Musician promises to swing the Townshend

Tyler Yarema is a high-energy “boogie-woogie” player who will be coming to the Townshend Theatre next Tuesday (March 27) at 7:30 p.m. to play his own style of jazz–mixed with a touch of blues and swing.
One of the latest to join the recent crop of young, talented musicians sweeping North American, Yarema has been wowing audiences since he burst onto the music scene seven years ago.
Jim Avis, programmer for “tour de Fort,” is looking forward to Yarema’s performance and is certain the audience will be in for a good show.
“Tyler Yarema is sooo cool,” Avis said. “It’s just a great swing band with lively music that makes you want to dance. Swing is back.”
Joining Yarema here will be trumpeter Chris Whitley, alto and baritone saxophonist Chris Gale, acoustic guitarist Jesse Barksdale, bassist Mike Carson, drummer Bob Vespaziani, background vocalists Tory Cassis, Jake Chisholm and Terry Wilkins, and special guest cornetist Heals Benedict.
Yarema’s band quickly has become one of the most sought-after swing/boogie-woogie groups in Toronto.
And with regular appearances at The Reservoir Lounge in Toronto, and numerous other performances at clubs, festivals, and galas around the country, Tyler Yarema and His Rhythm have developed a large, loyal following that continues to grow.
“I think our ‘tour de Fort’ audience will love this band,” said Wanda Botsford, head of publicity for the local concert series. “Tyler Yarema is one of the busiest young musicians on the Toronto blues scene.”
Starting to play the piano at the age of 16, Yarema gravitated toward exploring modern blues stylings. But as his technique developed, he began to discover and study the works of older musicians like Otis Spann, Meade Lux Lewis, Albert Ammons, Pete Johnson, Fats Waller, and Duke Ellington.
With an ability to play a wide range of styles under the blues and jazz umbrella, Yarema and his band are on the cutting edge of the old and new with their own vibrant music signature with Yarema on vocals and keyboards.
“It’s like the music on the Gap commercials,” noted Avis. “The kids love Tyler Yarema.”
A reminder this concert is sold-out to “tour de Fort” passport holders.