Canadian jazz


Canadian jazz refers to the jazz and jazz-related music performed by jazz bands and performers in Canada. There are hundreds of local and regionally based Canadian jazz bands and performers. A smaller number of bands or performers have achieved national or international prominence, the most notable being Oscar Peterson.

Nationally or internationally prominent artists

A small number of Canadian jazz bands and artists have achieved national or international prominence by touring across Canada, the US, or Europe, and releasing recordings that have received critical or audience acclaim in Canada and abroad. These performers include Oscar Peterson, Maynard Ferguson, Oliver Jones, Lenny Breau, Moe Koffman, Guy Lombardo, Gil Evans, Rob McConnell, Kenny Wheeler, all members of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, as well as contemporary vocal artists such as Michael Bublé, Diana Krall, and Carol Welsman.

Jazz festivals in Canada

Many Canadian cities host one or more jazz festivals. The Montreal International Jazz Festival, for instance, is the largest in the world.