylor bass/vocals, Amy DiNino piano/synth/vocals and Dominic DiNino drums.
Amy Winehouse was nominated for 63 World Music Awards and won 25 times for her songs and recordings before her death in 2011 at the age of only 27. The Amy Project performance will cover most of the songs from her two main albums Frank and Back to Black, plus many more of her other recordings, and some unreleased covers and collaborations.

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Dana Sipos: album release, w. Gillian Nicola, Thur May 24

Thursday May 24, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Dana Sipos, singer-songwriter, with her new album Trick of the Light, plus a guest set by Hamilton singer-songwriter Gillian Nicola.
Described as a “consummate singer and songwriter with a wholly unique sound,” by No Depression, Dana Sipos‘ hypnotic, tenderly skewed songs are filled with a wild wind. A haunting new album, Trick of the Light, recorded with experimental producer Sandro Perri, will be released on Toronto’s Roaring Girl Records in May 2018. www.danasipos.com/
The first thing that strikes listeners about Hamilton’s Gillian Nicola is the strength of her vocals. This rising singer/songwriter ranges from acoustic folk singer-songwriter to textured and electric Americana. “Nicola delivers warm, familiar, folksy Canadiana — but her powerhouse vocals make for a listening experience that’s entirely refreshing.” (Exclaim!, 2016)   www.gilliannicola.com/

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POSTPONED! Singer-songwriter Corin Raymond, Sat May 19

POSTPONED!
Saturday May 19, 2018, 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512.
Corin Raymond‘s “coming home” show, with Hamilton-based keyboardist and songbird Treasa Levasseur. (He is returning from a long tour in Australia.)

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Jennis: Jen Gillmor and Dennis Gaumond, folk-blues, Fri May 18

Friday May 18, 2018, at 8 pm. $10. Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
A return visit from an Artword Artbar favourite: Jennis. Guelph-based Dennis Gaumond’s original blues and folk with the diverse musical experiences of Toronto multi-instrumentalist Jen Gillmor. The unique blend of cello and dobro is augmented by the unusual sounds of the didgeridoo, custom-tuned harmonicas, flute, wah-guitar, jaw harp and wazinator.  www.jennis.ca
“Jennis electrified our audience with their music and their personalities. To say that Jen and Dennis are excellent musicians would be an understatement. Their versatility and energy is absolutely amazing.” ~George Auer of Auerhouse Concerts

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Jazz: the Aaron Zukewich Trio, Thurs May 17

Thursday May 17, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Jazz with the Aaron Zukewich Trio, featuring Aaron Zukewich on piano and new compositions, Marito Marques on drums and Clark Johnston on bass, with new compositions. The trio delivers an adventurous blend of intricate rhythms, modern harmonies, and
singable melodies that embrace the diverse landscapes of contemporary jazz, world and popular music. Pianist, saxophonist and composer Aaron David Zukewich studied music at York university with some of Canada’s finest jazz musicians, including Mike Murley, Kelly Jefferson, Kevin Turcotte, and Lorne Lofsky. He has also studied privately with Hamilton pianist Adrian Farrugia.

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Sympoesis: singer-songwriter Glenn Macdonald & poet John Terpstra, Wed May 16

Wednesday May 16, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Sympoesis is a collaboration between singer/songwriter and cartographer Glenn Macdonald, and poet and cabinetmaker/carpenter John Terpstra.
An evening of songs and poems and other writing, some new, some old. They first collaborated in the 1980’s, when John was invited onstage to read during multimedia performances by Glenn’s band, Martin Fields and the Academy. Since that time, Glenn has produced a number of tapes and CDs, including the ever-evolving song-cycle Iceland, while John has published books of poetry and non-fiction, including Falling into Place, a love song to Hamilton’s landscape. In Sympoesis, they’ll bring their music and words to bear on community and technology, built and natural geographies, and life in the ambiguous city.  www.johnterpstra.com
Glenn MacDonald on Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/user-819876309

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Bluegrass with New Cumberland, Sat May 12

Saturday, May 12, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Back with some blazing hot bluegrass: The New Cumberland bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns vocals and guitar,  Blair Heddle vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge string bass, and Darrin Schott fiddle. Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. http://newcumberlandband.com/

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World Music: William Mukuna Trio, Fri May 11

