Jazz on Lincoln Park: Derek Stoll

Derek Stoll has been playing music professionally since he was in grade 11. Derek obtained a Bachelor of Music (Composition) from the University of Calgary in 1983. He is a jazz piano instructor at the Mount Royal University Conservatory. He was the lead consultant and examiner for Conservatory Canada’s Contemporary Idioms piano syllabus, where he has lectured across the country introducing piano teachers to the new system. He maintains a busy schedule of teaching, performing and adjudicating. One of his primary motivations as an educator is to facilitate students’ innate creativity, by imparting a thorough knowledge of musical structure, harmony and style. He encourages students to explore musical creativity, which he views as an integral part of the learning process. He has been an integral instructor at the MRU Conservatory since 2001.

Derek was the managing director of the MusiCamrose from 1989-1995, during which time he performed regularly on low brass and bass with performers such as Bob Stroup, Tommy Banks, PJ Perry and Bob Tildesley. Derek has performed extensively as a jazz pianist and bassist, working with musicians/groups including Bob Day, Ralf Buschmeyer, Vicky Oveson, Pat Belliveau, Verismo, Terrain, Masacote, Prime Time Big Band, The Real Deal and Ninth Avenue Band. As a first call pianist, he’s had the opportunity to perform with international jazz artists including: Phil Woods, Oliver Jones, Doc Severinson, Pete Christlieb, Pat LaBarbera, Phil Nimmons, Lew Tabackin, Guido Basso, Jens Lindemann and Hugh Fraser. He has been commissioned to arrange for the Canadian Brass, Calgary Stampede and award-winning trumpeter Jens Lindemann.

Derek is currently recovering from Guillain–Barré syndrome and is pleased to be asked to be part of the Jazz at Lincoln Park series! The June 27 installment of Jazz on Lincoln Park will feature the “The Legacy Project” which is a Calgary based group featuring Shane Statz, Robin Tufts and Kai Poscente. They will be performing the works of departed Calgary jazz musicians, as well music written by the performers themselves.

• Derek Stoll – Piano
• Shane Statz – Saxophones
• Andre Wickenheiser – Trumpet
• Kai Poscente – Bass
• Robin Tufts – Drums

Location: Nickle Theatre