Meet the Artists.
Clerel
Clerel is a Montreal-based soul artist whose live performances create calm, intimate atmospheres grounded in warmth, restraint, and emotional clarity. Drawing from classic R&B and contemporary minimalism, his voice-and-guitar sets weave original music with thoughtfully chosen interpretations that elevate a space without overwhelming it. His work has been featured on major international stages and broadcasts, yet his approach remains understated, precise, and deeply human.
Sarah Jordan and Matt Von — Day 1
Sarah Jordan and Matt Von are a brother-and-sister duo known for their natural chemistry and engaging performances. Blending soulful pop vocals with acoustic storytelling, they create emotionally driven music that connects with audiences. Since forming in 2019, they’ve released original songs like “Great Escape,” “L.O.V.E,” and “Watch Me,” showcasing their harmonies and songwriting. With experience across festivals, venues, and private events in Ontario, they’ve built a strong reputation for stage presence. Their sound balances modern pop and organic instrumentation, delivering both intimate moments and high-energy performances rooted in their authentic sibling bond.
Science-Fiction Cumbia
This show features Montreal guitarist and composer Eric St-Laurent and his band, Science-Fiction Cumbia, blending genres, technology, and culture to create an unpredictable musical journey that seamlessly merges the past, present, and future.
AWA presents J Nichole
J. Nichole Noel is an award-winning Ontario-based spoken word artist, singer-songwriter, storyteller, and author with over 25 years of multidisciplinary experience. Inspired by her Trinidadian heritage, her work explores identity, resilience, and human connection through poetry, music, and storytelling. She has performed internationally and authored children’s books and poetry collections reaching diverse audiences. African Women Acting (AWA) is a pan-African nonprofit empowering women, artists, and youth through cultural programming, mentorship, and festivals, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, community engagement, and the celebration of African and diasporic arts globally across generations and communities.
Tak Arikushi
Tak Arikushi brings a unique fusion of fiery swing rhythms and elegant Japanese melodies to the stage. Inspired by the music of Django Reinhardt, Tak blends vintage jazz guitar with traditional and modern Japanese influences, creating a sound that’s both soulful and surprising. Enjoy a true exploration of cultural crossroads through music.
Kouraba Presents African Drumming Ensemble
Proudly supported by LiUNA Local 506. Feel the pulse of West Africa with the powerful rhythms of the Kouraba Foli Drumming Ensemble led by master percussionist Amara Kante and featuring Salif Sanou DIT Lasso. Specializing in authentic Malinke drumming—a tradition passed down for generations in Guinea—the ensemble brings to life the ceremonial, communal, and healing rhythms of the Mande people. The Malinke drum language is an ancient form of communication and celebration, and this electrifying performance invites audiences into its living heartbeat, offering a deep connection to African heritage and unity through rhythm.
King Davis
King Davis is an acoustic duo that aims to create unforgettable experiences through their magnetic performances. Formed approximately 12 years ago, the group continues to evolve by adding new instrumentation, expanding their song repertoire, and putting fresh twists on classic arrangements.
Kibra
Get ready to groove with Kibra, a rising R&B and soul artist from Toronto whose smooth melodies and powerhouse vocals bring the golden era of Motown and classic soul into the present day. With a sound rooted in timeless grooves and heartfelt storytelling, Kibra takes audiences on a journey through love, resilience, and social reflection. Her performance is a tribute to the legends of old school R&B, infused with a fresh perspective and undeniable soul.
Courtyard Concerts presents J3M
Blending pop, soul, and disco, J3M creates infectious melodies that linger. Recognized by CBC Q and Queerty Magazine, the award-winning singer-songwriter and producer has shared stages with artists like Deborah Cox and Cyndi Lauper, performing locally and internationally. His latest single, “LOVE ADDICT,” is out now.
Courtyard Concerts is a free live music series showcasing Ontario-based artists in community spaces, with a focus on diversity and accessibility. Curated by Canada’s Music Incubator, the series supports emerging talent through performances, mentorship, and initiatives that strengthen Canada’s music ecosystem and foster sustainable creative careers.
