2026 FREE FESTIVAL LINE-UP AND EVENTS
July 25 & 26, 2026
Fort Langley, BC
World-Class Jazz, Blues, Arts & Culture in the Heart of Fort LangleY
The Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival is a vibrant, community-driven celebration of music, art and culture set in one of BC’s most charming historic destinations.
From world-class jazz and blues to emerging local talent, the Festival brings together a dynamic mix of performances across multiple stages. Experience free concerts, hands-on workshops, family-friendly activities, and cultural programming that highlights Indigenous artists and diverse creative voices.
Wander through the village, catch a show, join the Mardi Gras Strolling Parade, and discover art, food and music around every corner
With two full days of free programming—plus unforgettable ticketed performances like the Cool Blues Show—the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival offers something for everyone.
More than an event, it’s a shared experience that brings people together through the power of music, creativity and community.
2026 Stages
Community Hall Main StagE
Sponsored by WESCRAFT HOMES
Supported by Bria Communities
Venue Sponsor: Fort Langley Community Improvement Society
Located at the Fort Langley Community Hall, 9167 Glover Road, Fort Langley, BC
Our main stage is the vibrant heartbeat of the free Festival, delivering a powerful line-up of world-class jazz performances that span a wide range of genres and styles. From contemporary jazz and swing to blues, vocal jazz bebop, and more, this stage offers a non-stop musical journey featuring accomplished local and BC-based artists. As the centerpiece of the free festival experience, this stage brings together music lovers of all ages to celebrate the soul of jazz in all its forms.
Art & Culture StagE
Venue Sponsor: Canada Post
Located at the Post Office Greenspace, 23277 Mary Avenue, Fort Langley
The Art & Culture Stage showcases the incredible talent of Indigenous and local performing arts groups. Audiences will enjoy a vibrant mix of performing arts and cultural groups. Rooted in community and celebration, this stage brings cultural richness, creativity, and connection to the heart of the festival experience.
Youth & Emerging Artist Stage
Presented by the Tony Quo Vadis Foundation
Venue Sponsor: Langley Heritage Society
Located at the Fort Langley Heritage CNR Station, 23245 Mavis Avenue, Fort Langley
The Youth & Emerging Artist Stage celebrates the next generation of musical talent with inspiring performances from emerging young jazz artists. This stage brings fresh energy to the Festival with dynamic sets on both days of the free Festival weekend. Experience the passion and creativity of up-and-coming musicians in an intimate, family-friendly setting surrounded by local art exhibits and heritage charm.
Free events for all. Check out what’s happening!
Art & Culture Zone
Located at the Post Office Greenspace
23277 Mary Avenue, Fort Langley
Awaken your creativity and imagination with free art, music and cultural activities for people of all ages and abilities! This special part of the Festival features:
This vibrant, fully interactive creative hub is free, accessible and drop-in friendly, with hands-on art-making, cultural demonstrations, playful installations and community-building activities offered across both festival days.
Festivalgoers of all ages can explore:
Art Creation Pod: watercolour & sketching tables
Culture Pod: Indigenous cultural demonstrations
Maker Pod: pottery wheel demos, clay activities, postcard painting
Interactive Installations: musical play garden, drum circle
Shade & Sensory Zone: quiet activities and seating for young families, seniors, and sensory-sensitive visitors
Face painting by Mrs. Picasso
Eats and treats: Meander the Village to explore our local cafes, restaurants and ice cream shops. Or check out the Lion's Club BBQ in front of the Community Hall all day on Saturday and Sunday!
Mardi Gras Strolling Parade
Saturday, July 25 from 9 - 10 am
From the Fort Langley Farmers Market to Fort Langley Community Hall
Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras with our exhilarating Strolling Parade, inspired by the infectious energy of a traditional New Orleans-style jazz band. Picture a lively procession winding down the main street of Fort Langley, filled with joyous revelers dancing and singing along to the jazz band's soulful melodies.
