The Apeiron Strings Collective

Presented by Hart House Music Committee

The Apeiron Strings Collective 

Combining the talents of Hart House's own Chamber Strings and those of local, hip singer/songwriters, this concert promises to deliver a full, urban sound and a variety of musical stylings. Stages is proud to put a spotlight on student emergent talent with this concert that features string arrangements by Hart House Chamber Strings member Blaise Alleyne.

Featuring Alanna J Brown, Darrelle London, Gavin Slate, The MacHams, Mike Celia and Sarah Loucks.

When: Thursday, March 8, 2012 at 8pm

Where: Arbor Room, Hart House

Cost: FREE!

Alanna J Brown is a singer/songwriter/guitarist from the Beaches, Toronto. She graduated with her B.Mus. from Humber College's Jazz/Contemporary music programme and has been working on her first full-length album of originals with JUNO award wining producer/engineer Jeff Wolpert. Alanna has been writing and performing her own music since the age of 13 and released her EP titled "Tuesday's Coming" in March, 2011. This EP was an art project of Alanna's original tunes, featuring some of Blaise Alleyne's string arrangements. Alanna has dedicated her life to being a writer and performer and is currently planning her first tour around North America. She plays local Toronto venues often. Keep an eye out for her album in the spring and listen for her single "Accelerate" on the radio coming soon!

Alanna's Website

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Upon discovering Darrelle’s music online, celebrity blogger Perez Hilton wrote on his website, "we are IN LOVE with this artist from Toronto, Darrelle London. She totally hits our sweet spot: female vocalist with a pretty voice singing pretty songs." London's unique voice and playful songs have also caught the attention of fellow Canadian, Chantal Kreviazuk. The two met in 2010 and wrote three songs for Darrelle's new album, one of which Kreviazuk produced and sang backing vocals on. Of her sessions with Darrelle, Kreviazuk says, "she sings from her heart, and her gentle unique approach to music is so special, it is a pleasure to be immersed in." Darrelle was thrilled in spring of 2010 to learn that international star Sarah McLachlan, along with a judging committee, had chosen her as the Toronto Lilith Talent Search Winner to perform at Lilith Fair. Darrelle has toured extensively, performing at legendary venues such as Hollywood’s Troubadour Club and Hotel Cafe, as well as r enowned festivals such as Lilith Fair, North by Northeast, Canadian Music Week and International Pop Overthrow. She has been featured on MuchMusic, ET Canada, MTVMusic.com, Perezhilton.com, CBC, PBS, and on the official 90210 TV Soundtrack CD. Darrelle is on the verge of releasing her sophomore album, "Eat a Peach."

Darrelle's Website

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A hush fell over the crowded room at the legendary Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Tennessee as Gavin Slate strummed the emotional opening bars of "Goodnight Lovers, Goodnight Thieves." Months earlier, the same song grabbed attention in Shark City (starring Vivica A. Fox and Corey Haim) when it premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. And now, Life as a Salesman, Gavin’s new EP provides a living room listening experience for the tunes that have been capturing the hearts of fans from cafes to venues throughout North America. Life as a Salesman brings love, commitment and compassion together to melt the heart of any hopeless romantic. His recent song placements in the television shows Degrassi: The Next Generation, Out With Dad and West 49 Ambition have generated a multitude of followers both at his live shows and on his website. Gavin Slate’s innate songwriting ability and his natural performance style engage every audience he encounters.

Gavin's Website

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From a musical family in Toronto, come 3 brothers (also, 3 teachers): George, Noel and JP. Their indie rock band shakes the airwaves with their fresh new sound: edgy rock meets feel-good vibes. Their debut full-length album STARE SMILE TALK is loaded with lyrics about the joys, uncertainties and pitfalls of relationships. The MacHams are great showmen too! the brothers were awarded the TIMA "Best Live" award and HMFF's "Best Musical Act" award.  While delivering solid performances in recent festivals such as Indie Week 2011, The MacHams continue to grow in their musical journey by frequently writing and recording new material. Catch The MacHams at Canadian Music Fest 2012!

The MacHams Website

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This singer/songwriter had been honing his craft since his early teens before breaking onto the scene with a performance at Hugh's Room in Toronto. Growing up to everything from the smooth new age jazz to funky soul, he developed his own personal sound and style, probably best described as poppy combined with soulful rhythm and blues. Mike captivates audiences with his acoustic guitar, sand-paper vocals and very personal lyrics. He was featured on the soundtrack of the motion picture, has toured Canada, performed live-to-air on the radio, and has appeared as a guest and featured artist on live television.

Mike's Website

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Sarah Loucks sees nothing but open doors. With a background in classical piano, dance and theatre training, the stage is her second home. Through her vast training and artistic influences, Sarah has found herself a niche as a singer/songwriter. As a songwriter, Sarah hands us tangible evidence that she has talent to sustain her efforts and ambitions. Her lyrics are honest and descriptive. Sarah's rich vocal ability will lead you to believe that she is well-seasoned beyond her years. Originally from Peterborough, Ontario, Sarah Loucks has spent time in various parts of the country studying the arts and working on her songwriting. Sarah released her first album entitled, "Keep What You Keep" in 2006. After touring back and forth across North America for the past three years, Sarah finally returned home to record and release her second independent album, "Be As It Should (Dec.2009). The songs are a manifestation of Sarah's integrity, passion and observations. Having been compare d to the likes of Norah Jones and Sarah McLachlan, Loucks finds herself in good company.

Sarah's Website

About Stages: Stages is the cutting edge of emerging urban talent on and off campus. We've hosted K-OS, LAL, Martina Sorbara, Eternia & Masia One, Lazo, Wade O. Brown and Lorraine Reid & some of Toronto's hottest DJ's. Whether we're discussing Urban Music or just playin' it Stages is your hot ticket on Thursday nights!