Performer Schedule

Norm
I am inspired by the various musical styles of Louisiana from Creole, Cajun, Swamp Pop, Blues and New Orleans Jazz. My primary instrument is the Cajun Box and the Piano Accordion and I perform both solo and with my band. I have traveled extensively to southwestern Louisiana to learn the music, language and cultures from such a diverse region. In addition to my travels to Louisiana, I have traveled to the Maritimes in Canada to further my understanding of the Acadian culture and how it continues to connect with Cajun music.

SAMBA SQUAD
The drums and beats of Samba Squad are a seething cauldron of pulsating rhythms.They bring the party to the street.

Dear Rouge - 2025 Headliner
Dear Rouge is a Canadian alt-pop duo formed by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo of Drew and Danielle McTaggart. With their infectious sound, blending electronic pop, rock, and indie influences, Dear Rouge has captivated audiences across Canada and beyond. Their music, both anthemic and intimate, is known for its emotionally charged lyrics, soaring melodies, and powerful vocal performances.
Since their breakout in 2013 with the release of their debut album "Black to Gold", Dear Rouge has consistently delivered hits that resonate deeply with listeners. The duo’s 2014 single “I Heard I Had” was a chart-topping success, earning them widespread recognition in the Canadian music scene. Their ability to create infectious tracks with a mix of dark and uplifting energy has earned them multiple accolades and nominations, including a JUNO Award for Breakthrough Group of the Year in 2015 and a nomination for Rock Album of the Year at the 2020 JUNO Awards for their album "Phases."
Dear Rouge has had several notable chart successes, with tracks like “Boys & Girls” reaching the top of the Canadian alt-radio charts. The duo's songs have been streamed millions of times across platforms like Spotify, where they boast over 25 million streams across their discography. Their music has also been featured on popular television shows and commercials, further expanding their reach.
In addition to their JUNO nominations, Dear Rouge has been nominated for multiple Canadian Music Week Awards, SOCAN Awards, and have won several Western Canadian Music Awards. Their electrifying live performances have made them a staple at major music festivals, including the Vancouver Folk Music Festival and Osheaga in Montreal.
Dear Rouge continues to carve their own path in the Canadian music landscape, bringing an energy and depth to their music that is both critically acclaimed and widely loved by fans. With a growing international following and a career that continues to rise, Dear Rouge’s innovative sound and boundary-pushing creativity make them a standout act in the Canadian music scene

Figgy Pudding (Dustin Macaulay)
Figgy Pudding, aka Dustin Macaulay, is a talented singer/songwriter from Oshawa, Ontario, whose music speaks to the peaks and valleys that are the rhythm of life.
So where did the name "Figgy Pudding" come from? Arising from a verse in "We Wish You a Merry Christmas", it was bestowed on Dustin by Canadian icon Ed the Sock, who determined that it would be a more attention-getting name than Dustin Macaulay. And well..it got your attention, right?

Jessica Lockwood
Jessica Lockwood is quickly becoming a name to watch in the music world, taking the scene by storm with her debut single, “Only Child”. Coming from Milton, ON, Jessica's relatable lyrics and authentic storytelling have already earned her a growing fanbase, and she's only just getting started.

NATASHA FISHER
Vocalist, songwriter and producer Natasha Fisher crafts songs that take influence from both traditional pop and alternative genres carried out by edgy melodies and heartfelt storytelling. Her songs capture the intensity of heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery, while incorporating Indigenous elements that add depth and authenticity.

Triple Play
Has been playing the Markham music festival for 10 years, specialized in Caribbean music

Deanna Petcoff
While writing about her frustrating experiences as a young woman finding her voice and identity while navigating an ever changing world, Deanna Petcoff explores the ins and outs of love and heartbreak. Her rich, deep, textured voice juxtaposes her soft imagery and vulnerable, honest lyrics, welcoming us into a world where even a fleeting moment of emotion can become its own monument, and where gentle guitars can navigate otherwise messy waters.
Playing her own unique brand of beautiful and confessional indie rock, Petcoff grew up worshipping the music of David Bowie and Patti Smith. With heart-on-her-sleeve, emotive lyricism that showcases her strength as a songwriter and a vocalist, "Failing Upwards" is a shimmering track with a jangling, surfy chorus guitar riff that really makes it shine, an ode to falling in love hard and fast and reevaluating it after those heady initial days pass. Petcoff is an amalgamation of everyone she’s ever met, a tangle of emotions and a songwriting force.

