Juno Award Nominations

The Juno Award Nominations were recently announced. Here is a list of all the nominees.

Juno Fan Choice Award (Presented by Doritos) Gregory Charles Les Disques NBW*SONY BMG http://www.gregorycharles.com/ Finally receiving national attention, this Quebec artist had an instant hit with his album, I Think of You, comprised of songs that reflect on relationships and the challenges of love. In 2002, Charles premiered a one man show, Black and White, in Montreal, and eventually staged it in Toronto and New York, amassing 87 performances in all and winning 2004 Quebec Personality of the Year. Michael Bublé 143/Reprise*Warner http://www.michaelbuble.com The Vancouver-based crooner has sold more than 10 million albums worldwide. At the 2006 JUNO Awards, he took home the most wins, including Pop Album of the Year for his latest studio album, It’s Time; Single of the Year, Album of the Year and Artist of the Year. He was introduced to the music of the swing era by his grandfather, who would play everyone from Sinatra to Ella Fitzgerald. It’s Time hit No. 1 in Canada, Italy, Japan and Australia. Nelly Furtado Geffen*Universal http://www.nellyfurtado.com Furtado is back on top with Loose, her third album after 2003’s Folklore and 2000’s Whoa, Nelly! Songs like “Promiscuous” and “Maneater” show her sexy side, while the ballad “In God’s Hands” is a beautiful lament, pure and classic, that showcases her voice. Furtado, who was born in Victoria, BC, to Portuguese-Azorean parents, also includes on her album the Spanish-language percussive hop “No Hay Igual” and ballad “Te Busque. Nickelback EMI http://www.nickelback.com The four-member band has firmly established itself as one of the biggest, most consistent new rock acts in the world. The band’s fourth major label release, All The Right Reasons, is another multi-platinum smash, following the five-million-seller The Long Road and 10-million-seller Silver Side Up. Nickelback has been nominated for 19 JUNO Awards and have won nine. Sarah McLachlan Nettwerk*SONY BMG http://www.sarahmclachlan.com McLachlan’s holiday album is a 12-song collection and her first studio album since 2003’s Afterglow. Working with producer Pierre Marchand at her home studio in Vancouver, she reinvented classics such as “River,” “Song For A Winter’s Night,” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” McLachlan has sold more than 26 million albums worldwide throughout her career. Single Of The Year Devil In A Midnight Mass - Billy Talent Atlantic/WEA*Warner http://www.billytalent.com While Billy Talent II is the Toronto-based quartet’s sophomore album, the band has been playing together for 13 years. Comprised of frontman Ben Kowalewicz, guitarist Ian D’Sa, bassist Jon Gallant and drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, this year the band reached an incredible level of success including headlining hockey arenas across the country. Their first self-titled album, Billy Talent has won JUNO Awards for New Group of the Year (2004), Group of the Year (2005) and Album of the Year (2005). All I Can Do - Chantal Kreviazuk SONY BMG http://www.chantalonline.com After establishing herself as a premier songwriter by penning hits for Avril Lavigne, Gwen Stefani, Kelly Clarkson and others, Kreviazuk got to work on her new solo album, Ghost Stories. Written entirely by herself and husband Raine Maida of Our Lady Peace (who also produced the album), the resulting songs contain no guitar whatsoever and showcase her piano talent. She chose the title Ghost Stories because “there were ghosts all over the album,” Kreviazuk says. Pull Me Through - Jim Cuddy WEA*Warner http://www.jimcuddy.com With his rootsy rock band Blue Rodeo, Cuddy has released 10 studio albums, one live album, a greatest hits collection, and an award-winning DVD, selling in excess of four million copies around the world. In 1998, he released his first solo album, All In Time, and followed it with The Light That Guides You Home. Sunday Morning - k-os EMI http://www.k-osmusic.com In Canada, singer/rapper k-os continually nets gold and platinum sales and has garnered three JUNO Awards and a Grammy nomination for his work with The Chemical Brothers. Always pushing boundaries, Atlantis: Hymns For Disco mines a range of influences from the stirring '60s soul on the song "The Rain" to the Jailhouse Rock-nod in "Equalizer" and faintly-islandesque "Born To Run." Promiscuous feat. Timbaland - Nelly Furtado Geffen*Universal http://www.nellyfurtado.com Furtado is back on top with Loose, her third album after 2003’s Folklore and 2000’s Whoa, Nelly! Songs like “Promiscuous” and “Maneater” show her sexy side, while the ballad “In God’s Hands” is a beautiful lament, pure and classic, that