Meet Our 2026 Rising Jazz Star Award Winners!

Every year, the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival shines a light on the future of jazz, celebrating young artists whose passion, creativity and dedication are shaping the next generation.

Since 2019, the Rising Jazz Star Awards have recognized exceptional musicians at both the secondary and post-secondary levels, offering not only recognition, but meaningful opportunities to grow. Sponsored by the Fort Langley Community Hall and the Langley Heritage Society, these awards include scholarships and the chance to perform at the Festival in front of a live audience.

This summer, we are proud to introduce our 2026 Rising Jazz Star Award winners: Bea Lagrisola (post-secondary winner) and Rowan (secondary school winner)!

Both artists will perform at the Youth & Emerging Artist Stage during the free festival on July 25 and 26, 2026, sharing their music in a setting that celebrates discovery, creativity and community.

Bea Lagrisola, Post-Secondary Winner

Filipino-Canadian saxophonist Bea Lagrisola is a dynamic and expressive figure in today’s jazz landscape. Splitting her time between Toronto and Vancouver, she is an active bandleader, composer, arranger and in-demand performer, known for her deep musicality and commitment to exploration.

Currently studying Jazz Performance at the University of Toronto, Bea has trained with acclaimed Canadian artists Tara Davidson and Allison Au, refining her distinctive approach as both a performer and creator. Her work spans a wide range of settings, from university ensembles to playing at respected Toronto venues such as The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar and The Emmet Ray.

Along with her growing presence across the country, Bea remains closely connected to the West Coast jazz community. With roots in Surrey, she previously served as lead alto saxophonist with the Vancouver Symphony School of Music Jazz Orchestra, performing at notable venues including Pyatt Hall and the Vancouver Playhouse.

“This opportunity to be a part of the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival is one of my greatest honours this year,” Bea says. “It means a lot to me to be able to share my music in a space filled with such inspiring artists and enthusiastic listeners. Thank you to the team behind the festival for making this possible. I am looking forward to sharing my music with the community.”

Bea will perform on Saturday, July 25 from 2 to 2:45 pm.

Listen to Bea Lagrisola’s music on Youtube and Instagram!

Rowan, Secondary School Winner

At just 17 years old, Rowan is already carving out a distinctive voice as a singer-songwriter and performer. Based in the Lower Mainland, Rowan blends early musical curiosity with a growing artistic identity shaped by both discipline and creativity.

She began busking at just eight years old with a ukulele, eventually saving enough to purchase her first acoustic guitar. Since then, she has expanded her repertoire to include a wide range of music from the 1950s to today, alongside a growing catalogue of original songs.

Inspired by artists such as Nina Simone, Amy Winehouse and Billie Eilish, Rowan brings emotional depth and subtle power to her performances. Whether performing at markets, festivals or community spaces, she continues to build a strong connection with audiences.

Beyond performing, Rowan is also committed to supporting other young musicians. She organizes a monthly Youth Open Mic in the White Rock and South Surrey area, creating space for emerging artists to gain confidence and experience on stage. She also volunteers regularly, sharing music with patients in long-term care.

Her dedication and originality have not gone unnoticed.

“Being selected as a Rising Star for the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival is a huge honour,” Rowan says. “As a young artist from Vancouver, opportunities like this are incredibly meaningful. I’m grateful to be recognized alongside such talented musicians, and I’m really looking forward to performing and sharing my work with a wider audience.”

Rowan will perform on Sunday, July 26 from 1 to 1:45 pm.

Listen to Rowan’s music on YouTube and Instagram!

The Rising Jazz Star Awards are about more than recognition. They represent a commitment to the future of the arts, creating opportunities for emerging musicians to grow, connect and share their work with the community.

Audiences have the unique chance to experience new voices, fresh perspectives and the next generation of talent in an open, welcoming setting!

Join us this summer to celebrate Bea and Rowan, and to experience the future of jazz, live and in the heart of Fort Langley!