November 30th Meridian Arts Centre, Weston Recital Hall, 5040 Yonge St.
Cécile McLorin Salvant,
This Saturday Night
By Stephen Weir
Cécile McLorin Salvant, 35, is a Haitian-American jazz vocalist who is in high demand worldwide. She has quickly become one of the most highly regarded US-based jazz vocalists of her generation, earning a trunk full of music awards along the way. Her stunning vocal range and ability to reimagine jazz standards have earned her praise from critics and fans alike.
Cécile has performed in Canada five times already, and this Saturday will mark her sixth performance in the country when she brings her current tour to Toronto’s Meridian Arts Centre. The concert will take place on Saturday, November 30th, 2024, at the Weston Recital Hall, located at 5040 Yonge St., Toronto. The show is set to start at 8:00 p.m., and tickets are still available, though they are expected to sell out soon.
Known for her exceptional ability to blend classical jazz with a wide range of influences, Cécile McLorin Salvant has created a sound uniquely her own. Her collaborations with brilliant pianist Sullivan Fortner have produced some of her most striking and innovative work. Fortner, an accomplished master of improvisation, brings his own deep artistry to their performances, creating a musical synergy that is both captivating and awe-inspiring.
In March 2023, Cécile released her album Occitan, English, and Haitian Kreyòl, which further solidified her reputation as a boundary-pushing artist. The album, which features songs sung in English, Haitian Kreyòl, and Occitan, was nominated for two Grammy Awards. Her music is not only deeply personal but also resonates with diverse audiences, as she seamlessly weaves her Haitian roots into the fabric of her work.
Cécile is known for her eclectic musical tastes, and she writes much of her own material. Some of her compositions lean toward torch songs, while others maintain a firm grounding in jazz traditions. In addition to her original works, Cécile’s interpretations of jazz standards are often infused with her own distinct style. For Toronto’s growing Haitian community, she often sings in French and Creole, offering a touch of home to her audience.
One of the most compelling aspects of her performances is her ability to reimagine iconic songs. For example, her rendition of "The Trolley Song" brings a fresh and unique jazz interpretation to the classic tune, which was originally introduced by Judy Garland in the 1944 film Meet Me in St. Louis. Written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, the song will celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2024, and Cécile's version brings new life to this timeless piece.
Additionally, Cécile McLorin Salvant has explored the world of Bob Dylan, bringing her own take on his ballads. Her ability to infuse these songs with a jazz sensibility while maintaining their original emotional depth demonstrates her remarkable versatility and range as an artist.
Toronto is in for a treat this Saturday as Cécile McLorin Salvant brings her mesmerizing voice and innovative artistry to the stage. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her music, this performance promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to witness one of the most gifted jazz vocalists of our time live in concert.
The concert will begin at 8:00 p.m. at the Meridian Arts Centre, Weston Recital Hall, 5040 Yonge St., Toronto November 30th
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