showcases her voice. Furtado, who was born in Victoria, BC, to Portuguese-Azorean parents, also includes on her album the Spanish-language percussive hop “No Hay Igual” and ballad “Te Busque. International Album Of The Year Taking The Long Way - Dixie Chicks SONY BMG http://www.dixiechicks.com For the first time, every one of the album’s 14 songs are co-written by the Dixie Chicks themselves (Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, Emily Robison), exploring themes both deeply private and resoundingly political. Collaborating with legendary producer Rick Rubin (Johnny Cash, Run DMC, Red Hot Chili Peppers), the biggest-selling female band in history has pushed themselves as writers and players on Taking The Long Way. Ancora - Il Divo SONY BMG http://www.ildivo.com The four singers —a tenor from America, a vox populi from France, a baritone from Spain and a tenor from Switzerland — that comprise Il Divo are the brainchild of Simon Cowell. An instant success, selling more than five million albums worldwide, the quartet quickly followed its debut album with Ancora, which takes original music and well-known tracks and turns them into elegant, beautiful masterpieces. Last year, the group was the special guest on Barbra Streisand’s tour. FutureSex/LoveSounds - Justin Timberlake SONY BMG http://www.justintimberlake.com As one-fifth of the multi-platinum *NSYNC, Timberlake co-wrote the monster hits “Pop,” “Gone,” and “Girlfriend” and sold more than 30 million albums worldwide. As a solo artist, he sold more than seven million albums with Justified. His new solo disc, FutureSex/LoveSounds, is barreling into similar sales territory. The singles “SexyBack,” and “My Love” hit No. 1 in Canada. The latest single is “What Goes Around”. Confessions On A Dance Floor - Madonna Warner Bros*Warner http://www.madonna.com Madonna Louise Ciccone is a singer, songwriter, record and film producer, dancer, actress and author. She has also launched her own fashion line, M, for H&M. In 2000, Guinness World Records listed Madonna as the most successful female recording artist of all time, with estimated worldwide sales of 120 million albums. Her tenth studio album is titled Confessions On A Dance Floor. Stadium Arcadium - Red Hot Chili Peppers Warner Bros*Warner http://www.redhotchilipeppers.com Throughout their career, the Los Angeles-based band has successfully fused elements of alternative rock, punk, rap, funk, metal, and psychedelic rock. Fronted by Anthony Kiedis, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have sold more than 60 million albums worldwide. Their latest, Stadium Arcadium, is the band's ninth studio album and contains 38 songs. Album Of The Year (sponsored by CRIA) Billy Talent II - Billy Talent Atlantic/WEA*Warner http://www.billytalent.com While Billy Talent II is the Toronto-based quartet’s sophomore album, the band has been playing together for 13 years. Comprised of frontman Ben Kowalewicz, guitarist Ian D’Sa, bassist Jon Gallant and drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, this year the band reached an incredible level of success including headlining hockey arenas across the country. Their first self-titled album, Billy Talent has won JUNO Awards for New Group of the Year (2004), Group of the Year (2005) and Album of the Year (2005). I Think of You - Gregory Charles Les Disques NBW*SONY BMG http://www.gregorycharles.com Finally receiving national attention, this Quebec artist had an instant hit with his album, I Think of You, comprised of songs that reflect on relationships and the challenges of love. In 2002, Charles premiered a one man show, Black and White, in Montreal, and eventually staged it in Toronto and New York, amassing 87 performances in all and winning 2004 Quebec Personality of the Year. Hedley - Hedley Universal http://www.hedleyonline.com With a relentless touring schedule, Vancouver rock band Hedley has scanned more than 150,000 units in Canada. The four-member band recorded the album in separate sessions with Garth Richardson (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against The Machine) and Brian Howes (Hinder), and are working on their sophomore album. Loose - Nelly Furtado Geffen*Universal http://www.nellyfurtado.com Furtado is back on top with Loose, her third album after 2003’s Folklore and 2000’s Whoa, Nelly! Songs like “Promiscuous” and “Maneater” show her sexy side, while the ballad “In God’s Hands” is a beautiful lament, pure and classic, that showcases her voice. Furtado, who was born in Victoria, BC, to Portuguese-Azorean parents, also includes on her album the Spanish-language percussive hop “No Hay Igual” and ballad “Te Busque. ONE-X - Three Days Grace Zomba*SONY BMG http://website.threedaysgrace.com On