A Celebration of Choral Classics

Director Matthew Jaskiewicz leaves behind a legacy of unity and talent with the Toronto Concert Choir

By Terri Edward

On Saturday Dec. 2, the Toronto Concert Choir will perform their final concert at the Knox Presbyterian Church (Photo by Ylanite Koppens)

On a quiet Monday night in Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) Kerr Hall, a classroom suited for small lectures had a group of novice and advanced singers come together. Cracking jokes and exchanging stories, they carry folders of sheet music to use for the night. These members meet every week, full of dedication and excitement to practice their craft; classical choral music. 

This weekly celebration of music is a regular routine for the Toronto Concert Choir, a TMU affiliated classical choir founded in 1984 previously under the name Oakham House Choir. Leading the group is experienced music director Matthew Jaskiewicz, who founded the choir alongside Marie Dowler in 1984. 

Jaskiewicz’ musical journey began in Poland where he conducted the Warsaw University Choir. Since immigrating to Canada in 1984 and founding the Toronto Concert Choir, Jaskiewicz has made it his mission to keep traditional music alive on campus by providing a space for musicians of all skill levels to grow and experience the gift of classic choral music.

After over 35 years of choral performance, the choir is approaching its final performance on Dec. 2, 2023.

Jaskiewicz's experience in classical music has shaped the way he directs the Toronto Concert Choir as he said that he “keeps doing what [he] used to do.” From Poland to Canada, Jaskiewicz has nurtured the foundations of music and the choir has continued this tradition, nurturing both the music and him. He has referred to the choir as his “adopted family” and Canada his “adopted home.”

“This is a very special kind of group, those are all sensitive people, people who like and know how to work together for a common goal,” Jaskiewicz expressed. “They are very loyal, wonderful people, [they] are my best friends.”

Although there was a decline in the choir’s membership after the COVID-19 pandemic, the sense of community is undeniable — something reiterated by Akua Benjamin, a longtime member of the choir.

“You have people who are trained, but you [also] have people like me [who] just love to sing.” Benjamin said, praising Jaskiewicz’ ability to bring together vocalists from different backgrounds and giving everyone the opportunity to express their love for choral music.

The communal and supportive energy present during rehearsals is apparent from the moment you step through the door. Mingling and laughter fill the small room, with many members describing the choir as a found family. A majority of the 28 members came prepared with thick binders of sheet music, showing their dedication to the space and to Jaskiewicz’ direction. Not only is Jaskiewicz a main contributor to the positive environment of the choir, but a recipient of the positivity. Members are eager to support and assist Jaskiewicz, even offering to help him find his missing page and with the pronunciation of French lyrics.

“Everyone’s very welcoming,” said choir member Eleanor Bishop, toward others in the group. “[Jaskiewicz] brings a lot of passion and patience to the choir, and we couldn’t do without him.”

Shelagh Cowie began singing with the Toronto Concert Choir in the 90s. To her, the community was especially important during the pandemic, as it was one of the few ways people could connect with each other.

“[Jaskiewicz is] absolutely vital, without him there wouldn’t be this community. He’s the reason we exist.” Cowie said when asked about Jaskiewicz impact on the choir’s community and overall energy.

Despite the passionate members, an inspired director and supportive staff, a lack of interest and financial support have left the choir with nowhere to turn.

The Toronto Concert Choir's last concert will take place this Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Knox Presbyterian Church. The concert titled The Very Best Time of Year will feature the work of Franz Hubert and incorporate traditions and songs from around the world. The concert aims to blend choral classics with contemporary Christmas carols.

“After this concert, we will be left with nothing,” said Theresa Adams, the choir’s administrative director. “We are knocking on a lot of doors.”

Yet, the knocks of the choir seem to be going unanswered as the date of their final performance goes closer.

As community members celebrated the choir, Jaskiewicz had a lingering question.

“We are very proud of our history, but what's the future?”

The closing of the choir leaves a gap at TMU, and Jaskiewicz fears that this space will not be filled. While his history and experience facilitate his role in the classical music sphere, his encouragement for other groups to explore more genres is profound. He expressed joy at an hypothetical of the university hosting several choirs as both Jaskiewicz and Adams agreed on a need for arts and music at TMU.

