marcelaucoin.com: journal

Michael Holt and I have started a new monthly series.The second Sunday of each month, at a different Toronto home with an acoustic piano, we're going to have two performers for you, as well as a speaker who will present and lead a conversation on an interesting topic. The first salon is going to be on Sunday January 11th at Mike's loft in The Dundas West Arts Building. Ryan Driver will sing a mix of standards and originals, accompanying himself on piano. Then Canadian Association of Songwriters board member Joan Besen will speak about the exciting, controversial SAC-sponsored proposal to monetize music downloads so music creators can actually get paid for their work. Finally, Aucoin/Aldcoft/Rampersaud will play a set of improvised music. Future salons will feature Bob Wiseman's piano and films, Laura Barrett, Mantler doing his songs completely on acoustic piano, Gazaleh Etezal of TheStorefront talking about The Big Dinner she organized on Bloor Street West last June, and many more performers and speakers. And we're going to kick of the series with a potluck dinner. So come with or without food, ready to eat, hear some great music, and talk about art, culture, politics, and whatever else at the Sunday Evening Piano Salon.

This month: Scott Marshall on flute, clarinet, and tenor, Tilman Lewis on cello and Jeff Luciani on drums. Scott spilled a beer, but other than that the evening was a total success. Thank you gentlemen!

This month's Pink Window featured Robin Buckley on drums, Rob Piilonen on flute, Dan Goldman on guitar, and Sarah Sugarman on violin. It was definitely the silliest Pink window yet and the most fun. Thanks to everyone who came out.

This month's pink window featured Justin Haynes and Brian Moore on guitars, Colin Anthony on keyboards, Nick Fraser on drums, Scott Marshall on saxophone, and myself on accordion and cheap synthesizer.

the 1st session of the pink window was a great success! Many thanks to Mr. Glen Hall, Colin Fisher, Brandon Valdiva, Elie Katzin, and Dougal Bichan for coming out and creating some great music on a chilly december night.

In the tradition of the New York loft scene of the 60's and 70's (except it will be held in my much smaller bachelor apartment), I am attempting a new series entitled the PINK WINDOW. The series is open to all improvisers, and the emphasis will be on free improvisation (no fake books allowed). There will be some complimentary snacks and drinks (herbal tea, salty things, a small amount of beer) and you are welcome to bring your own snacks and/or drinks as well. Please check the calendar for the next installment of the series. Hope to see you there!