Friday May 11, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Join us for an evening of World music with the William Mukuna Trio. The trio performs original compositions fusing elements of Afro-beat, Latin rhythms, Hip-hop and Jazz improvisation. Will Mukuna guitar, Brad Cheeseman bass, Marito Marques drums.
Deeply influenced by the West African griots and Brazilian composers, the band takes you through a musical journey that brings music from the World together.  www.williammukuna.com

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closed Wed&Thur, May 9&10, for private function

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Linda McRae, folk-country-roots songs, + Deni Gauthier, Sun May 6 at 7:30

Sunday May 6, 2018, at 7:30 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
A special Sunday evening of songs and stories with folk/roots old-time musician Linda McRae, who plays guitar, clawhammer banjo and accordion. Plus a guest set by singer-songwriter Deni Gauthier.
Linda McRae is a Canadian-US based songwriter/multi-instrumentalist and 2016 BC Entertainment Hall of Fame Pioneer Inductee. Her unforgettable melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, make her a captivating and sought-after artist. Linda has performed in venues as diverse as Vancouver’s Orpheum Theatre with the VSO and New Folsom Prison, where she facilitates writing workshops for the inmates. No Depression Magazine, John Apice, “Linda carries on a priceless tradition of folklore through her music even though her songs are originals. She is firmly footed in the mud and moss of country-folk-blues.” Linda McRae website

Joining Linda is Ontario’s own favourite Deni Gauthier. “This prolific storyteller demonstrates his mastering of song creation by entwining heartfelt, emotional lyrics blanketed with appealing soundscapes. His textured approach to music precipitates unabridged songs that leave the listener feeling satisfied. It doesn’t hurt that his voice is a beautiful fusion of a softer version of John Legend and the soulfulness of Dallas Green.” Canadian Beats. Deni Gauthier website

Posted in Event, Music, Music-country, Music-folk, Music-roots, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Linda McRae, folk-country-roots songs, + Deni Gauthier, Sun May 6 at 7:30

Andre Bisson Acoustic Show, Sat May 5

Saturday May 5, 2018, $15 advance, $20 door. Andre Bisson Acoustic Show
Advance ticket site: www.ticketscene.ca/events/20501/
An evening of original acoustic music with heavy influences in soul, blues & roots, and gospel, performed by a unique group of 8 talented musicians playing instruments such as the cello, violin, bass, trumpet, and saxophone. Here is the line-up so far: Andre Bisson (vocal/guitar), Loretta Hale (trumpet/cello), Gordon Aeichele (tenor sax/clarinet), Mike Rowell (acoustic bass), Sean Bruce Parker (drums), Theresa Hale-Charters (vocals), Aubrey Wilson (vocals), Crystal Lee (violin).

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Tia McGraff and Tommy Parham, Fri May 4

Friday May 4, 2018, at 8 pm, $15/$10 students. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Americana-country songstress Tia McGraff, and singer-guitarist Tommy Parham return to Artword Artbar. They will perform their classic hits, as well as some new songs from their upcoming album-in-the-works.
www.tiamcgraff.com/

Tia McGraff is an award-winning Americana/Country singer-songwriter from Port Dover, ON. Tia’s talent has been described as “haunting and soul-gripping.” Tia’s 2015 release Crazy Beautiful, produced by Colorado native, husband and longtime collaborator Tommy Parham, immediately impressed radio programmers in the USA, Canada and Europe. Tommy, who moved to Nashville in 1998 with a staff songwriter deal in hand, soon became one of Music Row’s sought-after hit-writers, and is credited with cuts by major label artists and film placements.
In recent years the duo have supported and shared stages with artists including Steve Earle, Joan Baez, Randy Bachman (BTO, Guess Who), Jose Carreras and Steve Balsamo, among others.

