meet our artists: stephanie bosch

Now here's a pretty face you won't find in a dress. Making her way into the heart of the city, this small town girl has started living in an uptown world, equipped with tattered converse and blue jeans.

At the age of 21, only one year after the release of her first EP "House With No Doors", Stephanie Bosch was invited to play the Edmonton Folk Music Festival (August 2009) along with such names as Kathleen Edwards, Steve Earle, Tracy Chapman and Sara McLachlin. During that time, Stephanie released her full length album, "Departures" and only a week later was #24 on the CKUA top 30 radio charts, as the youngest and only Alberta artist. Two weeks after that, she was at #9.

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meet our artists: paul cresey

Paul Cresey is an 18-year-old  folk artist who uses clever fingerpicking and strumming techniques backed by strong witty lyrical accompaniments.  His songs are filled with a wide range of emotions, grounded in his philosophy that emotionless art is not art.  His lyrics betray his young age, and through developing his own unique style rather than borrowing from other singers, his vocals often adopt a European sound.  

In his own words, "this must be woven deep within my genes, given to me by my ancestry; how else can you explain it, growing up on the prairies?"  How else, indeed, can a young artist like Paul make such a deeply mature impression on everyone who hears him perform?

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meet our artists: adam holm

Adam Holm, is in one word: goofy.  An extraordinarily versatile musician - he has an uncanny ability to pick up and play virtually any instrument within minutes - at only 20 years old, his repertoire of original songs is constantly growing. It's clear that Adam shines when he is playing music and performing is all he wants to do for the rest of his life.

His funky and unique style, combined with his witty persona, infuses every show that he presents with something fun and enjoyable.  "Music is the biggest part of who I am, and no matter if it's a hobby or more, I'll be playing at open mics and gigs all my life."

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meet our artists: patrick dunn

Born to the tiny inuit village of Umiujaq in northern Quebec and stolen away to Lethbridge, Alberta at age two, Patrick has always wondered what makes him want to ride walruses off into the sunset rather than a good ol' fashioned horse. A fully fledged bilingualbertan from respectively English- and French-speaking parents, a lifetime of duality has made a songwriter out of him...

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meet our artists: alanna clarke

Meet Alanna Clarke, a passionate and driven young artist, with all the attributes needed for a long and successful music career. Alanna has a unique and captivating vocal style with a strong, clear, smooth, warm voice that draws the listener into her original songs. She accompanies herself on guitar and piano and has a fun, laidback stage presence very much enjoyed by her audiences

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meet our artists: kaley bird

At 21, this songstress writes with depth heart and humour in her own distinct style.  After playing endless open mics and sold out shows in her hometown of Edmonton, Bird began building a reputation as a gifted performer and songwriter.  In 2007, Bird’s hometown of Edmonton began to take notice.  She began performing as one of Rhea March’s U-22 artists and was awarded a $10 000 grant through Rawlco radio to assist in the production, mastering and manufacturing of her debut album, “Kaley Bird”.  

Bird officially released her debut album on June 27, 2008 independently on Box records.  Since it’s release, Bird’s freshman album immediately garnered the attention of commercial, university, public and CBC national radio.  After charting on Campus radio throughout Canada, Bird has been busy this year showcasing her talent coast to coast.  Critics agree that this will not be the last you hear of Kaley Bird! 

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meet our artists: samantha schultz

Singer/songwriter Samantha Schultz is part of the new generation of musicians rising to the forefront in Western Canada. Seventeen years old and already a Canadian Folk Music Award Nominee, Schultz blends folk, soul and pop into her own unique organic style. Combining original compelling songs with powerful vocals, Samantha is riveting to see live.

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meet our artists: daniel moir

At 19-years old, Daniel Moir is a force to be reckoned with. In just a short time, the young singer/songwriter has already accomplished feats that take many a lifetime to achieve. Composing music from the tender age of four years old, Daniel has since become an accomplished player on the Guitar, Piano, Drums, Banjo, Bass Guitar and Harmonica. Drawing inspiration from personal insight and life experience that varies from a rocky childhood to vagabonding through Europe, Daniel has created a unique blend of folk music that shines wisdom far beyond his years... After several Canadian tours and performances at various festivals, including playing for est. 15,000 at the Edmonton International Folk Festival, it is safe to say that the future is bright for Daniel Moir.

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meet our artists: rebecca lappa

Rebecca was born to perform and became involved in music as a toddler. A born story teller, her poetic phrasing and voice show a maturity beyond her years. At the age of 12, Rebecca is already a prolific songwriter. She has penned 30 songs that are a contemporary mix of pop and folk with a hint of jazz.