ONE-X, the follow up to Three Days Grace’s 2003 self-titled debut, the band has come up with a raw, confessional album, in which frontman Adam Gontier delves into a sense of utter loneliness that ironically comes from being surrounded by other people. An amazingly honest album, he openly writes about his personal struggles on the road, but also how he rose above it. Artist Of The Year Diana Krall Verve*Universal http://www.dianakrall.com “This album coincides with a happier time in my life,” says the jazz singer/pianist. “I think it’s very obvious in the music. It reflects how I’m feeling now, the joy that I have in my marriage and family, and hopefully in the future.” From This Moment On is the tenth album for Krall, who is married to Elvis Costello, with whom she has twins. It was recorded with her quartet and the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Gregory Charles Les Disques NBW*SONY BMG http://www.gregorycharles.com Finally receiving national attention, this Quebec artist had an instant hit with his album, I Think of You, comprised of songs that reflect on relationships and the challenges of love. In 2002, Charles premiered a one man show, Black and White, in Montreal, and eventually staged it in Toronto and New York, amassing 87 performances in all and winning 2004 Quebec Personality of the Year. Loreena McKennitt Quinlan Roan*Universal http://www.loreenamckennitt.com Self-managed, self-produced, and head of her own internationally successful record label Quinlan Road, McKennitt’s career spans more than two decades. Her "eclectic Celtic" music has won critical acclaim worldwide and gold, platinum and multi-platinum sales awards across four continents. Her latest work is An Ancient Muse. Nelly Furtado Geffen*Universal http://www.nellyfurtado.com Furtado is back on top with Loose, her third album after 2003’s Folklore and 2000’s Whoa, Nelly! Songs like “Promiscuous” and “Maneater” show her sexy side, while the ballad “In God’s Hands” is a beautiful lament, pure and classic, that showcases her voice. Furtado, who was born in Victoria, BC, to Portuguese-Azorean parents, also includes on her album the Spanish-language percussive hop “No Hay Igual” and ballad “Te Busque. Pierre Lapointe Audiogram*Select http://www.pierrelapointe.com The singer from Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, has won many prizes since his debut, including six Felix Awards in 2005 and at least one in 2006. He is well known for his obscure, esoteric lyrics, which tend to be melancholy. Another distinct characteristic of his lyrics is his literary style. Group Of The Year Alexisonfire Distort*Universal http://www.theonlybandever.com With song subjects ranging from the Blizzard of 1977 to disenfranchised steadfast employees, the post-hardcore band’s latest album, Crisis, embodies darker themes than past releases. The St. Catharines, ON-based band has been together since 1991 and built a gold-plus fan base by touring constantly and making creative videos until radio came on board. Alexisonfire received a 2005 JUNO Award for New Group of the Year. Billy Talent Atlantic/WEA*Warner http://www.billytalent.com While Billy Talent II is the Toronto-based quartet’s sophomore album, the band has been playing together for 13 years. Comprised of frontman Ben Kowalewicz, guitarist Ian D’Sa, bassist Jon Gallant and drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, this year the band reached an incredible level of success including headlining hockey arenas across the country. Their first self-titled album, Billy Talent has won JUNO Awards for New Group of the Year (2004), Group of the Year (2005) and Album of the Year (2005). Hedley Universal http://www.hedleyonline.com With a relentless touring schedule, Vancouver rock band Hedley has scanned more than 150,000 units in Canada. The four-member band recorded the album in separate sessions with Garth Richardson (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against The Machine) and Brian Howes (Hinder), and are working on their sophomore album. The Tragically Hip The Tragically Hip*Universal http://www.thehip.com The multi-platinum-selling rock act from Kingston, Ontario, consists of Gordon Downie (frontman), Paul Langlois (guitar), Rob Baker (guitar), Gord Sinclair (bass) and Johnny Fay (drums). Formed in 1983, the band was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the 2005 JUNO Awards and received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2002. Bob Rock produced the Hip’s latest album, World Container. Three Days Grace Zomba*SONY BMG http://website.threedaysgrace.com On ONE-X, the follow up to Three Days Grace’s 2003 self-titled debut, the band has come up with a raw, confessional album, in which frontman