Adema Manoukas Octet

Although the band leaders, Nick and Alex lead the band and provide the sheet music, the core of the band is what defines their sound. On trumpet, Evan Dalling provides a grounding myriad of unique ideas and feels to be the lead voice of this ensemble. His sensitive hearing to the music allows the ensemble to open up and create a playing environment that is filled with daring jabs, dream-like sustain, and a plethora of unique ideas. Alto saxophonist Brenon Parmar, from Barrie Ontario, is a player that has full control over his playing and lends a flurry of notes that will leave the listener in awe. From his thought- provoking interpretation of the standard Round Midnight to his battle jazz solo on three-step deal, Brenon is a multi-faceted player that takes no prisoners. Playing the tenor saxophone is David Hodgson, from Vancouver BC. David is a musician who treats the saxophone as his paintbrush, as he tastefully adds different brush strokes of inspiring melodic content. From Hamilton Ontario, Josh Smiley adds his creative voice on the piano. From gentle piano comping to intricate strings of melodic cells, Josh is a player that is constantly aware of his musical surroundings and is very versatile. Leighton Harell is the bassist from the band, hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina. Aside from being the band's solid foundation, Leighton offers an extremely swinging style that separates him from the rest. Finally, we have the fabulous Keith Barstow on drums. This drummer from Napanee offers a special awareness on the bandstand that is hard to come by. His intense listening and special touch leads him to play in a personal way that makes him beloved by the band.

All of the band members attended the University of Toronto together, and it was here where the band's initial bond was formed. Over several years, that band has been regularly performing at the Rex Hotel in Toronto, performing a wide variety of arrangements to find the band's sound.

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