In early 2009, at the age of 11, Rebecca recorded her first acoustic 5 song EP, featuring her voice and piano. Now 12, she has just finished recording her second 5 song EP, “Young Voice, Old Soul”, with the help of some local Edmonton musicians. Rebecca has stories to tell and the voice to tell them.

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meet our artists: james slater

James Slater has explored various avenues and listened in depth to styles of various artists, ranging from The Rolling Stones through Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen and more recently Jakob Dylan, Ron Sexsmith and Iron and Wine which heavily influence his solo material.  Although the melody is very important, James strives to make his lyrics subtle and at the same time paint a word picture of a scene or an experience.

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meet our artists: tyler butler

Tyler Butler's heartfelt lyrics and passion for his music are apparent in his frequent live shows around Edmonton. He is heavily influenced in his writing by the people who live with him and the people who live around him. 

Takes to the stage armed only with his guitar, voice, songbook and a ragtag collection of ever-changing people who call themselves, collectively, The Thousand, Tyler recently finished a cross-Canada summer journey by train in 2008 during which he played in venues across the nation.

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meet our artists: painting with ella

Painting with Ella is composed of Emily Guthrie (Piano, guitar, Vocals), Robyn Newman-Wilson Guitar, Piano, Vocals), and Brittany Turville (Guitar, Mandolin, Vocals).  All three members attend Victoria School of Performing and Visual Arts, are in Grade 11, are 16 yrs old, and have been friends for many years.  They focus their studies in the choral music and Jazz programs, and have been studying general music since elementary.

Their repertoire consists mainly of original music written by all members of the group. Their songs are diverse, in terms of subject matter, ranging from brokenness, war, and revenge, to joy, love, and geographical memories and the vocal arrangements are outstanding.

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meet our artists: the juice

The Juice is a young, energetic band comprised of four multi-talented teens who have been taking Edmonton by storm!

Performing together for over 4 years, they have wowed the crowds at Next Fest, The Provincial Alberta Museum Theatre, Canada Day Celebrations, The Works, Edmonton Northlands Capital Ex and Festival Place to name just a few.

With a solid set list of music inspired by the roots of rock 'n roll, this young band has cultivated a dedicated following and never fails to get your toe tapping and whip a crowd into a dance floor frenzy.

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meet our artists: michael amirault

Michael Amirault’s musical career has just begun but is taking off at an exciting pace. 

Reminiscent of a young Bryan Adams, his creative and original rock style is underwritten by his passion, love, and enthusiasm for the music he plays and the songs he writes.  The future for this young artist is positive and bright.

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meet our artists: lucas chaisson

Lucas Chaisson is a 16-year old singer songwriter from Cochrane, Alberta. Both as a writer and performer Lucas exudes a maturity far beyond his years. His soulful original songs and imaginative arrangements of covers make a strong emotional connection with his audience. With songs described as roots, rhythm and blues and comparisons to the likes of John Mayer, Martin Sexton and Ron Sexsmith, Lucas continues to capture audiences and grow as an artist. When he's on stage, he is exactly where he is supposed to be.

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meet our artists: jonathan drachenberg

Jonathan Drachenberg is a young acoustic guitarist living near Stony Plain, Alberta whose main influences have been world renowned guitarists including Don Ross, Andy McKee and Antoine Dufour. He plays with an unusual and unclassifiable musical style that borrows from jazz, folk, rock and classical music.

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meet our artists: robert mulder

17 year old Robert Mulder's beautiful vocal melodies show off great range and his lyrics reflect a maturity and depth not often found in his genre and cohort.  His music has been likened to the soulful surf-rock of Jack Johnson, hauntingly beautiful vocals of Hawksley Workman, rhythms of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and strongly symbolic lyrics of Death Cab for Cutie.

His talent was discovered singing in school and church choirs, shaped by Suzuki method training, sharpened in musical theatre, and is now blooming into his own original style as a singer-songwriter.  Attracting attention wherever he goes, Robert Mulder is destined for a promising and successful future.

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meet our artists: cadence burns

Cadence is a singer/ songwriter from Northern Ontario. Her music is a fusion of folk, pop, and country played on 6 string guitar, 12 string guitar, and guitalele. Her songwriting is an honest account of the perks and pitfalls of her life to this point. Whether they are written in the midst of a whirlwind romance, or from the pain of a broken heart, she hopes to convey the grace and courage that is art in it's truest form.