The choir has acted as a community for a wide range of people to come together and create music alongside one another. They were able to fight through a global pandemic and continue performing during a decline of interest in classical music.

“[COVID-19] killed a lot of choirs, but we didn't want to let it kill ours.” Adams said, describing the choir's sense of feeling “lost” after the pandemic.

Jaskiewicz and the Toronto Concert Choir have a profound history of perseverance and adaptability; they have created a large impact and a lasting legacy at TMU. However, instead of solely celebrating the choir, Matthew asked that we think towards the future, forging a space for “artistic life" on campus.

You can get tickets to the Toronto Concert Choir's final performance on Eventbrite.

Indie music thrives at Grounders Music Festival

From sunlit stages to twilight tones, the Grounders all-day experience was one to remember. 

By Nalyn Tindall 

Emma Beckett Takes the stage at Grounders Music Festival (Nalyn Tindall/Canculture)

Grounders Music Festival brought life to OBJX Studio, showcasing the talent of nine artists from across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Conceived by two Toronto Metropolitan University students, the festival seamlessly blended various genres, ranging from indie to synth-pop, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere that resonated with both attendees and artists.

As the festival kicked off, the venue was bathed in sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm and inviting glow upon the bustling crowd of students, community members, and artists. The festival's commitment to community building and inclusivity was evident throughout the event, reflecting the passion and dedication of its student creators.

Shoshana Glory set the tone for the festival with her ethereal voice, accompanied by strong guitar skills, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that reverberated with indie charm. The seamless cohesion of her bedroom pop sound conveyed both finesse and power, with each note flowing effortlessly into the next. Glory’s performance not only showcased her technical proficiency but also created a tranquil ambiance, leaving attendees immersed in the soothing embrace of her music.

Sofia Aedon emerged onto the Grounders Music Festival stage with a magnetic presence, infusing the atmosphere with a bold and assertive energy that demanded attention. Her performance was characterized by deep, resonant vocals that seemed to echo through the venue, leaving an indelible impression on the audience. What set Aedon apart was not just her vocal prowess but also her remarkable versatility as a musician. In a display of skill, she effortlessly swapped instruments, showcasing a level of artistry that added an intriguing layer to her set.

Sofia Aedon shines at Grounders (Nalyn Tindall/CanCulture)

Emma Beckett's performance was nothing short of mesmerizing and stood out as my personal favourite. With her skillful use of a looping pedal, she crafted intricate layers of sound that enveloped the audience in a dreamy and soulful atmosphere. Her authentic sound, a refreshing departure from the mainstream, resonated with a genuine and heartfelt quality that elevated the entire festival experience. The dynamic highs and lows of her music created a sonic journey, guiding the audience through peaks of emotion and valleys of introspection. What truly set Beckett apart was not just her technical prowess but also her lyrical authenticity. Each word she sang felt like a personal revelation, weaving a narrative that resonated with the collective experiences of the audience.  Including the lyrics in the song “Little Ways,” which tell the story of sacrificial love with impactful lines like “I hate to lose but you can beat me if you want.” 

Curt James, featuring an eclectic three-piece setup, delivered a mellow and smooth performance, complemented by the venue bathed in a purple sunset. The combination of soothing harmonies and driving rhythms not only showcased musical richness but also seamlessly transitioned the atmosphere into a nighttime mood, adding an extra layer of beauty to an already impressive performance.

Curt James ushers in the sunset during his set (Nalyn Tindall/CanCulture)

Nia Nadurata fearlessly embraced intensity and authenticity throughout her performance. With unbridled passion, she navigated the realms of raw and authentic rock. The powerful instrumentation served as a driving force, complementing Nadurata's emotive vocals. In a particularly noteworthy rendition, their cover of Amy Winehouse’s "Valerie" not only paid homage to the original but also showcased their ability to infuse a classic with their own unique flair. Nadurata's vocal prowess, coupled with the band's adept instrumentation, created an emotionally charged rock performance. 

City Builders brought an EDM flair to the festival, featuring airy vocals and a drum pad. The duo's stage presence was palpable, creating an electric atmosphere that resonated with the crowd and, much like a couple deeply in love, their synergy elevated the performance, making it a standout moment in the vibrant lineup.

