Join us for the opening ceremony to kick off the Markham Village Music Festival 2024!
Rikashay is a constantly evolving, good-vibes indie rock band from Markham, Ontario. A patchwork of influences from oddball Beatle tracks to classic rock, jazz, and ska, pepper the band’s extensive catalog of singles and EPs stretching back to 2015. Each project is a new sonic exploration but through it all, a soft spot for pop music and a fierce yet playful DIY spirit nurture their exploits.
Juno award winning artist LAZO hails from Dominica in the Caribbean and performs his amazing reggae music all over the globe. Former lead singer for the Wailers, LAZO reproduces the greatest hits of BOB MARLEY as well as his own original hits which are every bit as legendary. His uncanny ability to connect with any audience as well as his feel-good vibe and positive stage presence make him the perfect choice for your entertainment needs.
On stage, Ibrahim delivers theatrical, intricate configurations of bodies and ideas built on a contrast of sharp precision and untethered joy. Ibrahim aims to find space for spontaneity within the parameters of structure; in the same way that her music explores non-linear models of time and space, Ibrahim’s performances are designed with fluidity and recombination in mind.
Darrelle London is diving into the world of Kindie music (Kids-Indie), where she feels right at home! Produced by Dean Drouillard, Darrelle’s new children’s album, Primary, carries listeners on a journey through a colourful world of curiosity, creativity, and laughter. A mother herself to two young’uns, Darrelle has discovered the joy of making kids’ music that all ages can enjoy!
DAN THE MUSIC MAN is an original. A songwriter and entertainer whose enthusiastic performances have made him a favourite of family audiences all over his native Canada, the United States and as far away as Seoul, South Korea. Dan the Music Man has released four albums to date. Make a Bridge, his debut album for young audiences, was released to critical acclaim in 1998.
Turn one of your evenings into a musical moment for you and your friends and family.
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.
Pony Girl is a kaleidoscope of pop unlike any other, turning everyday life into mesmerizing melodies, rock and electronic production. In true indie fashion, the Ottawa-Hull collective self-released their first two records (Show Me Your Fears in 2013, and Foreign Life in 2015) before signing with Paper Bag Records to unveil Enny One Wil Love You in 2022.
Georgia Harmer is a Canadian singer-songwriter, whose debut album Stay in Touch was released in 2022 on Arts & Crafts Productions. She is the niece of Sarah Harmer and the daughter of Mary Harmer and Gord Tough; all of whom are former members of the band Weeping Tile.
Tom Wilson is a Canadian music legend, famed storyteller and visual artist. Wilson’s memoir, Beautiful Scars published by Penguin/Random House has become a national bestseller. In his memoir, Wilson reveals the impact of discovering his indigenous heritage. Musically, Wilson is best known for his work with Blackie & The Rodeo Kings and Lee Harvey Osmond, the latter receiving a 2020 Juno Award for the album “Mohawk.
I am an 18 year old singer/songwriter/musician/performer currently performing around the GTA alongside various bands and artists including my father, as a father-daughter duo! I am currently enrolled in the Professional Music program at Toronto Metropolitan University in hopes to use the skills I learn to further expand my artistry and musicianship to reach my goal as an artist; to connect with the world through the universal language of music!
We are an alt-funk and soul band from Hamilton, Ontario. We play original songs about self-discovery and having a great time. We have loved performing in Markham before and would be so excited to perform our music for you again at MVMF 2024!
Cold Weather Captains are a Toronto based group known for their funky and eclectic sound. In 2018, the group was founded as an instrumental trio featuring Bradley Scott (lead guitar), Erik Meechem (rhythm guitar) and Kevin Penny (drums). Shortly after releasing their 2021 EP, City Limits, CWC added Justin DiDonato (vocals) and Christina Dare (bass) to complete their lineup. In September 2023, CWC released their self-titled debut album.
Cold Weather Captains are a Toronto based group known for their funky and eclectic sound. In 2018, the group was founded as an instrumental trio featuring Bradley Scott (lead guitar), Erik Meechem (rhythm guitar) and Kevin Penny (drums). Shortly after releasing their 2021 EP, City Limits, CWC added Justin DiDonato (vocals) and Christina Dare (bass) to complete their lineup. In September 2023, CWC released their self-titled debut album.
We’re not sure where it came from, maybe we had attended one too many funerals, but we both agreed that life was now, living our dream was now and that we weren’t going to wait until retirement to play a few gigs. fortysomething became our escape.