Adam Gontier delves into a sense of utter loneliness that ironically comes from being surrounded by other people. An amazingly honest album, he openly writes about his personal struggles on the road, but also how he rose above it. New Artist Of The Year (sponsored by FACTOR and Canada's Private Radio Broadcasters) Eva Avila SONY BMG http://www.evaavila.com The 19-year-old, raised in Gatineau, Quebec, made her singing debut at age 3 in Ottawa’s Byward Market alongside her street musician father. Throughout her childhood, she would often record songs in his basement studio. Last year, she won CTV’s Canadian Idol and quickly released her debut album, Somewhere Else. The first single, “Meant To Fly,” written by Chantal Kreviazuk, reached No. 1 on the singles sales chart. Melissa O'Neil SONY BMG http://www.melissaoneil.com The first female Canadian Idol winner filled her self-titled debut with booming back-beats, catchy lyrics, danceable hooks and the powerhouse vocals that helped her win the television talent competition. The teenager from Calgary now lives in Toronto. Neverending White Lights Ocean*Fontana North http://www.neverendingwhitelights.com Neverending White Lights creator Daniel Victor cold-called and emailed artists to get them to appear on 2005’s Act 1: Goodbye Friends Of The Heavenly Bodies, and it worked — resulting in artists from Raine Maida (Our Lady Peace) to Dallas Green (Alexisonfire) making guest vocal appearances. The death-themed album, five years in the making, produced a Top 10 hit with “The Grace”. Patrick Watson Secret City*Fusion III http://www.patrickwatson.net Born in California, and raised in the small town of Hudson, Quebec, Patrick Watson began singing in local churches at the age of 7 and grew up studying classical and jazz piano. After creating music and releasing albums in various styles, he put together a four-piece band that performed with the likes of James Brown, Philip Glass, The Dears and the Stills in 2004 and 2005. In 2006, he released the album Close To Paradise. Tomi Swick WEA*Warner http://www.tomiswickmusic.com The 13 songs on the Hamilton, ON singer-songwriter and guitarist’s debut album, Stalled Out In The Doorway, tell honest tales of some of the harsh realities of relationships. His beautiful voice and lilting melodies sometimes belie the dark subject matter in many of the songs. He’s a rock ‘n’ roll troubadour, who draws inspiration from Radiohead and Jeff Buckley to James Taylor and The Beatles. New Group Of The Year (sponsored by FACTOR and Canada's Private Radio Broadcasters) Evans Blue Hollywood*Universal www.evansblue.com The Ontario-based rock band, which responded to an ad placed by Toronto’s The Pocket Studios, is now managed by the studio’s co-owner. Evans Blue then started recording there with producer Trevor Kustiak, resulting in the full-length recording, The Melody and the Energetic Nature of Volume, which was picked up by American label Hollywood. Idle Sons EMI http://www.idlesons.com The Burlington, ON rock band, formed in high school, first released some recordings using the name slurpymundae. It’s been a long road. Having signed a major deal in the U.S. but never having the album release, Idle Sons then landed a deal with EMI Music Canada, which hooked the band up with producer Garth Richardson helping to produce the album, Sixteen Seasons. Jets Overhead Microgroove*Warner http://www.jetsoverhead.com Since forming in 2003, this five-member band from Victoria, BC, has shared the stage with The Dandy Warhols, Sam Roberts, Our Lady Peace, The Stills and others. With their hypnotic take on trance rock, Jets Overhead recorded their first full-length album, Bridges, with producer Neil Osborne of 54.40. The album hit the Top 10 on the national college chart, while being a staple on XM and Sirius satellite radio. Mobile M&B*Universal http://mobiletheband.com The Montreal five-member rock band recorded their major label debut, Tomorrow Starts Today, with Canadian producer Matt DeMatteo (Big Wreck, Danko Jones, Ashley MacIsaac), and the first single, “Montreal Calling,” became an instant hit. The five writers and players have a passion for bands like Primal Scream, Stone Roses, The Police and Pink Floyd. Stabilo EMI http://www.stabilomusic.com Originally Stabilo Boss, the rock band from Vancouver formed in 1999 is best known for the song “Everybody,” “One More Pill” and “Flawed Design.” Stabilo’s second album, Happiness And Disaster, was released in 2006 and the single “Flawed Design” was followed with “Kidding Ourselves.” Last year, the band opened for INXS across the country. Songwriter Of The Year Gordie Sampson "Jesus Take The Wheel" - Brett James / Hillary Lindsay - SOME HEARTS - Carrie Underwood Arista*SONY BMG "Words