Raging Dave
I am inspired by the various musical styles of Louisiana from Creole, Cajun, Swamp Pop, Blues and New Orleans Jazz. My primary instrument is the Cajun Box and the Piano Accordion and I perform both solo and with my band. I have traveled extensively to southwestern Louisiana to learn the music, language and cultures from such a diverse region. In addition to my travels to Louisiana, I have traveled to the Maritimes in Canada to further my understanding of the Acadian culture and how it continues to connect with Cajun music.

Rise Carmine
Rise Carmine are swinging the doors wide open on the psych-rock scene in a new genreless world. With an unabashedly eclectic sound equally rooted in 90s alternative and new-age psychedelia, Rise Carmine is keen on leaning into genres outside of the rock/alternative sphere. Their sound can best be described as the perfect mix between Tame Impala, Radiohead, and Royal Blood.
Their electric live show has earned them recent support slots for The Mysterines, The Amazons, We Are Scientists and Kasador. Rise Carmine also made an appearance at Supercrawl, NXNE, CMW, Wintersong and Unplugged North at the El Mocambo.
With the release of the first singles ‘Razorblades’, ‘Do The Right Drugs, Kids’, and ‘Once A Lover, Now Undercover', and 'Sadistic, (I Like It Too)' Rise Carmine is preparing to release a debut album next year

Trevor Easton
A versatile looper cover artist, layering guitar, drums, and keyboard to recreate rock, reggae, and pop classics. Bringing iconic songs to life with rhythmic precision and soulful energy.

GOLDEN SOUL TRIBE
Golden Soul Tribe is a versatile band from York Region consisiting of three cousins Matt Groopie (guitar and vocals), Zoe Rodney (Vocals) and Zach Palter (drums and vocals) with the help of Jeff Lefort (bass). The band mixes elements of rock, funk, soul, reggae, and blues to create a unique sound heavily influenced by their Indigenous and Afro roots. The band is currently working on their first release of original material and enjoys playing familiar songs and making them into their own style. If you like heavy guitars, soulful singing, and a steady rhythm and groove for dancing, you'd enjoy The Tribe!

Blackboard Blues Band
The Blackboard Blues Band are the GTA's foremost R'n'B band playing songs from the 60's to the present. Four horns , two singers and a tight rhythm section leads to great fun and lots of dancing!

The Codas
The Codas are rapidly making a name for themselves as 'the must-watch band out of Kingston, Ontario'. Their alternative folk/rock sound is rich with 3-part harmonies, lush instrumentals and captivating lyricism. Creating moments that linger, their live show is endearing yet powerful, intimate and all encompassing.

The Commodities
The Commodities are a 4 piece rock n roll band from Toronto, ON. They perform covers of classic rock songs from the 1960s and 70s, and a handful of original tunes. The band formed in 2024 and are fronted by lead singer Avalon Tucci.

Nimkii-Nini
JUNO award-nominee Nimkii-nini (Thunder-man) is a hoop dancer and storyteller from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. With roots in the pow wow trail, his solo performance weaves ancestral stories and teachings through dance and song—inviting audiences to witness the strength, transformation, and unity at the heart of Anishinaabe culture

Wayne Madder
Wayne Madder, Songwriter, recipient Album of the Year OMAs2022 and Honorable Mention winner ISC2023.

Kud Biljana
St. Dimitrija Solunski Macedonian Church, established in 1996, is not only a spiritual center for the Macedonian community but also a vibrant hub for cultural expression. One of its most cherished traditions is the KUD Biljana ethnic dance group, which has been an important part of the church since its opening. The group, named after the popular Macedonian folk song, brings together dancers ranging in age from 4 to 16 years old, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Macedonia through traditional dance and music. KUD Biljana is split into two age-specific groups, ensuring that both younger and older participants can embrace and preserve the folk dances and customs passed down through generations. The church and dance group together foster a sense of community and pride in the Macedonian identity, enriching the cultural landscape of the area.

Kendall Lily
Most at home in front of a microphone with her guitar, Kendall is an eighteen-year-old local singer/songwriter. With a growing library of her own original songs and catalog of cover songs spanning multiple generations of music, Kendall continues to hone her craft and share her love for music through live performances. Kendall strives to write and play music that resonates with people and tells story through song.