Conor Gains & The Canadian Tuxedos
Conor Gains & The Canadian Tuxedos are bringing the ultimate Canada Day party to the stage. Featuring members of Bahamas, Blue Rodeo, and City and Colour, this all-star Canadian outfit celebrates the soundtrack of our nation with an afternoon of iconic Canadian hits, roots, rock, folk, and sing-along favourites. Clad in full Canadian tuxedo attire (yes, all denim), the band delivers a high-energy tribute to the artists and songs that have shaped generations of Canadians. Grab a drink, wave a flag, and get ready to sing along. Canada never sounded so good.
FabCollab Presents Women In Song — Day 1
A global music and dance festival in a single concert! FabCollab’s Women in Song brings together women and gender-diverse singers, dancers, and musicians from around the world in a vibrant, collaborative performance bursting with rhythm, passion, and cultural connection. Featuring Aline Morales (Brazil), Ana Lía (Dominican Republic), Lauren Barnett (Jamaica), Tara Moneka (Iraq), Heather Crawford (Jessie Reyez), Cotee Harper (Indigenous Dance), flamenco, and hip hop, this unforgettable evening celebrates the traditions and energy of a rainbow of World Cup nations.
Tag @fabcollablive and check out FabCollab.ca.
Carlos Morgan
Carlos Morgan, a multi-award-winning singer, songwriter, producer, and music educator, is known for his soulful vocals and diverse style. His debut album Feeling Alright became one of Canada’s top-selling independent releases, reaching #3 on The Records Independent Charts. His sophomore album, The Compilation, showcases his growth as an artist. Morgan has won a JUNO Award, two Canadian Urban Music Awards, a MuchMusic Video Award, and more. As the founder of Carll Parkes Collection, he also educates audiences on the history of Black music in Canada, sharing the legacies of iconic artists like Oscar Peterson and Maestro Fresh Wes.
FabCollab Presents Women In Song — Day 2
A global music and dance festival in a single concert! FabCollab’s Women in Song brings together women and gender-diverse singers, dancers, and musicians from around the world in a vibrant, collaborative performance bursting with rhythm, passion, and cultural connection. Featuring Aline Morales (Brazil), Ana Lía (Dominican Republic), Lauren Barnett (Jamaica), Tara Moneka (Iraq), Heather Crawford (Jessie Reyez), Cotee Harper (Indigenous Dance), flamenco, and hip hop, this unforgettable evening celebrates the traditions and energy of a rainbow of World Cup nations.
Tag @fabcollablive and check out FabCollab.ca.
Sarah Jordan and Matt Von — Day 2
Sarah Jordan and Matt Von are a brother-and-sister duo known for their natural chemistry and engaging performances. Blending soulful pop vocals with acoustic storytelling, they create emotionally driven music that connects with audiences. Since forming in 2019, they’ve released original songs like “Great Escape,” “L.O.V.E,” and “Watch Me,” showcasing their harmonies and songwriting. With experience across festivals, venues, and private events in Ontario, they’ve built a strong reputation for stage presence. Their sound balances modern pop and organic instrumentation, delivering both intimate moments and high-energy performances rooted in their authentic sibling bond.
Duende
Duende brings the fiery passion of Nuevo Flamenco to life, blending flamenco, Gipsy Kings classics, and original works by award-winning guitarist Juneyt. This 4-piece collective features top Canadian musicians, including Juneyt Yetkiner, Leo Orlov, Adam Kurgatnikov, and David Skolnick. The band’s name, “Duende,” captures the profound awe of great music, and their performance is not to be missed!
Toronto Yunus Emre Institute presents Burak Ekmekçi Quartet
Specially brought together for Turkish Night at ICFF, the Burak Ekmekçi Quartet delivers a dynamic program inspired by Turkish musical traditions. Led by bağlama artist and composer Burak Ekmekçi, the ensemble features drummer and producer Marito Marques, bassist Julian Anderson-Bowes, and pianist Chris Pruden. Through original compositions and innovative interpretations, the quartet offers a culturally rich performance rooted in collaboration and dialogue. The Quartet will play a curated selection of iconic Turkish film and television soundtracks from 1950 to today, offering a modern yet tradition-grounded musical experience.