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meet our artists: ashanti marshall

Ashanti Marshall is an Edmonton singer-songwriter and front-woman for the band Noisy Colours. She has been playing guitar for 7 years, and piano for 11, and is always hoping to grow and learn as a musician, whether it is on her own in coffee shops, or in the depths of the Edmonton club and pub scene.

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meet our artists: sarah clark

Singing and songwriting since she was 5 years old, her angelic voice moves audiences with original songs and lyrics that demonstrate depth far beyond her 15 years. Couple this with beautiful original piano compositions and you have the amazing young performer that is Sarah Clark.

Sarah's musical style is contemporary/pop with undertones of blues and jazz. Her songs explore the experiences and emotional issues that happen to her or people around her. She has a wide variety of musical interests and enjoys listening to many different artists. She has a truly unique style that captivates listeners.

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meet our artists: james clarke

James Clarke is a talented pianist attending his final year of Grant MacEwan's Music Program. From Sherwood Park, he began studying music from the age of four, and has won several competitions at both the local and provincial levels. For the last four years, while continuing his classical training, jazz has become his primary focus, and despite his young age, James Clarke is beginning to garner the attention of the Edmonton jazz community.

"When I heard Oscar Peterson's playing for the first time, I knew that I wanted to be a jazz musician. Music has become my world, and I can't see myself doing anything else."

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meet our artists: jordan norman

Jordan Norman is a singer/songwriter living in Fort Saskatchewan whose influences range from the power of grunge, such as Nirvana, to the soft hearted acoustics of Neil Young and Damien Rice.  His blend of these styles can best be described as “grunge goes acoustic”. 

With a depth of expression far beyond his age, a unique and profound voice, Jordan's songs are creative and exude a maturity and feelings rarely seen in performers twice his age.

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meet our artists: charlotte & sarah command

Charlotte & Sarah are two sisters who share a passion and love for music and performing, and at 14 and 11 they continue to delight audiences with their mature songwriting, multiple instrument accompaniment and fabulous harmonies.

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meet our artists: the plain janes

The Plain Janes (formerly the Vissia Sisters) are quite the opposite of what the name suggests. Far from plain, this group of young women is creating a buzz with their rootsy brand of folk music. Drawing on influences from bluegrass, country, folk, and everything in between, The Plain Janes have an acoustic sound that is very much their own.

A little bit folk, a little bit country, a little bit Americana, the Plain Janes are definitely a little something you don't want to miss.

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meet our artists: kayla patrick

Singing on stage since the age of 7, Kayla Patrick has warmed the hearts and captivated audiences singing at Classic Country Festivals throughout Alberta.  Now at the age of 13, Kayla has added Songwriter to her resume and continues to wow audiences with a voice beyond her years.

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meet our artists: kalsey kulyk

Growing up in a small town in Saskatchewan, Kalsey Kulyk first got a taste of the limelight as a performer in the Saskatchewan Telemiracle, and helped raise millions for needy people. From this early start, her talents have won her competitions, scholarships, and acclaim at every turn.

There’s nothing else Kalsey would rather do than play the guitar and write her own songs. In 2008, Kalsey was diagnosed with cancer -- a 'minor' stumbling block that put her singing career on pause but didn’t stop her songwriting.  Being more inspired than ever, she wrote songs about her experiences, about love, and about positivity.  Now, with her cancer in remission, Kalsey Kulyk is once again enjoying the experience of performing for appreciate live audiences throughout the region.

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meet our artists: joe nolan

Joe Nolan is a rare presence. To witness his live performances is to know that this young man was born to be a singer songwriter. Passion and music ooze from the very core of his being.

For the past few years in the Edmonton area, audiences have been captivated and wowed by this young man’s genuine performances. Joe is instantly ‘likable’ and presents a show that is real and sincere. He writes songs with the deftness of Neil Young, and critics compare his guitar work to the complexity and virtuosity of Bruce Cockburn. A special talent indeed.

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meet our artists: brian mcleod

Brian picked the guitar at 12, began more serious self-study of music at 14 and from there never really looked back. Throughout school most of his spare time was consumed by his passion for music. While studying yoga in the Laurentians, Brian was introduced to Kirtan, or group singing of Sanskrit verses and learned how to play the harmonium.

His intricate, delicate guitar work coupled with sweet soulful vocals and solid song structure identified him as an exceptional young talent, and his live outdoor performances draw in listeners from blocks away. Brian is a unique and gifted musician who will surely have a long and bright future as a performer.