Born to entertain, Ginger St. James’ song-writing and voice are as powerful as they are poignant. Powerful in a way where it’s hard to believe such a voice comes from a five-foot frame. Poignant in a way that the music and the message rings true through the test of time. Her repertoire blends country, rockabilly and blues with a sultry voice and commanding stage presence. Ginger St James brings a combination of high energy and incredible sweetness to the stage that is beyond comparison. You won't be able to resist falling in love.
The band was founded by Richard Morales in Markham, Ontario. They performed in private events, corporate non for profit events and Latino community events in Toronto and the York Region since 2008. Los Moralitos got into the festival music scene in York Region in 2012. Their music is a fusion of traditional Latin rhythms, tropical background with the electric sounds of Santana’s style. The band writes original music too. They play a unique Latin sound with electric guitars leading the melodies. The result is a funky electric tropical sound that forces crows to dance.
The Blackboard Blues Band is the GTA's foremost R'n'B band. Specializing in classic Soul, R'n'B, Funk, Rock and Blues, the band plays hits from the 60's to present day. The group has fans of all ages! The Blackboard Blues Band plays regularly at clubs and bars across the GTA in addition to corporate functions, weddings, private parties, and numerous music festivals!
Reishi Maylen & the Journeyers are an Ontario-based psychedelic folk-rock jamband with an exceptional output of catchy and meaningful songs, conscious poetic lyricism, and momentous improvisational jams, ranging from foot stompin' fiddle-frenzy folk to exhilarating rock 'n' roll. Rolling forward from their debut at the Wintersong Festival, they are quickly evolving into a household name with singles Elemental Consciousness,Let’s Have a Chat, and Alchemical Dream soon to be released.
We’re a three piece band who makes alt. rock music. We played at winter song in Latcham hall gallery, and at the rock pile night club.
Josh Alexander, the cinematic pop sensation from Quebec, is a versatile artist based in Montreal. He is recognized as a songwriter, composer, and performer. His fluency in French, English, and Spanish has always been the source of his emotional expression and creative inspiration. His first EP, "Forevermore," released in the fall of 2022, and his single "Hurricane" climbed to the 36th position on the ADISQ radio charts in Quebec, accumulating over 580,000 streams on Spotify alone.
Living Room for Small is a pop alternative band from Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, comprised of members Nathan Forler (Vocals), Owen Tester (Guitar), Jesse Humphreys (Drums) and Cole Saunders (Bass Guitar). Magnetic hooks and vibrant melodies define the catalog of Living Room for Small. With influences such as The 1975, 5 Seconds of Summer, Harry Styles, Waterparks and The Band CAMINO, they have been able to craft their own sound. Their latest single 'WHEREVER U GO' released in January 2024.
The Blackboard Blues Band is the GTA's foremost R'n'B band. Specializing in classic Soul, R'n'B, Funk, Rock and Blues, the band plays hits from the 60's to present day. The group has fans of all ages! The Blackboard Blues Band plays regularly at clubs and bars across the GTA in addition to corporate functions, weddings, private parties, and numerous music festivals!
Corsh Music is a band founded in 2020 by a young musician couple Corey Wang and Shilu Wang. Corey Wang is an accomplished keyboardist and has been a featured performer at many music festivals. He has performed as a keyboardist at many venues as well as TV and radio stations. Corey teaches piano and keyboard under Corsh Music. Shilu Wang is an award-winning Jazz/Funk/R&B singer-songwriter and a vocal coach. She has won 6 global and national awards in singing and songwriting.
Kevin Ker’s musical journey is a multifaceted tapestry woven with creativity, collaboration, and boundless passion. In 2009, alongside his lifelong friend Justin Dillon, he founded Future History, a band that would make an indelible impact on the local music scene. Their debut album, featuring the infectious single “Names for Numbers,” garnered widespread acclaim, earning them prestigious features on Alan Cross’ EXPLORE Music and multiple showcases on Edge 102.1.
Ian Marc and Sara Perez are both singers, songwriters, multi instrumentalists who have been into music since very young. They have been showing their talents throughout Toronto at different festivals and local bars. Ian Marc and Sara Perez perform both in English and Spanish, some songs are self produced and are fusions with an inclination to pop and latin music.
Nattra is a singer-songwriter from Newmarket, ON. His sound is a subtle mix of retro vibes reminiscent of Rex Orange County and elevated with shades of alternative R&B. Influenced by artists like Daniel Caesar, Nattra released several singles since 2020, garnering a strong online fanbase which led to the logical progression of his first live show in Gusapolooza. Since then, he performed at C'est What, Canadian Music Week, and North by North East (NXNE). He released his debut album “Late Nights & Love” on September 15 2023.
