Evolution of Jazz Ensemble

The Evolution of Jazz (EOJ) Ensemble was created in 2001 by Archie Alleyne to provide mentorship and performance opportunities for young, primarily African-Canadian, students graduating from postsecondarymusic programs. The ensemble has 10 musicians and 2 vocalists.

The key objectives of the EOJ Ensemble are:

1. To provide young jazz musicians with tangible mentoring and connections with veteran musicians
2. To cultivate an enhanced sense of historical accomplishment, identity and pride in their art form.
3. To provide high-profile, quality performance opportunities for young jazz musicians.n innovative and exciting modern Toronto Sextet, Kollage, led by Archie Alleyne.

EOJ members, 2005: Tristan Clark (guitar), Aaron Seunarine (percussion), Adam Kallmeyer (tenor saxophone), Kamil Andre Dewhurst (vocal), William Heslop (alto saxophone)	Saxophone Section (L-R): Shelkah Francis, William Heslop, La-Nai Gabriel

EOJ saxophonists Shelkah Francis (L) and La-Nai Gabriel		EOJ drummer Jasmine Jones

The EOJ Ensemble has performed at these functions under the direction of Archie Alleyne:

* Arts National, CBC Radio (1993)
* The Port Hope Jazz Festival (2003)
* Cotillion Ball (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009)
* Muhtadi International Drumming Festival (2007, 2008, 2009)
* Royal Ontario Museum Jazz Series (2005)
* Toronto Downtown Jazz Festival (2005)
* Harbourfront Special Presentation for Canada Day (2006)
* Club Sixty5 (2009)

To book The EOJ Ensemble, refer to the Bookings & Contact Info page.