Jeffery Straker with Justine Vandergrift

Main Performer : Jeffery Straker (SK)
Jeffery Straker has blazed from his small-town roots in Punnichy, Saskatchewan to sold out shows with symphony orchestras, an international fan base extending as far as Latin America, and critically acclaimed albums helmed by the likes of Danny Michel, Steve Dawson and Calgary’s own Russell Broom. All that on top of heavy touring and leading workshops from here to the UK to Nunavut and back. A consummate performer, pianist and songwriter, Jeffery dazzles us with brio, laugh-out-loud storytelling, life-affirming messages, and his effervescent, contagiously optimistic outlook on the world. The latest in his ever-growing catalogue of consistently brilliant releases is Great Big Sky (2024), featuring the upbeat, singalong anthems Brand New Light and The Time You’ve Got. https://www.jeffstraker.com

Opening performer: Justine Vandergrift (AB)
With a growing body of studio albums, authentic writing, rich, evocative vocals, smart collaborations and sure-footed production values, Cochrane’s Justine Vandergrift has evolved from craft to impressive artistry. Traces of Patsy Cline and other country influences inform her brand of rootsy Canadiana, while national and European tours further establish her as a rising star in Alberta’s musical firmament.