Jules Auckland commanded the stage with undeniable charisma, boasting a great stage presence that captivated the audience from the first note. Her beautiful voice resonated throughout the venue, adding a melodic and enchanting quality to her performance. The fusion of fun indie pop and rock elements in her sound created an energy that was both invigorating and infectious, making it impossible for the crowd to resist moving to the rhythm. 

The Beans took the stage with an infectious blend of funky grooves and rock rhythms, channelling the spirit of the 70s with a brashy, retro vibe. Their performance resonated with a distinct energy that reverberated through the venue, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the golden era of rock. As a collective, The Beans showcased remarkable strength, seamlessly intertwining their individual talents into a cohesive and dynamic sound. The audience was treated to a musical journey that not only paid homage to the past but also injected a fresh and invigorating new spirit into their music. 

Heavenly Blue closed the festival on a high note, leaving attendees with a memorable musical experience. The band's indie rock charm infused the closing moments with an irresistible energy, uniting the audience in dance and high-energy music that added the perfect final touch to the vibrant atmosphere of Grounders Music Festival.

Nia Nadurata ushers in the nighttime set (Nalyn Tindall/CanCulture)

The festival not only delighted the senses with its eclectic musical lineup but also provided a shopping haven for attendees. There were multiple vendors offering an array of handcrafted goods, vintage clothing, and even a booth equipped to apply tooth gems. As festival-goers explored the diverse offerings, they were treated not only to the sounds of the live performances but also to the visual and tactile delights of unique, locally crafted items. There were also free refreshments as well as a bar offering a variety of locally crafted drinks, further enhancing the communal and celebratory atmosphere of the festival.

The meticulous recording throughout the festival ensures that the artists' performances can be enjoyed beyond the live event. This thoughtful approach aligns with the festival's goal of creating a lasting impact on the community and providing a platform for underrepresented voices in the music industry. Overall, Grounders Music Festival succeeded in bringing together a rich tapestry of impressive musical talent, creating a memorable and inclusive event for all. The nine artists showcased during the festival were able to bring their own charm and sound to what was overall a very cohesive line-up of spectacular local talent.

The journey to find Toronto’s best discount bookstore

We toured four local bookstores with bargain prices to find the very best options for readers on a budget

By: Lama Alshami

The first bookstore CanCulture toured, ABC Books, near Wellesley Station. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

It’s no secret that in Toronto and other major cities across Canada, money can be tight for university students. Rent, food and transportation take priority, so spending on our hobbies is relegated to the back burner.

Inflation has even further exacerbated this issue. With many Torontonians barely being able to cover groceries, book prices are just too high to justify. Fortunately, Toronto is filled with discount bookstores that recognize the need for inexpensive and accessible books. 

In hopes of finding a replacement for the retail giants, CanCulture contributor Lama Alshami visited four Toronto bookstores and ranked them based on their prices, selection of books and proximity to the Toronto Metropolitan University's campus. The following bookstores are sure to help you cut costs and enhance your personal library. 

ABC Books

By Yonge and Wellesley Streets, this bookstore can be easily identified by two bright, colourful murals on either side of the doors. A four-minute subway ride from Dundas Station and a quick five-minute walk will take you right to the storefront.

Immediately, you will notice the bright red cart of marked-down books positioned directly outside the entrance, with prices ranging from $2.99 down to as low as 50 cents. Inside the shop, the average price of books is five dollars, with a discount of more than 70 per cent off the original selling price on the majority of books.

The exterior of ABC Books, with its red carts, at the storefront on 662 Yonge St, Toronto. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

The store houses many young adult novels and new releases, as well as a large number of textbooks, dictionaries, classics and even TV shows on DVD like a full set of Gilmore Girls.

The philosophy section inside ABC Books. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

One thing to note about this shop is that the books are not organized by the author’s last name, so you may need help from staff to navigate the store and find what you’re looking for.

We found that ABC Books had the cheapest prices out of all the bookstores toured, as well as the most comprehensive availability. Although not the closest option, it is only 10 minutes from Dundas Station, making its location accessible tofor TMU students.

BMV

A massive sign with the letters ‘BMV’ in bright red and a row of glowing neon signs dominating the vast storefront will let you know that you are in the right place.