People of all ages join in the festivities, adorned in colorful costumes with beads and masks. Along the route, spectators are invited to join the procession, adding to the dynamic energy of the event. From spirited twirls to jubilant footwork, the streets come alive with the sounds of laughter and music, creating a spectacle that captivates the senses and ignites the imagination.
As the strolling parade arrives at the Fort Langley Community Hall, the revelry continues throughout the day with lively performances from a variety of jazz acts. It's a momentous occasion where the community comes together to celebrate the joy of jazz.
Featuring the RazzMaJazz Ensemble – where the spirit of traditional jazz shines brighter than ever!
The strolling parade features the high-energy New Orleans-style band, RazzMaJazz Ensemble. This popular and entertaining band performs traditional New Orleans-style jazz creole, Dixieland and blues-style music. The ensemble started its musical journey performing on a riverboat on the Fraser River in 1998 and has since played at many festivals, conferences, special events and dance halls. Made up of top professional jazz musicians, this highly entertaining and energetic six-piece band features multiple horns plus the banjo, tuba and drums.
Website: https://razzmajazz.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RazzMaJazzFriends/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_92oRuGttT8
Jazz Alternative Worship Experience (AWE)
Hymn Swing: A Jazz-Inspired Worship Experience
Sunday, July 27 from 5 - 6pm
St. Andrews Chapel, United Churches of Langley (9025 Glover Road, Fort Langley)
By Donation. Registration required/Limited seating
Presented by: Rev. Brian Fraser and The Brentwood Presbyterian Church https://www.brentwoodpcc.com/jazz-evensong
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The festival will close out again with a Jazz AWE (Alternative Worship Experience) at the United Churches of Langley. Jazz AWE gives a musical twist to the Sunday church experience. Live jazz music is woven into readings, reflection and conversations
Enjoy a unique and uplifting musical experience as the Brentwood Hymn Swing Quartet presents 12 beloved hymns, beautifully reimagined with jazz arrangements by composer Noah Franz Nolan.
Each hymn unfolds in a rich and engaging format, beginning with an instrumental interpretation, followed by a vocal verse, and then inviting the congregation to join in singing. This shared musical journey blends the warmth of tradition with the energy and spontaneity of jazz.
Between the sixth and seventh hymns, Rev. Brian Fraser will offer a thoughtful and inspiring reflection, adding depth and meaning to the experience.
This by-donation performance will feature:
Suin Park - Piano
Teresa Marie - Vocals
Wynston Minckler - Bass
Karl DeJong - Drums
SPONSORS
Saturday and Sunday Free Music Line-Up
July 25 and 26, 2026
Community Hall Main Stage Line-Up
Saturday, July 25
The Lawless Firm
Saturday, July 25 from 11am -12 pm
Community Hall Main Stage
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The Lawless Firm brings the timeless charm of the American Songbook to life with a vibrant Gypsy Jazz twist, imagine Django Reinhardt jamming with Cole Porter.
Rooted in the spirit of 1930s and ’40s Parisian jazz, their sound blends elegant melodies, rich harmonies and infectious swing, evoking an era when songs told stories and lyrics truly resonated. From romantic ballads to high-energy, danceable tunes, their repertoire captures both the intimacy and excitement of a golden age in music.
With appearances at festivals, dances, bistros and clubs, The Lawless Firm creates an atmosphere that’s equally perfect for listening, lingering or hitting the dance floor.
Michael Dunn - Guitar
Don Kellett - Guitar
Joe Bourchier - Bass
Edgar Bridwell - Violin
Eleanore Dunn – Vocals
Website: https://lawlessfirm.ca/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jV7Rqiskwks
Elise Boulanger and Band
Sponsored by
Saturday, July 25 from 12:15 – 1:15 pm
Community Hall Main Stage
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Elise Boulanger is a sweet darkness wrapped in orchestral instrumentation. Hailing from Vancouver, this Orchestral Indie-Pop artist completely captivates audiences with her haunting avalanche of a voice. Boulanger is a bilingual environmental advocate that creates cinematic dreamscapes. She is reminiscent of Kate Bush with her angelic yet raw dramatic artistry.
