Music

Rant Maggie Rant brings an arsenal of instruments, styles and substance to their shows with versatility and virtuosity. The Stratford, Ontario band's personality shines through as a collective of unique and different artists in their own right, the sum of which create unforgettable moments on stage. For more than a decade this multi-award winning band has consistently roused audiences from coast to coast.

While Rant Maggie Rant sticks close to the musical roots of Ireland and Scotland, as well as the other 5 Celtic nations and Canada's East Coast traditions, these melodies are usually supported by the band's unique fusion of hand-drumming, dub/jazz bass, soaring vocals, harmonies and folk/blues/rock guitar.

This year's Frost & Fire show includes some beautiful seasonal and not-often heard holiday songs, and a good mix of Rant Maggie Rant regular repertoire that will get you in the spirit!

Traditionalists love their approach as they perform time honoured tunes in a contemporary way with an energy that will make you want to dance and rediscover your roots. With the addition of some not-so-traditional instruments, the African djembe, the Middle Eastern doumbek and Peruvian cajon to compliment the percussive underpinnings driving the rhythm, guitar and bass approach from more contemporary and urban styles - folk, rock, jazz, dub and blues.  Traditional melodies, Latin and Mediterranean rhythms, heartfelt shanties, revved up tempos and unexpected time changes all collide in original and contemporary compositions, often blending together to deliver an intoxicating performance.

Welcome to the Aeolian Phoenix Sessions

• Riseup TV
• CM Justice/colton  moore
• swagger
• john d. Huston's a christmas carol and the pride men's chorus london
• rant maggie rant
• new year's eve with sarah smith

Terms and Conditions

“The Jason Max Ferdinand Singers has been birthed and the ensemble will now begin its unifying journey. It is with gratitude and humility that I bring to you these talented singers who breathe life into the works of outstanding composers, as we all move forward in our lives and times.”

– Jason Max Ferdinand, Director, Jason Max Ferdinand Singers.

The “Jason Max Ferdinand Singers” is a project that I have thought about since 2001. I had the sound of the ensemble in my head, and had plans to make a debut the summer of 2020, but COVID19 forced a hiatus. In January of 2021, a creative opportunity was asked of me, and after some hesitation and contemplation, I decided to take a dive into the deep, feeling I would be a dupe not to heed the signs! Then, January 6, 2021 happened; what a day in the history of America. A bevy of emotions were surging through my being; however, optimism was leading the way. I felt strongly, “we will get through this,” and one thing I was very sure about…this newly formed ensemble would have a voice in speaking to some of these societal deformities. I felt determined to not be a bystander and to let my creative voice be heard! Admittedly, I was excited and a tad nervous. It would take some doing and we would have to put forth a great deal of effort. I was awake late into the night wondering about this and that, when a calm came over me and my thoughts pointed to, “things will all work out.” Excitement was ramping up as “Live from London” started promoting the festival, the singers were committed and rehearsals were moving forward, and our repertoire was absolutely “on fire!” I knew this was our moment. The “Jason Max Ferdinand Singers” has been birthed and the ensemble will now begin its unifying journey. It is with gratitude and humility that I bring to you these talented singers who breathe life into the works of outstanding composers, as we all move forward in our lives and times.

Welcome to the Aeolian Phoenix Sessions

Rant Maggie Rant brings an arsenal of instruments, styles and substance to their shows with versatility and virtuosity. The Stratford, Ontario band's personality shines through as a collective of unique and different artists in their own right, the sum of which create unforgettable moments on stage. For more than a decade this multi-award winning band has consistently roused audiences from coast to coast.

While Rant Maggie Rant sticks close to the musical roots of Ireland and Scotland, as well as the other 5 Celtic nations and Canada's East Coast traditions, these melodies are usually supported by the band's unique fusion of hand-drumming, dub/jazz bass, soaring vocals, harmonies and folk/blues/rock guitar.

This year's Frost & Fire show includes some beautiful seasonal and not-often heard holiday songs, and a good mix of Rant Maggie Rant regular repertoire that will get you in the spirit!

Traditionalists love their approach as they perform time honoured tunes in a contemporary way with an energy that will make you want to dance and rediscover your roots. With the addition of some not-so-traditional instruments, the African djembe, the Middle Eastern doumbek and Peruvian cajon to compliment the percussive underpinnings driving the rhythm, guitar and bass approach from more contemporary and urban styles - folk, rock, jazz, dub and blues.  Traditional melodies, Latin and Mediterranean rhythms, heartfelt shanties, revved up tempos and unexpected time changes all collide in original and contemporary compositions, often blending together to deliver an intoxicating performance.