PCMFF presents Dong Marban
Eduardo “Dong” Marban is a Filipino-Canadian vocalist, worship leader, and live entertainer whose musical journey spans the Philippines and Canada. A former member of the DLSU Chorale and DLSU POPS Orchestra, he also performed with The Mulatto Band, Soul Brothers, and Surreli Jazz Band. Dong has served in worship ministries including The Feast PICC and Feast SM Aura. Now based in Ontario, he performs at cultural events and community celebrations while continuing to inspire through music, faith, and heartfelt performances.
PCMFF presents Liza Silagan
Liza Silagan is a Filipina-Canadian vocalist known for heartfelt performances, powerful vocals, and her journey from the Philippines to Canada. Originally from Panabo, Davao City, she began singing competitively at an early age before becoming a professional vocalist in the Philippines. After immigrating to Canada, she continued her music career while rebuilding her life abroad. Known as “Niagara’s Diva,” she has performed at multicultural events, community concerts, and Filipino showcases across the Niagara Region and GTA. Her release “Dream,” filmed in Niagara Falls, reflects themes of hope, perseverance, and purpose.
PCMFF presents Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s and Don’ts is a Filipino-Canadian band based in Hamilton, Ontario, known for blending Filipino cultural identity with modern live music performance. Public descriptions and event promotions identify the group as a family-oriented Filipino-Canadian band active in community and multicultural events across Canada.
PCMFF presents Rhett Dela Cruz
Rhett Dela Cruz is a Filipino-Canadian singer-songwriter whose music blends heartfelt storytelling with modern pop, R&B, and alternative influences. Originally immigrating to Canada as a teenager, he balanced life as a registered nurse while pursuing his passion for music, emerging as a rising artist in Toronto’s Filipino-Canadian music scene. Known for his emotionally driven songwriting and engaging stage presence, Rhett gained attention after launching his debut solo concert Hits & Heartbeats at the People’s Theatre for the Performing Arts in Markham, Ontario — a showcase attended by over 800 people.
PCMFF presents Jeric Medina and Jinky Vidal
Jeric Medina is a Filipino pop and R&B singer-songwriter who rose to prominence after The X Factor Philippines in 2012. He co-wrote the award-winning “Triangulo,” Grand Champion at the 2015 Philippine Popular Music Festival. Now based in Canada, he released his debut album Chapters in 2025, exploring love, growth, and storytelling.
Jinky Vidal is one of the Philippines’ most sought-after singers. She began in the late 1990s as lead vocalist of the iconic band Freestyle before launching a successful solo career in 2012. Known for her powerful, passionate voice, she moved to Canada in 2023 and is now based in Toronto.
Kai Thee Violinist
Experience the captivating performance of KaiTheeViolinist, a classically trained Toronto violinist known for her expressive and versatile playing across genres. Joined by a skilled pianist, Kai brings her rich training and creative spirit to life on stage, delivering a dynamic blend of intricate compositions and heartfelt improvisations that will move and inspire.
Courtyard Concerts presents Samantha Mora
Samantha Mora is a Mexican singer, visual artist, and activist based in Canada. Blending jazz, Mexican folk, and R&B, her music explores emotional depth and transformation. After a long creative pause, she returned with powerful, introspective songs that reflect her personal evolution and commitment to compassion and artistic expression.
Courtyard Concerts is a free live music series showcasing Ontario-based artists in community spaces, with a focus on diversity and accessibility. Curated by Canada’s Music Incubator, the series supports emerging talent through performances, mentorship, and initiatives that strengthen Canada’s music ecosystem and foster sustainable creative careers.
Courtyard Concerts presents Aphrose
Aphrose is a rising Canadian talent and most recently, a 2025 JUNO nominee. With global airplay, features on BET and CBC Music, and standout performances across Europe and the UK, her powerful presence continues to captivate audiences and earn acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic.
Courtyard Concerts is a free live music series showcasing Ontario-based artists in community spaces, with a focus on diversity and accessibility. Curated by Canada’s Music Incubator, the series supports emerging talent through performances, mentorship, and initiatives that strengthen Canada’s music ecosystem and foster sustainable creative careers.