Elise Boulanger - Lead vocals, ukulele, keyboard
Anatol McGinnis - Cello, violin, background vocals
Natasha Hoskins - Drums, background vocals
Brock Meades - Double bass
Website: https://www.eliseboulanger.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eliseboulangermusic/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_eliseboulanger/
Youtube: http://youtu.be/znOnupULp5M?si=IP8GJ_IaFm-HIme1
Ard 'N Saul
Sponsored by Andy Schildhorn Real Estate Corporation
Saturday July 25 from 1:30 - 2:30 pm
Community Hall Main Stage
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Ard 'N Saul Jazz Quintet, featuring the dynamic duo of alto saxophonist Saul Berson and tenor saxophonist Ardeshir, is poised to bring an exhilarating blend of tradition and innovation to the stage.
With a rich and diverse repertoire that seamlessly weaves classic jazz standards with their original compositions, Ard 'N Saul promises a musical journey that transcends time and genre boundaries. At the heart of Ard 'N Saul's artistic vision is exploring the classic jazz quintet format, paying homage to the tradition of two horns accompanied by a rhythm section.
Saul Berson - Alto Saxophone
Ardeshir Pourkeramati - Tenor Saxophone
Winston Matsushita - Piano
David Caballero - Bass
Arvind Ramdas - Drums
Website: http://www.ardeshirmusic.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/tyrant-studios/ard-n-saul/4156691124544397
Russell Wallace and Snukwa7
Sponsored by
Saturday, July 25 from 3-4pm
Community Hall Main Stage
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Russell Wallace is an award-winning Lil’wat Nation composer, producer, and traditional singer known for blending Salish musical forms with electronic, jazz, and pop for film, television, and theatre.
A prominent Vancouver-based artist, he has won Leo Awards and the 2022 Lieutenant Governor's Art and Music Award for his significant contributions to Indigenous culture.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewallruss/
Sunday, July 26
Elisa Thorn
SPonsored By
Sunday, July 26 from 10-11am
Community Hall Main Stage
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Meditative, psychedelic, introspective & energizing, harpist/vocalist Elisa Thorn draws influences from jazz, folk, pop, post-rock and experimental music. For fans of Bjork, Andrew Bird, and Feist.
Website: https://elisathorn.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mo8euEZOKHI
Blues Kazam
SPONSORED BY PEARSON TRANSPORT
Sunday, July 27
11 - 11:45am
Conwest Main Stage
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Blues Kazam is a five-piece high-energy Blues and rock band based in Vancouver. The band started playing together online during COVID-19 and is now playing together in real life.
Graham Blank - Keyboards & Vocals
Axel Breutigam - Drums
Michael Goldman - Saxophone & Vocals
John Saunders - Bass
Richard Wilson - Guitar & Vocals
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/blueskazam/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/sQ8CfxS6DIM?si=7S7CiuGb_1S0x2hH
Jon Bentley Quartet
Sponsored By Rich and Michele Coleman
Sunday, July 27
12 - 12:45pm
Conwest Main Stage
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Soulful, bluesy, funky, straight-ahead and swinging, Jon Bentley’s saxophone/organ jazz quartet plays a mix of originals and classic jazz repertoire with a modern aesthetic. Jon Bentley is a Juno-nominated veteran jazz saxophonist with over 30 years of professional international experience and 30+ recordings as a leader and sideman.