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60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Thurs May 3

Thursday May 3, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone (the Spring 2018 edition) returns to Artword Artbar. The 60s Folk Revival sing-along concert features Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening that transforms the Artword Artbar into one of the 1960s coffeehouses of Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and passionate in solo and in harmony, and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today. The show covers the songs of the great singers and poets including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

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A cabaret evening w. Millard and Perlman, Wed May 2

Wednesday May 2, 2018 at 8 pm, $10/$5 students. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. An evening of musical fun and invention with John Millard and Sophia Perlman. Artword welcomes two delightful long-time friends who have recently teamed up for a cabaret-style show.
Veteran composer, creator of the Polka Dogs and seasoned performer, John Millard combines heart wrenching stories, exquisite songs, dark baritone voice and modernist banjo playing in a memorable and rarely heard set of new and old songs.
Sophia Perlman is mostly known for her creative take on other people’s songs. A little over a year ago she went to a residency at the Banff to see if she could find some. Not only did she find some songs, she ran into John Millard. She is excited to sing some of those songs, and to share the stage with him.
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Blunt Object, jazz ensemble featuring 8 horns, Sat April 28

Saturday April 28, 2018, at 8 pm, $15 /$10 students. To reserve call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Something special at Artword Artbar! Blunt Object is a Toronto-based 11-piece jazz ensemble performing energetic, creative music. Showcasing the music of Carla Bley, the ensemble presents engaging music with a refreshing sense of humour. Blunt Object balances unique improvisors with quirky and compelling arrangements.

Saxophones:  Ben Dietschi, Lindsay Paul, Conrad Gluch;
trumpets Jesse Malone, Tara Kannangara;
trombones Heather Saumer, Robin Jessome; sousaphone Josh Bird;
bass Tom Altobelli; piano Tania Gill; drums Robin Claxton.

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Funk, jazz-fusion w. Nezqwik Trio, Fri April 27

Friday April 27, 2018, at 8 pm. $10/$7 students. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. The Nezqwik Trio with Aleef Mehdi on guitar, Ben Duff on bass, and Jinu Isac on drums. Nezqwik plays originals and arrangements of covers in the style of jazz fused with hip-hop and funk. This is a scaled down version of their previously larger band, offering a more intimate musical performance. Inspired by Snarky Puppy, Mark Lettieri, Kendrick Lamar, D’Angelo and all makers of groovy music.
Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Music-pop-etc. | Comments Off on Funk, jazz-fusion w. Nezqwik Trio, Fri April 27

Latin Music and Poetry peña with Marcelo Puente, Thurs April 26

Thursday April 26, 2018, at 8 pm. $10. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. Join us for a Latin American Peña Trova y Poesia, featuring Marcelo Puente and friends.
Marcelo Puente [is] one of the outstanding exponents of the “nueva cancion” tradition in this (or any) country. Marcelo Puente came to Toronto in the aftermath of the coup in Chile in 1973, bringing his songs and poetry. In the late seventies he co-founded the popular Chilean-Greek band Los Compañeros, a group of anti-fascist exiles who discovered a common musical language.” [Wally Brooker’s Music Notes Newsletter]

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Jazz: The Scott McIntosh Quartet, Wed Apr 25

Wed April 25, 2018, at 8 pm. $10. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. Jazz with the Scott McIntosh Quartet. The players are Mike Malone on trumpet, Clark Johnston on bass, Jordan Snider on drums, and Scott McIntosh on guitar. The quartet is playing a tribute to the music of Pat Metheny, Kenny Burrell, and Grant Green.

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Singer-songwriter-pianist Alex Whorms, Sun April 22 at 4 pm.

Sunday, April 22, 2018, at 4 pm, $10. A Sunday afternoon special concert by pianist and singer-songwriter Alex Whorms. Inspired by Carole King, Sara Bareilles and Regina Spektor, Alex Whorms is an emerging piano pop songwriter. Her 2017 EP, Our Lives, has been played internationally on community radio shows and she has toured across Ontario and in New York City. She is a 2018 recipient of FACTOR’s Artist Development Grant and is currently recording her second release. Alex is joined by Ailish Corbett (violin), Michael Panza-Beltrandi (guitar), Konrad Swierczek (bass) and Nigel Stewart (drums).      http://www.alexwhorms.com/

Opening set by Jordan Hallin, frontman for alt-rock band Day Drunk. Jordan is an actor, comedian, storyteller, singer and puppeteer that will make you laugh, chant and cry in record time. From life’s trials come the stories of a young man, both happy and sad, woven in such a way that you can’t help but be mesmerized by his charm. https://daydrunk.bandcamp.com/

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Singer-songwriter James Gordon, solo show, Sat April 21