Jess Lajner
This unique program showcases instrumental music through the fusion of tradition and technology. Using a digital guitar that emulates the sound of a piano, Jessica presents contemporary arrangements of popular music in a truly innovative way. Audiences will experience the visual artistry of guitar performance paired with the unexpected sound of piano, making for a captivating experience for both the eyes and ears.
Zack Erickson
Zack Erickson has been entertaining and amazing audiences all throughout Canada with his soulful raspy voice and unrelenting passion for music. A self taught blues guitar player and trained vocalist, Zack Erickson has crafted a truly unique live show as an acoustic looping musician.
Vincent Jamal
Vincent Jamal is a soul/funk singer-songwriter from Barbados, now based in Toronto. Influenced by legends like Marvin Gaye and Bill Withers, and modern artists like Anderson Paak and Allen Stone, his music blends vintage soul with a fresh, contemporary feel. Vince’s sound is raw and emotional, creating deep, unspoken connections with his audience. Coming from a musical family—his father a steel pannist and his grandmother a pioneering calypso artist—he began performing in Barbados in 2015. Since moving to Toronto in 2020, he’s performed at the Poetry Jazz Café and released his debut EP, Emotional Intelligence.
B. Knox
You can hear the East Coast rooted in Canadian singer-songwriter B. Knox, his words shaped like ocean stones. Receiving critical acclaim from AmericanaUK, Folk RadioUK (now KLOF Mag), RnR Magazine, AltCountry.NL, a short-listing by the CCMA’s and the International Songwriting Competition, plus international radio play via SiriusXM and playlisting from Starbucks, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon Music, Knox is an emerging Americana voice worth listening to, blending cosmic Americana, honky tonk, country-rock, and roots. His third album, From The Deep, continues his signature depth of songwriting while exploring darker, more rock-driven territory.
Alan Zemaitis Trio
For over 20 years, Alan has been active on the scene in Toronto and around the world. As a freelancer, he’s played with countless acts all over Canada, US, Central America and Europe. Specializing in organ in soul/RnB, funk, jazz, and blues, he is busy as a frontman as well as a sideman on the stage and in the studio.
AWA presents Jesse Ryan Trio
Jesse Ryan is a JUNO-nominated saxophonist and composer whose work explores the connections between jazz and Afro-Caribbean traditions, expressing deeply transcendent ideas through music. Raised in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, he is the grandson of Calypso legend Clifton Ryan, “The Mighty Bomber.” A recipient of the Toronto Arts Foundation’s Emerging Jazz Artist Award, he is also the founder of Kaiso Street Society, dedicated to preserving Calypso heritage. African Women Acting (AWA) is a pan-African nonprofit empowering women, artists, and youth through cultural programming, mentorship, and festivals, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and celebrating African and diasporic arts globally.
Rob Watts
Formed in May 2015, Rob Watts and his band are humbled to have played hundreds of shows, including a dream-come-true performance kicking off the last day of the festival at the Main Stage at Boots and Hearts. Rob has an unquenchable thirst for performing live and always delivers a high-energy, crowd-involved show. He and his band make it their mission to put their heart and soul into each and every performance to make it a show you won’t soon forget.
JESVS
Jesvs (Jesús Daniel Bustamante Holguín) is an Ecuadorian-Canadian multi-instrumentalist and songwriter blending Spanish pop with bolero, cumbia, and reggaeton influences. After leaving a corporate banking career to pursue music, busking across Europe in 2023, he has become a voice in Canada’s Latin scene and a host for Univision Canada. Inspired by his journey, he has performed at HCHC Festival and Salsa Blue Mountain alongside acts like Sonido GTA and Orquestra Fantasía. Currently collaborating with HAZYFACE and Altamar Sonido, he continues to release culturally grounded, modern music.
AWA presents Amadou Kienou
Master drummer Amadou Kienou hails from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, once part of the vast ancient Mandingo Empire. A descendant of the Dafin people, Amadou was initiated as a djeli or griot—an oral historian preserving and transmitting history, culture and values. Bringing the traditional to the contemporary, he delights international audiences with unique polyrhythmic expression. The djembe is his principal instrument: “the djembe is more than a musical instrument; it is an extension of the musician through which he expresses his life, his emotions.” He also plays dunduns, n’goni, tama, guitar and drum set.