Meet The Fitzgeralds ~ a family group consisting of 3-time Canadian Grandmaster Fiddle and Step Dance champions – Tom, Kerry & Julie Fitzgerald. With roots in Canada’s renowned Ottawa Valley, The Fitzgeralds have evolved to include a wide variety of material in their performances, including Celtic fiddle pieces, high-energy step dancing, and a strong focus on original compositions and arrangements. Their extensive tour history includes performances with notable artists; Natalie MacMaster, Ireland’s Nathan Carter, Leahy, Tony McManus, Cherish the Ladies, The StepCrew, and Lunasa. In 2017, The Fitzgeralds went “viral” on Facebook via Ireland’s leading newspaper (Independent.ie), with over 7 MILLION views of their original choreographed dance routine! It is the rare combination of exceptional musicianship, mind-blowing step dancing, audience interaction, evident love of performing, and genuine sibling connection that resonates with audiences of all ages and sets this group apart.

The Fitzgeralds are Canadian Champion fiddling and step dancing siblings – Tom, Kerry & Julie Fitzgerald, and guest guitarist Alanna Jenish. The group will be celebrating the release of its debut Christmas Album, The Fitzgeralds - A Canadian Christmas! with select performances across Ontario this December. Shows will feature triple fiddle arrangements of holiday favourites, songs and tunes by great Canadian composers, and of course…the groups high energy Ottawa-Valley step dancing! Grab your ugliest Christmas sweater, and join The Fitzgeralds as they provide a cheerful, and truly Canadian soundtrack to your holiday season!

Until now.

Limited to just 50 participants.

The Program

The Rebelheart Collective

Cape Breton-based Americana band Pretty Archie to release their 6th studio album and celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2022!

Long time friends Brian Cathcart (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Matt McNeil (Mandolin, Guitar), Colin Gillis (Harmonica, Bass, Vocals), Redmond MacDougall (Banjo, Percussion, Vocals) and Scott MacLean (Guitar, Mandolin) starting performing together in 2012. The band’s name is a nod to a Cape Breton local who embodied the love of playing and performing music. No matter where they tour or travel, Pretty Archie will always be representing their hometown.

Pretty Archie, their sixth studio album, is one of which they are justifiably proud. It represents a quantum leap forward in the evolution of the group’s sound. ”I feel each of our other records was a step ahead of the previous one, but this one is six steps ahead,” declares Colin Gillis. “We are proud of everything we’ve put out, but this is at a different level.” 

Pinning down the ‘Pretty Archie sound’ hasn’t always been easy. Their style has incorporated elements of bluegrass, folk, country, and had that ‘East Coast vibe’. Describing the new album, Brian states “it is more focused, even though you still can’t quite put a finger on it. For us it definitely has way more of a country vibe. This is an alternative country or Americana-style…”

Helping the group realize the formidable creative achievement that is Pretty Archie was internationally-acclaimed record producer and engineer Mark Howard, whose star-studded resume includes work with the likes of Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, U2, Tom Waits, The Tragically Hip, Peter Gabriel, and more. Howard’s fortuitous recent relocation to Cape Breton afforded Pretty Archie the opportunity to take advantage of his skills, and the band couldn’t be happier with the results. 

“It was all basically recorded live off the floor, with minimal overdubs,” adds Colin. “That’s something we had always wanted, and Mark was able to do that. There’s a certain ambience and energy in recording that way.” 

With every record and tour Pretty Archie carries a little piece of home a bit farther afield. Since their 2013 debut album, Steel City, the band have built an ever- larger following on the east coast, across Canada and are now set to continue growing their International audience. 

Cathcart explains that “as a band, we wear our East Coast hearts on our sleeves. We are very proud of where we are from, but our focus now is exposing people internationally to our part of the world.” Gillis adds that “if you are genuine and true to yourselves, then people will attach themselves to that, no matter where you are from.” 

Pretty Archie have long been regional favourites, with a stack of Music Nova Scotia and East Coast Music Award nominations to their credit. They are now looking globally, and with Pretty Archie they have an album ready for international prime time play. 

The upbeat and joyous “Familiar Feeling” and catchy “Reasons'' showcase the band’s instrumental prowess, while Brian digs deep vocally on the haunting ballad “Feel It In My Bones.” At Howard’s suggestion, “Someone New'' became a duet, featuring Austin-based Maritime honky-tonker Whitney Rose, and the contrasting vocals add real resonance. Brian is especially proud of “Maritime,” a song written right in the studio that features these poignant lyrics - ”If your heart breaks down, we’ll use mine. It is weathered and weary, but it is Maritime.” 

Pretty Archie’s genuine, heartfelt writing connects listeners with a saltwater perspective on modern living. Their fun loving and at times heartbreaking music finds common ground in the blurred genres of Country, Folk, Bluegrass and Americana. Their unique sound and energetic shows leave listeners with a lasting memory.

