Altsys Jazz Orchestra, founded by conductor/saxophonist Jennifer Bell and trumpeter/composer Bill Mahar, specializes in original Canadian works and lesser performed works from the jazz orchestra tradition. Altsys serves as a vehicle for Bill Mahar who has premiered more than a dozen compositions with the orchestra. Altsys has collaborated with such distinguished artists/composers as Kenny Wheeler, Ray Anderson, Hugh Fraser, Don Thompson, Donny McCaslin Pat LaBarbera, Seamus Blake, Mike Murley, Tim Hagans and Maria Schneider, with whom the orchestra won the 1998 Prix Opus for Jazz Concert of the Year. The orchestra had the pleasure of performing with Donny McCaslin at the 2008 International Association of Jazz Educators in Toronto. Altsys has recorded two compact discs as well as radio shows for CBC/SRC and television for BRAVO!. The orchestra counts among its ranks some of Montreal’s busiest freelance jazz musicians, many of whom are bandleaders, educators and composers in their own right. These musicians are brought together by a mutual desire to perpetuate and nurture the jazz orchestra tradition.

Accessibility _ The venue at 3716 Notre-Dame is located in the basement. The stairs might make the room difficult to access for people with mobility issues.

December 15

Saxes:
Jennifer Bell
Frank Lozano
Benjamin Deschamps

Gabriel Trottier (french horn)
Dave Grott (trombone)
Christopher Smith (bass trombone/tuba)

Trumpets:
Jocelyn Couture
Bill Mahar
Dave Mossing

Dave Watts (bass)
Michel Berthiaume (drums)
Gaëtan Daignault (Hammond organ)