Saturday April 21, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Iconic Canadian songwriter James Gordon got his start in show business in the clubs, festivals and recording studios of Hamilton. He returns to his roots with songs about Canada’s roots in a solo concert at the Artword Artbar. Gordon’s last appearance at Artword Artbar was with the jazzy “Romancing The Song” trio, (he’s the trumpet player and singer in that band). Audiences will see a different side of his eclectic musical tastes on April 21st. A multi-instrumentalist, we’ll hear him on guitar, piano, banjo, harmonica and penny whistle at this intimate performance. His latest album Sunny Jim on Borealis Records made it to #2 on the national airplay charts in the roots/folk category, and he’ll be previewing some material from his NEXT album at this concert . Find out more at www.jamesgordon.ca

Continue reading

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Berman Billings, folk blues w. Matt Berman & Jonathan Billings, Fri Apr 20

Friday April 20, 2018, at 8 pm, $5. Berman Billings is a new project featuring Matt Berman (Must Stash Hat) and Jonathan Billings (Jonathan Billings Band). It’s a mix of acoustic guitars and pedal steel with vocal harmonies. Matt Berman songwriter, guitar, vocals and Jonathan Billings songwriter, pedal steel, vocals
Often referred to as “Psychedelic Folk Blues”, Berman Billings can be heard playing in just about any room in southern Ontario from large clubs to barber shops! Their debut album Killin’ Time will be released on vinyl and digital on June 23, 2018.

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Fiddle trio Fru Skagerrak, on tour from Scandinavia, Thur Apr 19

Thursday April 19, 2018, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
A special treat at Artword Artbar. Fru Skagerrak (Lady Skagerrak) fiddle trio: Maja Kjær Jacobsen from Denmark (Maja&David), Elise Wessel Hildrum from Norway and Anna Lindblad from Sweden (Lyy, The Duhks). The music of Fru Skagerrak takes you on a journey through Scandinavia; from lowlands to mountains, from slow airs to lively polkas, in major and in minor, and everything in between.  www.fruskagerrak.com

“Fru Skagerrak is a new pan-Scandinavian folk music trio, excellent young musicians and composers with their hearts in the right place and full speed ahead. Listening to Fru Skagerrak simply makes you happy!” – Morten Alfred Høirup, Guitarist and Radio Host
“Their combined sound is one of effortless beauty, grooving dance energy, and elegant arrangements. Not to be missed!” – Natalie Haas, Cellist
“Smokin’ fiddle playing” – Flensborg Avis, (Germany)

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R&B/Soul music: Rufus John, w. Bonnie Hamilton, Wed Apr 18

Wednesday April 18, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. Soulful & Intimate is a concert by R&B/Soul singer Rufus John, with band: Attila Toth bass, a drummer and a keyboard player. He will share some songs and stories behind his new album, Gone But Not Forgotten, slated to be released June 2018. Rufus will also sing some of his favourite covers. www.facebook.com/rufusjohnmusic
His special guest for the evening is soul and jazz singer Bonnie Hamilton has cancelled due to illness. www.facebook.com/bonniehamilton78/
Rufus John is a Canadian-Caribbean Artist who is bringing a refreshing sound to the Canadian R&B/Soul music scene. In early 2014 Rufus released his first full length album entitled Growing Pains. Continue reading

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Theatre: Swingin’ In St. John’s, the Musical, April 3 to 15

Tuesday April 3 to Sunday April 15, 2018, Tues-Sat 8 pm, Sunday matinées at 2:30 pm. Tickets Tues & Wed $15, Thur-Sun $25. Reservations call 905-543-8512 or
BUY_tix_buttonBook online

The Fringe 2017 hit musical Swingin’ In St. John’s returns for a two-week run at Artword Arbar. What if they made an Elvis movie — set in Newfoundland? It’s back and bigger than ever! More singin’! More dancin’! More swingin’! Two brand-new songs, plus the 16 original songs and two Newfoundland classics. Come get Screeched In with us!
Artword Theatre presents A Chasing Shadows Production:
Swingin’ In St. John’s.
Starring Will Gillespie, Rebecca Gilbert Millar, Leonard Cain,
introducing Mariam Bekhet, with Brian Morton as ‘Old Salty’,
and Susan Robinson as ‘The Lobster’.
Written, composed, designed & choreographed by Will Gillespie.
Paintings, props and puppets by Susan Robinson.
Video and lighting technician Judith Sandiford.

