The Jazz at the MAC series continues with a soulful new jazz group based out of Nanaimo.
The Erika Phillips Quartet will perform Friday, August 8 at 7 p.m. at the McMillan Arts Centre in Parksville (the MAC). Erika Phillips is a composer and arranger who graduated from Vancouver Island University’s Bachelor of Jazz program.
Her 2012 EP album “There Goes Love” won her a Vancouver Island Music Award for Female Vocalist of the Year, and a full-length original album is due for release fall 2014. Phillips has been playing piano and singing since a very young age, and finds inspiration for her work in a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, blues, classical and, contemporary salsa music. She also has an ARCT diploma in classical piano performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music.
The quartet puts its own spin on traditional favourites, blending traditional jazz elements with blues, funk, Latin, and world music influences. Since its formation in 2010, the Erika Phillips Quartet has been constantly developing an ever-expanding repertoire of original compositions and arrangements.
Tickets are $15, $12 for OCAC members. For more information visit www.mcmillanartscentre.com or call 250-248-8185.
—Submitted by the MAC