The bright red BMV sign displayed outside the store at one of its three locations on 10 Edward St, Toronto. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

“Read more. Spend less,” is BMV’s slogan, which they definitely hold true to. While they started by selling secondhand books, they now also sell new books at a discounted cost, though their secondhand books are significantly cheaper.

From political science to young adult fiction, BMV has an expansive selection of different genres, including many nonfiction titles. Magazines, textbooks, vinyl records and CDs are just another example of what this large store offers shoppers. For those interested in graphic novels and comic books, BMV’s Bloor Street location is the place to go.

The entrance to BMV on Edward Street with newly released books on display on the front tables. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

BMV has three locations scattered across Toronto, with the Edward Street location just a two-minute walk from the Sheldon and Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre. While the BMV has a wide range of books and well-organized shelves, its prices are slightly more expensive than ABC Books, situating it in second place.

She Said Boom

Outside of She Said Boom at its second location on 378 College St, Toronto. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

Named after the song “She Said Boom” by Toronto band Fifth Column, this bookstore specializes in both music and literature. The store is on the smaller side, with a quaint vibe that instantly welcomes you in. Although the store has a small selection of new releases, it focuses on buying and selling used books, ranging from crime to classics. While the store is not the most affordable, most books are at least half their original sale price.

Given that the store was named after a song, they also offer a large array of both new and used vinyl in many different genres, most by Canadian artists.

A collection of various genres of vinyl records in front of the literature section at She Said Boom. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

A 10-minute ride from the TMU campus on the College Street streetcar will drop you off directly in front of this charming bookstore on Borden and College. Since this shop is significantly smaller and not quite as affordable as BMV or ABC Books, it comes in third place.

Causa Culture

The stairs up to Causa Culture’s front door at 13 Kensington Ave, Toronto. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

Concealed behind tables of handmade jewellery, it can be easy to miss this hidden gem located in Kensington Market. You will be taking many twists and turns through the market to get here, and once you enter, you will be greeted not by books but by crystals, jewels and fossils.

The entrance to Causa Culture, filled with crystals, stones and jewellery. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

Further in, you will be met with seemingly endless stacks of books squeezed into the small rooms of the house-turned-bookstore. There are virtually no labels or organizational systems within the shop, and shoppers can almost end up lost in the unconventional layout. Though, what it lacks in organization, it makes up for in pricing, with most books having a 20-60 per cent discount off their original selling price.

Unorganized piles of books adorn the halls of Causa Culture. (Lama Alshami/CanCulture)

We do not suggest coming here with a specific book in mind, since it may be quite a struggle to pick a specific title out of the piles of books. Rather, just let yourself go with the flow and have a good time browsing.

Reading doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. With these four bookstores, you can satisfy your desire to read without hurting your wallet. Each of these stores offer a wide selection of books at discounted prices, all in unique cultural hubs across Toronto.

From class to concerts: Grounders Music Festival spotlights on local talent

From class to concerts: How two students turned their project into a performance festival

By: Anastasia Blosser

Attendees can purchase full-day tickets or choose only to attend the day or night portions. (Courtesy of groundersmusicfestival/ Instagram)

Sofia Shahbazzadeh and Helen Chen aren’t submitting the average practicum project. The two Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) students transformed their in-class pitch into a live music festival that will showcase the talent of local artists. Complete with vendors, an intimate venue and a high-tech video production, the Grounders Music Festival will occur on Nov. 4 and will be streamable afterwards. 

Grounders began as a final project during Shahbazzadeh and Chen's third year. The pair had known each other since high school and decided to combine their shared passion for audio, music and multi-camera production to pitch the music festival. They not only wanted to create a unique live experience for the community, but a fully produced concert video as well. 

Shahbazzadeh and Chen said that the support they received from their professors and peers helped move the festival forward. “It is a student-run project and there's a lot of love and energy that goes into it,” said Shahbazzadeh. “There's always people out there that want to help you and that believe in your project and your passion.” 

The festival is being put on by a group of women and non-binary creatives who wanted the lineup to reflect their diverse identities. They said they want to foster a sense of community among attendees and artists alike through the event. 

“It became a community building initiative and a place where the [Greater Toronto Area’s] community of arts can come together,” Shahbazzadeh said. 