Murray Drive
Murray Drive is an emerging folk band delivering an energetic blend of polished vocals, intricate guitar work, and a powerful rhythm section. Their sound weaves together heartfelt storytelling and dynamic musicianship, carving a fresh path in the modern folk scene.
Courtyard Concerts presents Nishat Khair
Nishat Khair is a versatile artist who navigates a range of genres, from western blues, pop and rock to Indian semi classical music. A guitarist and singer/songwriter, Nishat brings together elements of both Eastern and Western influences, creating a sound that reflects her diverse background and her artistic journey.
Courtyard Concerts is a free live music series showcasing Ontario-based artists in community spaces, with a focus on diversity and accessibility. Curated by Canada’s Music Incubator, the series supports emerging talent through performances, mentorship, and initiatives that strengthen Canada’s music ecosystem and foster sustainable creative careers.
Courtyard Concerts presents Flo Olavarria
Flo Olavarria is a Toronto-based pop artist and songwriter who blends witty storytelling with infectious melodies. Praised by Rolling Stone (“Avril Lavigne punkish sneer”) and Music Row Magazine (“sharp pop sensibility”), she delivers songs that have sharp lyrics and a cinematic pop energy — evoking the rawness of Olivia Dean and the fiery flair of Olivia Rodrigo.
Courtyard Concerts is a free live music series showcasing Ontario-based artists in community spaces, with a focus on diversity and accessibility. Curated by Canada’s Music Incubator, the series supports emerging talent through performances, mentorship, and initiatives that strengthen Canada’s music ecosystem and foster sustainable creative careers.
Sean Bellaviti
Toronto pianist, composer, and arranger Sean Bellaviti is a leading voice in Canada’s salsa and Latin jazz scene. Born in Spain, raised in Italy, and formally trained in Toronto, Sean has performed with legends like Eddie Santiago, Herman Olivera, and Jimmy Bosch. With his quartet, he blends Afro-Cuban rhythms, Latin American folk traditions, jazz standards, and original works into an interactive, high-energy descarga-style performance that’s equal parts artistry and dance-floor groove.
Toronto Blues Society presents J.E. Lopez Trio
J.E. Lopez is a Filipino-Canadian guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter based in Toronto. Rooted in traditional blues, his sound blends classic intensity with a distinct, expressive voice. A former frontman of Li’l Blues Pill, he was runner-up in the 2025 Toronto Blues Society Talent Search and released his debut single in 2026.
Toronto Blues Society is a non-profit dedicated to promoting and preserving blues in Canada since 1985, supporting artists through events, education, and initiatives like the Talent Search.
Toronto Blues Society presents Jesse Greene Trio
Jesse Greene is a dynamic Canadian blues artist known for powerful guitar work and commanding vocals. Often compared to Stevie Ray Vaughan and Janis Joplin, she delivers electrifying performances. A 2024 Amy Louie Grossman Music Scholarship recipient, she is currently working on new releases and a studio album.
Toronto Blues Society is a non-profit dedicated to promoting and preserving blues in Canada since 1985, supporting artists through events, education, and initiatives like the Talent Search.
Arlene Paculan
Arlene is an award-winning singer-songwriter whose soulful vocals move effortlessly from the timeless charm of Louis Armstrong to modern pop-rock favourites by artists like Feist and Miley Cyrus. Joined by a live violinist, this elevated duo adds depth, texture, and cinematic flair to every performance.
Eunice Keitan Duo
Eunice Keitan is a Malaysian-Canadian Neo-Soul loop artist who channels the complex feeling of navigating two worlds, fusing the smoothness of Neo-Soul with evocative, ancestral Asian soundscapes. Part live-looping innovator, part ensemble leader, she builds lush, deep, and layered narratives — songs that are emotionally candid about identity and belonging. Her boundary pushing sound has garnered international support from BBC Radio, Stereofox and CBC Music, drawing sonic comparisons to the soulful grace of Emily King and the experimental future soul textures of Hiatus Kaiyote.
Adrian Gross & The Toronto Bluegrass All-Stars
As one of Canada’s most sought-after mandolin players, Adrian has developed a reputation for his inventive playing and unique voice on the instrument, always with one eye to the tradition and one looking forward. As a member of The Slocan Ramblers, Adrian has performed at music festivals across North America, from MerleFest to RockyGrass, has been nominated for a Juno and won IBMA and CFMA awards. He spends his rare free time practicing on the banks of the river that flows across the street from his Toronto home.