In the late 1950’s and early-to-mid 1960’s Elvis Presley starred in some 30 movies. Many of these were campy, light-hearted romps, musical romantic comedies based on what was called the “Presley Formula”: exotic locales, beautiful co-stars and fun songs that blended Rock & Roll with styles inspired by the locations and themes of each movie. What if one of these films was set in Newfoundland? “Swingin’ in St. John’s” is a new stage musical that answers that question. Continue reading

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closed Easter weekend Mar 28 to April 1

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Hamilton Fringe AGM, Tues Mar 27 at 7 pm

Tuesday March 27, 2018, 7 to 10 pm. The Annual General Meeting of the Hamilton Fringe Festival.

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ZULA Presents jazz improvisers Zero Point, Sat Mar 24

Saturday, March 24, 2018, at 8 pm, tickets $15 regular, $10 students /seniors.
BUY_tix_buttonBook online
ZULA Presents jazz improvisers Zero Point, from New York. The quartet features Daniel Carter saxophones, trumpet, clarinet, flute, piano, with Marius Duboule guitars; Michael Bates double bass; Deric Dickens drums.  http://zeropoint-music.com/
“An amalgam of free musical talents” – Chris Searle, Morning Star (UK)
“A refined brand of freedom” – Bruce Lee Gallanter, DMG (US)
“Beyond the ordinary” – John Sharpe, NYCJR (US)

Zero Point‘s music is entirely improvised, sometimes giving the impression of a known melody or a sound mass, similar to what the spectral music can evoke. Just like Ornette Coleman, Albert Ayler and Eric Dolphy the musicians of this band can also be deeply anchored in the tradition of blues and bebop, which resurfaces in a pictorial and contrapuntal way.

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JAZZ: Tom Altobelli Group, Fri Mar 23

Friday March 23, 2018, at 8 pm, $10 / $5 students. An evening of jazz with The Tom Altobelli Group will feature Tom’s original compositions, as well as original works by members of the band.  Band members are: Aaron Bowers sax, Scott McIntosh guitar, Chris Bruder piano, Jordan Snider drums, and Tom Altobelli bass and compositions.  https://soundcloud.com/tomaltobellibass/sets/tom-altobelli-group
Tom Altobelli is an upright and electric bassist in Hamilton. He is a graduate of both the Humber College Bachelor of Music, and Mohawk College Music programs, where he studied jazz, and majored in Bass performance. Tom is involved in a number of projects, including The Altobeelays, Mother Tareka and the Rebel Funktion, Monkley Cascade, The Koopa Troop, The Aubrey Wilson Quartet, and his own original jazz group (Tom Altobelli Group).

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Jazz tribute to composer Adrean Farrugia by his students! Thur Mar 22

Thursday March 22, 2018, at 8 pm $10 / $5 students. In an evening of homage and celebration, the students of Hamilton jazz pianist/composer Adrean Farrugia will pay tribute to Adrean in a performance of his original compositions; everything from his Juno-nominated album Ricochet to brand new material!
The players: Michael Morabito on alto saxophone, Devon Savas on bass, William Fachin on drums, Mac Rogers on trumpet, Leah Korkowski on vocals, Alex Tomowich on piano.

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Wise Fools for World Storytelling Day, Tues Mar 20, 7 pm

Tuesday March 20, 2018, from 7 to 9 pm. Artword Artbar presents a World Storytelling Day concert featuring members of the Burlington Storytellers’ Guild. Special guest is Sue Ramsay, storyteller and jazz singer extraordinaire. The theme this year is Wise Fools. There are more of them than you think!
Guild members are dedicated to the growth, development and expansion of oral tradition storytelling as an art form. http://burlingtonstorytellersguild.vpweb.ca/events
World Storytelling Day (March 20th) is a global celebration of the art of oral storytelling, celebrated every year on the equinox. On World Storytelling Day, as many people as possible tell and listen to stories in as many languages and at as many places as possible, during the same day and night.  www.globalstorytellingday.org/

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McCurlie, Doidge and Wiles, songs & stories, Sat Mar 17

Saturday, March 17, at 8 pm, $15. A return visit from McCurlie, Doidge and Wiles are an Ancaster-based trio who perform original folk rock music and great story songs, many based on Ancaster’s history. These seasoned musicians are award winning songwriters/artists who sing fabulous three part harmonies. Mike McCurlie and Bob Doidge have been making music together since their early teens. Then along came Caroline Wiles, a songwriter from Montreal. They all start playing together, harmonizing, creating a groove with guitar, mandolin and bass. They like the blend. And by now, they have a lot of songs about their hometown, and all around: the Dundas Valley, the Bruce Trail, The Hammer…
www.mccurliedoidgeandwiles.com
   or   www.carolinewiles.com.

