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Besides a sharp spike in the sale of pipe cleaners and beard trimmers, the arrival of 7,000 jazz fans for the 30th annual International Association for Jazz Education conference means a great week for live jazz in Toronto. Between official conference showcases, unofficial parties, spinoff events and anti-festivals, almost everyone with a saxophone or an upright bass will be active over the next three days. Here are some of the highlights.
Terence Blanchard, Top o’ the Senator, through Sunday
Jeri Brown Quintet, Indian Motorcycle Café, Friday
Renee Rosnes, ROM, Friday
Nick Ali and Cruzao with guest Randy Brecker, Lula Lounge, Friday
Not to be outdone, Toronto saxophonist Glen Hall throws his own mini-festival of improvised music at Oasis tonight (Thursday) through Saturday featuring the Free Work Band, Tim Posgate Horn Band, Barnyard Drama and EAR-Cam. See Club Listings for full details.