Jon Bentley - Tenor Sax
Chris Gestrin - Organ
Joe Poole - Drums
Tristen Paxton - Guitar
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jon.bentley.779/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jonbentley8377
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jon_bentley__/
Eva van Gunsteren Quintet
Sunday, July 27
1 - 1:45pm
Conwest Main Stage
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Eva van Gunsteren, a Dutch-Swiss singer who now calls Maple Ridge home, is an accomplished jazz vocalist known for her warm, captivating voice and deep love for straight-ahead jazz, swing and bossa nova. With a stellar quintet featuring some of Vancouver's finest musicians, she creates an unforgettable musical experience that resonates with audiences.
Eva van Gunsteren - Vocals
Cory Weeds - Saxophone
Sharon Minemoto - Piano
Wynston Minckler - Bass
Bernie Arai - Drums
Website: www.evavangunsteren.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064104962337
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evamentzvangunsteren/
Julio Avila Cuban Sextet
Sponsored by Magnus Law
Sunday, July 27
2 - 2:45pm
Conwest Main Stage
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The Julio Avila Cuban Sextet is a powerhouse ensemble that brings the infectious rhythms and rich traditions of Cuban music to the West Coast. Led by bassist, vocalist, and composer Julio Avila, the group blends musical excellence with deep cultural authenticity. Each member, most of whom hail from Cuba, contributes world-class talent on vocals, horns, percussion, and keys, creating a vibrant and layered sound.
Together, they perform a dynamic mix of salsa, son, merengue, cumbia, and bachata, captivating audiences with their irresistible energy and rhythm. Formed in Vancouver in 2015, the band has quickly become a local favorite, celebrated for their electrifying live performances and dedication to preserving and sharing Cuban musical heritage. Whether playing festivals, concerts, or community events, the Julio Avila Cuban Sextet delivers an unforgettable experience that gets people dancing and fills hearts with joy. This is Cuban music at its finest - alive, passionate, and deeply soulful.
Website: [https://www.julioavilacubanband.com/][0]
Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/julioavilacubanband][1]
Youtube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjT5wOWX4ci7fNUlDV-8KRw][2]
Feelin’ Alright - A Tribute to Joe Cocker
Sponsored By Sarah and Dave Lane from Woking Dragon Langley
Sunday, July 27
3 - 4pm
Conwest Main Stage
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FEELIN' ALRIGHT: A Tribute to Joe Cocker features a powerhouse group that pays homage to one of rock's greatest heroes. The show includes a range of Cocker's biggest hits, from " With a Little Help From My Friends" from his iconic Woodstock performance to "Up Where We Belong" from An Officer and A Gentleman. Frontman Terry Raible brings the music of Joe Cocker alive, from the iconic body moves to his unique vocal nuances.
Terry Raible - Lead Vocalist
(Joe) Angela-Draude - BG vocals
Carol Mason - BG Vocals
Ron Wells - Drums
Michael Toth - Guitar
Dave Hall - Bass
Bill Brooks - Keys
Brian Engstrom - Sax
Ken Abel - Baritone Sax
Kevin Lee - Trumpet
Website: https://www.classiccockerlive.ca/
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/2s3s9n5k
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FeelingAlrightAJoeCockerTribute
Youth Stage Line-Up
Saturday, July 26
Sadie Koshan – Post Secondary School Rising Jazz Star
Saturday, July 26, 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Train Station
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Sadie Koshan is an emerging jazz drummer from Vancouver, recently completing her first year of the Jazz Performance program at McGill University’s Schulich School of Music. She discovered her passion for jazz in high school and quickly became known for her expressive playing, steady rhythm, and creative improvisation. Mentored by some of Vancouver’s top musicians—Jodi Proznick, Dan Hersog, Dawn Clement, Bill Coon, and Fred Stride—Sadie honed her skills at the VSO School of Music and under the guidance of Joe Poole, Jesse Cahill, and Jim Doxas.
Her influences include Brian Blade, Allison Miller, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Elvin Jones. She has performed at major venues and festivals, including the 2024 Fort Langley Jazz Festival Youth Concert Series, the Chan Centre, Frankie’s Jazz Club, and the Upstairs Jazz Bar in Montreal.