Welcome to the Aeolian Phoenix Sessions

Terms and Conditions

On March 25th at 7 p.m., The Aeolian presented the second night of a benefit concert in support of refugees and others trapped by the war in Ukraine.  The retrospective includes highlights of the jazz and classical performances.

“Peace and stability are pillars of a healthy society. During these unprecedented times, it is imperative that the global community assists at every opportunity. The Aeolian stands with those affected by the war in Ukraine. We hope that this event and others like it worldwide, draws attention to injustices of war and provides much needed aid to those who need it most.”

– Clark Bryan, Executive & Artistic Director, Aeolian Hall

Let us be inspired and unite in our efforts for peace and common good in the world.

With many worthy international organizations working to support and stabilize the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, the Aeolian has selected the International Red Cross. As an impartial, neutral, and independent organization, the mission of the Red Cross is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and provide them with assistance. Donations will be accepted online as part of the ticketing process, in-person at the Aeolian Box Office, and by e-Transfer and at the event.

Welcome to the Aeolian Phoenix Sessions

Terms and Conditions

Cape Breton-based Americana band Pretty Archie to release their 6th studio album and celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2022!

Long time friends Brian Cathcart (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Matt McNeil (Mandolin, Guitar), Colin Gillis (Harmonica, Bass, Vocals), Redmond MacDougall (Banjo, Percussion, Vocals) and Scott MacLean (Guitar, Mandolin) starting performing together in 2012. The band’s name is a nod to a Cape Breton local who embodied the love of playing and performing music. No matter where they tour or travel, Pretty Archie will always be representing their hometown.

Pretty Archie, their sixth studio album, is one of which they are justifiably proud. It represents a quantum leap forward in the evolution of the group’s sound. ”I feel each of our other records was a step ahead of the previous one, but this one is six steps ahead,” declares Colin Gillis. “We are proud of everything we’ve put out, but this is at a different level.” 

Pinning down the ‘Pretty Archie sound’ hasn’t always been easy. Their style has incorporated elements of bluegrass, folk, country, and had that ‘East Coast vibe’. Describing the new album, Brian states “it is more focused, even though you still can’t quite put a finger on it. For us it definitely has way more of a country vibe. This is an alternative country or Americana-style…”

Helping the group realize the formidable creative achievement that is Pretty Archie was internationally-acclaimed record producer and engineer Mark Howard, whose star-studded resume includes work with the likes of Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, U2, Tom Waits, The Tragically Hip, Peter Gabriel, and more. Howard’s fortuitous recent relocation to Cape Breton afforded Pretty Archie the opportunity to take advantage of his skills, and the band couldn’t be happier with the results. 

“It was all basically recorded live off the floor, with minimal overdubs,” adds Colin. “That’s something we had always wanted, and Mark was able to do that. There’s a certain ambience and energy in recording that way.” 

With every record and tour Pretty Archie carries a little piece of home a bit farther afield. Since their 2013 debut album, Steel City, the band have built an ever- larger following on the east coast, across Canada and are now set to continue growing their International audience. 

Cathcart explains that “as a band, we wear our East Coast hearts on our sleeves. We are very proud of where we are from, but our focus now is exposing people internationally to our part of the world.” Gillis adds that “if you are genuine and true to yourselves, then people will attach themselves to that, no matter where you are from.” 

Pretty Archie have long been regional favourites, with a stack of Music Nova Scotia and East Coast Music Award nominations to their credit. They are now looking globally, and with Pretty Archie they have an album ready for international prime time play. 

The upbeat and joyous “Familiar Feeling” and catchy “Reasons'' showcase the band’s instrumental prowess, while Brian digs deep vocally on the haunting ballad “Feel It In My Bones.” At Howard’s suggestion, “Someone New'' became a duet, featuring Austin-based Maritime honky-tonker Whitney Rose, and the contrasting vocals add real resonance. Brian is especially proud of “Maritime,” a song written right in the studio that features these poignant lyrics - ”If your heart breaks down, we’ll use mine. It is weathered and weary, but it is Maritime.” 

Pretty Archie’s genuine, heartfelt writing connects listeners with a saltwater perspective on modern living. Their fun loving and at times heartbreaking music finds common ground in the blurred genres of Country, Folk, Bluegrass and Americana. Their unique sound and energetic shows leave listeners with a lasting memory.

The Aeolian in cooperation with Céline Peterson proudly presents a once in a lifetime evening celebrating the music of Oscar Peterson. JUNO Award-winning pianist Robi Botos will be at the piano and joined by veteran members of the Oscar Peterson Quartet, Dave Young on bass and special guest Ulf Wakenius on guitar. Rounding out the quartet is JUNO Award-winning drummer, Jim Doxas. This is the first time these four artists will come together to perform material written and made famous by OP and is their only show in the London area. We hope you will join us!

Welcome to the Aeolian Phoenix Sessions

Terms and Conditions