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meet our artists: paul emme

Paul Emme (pronounced like Emmy) is a Victoria-based singer-songwriter, student, and daydreamer. Blending simple bouncy melodies with lyrics that run the spectrum from quirky to impressionistic he has described his own music as “swingy-alternative-folk-rock” and “equal parts pop, protest, poetry, and poltergeists.”

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meet our artists: tatum williams

Once she realized that singing was her true passion, it took Tatum Williams all of about 2 seconds to realize Country Music was the way she was going to pursue that passion! At just 20 years old, this singer/songwriter knows exactly what she wants to do with her life. She wants to make music that comes from her heart, sing songs that tell a story, and she wants to share it all with you!

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meet our artists: erin faught

By listening to the songs that Erin writes and sings, one might think Erin has seen many years. But at just 20 years old, she shows a maturity in her performances that transcends chronology. Erin began playing and writing songs as a personal release to help her deal with tragedies and challenges that she faced in her life during her high school years. 

Erin always believed that music was the road to healing and the songs she wrote were mostly very personal, not to be shared with friends or audiences. Only recently has Erin come out of her shell and begun to share her talents with audiences, but you can still hear the heartfelt honesty in her words as she croons to her simple acoustic, folk inspired guitar.

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meet our artists: lyra brown

Lyra's innate ability for writing stories, poems and lyrics began at a very early age, along with her wonderfully paired penchant for melody and rhythm on the piano. She has ears that transform her creative imagination into sound. Altogether, Lyra has a unique sound demonstrated by her sincere vocals, intuitive sense of wordplay and inventive melody writing.

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meet our artists: lindsay ell

Call it the indescribable "wow." It's that quintessential moment for anyone involved in music, when out of the blue a talented new artist stops you dead in your tracks, and there is the need to retrieve your jaw from the floor. So it was when Canadian icon and musical renaissance man Randy Bachman crossed paths with Calgary teenager Lindsay Ell.

"I was on tour and a friend passed along a CD with Lindsay’s demos. When we listened for the first time, our reaction was, "we've put in the wrong CD. This is Chet Atkins -- not a 15 year old girl. Then my band and I were assured that it was Lindsay Ell playing a complex Tommy Emmanuel piece."

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meet our artists: reece runco

14-year-old Reece Runco has been studying music since the age of 5. The Edmonton-raised, multi-instrumental musician, has been working hard to get his music out to the public. Having started out with Suzuki Strings, he played the classical violin for seven years. He stopped taking lessons a few years back, and is now on his fourth year of guitar at Grant MacEwan in the Outreach program.

Inspired by his Slavic heritage, his background is portrayed through his music. Flowing melodies, both sweet and dark, are a huge part of Reece’s music. Reece’s playing is full of passion and emotion, elements that makes his sound unique. He practices guitar many hours each day, and also enjoys the whistle and percussive instruments.

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meet our artists: calum graham

At 18, Calum has made a significant mark in such a short time. Playing for just 4 years, he is a self taught composer, teacher and performer. He also manages to put on an electrifying stage performance while keeping the groove. Calum was privileged to win First place at the NATIONAL TALENT COMPETITION in Charlottetowne PEI, following his win 3 months earlier at the CALGARY STAMPEDE TALENT SEARCH in Calgary, AB. At the Prestigious Canadian Guitar Festival Calum also placed 2nd. Calum released his first EP "Sunny Side Up" in November. How he managed to squeeze all of this in 2009 still remains a mystery.

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meet our artists: kessler douglas

Singer/songwriter Kessler Douglas, 11, has been playing for over four years and performing his own songs for a year. Armed with a guitar and microphone, he enjoys singing, playing, and talking with his audiences, engaging them with the stories behind his songs and the music that inspired them.

He writes about themes that seem well beyond his years and has stolen the hearts of audiences at cafes and halls alike, not missing a beat as they clap along to the catchy beats and contemplative blues riffs.

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meet our artists: michael rault

Armed only with his guitar, amp, and a tambourine which he tapes to his foot, 18 year old Michael Rault successfully translates his distinctive brand of roots rock and roll into a minimalist presentation, with great effect.

Michael Rault -- either as a solo performer or in cahoots with his band "The Mixed Signals" -- routinely plays sold out hall and club shows all over his home city of Edmonton, AB to a dedicated, mostly underage following.  Described as a "old school rock‘n’roll dynamo," Rault is energetically credited with "re-injecting venom into the kind of rock‘n’roll music that was a threat in his grandparents’day.”

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