Sadie’s dedication, professionalism, and musicality have earned praise from educators and peers alike.
“Sadie ranks among the top tier of students I’ve taught in over twenty years. Her energy, musicality, and leadership are exceptional.”
— Jim Doxas, Professor of Jazz Drums, McGill University
“Sadie is one of the most outstanding students I’ve worked with. Her performance, professionalism, and passion for jazz are truly inspiring.”
— Keith Ollerenshaw, Director of Bands, Magee Secondary School
With a deep commitment to her craft and a growing presence in both the Vancouver and Montréal jazz scenes, Sadie is poised for a bright future as a jazz artist dedicated to sharing joy and connection through music.
Sunday, July 27
Jose Guilles – Secondary School Rising Jazz Star Winner
Sunday, July 27, 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Train Station
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Jose Guilles is a 17-year-old Grade 12 student at Holy Cross Regional High School in Surrey, and a passionate young jazz pianist already making waves in the local music scene. He has been playing piano since the age of seven and was introduced to jazz at the beginning of high school, quickly developing a deep and lasting connection to the genre.
Since then, Jose has immersed himself in music, becoming an integral part of his school’s music program, where he performs in four ensembles—including one he founded himself. Beyond school, he regularly plays at his church’s Sunday Masses, using the opportunity to grow as a well-rounded and responsive accompanist.
Jose’s playing is influenced by jazz legends such as Wayne Shorter, Oscar Peterson, Cedar Walton, and Phineas Newborn, whose artistry continues to shape his musical voice. His thoughtful approach to harmony, phrasing, and improvisation demonstrates a level of maturity well beyond his years.
Jose’s talent, work ethic, and musical sensitivity have earned praise from leading educators and musicians:
“José plays jazz piano at a very high level for a 11th grade student and many aspects of his playing are way beyond his years, including his stylistic approach and chordal abilities.” — Brad Turner, Instructor, Capilano University Department of Jazz Studies
“Jose possesses a rare musical maturity and depth… His performance was technically sound and emotionally compelling—demonstrating a deep understanding of harmony, phrasing, and ensemble interaction. Jose is the kind of musician who elevates everyone around him.” — Jodi Proznick, Bassist | Educator | Composer | Chair of Jazz Studies, VSO School of Music With his dedication and talent, Jose Guilles is a shining example of the next generation of Canadian jazz artists.
Pre-Festival Youth Concert Series
Sunday, July 13
Chen Baker Quartet
Sunday, July 13
12:30 - 1:30pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Train Station
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Jeffery Chen is an emerging guitarist and aspiring math teacher from the Lower Mainland. Drawing influences from traditional jazz and Japanese jazz-fusion, he will present a set of originals, standards, hidden gems, and cheeky pop tunes with his trusty quartet; featuring Lida Magnus, Neal Wang, and Piyotr Kao.
Jeffery Chen - Guitar
Neal Wang - Sax
Lida Magnus - Bass
Piyotr Kao - Drums
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jchen.music/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/XQfuj6m6fXs
Pressley Murillo Trio
Sunday, July 13
2 - 3pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Rail Station
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Pressley Murillo is a Vancouver-based Mexican-American vocalist and band leader in her fourth year of the Capilano University Jazz Studies program. With deep love and respect for the tradition of Black American Classical music, she draws inspiration from iconic Jazz artists such as Sarah Vaughan and Betty Carter and Latinx artists like Celia Cruz and Chavela Vargas, who influenced her growing up in Southern California. You can find her in various jazz venues around Vancouver like the Fairmont Hotel, Water St. Cafe, and Is That French?, playing tunes from the great American songbook and Latinx songs from her childhood.