Bel Canto to Billboard
From the Opera to the Dance Floor. Italian music never drew a line between Rossini and Ramazzotti — we did. Tonight tears it down. A live performance travels from opera to cantautori to the dance floor, showing how one emotional language evolved without losing its soul. Rossini, Mozart, Puccini, and Offenbach open the journey before Cinema Paradiso carries us into Dalla, Ramazzotti, and Elodie. The finale explodes into “Con te partirò,” remixed Volare, and La Dolce Vita energy, where classical virtuosity and club culture collide. Italian music has always known how to do one thing: move you, whatever the cost.
Tickets: A ticket is required if you’d like a seat on the festival couches.
Marta Elena
Celebrated for her vocal power and dynamic stage presence, Marta Elena is an accomplished composer, percussionist & bandleader. She belongs to the younger generation of Cuban musicians who honour their Afro-Latin roots while seeking new expressions of the musical traditions that course through the veins of the island nation. Now based in Toronto, Marta has been invited to perform with Yani Borrell, Conjunto Lacalu and the Juno-winning Cuban jazz pianist Hilario Duran and featured in various festivals across the city and beyond.
Reggaddiction
Reggaddiction has been spreading the spirit of unity and community through their music since their formation in 2019. Fusing the timeless rhythms of Jamaican reggae with Canadian influences, Reggaddiction crafts a sound that not only transports listeners to sun-soaked tropical landscapes but also fosters a sense of togetherness and shared purpose. More than just a band, Reggaddiction embodies the ethos of ONE LOVE in everything they do. Their live performances are a powerful celebration of community, infused with the positive vibes of ska and reggae culture.
Canadian Asian Music Society presents Beyond Silence
Beyond Silence is a music project centered on rhythm, energy, and musical interaction. Through melodies, percussion, and improvisation, it creates an engaging, shared experience between musicians and audiences. Inspired by traditional and contemporary influences, the sound is dynamic and expressive, rooted in connection through music and movement.
The Canadian Asian Ensemble (CAE), part of the Canadian Asian Music Society, brings together musicians from diverse Asian and Canadian traditions. Their performances celebrate cultural diversity, honour nature, and promote connection through music, sharing messages of peace, reflection, and cross-cultural understanding.
The Canadian Asian Ensemble
The Canadian Asian Ensemble (CAE), part of the Canadian Asian Music Society, is a multicultural group bringing together musicians from diverse Asian and Canadian traditions. Through original performances, they celebrate cultural diversity, honour nature, and foster cross-cultural connection. Their work draws from traditional musical heritage while promoting reflection on the relationship between art, music, and the natural world. CAE also collaborates across communities, including Indigenous partners, to create new works that bridge cultures. Through music, they share messages of peace, hope, and understanding while inspiring meaningful audience connection.
Mint Duo
MINT is an experimental jazz duo that fuses groove-based hybrid-guitar and drums, blending elements of R&B, soul, hip hop, funk, and jazz. With their unique musical voices, MINT crafts a chill, vibey atmosphere that invites reflection and storytelling, while keeping the rhythm alive with head-bobbing grooves. Expect a sonic exploration where melody and rhythm meet in unexpected ways, creating a soundscape that’s both dreamy and dynamic.
AWA presents PubDaddy Band
Pubdaddy is a Niagara-based band featuring seasoned musicians with decades of experience across genres. Bassist Joe Colonna, originally from Italy, rose to prominence with The British Modbeats before pursuing an award-winning architecture career and later returning to music with large-scale productions. Keyboardist and vocalist John Krutschke is a University of Toronto–trained performer and educator, while lead singer Kevin Davis brings lifelong passion as a percussionist and harmonica player. Guitarist Mark Murphy and drummer Mark Spagnuolo round out the group with extensive backgrounds in rock, blues, and tribute performances. African Women Acting (AWA) is a pan-African nonprofit empowering women, artists, and youth through cultural programming, mentorship, and festivals, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and celebrating African and diasporic arts globally.