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Grito de Mujer (Woman Scream), poetry & music, Fri Mar 16

Friday, March 16, 2018, 8 to 11pm,  (viernes, 16 de marzo 2018,  20:00 a 23:00), at Artword Artbar, an evening of poetry and music, for the Grito de Mujer International Festival. Hamilton Coordinator is Ama Luna, with collaborators from Friends of the Poet Tree. The theme for 2018 is Faros de esperanza / Beacons of hope.
The Grito de Mujer or Woman Scream International Poetry and Arts Festival is a non-profit series of events by volunteers worldwide, poets, artists, painters, actors and literary groups, celebrated throughout the month of March each year. The purpose is to honor women and their role in society though poetry and arts, while delivering a message of non-violence towards women, as well as a sense of community and cultural sharing.
Grito de Mujer se realiza de manera altruista con el apoyo de nuestros colaboradores voluntarios, amigos y seguidores del movimiento y cuenta con la participación de poetas, artistas, pintores, actores e instituciones, y grupos literarios que se suman a la causa. Nuestra iniciativa forma parte de la misión social del movimiento en favor de la mujer y el interés de propagar el mensaje de la no violencia.
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Hidden Valley Ante Chamber Orchestra, Thurs Mar 15

Thursday March 15, 2018, at 8 pm, $10 reg, $5 students. The Hidden Valley Ante Chamber Orchestra features Ian Brown, Leah Korkowski, Jonathan Malström, Sophia Perlman and Nigel Stewart. They began meeting under cover of darkness (and highway overpass) in the summer of 2017, confusing late-night commuters with their symphonic stylings and late-night strip-club goers with their lack of navigation skills. As winter trudged on, they sought an indoor playground to continue their exploration of the songs and hidden talents that rarely see the light of day. Artword Artbar seemed like the perfect place.

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closed Wed Mar 14 and Wed Mar 21 for private events

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Wayne Krawchuk, Sat Mar 10 (8 pm SOLD OUT) + Sun Mar 11 (7:30 SOLD OUT)

Saturday March 10, 2018, at 8:00 pm, $15. SOLD OUT.
Sun March 11 at 7:30 pm. SOLD OUT
For info, call 905-543-8512.
Folk-roots singer-songwriter Wayne Krawchuk launches his new CD Love Hopped a Train with a special concert at Artword Artbar. He will be accompanied by Michael J. Birthelmer on guitar, Mike Hickey on bass, Randal Hill on mandolin/banjo, and Ron Cole on keyboards/accordion. There will be an opening set by The Harmones (Carol Greene, Christine Roarke, Audrey Hensen) with their ukuleles and 3 part harmonies.

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Art Crawl with Bill Lutes and the Art Crawlers, Fri Mar 9

Friday March 9, 2018, from 8 pm to 11 pm. Tip Jar for the band. An old-fashioned art-crawl, just like the good ol’ days, with Bill Lutes and The Art Crawlers: Bill Lutes guitar, vocals; Lilia Lutes very cool vocals; Kenny Clark guitar, vocals; Hank Paton guitar, vocals; Robert Louis guitar, vocals; Bob Rudy bass, vocals; Phil Dales drums. Drop in and warm up, with all your favourite tunes.

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Dance: Fairy Tale, new work by Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed&Thur Mar 7&8

Wednesday & Thursday March 7 & 8, 2018, at 8 pm, $10-15 pwyc. Artword Theatre presents Fairy Tale: sketches for a new dance-poetry work, written, choreographed and performed by Learie Mc Nicolls, with participation by dancer Tanis Macarthur. A sequence of live improvisations to some music and some silence, with words of poetry and dream imagery that explore how fairy tales run a strong parallel in our everyday lives. Guest performer is electronic-based musician Enveloper (Ryan Curran), who provides the real-time soundscape. Enveloper will also perform a solo 30-minute set following the main dance presentation.