Nicole Haber, an emerging Electro-Pop artist from Toronto, Canada, has garnered over 1.7 million streams worldwide and is known for crafting catchy, relatable lyrics, collaborating with top-tier DJs, artists and producers, and entertaining audiences with their highly energetic performances, which Nicole demonstrated at Toronto's 2023 Pride Festival. Nicole is now focused on crafting their debut album, promising fans an unfiltered and bold side that has been dying to be unleashed.
The Orient Dance Company (Toronto), a not-for-profit organization with a purely artistic and educational mission. Our objective is to share and nurture the growth of the Chinese Dance culture, and to promote its exchange with other dance cultures throughout Canada.
Aroon Academy has been teaching dancers of all cultures how to Irish dance for a whole decade! All classes are taught by former-Riverdancer Eileen Westernacher. Our lively show will have your toes tapping and our choreography will amaze you.
Markham School of Dance, est. Oct. 2001, offers dance classes incl. Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, etc. Specializing in early dance education for ages 2 to age 12 and offering 3 main programs: Little Dance Stars - ages 2-6, Dance Stars - Grades 1-12, Dance Company - Performance Team. The studio values: family, community, & inclusion. Goal is to build confidence, growth mindset and leadership skills through dance. “It’s more than just dance, it's where Every 'Body' Can Dance!"
Farrucas Duo’s artistic taste is a fusion between two musical traditions; Mediterranean and Ecuadorian, blending together other several genres including Arab, Cumbia, Rumba Flamenco, Salsa, & Rock influences. Performing live for 15+ years, Jorge & Laura work hard at delivering unique Latin-fusioned music. With such stunning performances with a variety of instruments, and homage to diverse cultures & nationalities, this is a musical journey you'll want to experience!
Farrucas Duo’s artistic taste is a fusion between two musical traditions; Mediterranean and Ecuadorian, blending together other several genres including Arab, Cumbia, Rumba Flamenco, Salsa, & Rock influences. Performing live for 15+ years, Jorge & Laura work hard at delivering unique Latin-fusioned music. With such stunning performances with a variety of instruments, and homage to diverse cultures & nationalities, this is a musical journey you'll want to experience!
Cale Crowe is an Ojibwe singer-songwriter from Alderville First Nation. His performance combines an acoustic guitar with an electronic drum pad & a loop pedal to create his own accompaniments. His unique show has appeared alongside acts like Digging Roots, Ron Sexsmith, William Prince, and others in cities from Nova Scotia to New Mexico. To date, Cale has released two EPs and is about to release his first full-length record in the Spring of 2024.
Memories of Mexico Dance Company brings the magic and joy of Mexican folklorico dance to audiences of all ages. Based in the GTA and under the direction of Helen Knight, the company delights audiences at festivals, concerts, and events across Ontario. Helen is also the director of Flamenco Festival Dancers.
Pulse Dance Works Inc. was proudly founded in 2001 by sisters, Nadine & Rachel Lepera. Starting off with a professional dance studio in the basement of their parent's home and with lots of hard work, dedication and word of mouth, the studio outgrew their home location and was moved to Main Street Markham where they resided for five years. In the summer of 2010 Pulse Dance Works Inc. moved to 158 Anderson Avenue, a greater and larger facility with easier access to the studio to serve their clients better (conveniently located directly across from The Home Depot/LCBO & The Brick plaza's.)
Carol C Dance Studio is dedicated to educate younger generations of Chinese Canadians in the diversity of Chinese culture, as they discover the stories and history behind the dances they learn. Our dance program encourages community involvement and cultural awareness through year-round performances at local events, charities, and festivals around the York Region and Toronto areas. Our studio offers classes from 15 months and up, including Chinese Dance, Acro dance, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Ballet.
Chinese Collective Arts Association (CCAA) is a non-profit organization established in 2009 to promote and educate Chinese cultural arts to the community through classes, workshops, and events. In 2019, CCAA represented Canada at the International Folklore Festival in Europe. In 2020, Markham Performing Arts Awards recognized CCAA as the Community Artist/Group of the Year.
Parai (Drum) is one of the earliest percussion instruments, dating back to prehistoric times. It is often accompanied with Parai Aattam, in which the artist beats the Parai and dances to its rhythm.
We are Kick Up a Fuss Cloggers under the direction of Angela Cameron. We have been performing with the Uxbridge Scottish Festival for quite a few years. Clogging is one of the fastest growing forms of recreational and publicly performed dancing in North America and now sweeping Canada Also known as buck dancing, flatfoot dancing and hoedown dancing, It is most often just called clogging. In its original form, clogging is a rhythmic tapping of the feet.
