On Sept. 29, Minto Arts will be presenting the Robin Rich Trio at the Basement Café in Harriston.
The trio is comprised of Robin Rich, pianist, Paul Danard, bassist, and Juanita Wilkins, vocalist.
Robin Rich began her piano studies at the age of six and went on to attain an ARCT from the Royal Conservatory of Music and a BA from the University of Toronto. Rich taught piano and played professionally in Toronto for 10 years before moving to Durham 12 years ago. Since then, she has been involved with different musical pursuits including accompanist for the Georgian Bay Children’s choir, leader of her own jazz trio, band member of new music group “Gigi Minor”, and musically directing shows for the Roxy Theatre in Owen Sound and the Hanover Community Theatre. She is music director for Durham Presbyterian Church. In addition to performing and directing, Rich has a busy teaching schedule at The Saugeen Music School in Hanover, a venture she began 10 years ago, and in Owen Sound. Rich also plays alto sax and bass and has recorded a CD entitled “Sooner or Later”.
Paul Danard is a University of Western Ontario trained, full-time musician and music educator who calls himself “a general practitioner.” He runs a year-round private teaching studio from his Owen Sound home, from which three of his students this year have recently been accepted for college or university music programs. Besides ensemble work, Danard plays solo gigs as a classical guitarist, and has an interest in Brazilian, Celtic and Japanese music, as well as classical and jazz.
Juanita Wilkins has made a name for herself as a Canadian roots musician, but has over the years become interested in jazz. Her country-flavoured first CD, “Stronger”, was followed up by the truly folk-roots album, “Four Corner Town,” and now she is exploring a different style altogether.
“I’ve had so many people suggest to me that my voice would be suited to that really great classic jazz from the big band era and the sixties and seventies, so I thought I’d give it a listen and try it out,” said Wilkins. “And, to my delight, I have really enjoyed the challenge of learning a different way of using my voice.”
Wilkins is delighted to have joined forces with Rich, who is a tremendously gifted pianist, and who has a deep background in jazz. Adding Danard to the mix has proved to be a boon, as his skill on the bass adds drive and rhythm to the ensemble.
The Robin Rich Trio will be performing jazz standards.
Opening the show will be youth performer Spencer Bristow, also a classically trained pianist and singer who will perform some light jazz and show tunes.
The Basement Café is being held in the Fellowship Hall of the Harriston United Church, at the corner of Young and John Streets.
Show time is 8pm. Tickets are $20 per person at the door, and also available advance by calling 519-327-8529.
