A trio of jazz cabarets in Qualicum Beach begin next weekend at The Old School House (TOSH), bringing in renowned performers from Minneapolis, Vancouver and Victoria.
“It’s always a great hit in the winter months,” said executive director at TOSH Corinne James. “We put up little tables in our gallery, so it’s a nice intimate setting and people can sit at tables and listen to wonderful vocalists.”
There will be a cash wine bar available and a decadent dessert buffet.
The first cabaret on Feb. 12 will feature Vancouver jazz vocalist Kate Hammett-Vaughan. Hammett-Vaughan has appeared extensively on CBC radio and television programs and is recognized as the host of the CBC television’s Jazz Cafe series. She will be joined by Ron Hadley on piano and Ken Lister on bass.
On March 19, Debbie Duncan will return to the area after a very popular performance during TOSH’s first Harvest of Music.
“She’s an absolutely fabulous singer so it’s a great treat,” said James.
Duncan hails from Minneapolis where she is considered a local legend. Duncan has opened for the late jazz legend Miles Davis, has recorded back up vocals for Mitch Ryder and Bob Seger and her own trio has received rave reviews throughout Minneapolis. She will be joined by Ron Hadley on piano, Ken Lister on bass and Kelby MacNayr on drums.
The show is expected to attract a large crowd and will be held at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.
Finally Gergana Velinova will perform April 16, an award winning vocalist who was well known in the past in New York City’s avant-garde music scene. Velinova is a Bulgarian native and holds a masters degree in classical-contemporary and jazz voice performance. She will be joined by Ron Hadley on piano and Joey Smith on bass.
All three shows go from 7 to 10 p.m. For details and to reserve seats call 250-752-6133.