The “Marni Project” will be performing all original compositions by Tara Davidson. These compositions range in style from classic swinging standards, to up-tempo swingers and sambas, to through-composed ballads. Davidson has been very influenced by composers such as Billy Strayhorn, Dick Oatts, Joshua Redman, Mike Murley, and Immanuel Wilkins.
A leading voice in Canadian jazz for over two decades, JUNO Award-winning alto and soprano
saxophonist Tara Davidson emerged early on as a pioneering female instrumentalist nationally
recognized in the industry. She established and distinguished herself through her work as a performer,
bandleader, composer, arranger, and educator.
As a bandleader, she has released eight albums since 2004, with six JUNO nominations for “Jazz
Album of the Year” (solo and with Carn Davidson 9). Davidson garnered her first JUNO nomination
in 2006 for her sophomore recording, “Code Breaking”. She has also contributed to dozens of
recordings as a side musician, earning eight additional JUNO nominations, and winning the 2020
JUNO for Jazz Album of the Year: Group with Ernesto Cervini’s Turboprop.
The Marni Project marks Davidson’s return to solo band leadership following an eleven-year
hiatus, representing a significant milestone in her musical journey. Joined by world-class musicians
Florian Hoefner (piano and accordion), Dan Fortin (acoustic bass), and Ethan Ardelli (drums),
Davidson’s Marni Project is a formidable and captivating new quartet featuring her original compositions.
Personnel:
Tara Davidson-alto and soprano saxophones
Ethan Ardelli-drums
Dan Fortin-bass
Florian Hoefner-piano and accordion
Check out: “East of The Sun” “TD Toronto Jazz Festival” “Tara’s Website”