Laya Bhava Dance Academy
Laya Bhava Dance Academy is a school of Bharathanatyam, Indian Classical Dance. It was established in 1986 by our artistic director, Mrs.Kirupanithy Ratneswaran and follows the kalakshetra style. We have locations in Markham, Scarborough and Toronto.
Our school trains students to learn this Indian classical dance and perform as well. Students from the age of 5 to 35 continue to learn dance.
Our school provides yearly examinations for all students and offers high school credit courses. We have two textbooks written by our artistic director, Mrs.Kirupanithy Ratneswaran which we use to teach dance and theory.

Evelynn Ross
The Evelynne Ross Trio is a dynamic Canadian folk/pop/rock group hailing from Toronto and Markham. With over 20 years of musical synergy, this powerhouse trio blends experience, artistry, and undeniable chemistry to create an unforgettable live experience.
Featuring the extraordinary songwriting of Evelynne Ross, whose emotionally resonant lyrics and memorable hooks have earned her recognition as a rock luminary by Canadian Beats, the Trio delivers a sound that is both timeless and captivating.
Joined by Howard Rabkin (guitar/bass guitar, backing vocals) and Henry Lees (backing vocals, percussion), these seasoned musicians bring Ross’s original repertoire to life with tight harmonies, masterful musicianship, and infectious energy that will have you singing along from the first note.
Rooted in the vibrant Greater Toronto and York Region music scene, The Evelynne Ross Trio continues to win over audiences with performances that leave a lasting impression.

Chris Cadaret
From personal, emotionally-driven love songs to fictional, lyric-based stories, Chris holds dear the craft of songwriting. Continuing to develop as a performer, he strives to transpose his passion to the best of his ability.

Nimkii & Maamaatesiinh
Nimkii-nini (Thunder-man) is an Odawa/Potawatami member of the Bear Clan from Wiikwemkoongsing on Manitoulin Island. A lifelong dancer, he began with Fancy Dance and later earned his hoops at age 13. Known for sharing ancestral stories through song and dance, he teaches bravery and courage alongside his daughter Maamaatesiinh.

Ian Marc
Ian Marc is a singer, songwriter, producer, multi instrumentalist who has been into music since he was very young. He learned to sing, play guitar, bass guitar, drums, piano. He has released several singles both in English and Spanish already on all music streaming platforms, which he has self produced, and plans to release more in the near future. His creations are fusions with an inclination to pop and latin music.

Steph
"STEPH is a young emerging artist/singer/songwriter from Markham. She performs around the GTA, fronting her own band and is also one of the two lead singers for The Blackboard Blues Band; a well known multi-decade GTA based band. STEPH is an active member of the local York Region music community that has performed as a returning artist at Markham Village Music Festival, Stouffville‘s Wintersong Music Festival, and more.
STEPH has released two singles on all streaming platforms and is currently working on an EP to be released in the near future.
As a student of Professional Music at the Toronto Metropolitan University, she connects with others through the universal language of music, and is making it her career to keep live music relevant in the GTA and abroad."

Ensemble Topaz
Ensemble Topaz is a Toronto and Hamilton-based dance ensemble dedicated to the performance traditions of Central Asia and South Asia, including the regions of Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Iran. They have performed widely across Ontario, and their dance is featured in a number of Afghan and Afghan-Tajik music videos. They are the recipient of numerous grants from Ontario Arts Council and Toronto Arts Council.

MARKHAM CONCERT BAND
The Markham Concert Band was formed in 1978, and with over 80 members, we are one of the largest community bands in Canada! Band members include young and old from many fields of endeavour, all brought together with one purpose in mind - to serve the community with the best in concert band music

Paige Warner
With a captivating voice, Paige Warner, the “soulful Ontario songstress” (Billboard), creates alt-pop music with soul-inspired vocal licks layered on catchy hooks of poetic lyrics. Though her career started as a busker in her small Ontario hometown, it has led her to perform on stages such as Massey Hall’s TD Music Hall, Yonge-Dundas Square, Summerfolk, and share stages with iconic artists including Ron Sexsmith, Lori Yates, and Monowhales. Her songwriting is catchy and emotive, with lyrics touching on themes of heartbreak, female resilience, and love.

West Indian Fusion Dance
West Indian Fusion Dance Center was established in 2006 by artistic director. Selena Naraine-Jalser as an opportunity to share her love for dance and to help promote the cultural development of the youth in the community. They specialize in a variety of East and West Indian Style dances such as Bharatnatyam, Bollywood, Semi-Classical, Folk, Chutney, and Soca.

Brian Wride Trio
The Brian Wride Trio are a neo-skiffle band combining elements of folk, blues, and country into original takes on songs of love, loss, longing and dysfunction - songs old and new, well-known and obscure.