The Ostara Project
“This supergroup should be a major player at Canadian jazz festivals this year.” Will Chernoff, Rhythm Changes.
The Ostara Project, spear-headed by award-winning musicians Jodi Proznick and Amanda Tosoff, is a jazz super-group that showcases the strength and creativity of Canadian women in jazz. Ostara artists are all top-tier musicians, composers and bandleaders who reflect the geographical, cultural and creative diversity of Canada’s musical landscape. The focus is on presenting original compositions by band members, creating a diverse and provocative repertoire that is given continuity by skilled and nuanced performers. Membership is fluid to suit the wide spectrum of projects the ensemble presents: what remains constant is the heart, creativity and artistry that defines the The Ostara Project.
The Ostara Project played to sold-out crowds during a November 2022 tour of Western Canada. The self-titled debut album, released November 2022, is nominated for a JUNO award in the category of Vocal Jazz Album of the Year. The ensemble is touring in the summer of 2023, playing ten major jazz festivals across Canada.
In a genre and industry where women have been severely underrepresented, the Ostara Project is a beautiful example of perseverance, community, and a deep love for the music. Like the Germanic goddess of the spring the group is named for, the music of Ostara is creativity rising out of darkness, reaching for light and growth, propelled by hope.
The Ostara Project 2023 summer festival musicians:
Jod Proznick: bass
Marianne Trudel: piano
Laila Biali: vocals and keys
Rachel Therrien: trumpet
Allison Au: saxophone
Valèrie Lacombe: drums
Shruti Ramani: vocals