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Zula Presents: Celebrating the music of Ken Aldcroft, Sun Mar 4, 7:30 pm

Sunday March 4, 2018, at 7:30 pm. $15/$10. Artword Artbar is hosting a special concert:  Zula Presents a celebration of the music of Ken Aldcroft performed by Two Hours Early, Ten Minutes Late + Mars People. This concert is part of an 8-venue tour.
** Two Hours Early, Ten Minutes Late: saxophone and guitar duo music by Ken Aldcroft performed by Jason Robinson & Eric Hofbauer (USA)
** Mars People: music by & for Ken Aldcroft, performed by Emily Denison, Daniel Kruger & Joe Sorbara (Montréal/ Toronto)
March 2 to 11 2018 will see a vanload of adventurous musicians from both sides of the 49th parallel travel from Montréal through Southern Ontario in celebration of the late guitarist Ken Aldcroft, a long time leading figure in Canada’s creative music community. Continue reading

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Jazz-pop with WPBE: Worst Pop Band Ever, Sat Mar 3

Saturday March 3, 2018, at 8 pm. $10. The Worst Pop Band Ever aka WPBE: Adrean Farrugia (piano/keys) and Chris Gale (sax), along with Drew Birston (bass) and Tim Shia (drums).
“Of course Jazz isn’t dead. The core idea of using pop music as source material for creative exploration is still very much alive…It is easier to appreciate (and follow) where these artists take the music when you already understand where they started… Snarky Puppy, Mehliana, The Worst Pop Band Ever…” Kevin Hurley, Huffington Post

www.worstpopbandever.com        www.facebook.com/worstpopbandever

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Edgar Breau, CD Release Concert, Fri Mar 2, 2018

Friday March 2, 2018, 8 pm, $10.  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Singer-songwriter Edgar Breau celebrates his new CD on Flying Inn Recordings with a release concert at Artword Artbar. Band members include two Simply Saucer veterans: Mike Trebilcock on guitar, Kevin Christoff on bass. Also featured is jazz singer Colina Phillips with original vocal harmonies and percussion.
From his Facebook write-up: “Edgar Breau may be best known as the founder of Hamilton, Ontario’s cult ‘70s psych/proto-punk band Simply Saucer, but he has forged a parallel path as a solo musician. … Breau’s self-titled tour-de-force was painstakingly completed over three years by producers Adam Bentley and Jordan Mitchell (The Dirty Nil, Single Mothers, Greys). … [The album] includes contributions from Blue Rodeo drummer Glenn Milchem, Hawks guitarist Mike Eastman, plus Simply Saucer members Kevin Christoff, Colina Phillips, Ed Roth, and Mike Trebilcock (The Killjoys). Finally, Gaven Dianda (The Flashing Lights) added the ethno-musicological flourishes of Afghan rabab, sitar, and other medieval instruments on “A Penny Fare To Babylon.” Continue reading

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Jazz star from Estonia: bassist Toivo Unt Quintet, Thurs Mar 1

Thursday March 1, 2018, 8:00 pm, $10 (call 905-543-8512 to reserve). A special concert at Artword Artbar featuring the renowned Estonian bass player Toivo Unt. The band: Mike Malone trumpet,  Kevin Dempsey drums, John Sherwood piano, Jeff King tenor sax.
At Artword Artbar 15 Colbourne Street, Hamilton. This concert is part of events in the Estonian communities in Toronto and Hamilton in celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Estonian Independence (Feb 23, 1918-2018).

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Science on Tap = Astronomy + Beer, Wed Feb 28

Wednesday February 28, 2018, at 8 pm, doors open at 7 pm, free. Open to all. Join scientists from McMaster University’s Physics and Astronomy Department for an entertaining night filled with scientific discussion, trivia, and beer. At Science on Tap, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with researchers in various scientific fields as they present some of science’s most intriguing phenomena. There will be plenty of time to ask questions while the scientists are on stage, or afterwards over cold pints. Come try this educational twist on a night out at the pub. Host: Joey Rucska.

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The Kirkendolls, jazzy blues and more, Sat Feb 24

Saturday Feb 24, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. A return visit by The Kirkendolls, a local band led by Mark Caruana on vocals and guitar, with Tom Shea on bass, Jamie Shea on guitar, and Mario Laquintana on drums. They play a mix of music from originals to jazzy re-arrangements to soulful blues. About half of their songs are originals by Mark Caruana, who was the guitar player for Big Rude Jake in Toronto through the 90s. Later he had his own jazz trio/quartet playing in the jazz clubs in Toronto to the early 2000s. He is now Hamilton-based.

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