In fall of 2021 Monik went to Sweden to study with composer Ann-Sofi Söderqvist and now the Victoria Jazz Orchestra is gearing up for a concert on November 19 at Hermann’s Upstairs to perform Music from Sweden.  The first half of the concert will feature Söderqvist’s work and the second half will feature Monik’s work, along with some Canadian favourites by Hugh Fraser and Ian McDougall.

Joining the Orchestra for this show is vocalist Jennifer Scott, a far-reaching talent who has collaborated with the likes of Tommy Banks, Kenny Wheeler, and Clark Terry.  Jennifer “brings a striking emotional intelligence to everything she sings, no matter the context. As much a song stylist as an improviser, she puts her stamp on material through her supple sense of swing and deft, slippery phrasing” (Seattle Times).  In 2018 she joined the Victoria Jazz Orchestra at the Nanaimo Jazz Fest for a performance with the Mingus Dynasty Band and excerpts can be heard here

Rainy Night House | The Victoria Jazz Orchestra (bandcamp.com)

Tickets are available here Music from Sweden

Also joining the Victoria Jazz Orchestra on November 19 are section leaders

Derrick Milton on lead trumpet

Doug Awai on lead alto

Jeff Agopsowicz on lead trombone