Socially Associating Professionals with Culturally Based Activities.
Canada One Family Network (COFN) is a registered not-for-profit organisation focused on bringing together and showcasing various asian cultural arts.
COFN supports Traditional Cultural Heritage and Performing Arts for Canadians.
Antonietta and Sandra are BESTIES who share the same LOVE of Country Music and line dancing. We wanted to offer a FUN place where people could go, meet new people, line dance, stomp their boots to GREAT music and not stress about a dress code, and simply have fun on any given night in Toronto, York Region and Durham Region.
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.
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.
Jamilah is a professional bellydancer based in Markham. She founded Jamilah Bellydance School, located in Markham. She will be performing bellydance with some of her students. Jamilah and her students love bringing happiness to everyone through the art of Bellydancing.
Samba Squad: We follow the path of the drum from Brazil to Toronto
Inspired by the Escola de Sambas of Rio de Janeiro…the Afro Blocos of Salvador Bahia ….and the Maracatu nations of Recife, Pernambuco…
Hand to Hand, Skin to Skin…. we mix these influences with Global Grooves of the African Diaspora
The beats….the grooves….the flavours….all come together in a seething cauldron to produce the sound of Samba Squad.
Samba Squad: We follow the path of the drum from Brazil to Toronto
Inspired by the Escola de Sambas of Rio de Janeiro…the Afro Blocos of Salvador Bahia ….and the Maracatu nations of Recife, Pernambuco…
Hand to Hand, Skin to Skin…. we mix these influences with Global Grooves of the African Diaspora
The beats….the grooves….the flavours….all come together in a seething cauldron to produce the sound of Samba Squad.
Join us for the opening ceremony to kick off the Markham Village Music Festival 2024!
Singer / Songwriter / Storyteller originally from Winnipeg now living in Toronto, Mike has travelled the world playing his guitar from the Greek Islands to Anchorage, Alaska.
Mike has performed at festivals and clubs since the 1980s, while still maintaining a strong online presence.
With dozens of originals to choose from, Mike’s unique style of songwriting are combined with strong melodies and solid rhythms, and lyrics that range from tragic to absurd to hilarious, often in the same song.
Slipstream of Your Mind (SYM) is an original Indie Folk Country Rock band whose members hail from Markham, Ontario and York Region. SYM’s musical writing stylings are reminiscent of American Folk and Country Music from the 1970s, as well as early Rock & Roll. Their unique blend is resplendent with driving rhythms, textured vocals, and harmonies, accompanied by the harmonica and fiddle to round off their sound. SYM shows are crowd-pleasing and have an uplifting, toe-tapping vibe!
The School of Rock Markham House Band is a group of 15-18 year olds who play a variety of music ranging from Rock to R&B and beyond. The group is audition-only and features the best kids in the school. Over the past 10 years, the house band have toured the United States 6 times as well as doing a week-long residency at the Hard Rock Resort in Punta Cana.
Performing as a trio, we entertain listeners with a wide range of classic Ozzy Osbourne era Black Sabbath repertoire with a fun visual twist. We provide an engaging environment for audience members, which not only encourages them to hang around and interact for the full duration of the performance, but also encourages them a fun and immersive experience.
Since 2018 50 Foot Jesus have brought the party to the Markham Stouffville area and select venues around Ontario.
With the aim of keeping you singing and dancing 50 Foot Jesus play your favourites with a few surprises.
Aurora, Ontario natives Shannon & Brendan Beresford have a way of capturing audiences wherever they play. Whether it's their undeniable sibling-duo chemistry, the fusion of Shannon's powerhouse vocals with Brendan’s rich harmonies and masterful guitar solos, or their Country-Rock sound, they are solidifying their place in the Canadian music scene.
A bittersweet slice of gut-slammin’ Texas Rockin’ Blues with Twang!
The Tonedogs will shuffle their way into your soul right from the opening chord.
The band is dedicated to the authenticity of its sound.
What makes them different is the clean vintage sound they grind out of gear that is older than most people who come out to see them.
Something Free is a Markham/Stouffville based high-energy group of six super-friends that have been playing Pop/Rock/Alternative/80s enthusiastically across the GTA since 2010. Our band’s deep, eclectic, and ever-growing catalogue of songs is a study in ‘what audiences love to hear’. Crafting fun, interesting, and engaging medleys and sets is what drives us, and nothing brings us greater joy on stage than to see someone turn to their friend and excitedly say ‘oooh, I love this song!’.