Chen said that while casting performers, she considered obvious factors like the quality of the music and how the artists would contribute to the vibe of the festival, but also wanted to spotlight marginalized communities. “We were focused on finding musicians of colour, female and non-binary musicians, musicians that belong to the 2SLGBTQ+ community.”

Grounders embraces the concept of time as a driving force behind its curation. Separated into daytime and nighttime portions, the festival will feature nine artists and bands ranging from acoustic folk to experimental pop. The genres of music are intended to change throughout the day, mirroring the passage of time from afternoon to evening. Chen said the festival is a careful blend of acoustic folk, pop and rock, creating a dynamic atmosphere that will resonate with the audience.

The festival will be held in the Junction at OBJX Studios, which features floor-to-ceiling windows. Chen said that the team wanted a venue with a lot of natural lighting, so that the sky could be the festival’s backdrop and the music could match its atmosphere. 

Though not live-streamed, the show will be meticulously recorded so that the artists can have it as a portfolio piece or music fans can stream it. According to Shahbazzadeh, the polished videos will be posted on YouTube. She said she drew inspiration from NPR’s Tiny Desk concerts and wanted to mimic the series’ small and cozy ambience in the festival. 

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Grace Turner and Theo White started the band City Builders just before they began dating. They will be performing at Grounders as part of the nighttime set. 

Turner explained that musical collaboration came naturally to the pair. They said they both use music as a love language, whether they’re writing together or on their own. 

“The love that we put into this music comes from a very genuine place,” White said. “I think that translates in the music.”

White said that bands come together for pre-show rituals to ensure everyone is on the same page, but that coordination already exists when the only two members are dating. To him, performances are like a long and rather public date. “We spend the whole day together, we do an activity—which is practice—and then we have a date night—which is a performance.”

Turner said that even though she gets a bit nervous before performing, they always have fun once they’re up on stage together. No matter how large or unfamiliar the crowd may be, White said it's about sharing a moment and creating a connection with the people who come to listen to their music.

“Even if it's a room full of people we don't know, it feels like we're all connected in some sort of way and we're all here for a reason,” she said. “That's what kind of eases the intimidation of getting up on a stage.”

White promises that any audience that watches them perform will have a fresh and exciting experience. Their sets are filled with new songs, demos, and unreleased tracks, making every concert a unique experience for their audience. “Everyone who comes to our shows gets something that they've never heard before and maybe won't ever hear again.” 

Turner said that she’s excited to perform at Grounders but is ultimately looking forward to connecting with different creatives in one space. “One of my favourite parts about playing is talking to people after seeing what kind of art they make,” she said. 

The networking aspect of the festival ties back to the community-oriented approach that Chen and Shahbazzadeh are striving for. Chen said they want the concert to double as an artistic hub and a space for creatives to connect. “We want there to be vendors, food options and different industry professionals that maybe people can network with,” she said. 

Shahbazzadeh said that at its core, the festival is just a place where artists and music fans can congregate and talk to each other about their interests. 

This approach is aiming to create a sense of community and a vibrant atmosphere that fosters organic interactions between artists and attendees. Both have the opportunity to meet and collaborate with each other, fostering creativity and organic relationships that Shahbazzadeh and Chen hope can lead to future collaborations. 

Sofia Aëdon will be performing at the festival as part of the daytime set. With a high school background in theatre, she said she feels more comfortable performing in front of audiences because of her experience on stage. To her, putting on a character is an integral part of each show. Putting effort into her outfit and makeup not only enhances her confidence but also adds a unique dimension to her artistic expression.

Aëdon explained that she naturally slips into acting whenever she performs a set. “I think that it just makes me more confident,” she said. “It's me, but it's in a way that’s like playing a character on stage.”

Her performances are a blend of her authentic self and the character she portrays. This fusion of reality and artistry creates a captivating experience for her audience, leaving a lasting impression. 

Aëdon said that she wishes there were more festivals like Grounders, that aimed to showcase local talent.

Chen joked that if Grounders goes well, there may be more similar events planned in the future. 

Shahbazzadeh said there have been many sleepless nights as the team worked to bring the festival together. So when the event finally arrives, she just wants to soak in the experience. “I really want to enjoy the day and take it as it comes,” she said. “If I see smiles at the event, that would make my day.”

Check out this playlist to help you get ready for the Grounders Music Festival!