Pressley Murillo - Vocals
Emilio Suarez - Cello
Joel Faulkner - Guitar
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wix
YouTube: https://youtu.be/r2G3_Ge2BtM?si=s3ac4U0pWuMlqJxK
Sunday, July 20
Gordy Li’s SMURF Band
Sunday, July 20
12:30 - 1:30pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Railway Station
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Gordy Li - woodwinds, keys, drums
Rick Son - piano, drums, trombone
Ivan Flores - guitar, synthesizer, backup vocals
Smurfing: when you perform so well that people think you’re on an alternate account and your actual rank is much higher than that of the current online multiplayer lobby
Gordy Li’s SMURF is most notorious for how it evocatively communicates his generation's ideas of diasporan and digital expression through conceptual distillations of jazz music that he thinks is cool, drawing from his muses in 60s Miles, 60s John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, 80s Wynton Marsalis, and anyone else taking influence from them.
http://www.instagram.com/gordysmurf/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us63uYIPoyE
Gavin Harper & the Paper Cowboys
Sunday, July 20
2 - 3pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Train Station
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Inspired equally by honky tonk country, Chicago blues, and traditional bluegrass, Gavin Harper and The Paper Cowboys bring a heartfelt love for all the American musical traditions to the 21st century. With emotionally honest and imagery-laden originals and a plethora of traditionals and covers, this band is all about authentic musical expression and a love for that magic in the room during a live performance. Gavin Harper and The Paper Cowboys are recording their first EP of original music in 2025 and plan on continuing to bring a love of traditional music to new audiences across Canada.
Gavin Harper - Guitar & Vocals
Brad Hall - Electric guitar
John Oswald - Electric bass
Sandy Bone - Drums
Website: https://shorturl.at/J3V7M
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthew.gavin.9
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gavinharpermusic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uva2veWZsZQ&t=24s
Youth Stage
Saturday, July 26
Banter Quartet
Saturday, July 26
1:45 - 2:45pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Train Station
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Banter Quartet is a Vancouver-based jazz ensemble that blends jazz standards with special arrangements, bebop, funk, ballads, and swing. Known for their dynamic performances, they combine the fast-paced improvisation of bebop, the groove of funk, the emotion of ballads, and the infectious energy of swing. With strong chemistry and a commitment to musical exploration, Banter Quartet delivers innovative performances that captivate and inspire. Their showcase at the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival marks an exciting milestone in their journey.
Ben Cai - Tenor sax
Klee Zubot - Guitar
Erin Kim - Bass
Sadie Koshan - Drums
Website: https://banterquartet.bandzoogle.com/home
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bencbencbencbencbemc/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/vqggef0HgeY
Sunday, July 27
J plays J: The Music Of John Scofield
Sunday, July 27
1:45 - 2:45pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Train Station
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Jordy McIntosh is a Vancouver-based drummer/educator. Joined by Jake Kostuchuk on guitar, Erika Chow on tenor, and David Caballero on bass, the group will bring a catalogue of John Scofield classics. From Scofield records such as “Meant to Be”, “Quiet”, “Time on my Hands” and “A Go Go”, the group will pay homage to one of today’s guitar gods. After two sold-out shows, the band is excited to bring this music to the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival!
Jordy McIntosh - Bandleader & Drums
Erika Chow - Tenor Sax
Jake Kostuchuk - Guitar
David Caballero - Bass
Website: jordymcintosh.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordytmcintosh/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/BZY1KXnzAKY?si=_n8RLpQz0WOSh7Li
The Cowboy BeBop Bebop Band
Sunday, July 27
3:15 - 4:15pm
Youth Stage - Historic CN Train Statio
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Coming hot from numerous sold-out shows, the Cowboy Bebop Bebop Band, led by Steven Zhu, showcases the wonderfully funky and jazzy music of the hit 90s Anime TV show Cowboy Bebop!
RJ Abella - Trumpet
Gordy Li - Soprano and tenor Saxophone
Afu - Baritone saxophone
Patrick Kao - Guitar
Piyotr Kao - Bass
Steven Zhu - Drums
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinfidelsjazz/p/C66v_texoEA/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/0szJG6oBAig?si=360fs4ioPct0Apya