Get In The Way" - Troy Verges / Aimee Mayo - DANGEROUS MAN - Trace Adkins Capitol Nashville*EMI "Crybaby" - Carolyn Dawn Johnson / Troy Verges - LOVE & NEGOTIATION - Carolyn Dawn Johnson Angeline*Universal http://www.gordiesampson.com A recording artist as well as a producer, Sampson is also now recognized as an award-winning songwriter since young country singer Carrie Underwood recorded his song “Jesus, Take the Wheel.” Trace Adkins covered Sampson’s “Words Get in the Way” and Carolyn Dawn Johnson recorded “Crybaby.” Sampson continues to write for other artists, while working on his next solo album. k-os "Sunday Morning" | "The Rain" | "Flypaper" - ATLANTIS: HYMNS FOR DISCO - k-os EMI http://www.k-osmusic.com In Canada, singer/rapper k-os continually nets gold and platinum sales and has garnered three JUNO Awards and a Grammy nomination for his work with The Chemical Brothers. Always pushing boundaries, Atlantis: Hymns For Disco mines a range of influences from the stirring '60s soul on the song "The Rain" to the Jailhouse Rock-nod in "Equalizer" and faintly-islandesque "Born To Run." Nickelback "Far Away" | "If Everyone Cared" | "Rockstar" - ALL THE RIGHT REASONS - Nickelback EMI http://www.nickelback.com The four-member band has firmly established itself as one of the biggest, most consistent new rock acts in the world. The band’s fourth major label release, All The Right Reasons, is another multi-platinum smash, following the five-million-seller The Long Road and 10-million-seller Silver Side Up. Nickelback has been nominated for 19 JUNO Awards and have won nine. Ron Sexsmith "All In Good Time" | "Never Give Up" | "Hands Of Time" - TIME BEING - Ron Sexsmith WEA*Warner http://www.ronsexsmith.com Time Being, Sexsmith's tenth release, marks a happy creative reunion with American producer Mitchell Froom (Elvis Costello, Crowded House, Paul McCartney). He produced Sexsmith’s first three major label albums. The latest is a sparkling collection of songs that range in tone from sad to surreal, melancholy to magical. Sarah Harmer "I Am Aglow" | "Oleander" | "Escarpment Blues" - I'M A MOUNTAIN - Sarah Harmer Cold Snap*Universal http://www.sarahharmer.com Harmer says "Most of these songs have been milling about in the back of my mind for a while now. 'I Am Aglow,' 'The Ring,' 'I'm A Mountain,' are tunes inspired by country music and bluegrass bands, singing for the joy of it, and telling new versions of old stories in song." The new folk song, "Escarpment Blues," tells the story of a current land-use conflict on the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Country Recording Of The Year (sponsored by Sirius Satellite Radio) Big Wheel - Aaron Pritchett OPM*Fusion III http://www.aaronpritchett.com The Vancouver country artist’s third album, Big Wheel, spawned a No. 3 country radio hit with its title track and stayed in the Top 10 for more than eight weeks, which is almost unheard of for an indie act. He has been recording for a decade and a half, and in 2005 was named Breakthrough Artist of the Year by FACTOR and won the Independent Male Artist of the Year title for the second year at the Canadian Country Music Awards. Love & Negotiation - Carolyn Dawn Johnson Angeline*Universal http://www.cdj.com This multi-faceted country musician plays piano, guitar and mandolin, as well as sings and writes songs. Once signed to Arista in Nashville, she dared to walk away from her contract and signed with Canadian indie label Angeline, a joint venture with Universal Music Canada. Her third CD, Love & Negotiation, was not only self-financed, but she produced eight of the 12 tracks. Doc Walker - Doc Walker Open Road*Universal http://www.docwalker.ca On the self-titled third album by Doc Walker, songs “That Train” and “Driving With The Brakes On” bring you back to the sweet, lazy-hazy, Eagles-inspired country of the ‘70s, while the riffing and rockin’ “Mama Don’t Know” and “I’m Alright” would do Keith Richards proud. The five Manitoba members recorded this disc in Winnipeg and Nashville. Countrified - Emerson Drive Midas Nashville*Navarre http://www.emersondrive.com Over the past few years, the six musicians of Emerson Drive have paid their dues, honed their skills and toured the country dozens of times. Their live show is so engaging that Shania Twain tapped them to open for her on her last major North American tour. The latest album from multiple award winners (ACM, Billboard, CCMA, R&R) ranges from party songs such as “Countrified Soul” to career ballads like “Everyday Woman.” Somebody Wrote Love - George Canyon Reiny Dawg*Universal http://www.georgecanyon.com The country singer who placed second in 2004’s Nashville Star talent search, signed a record deal with Universal South and released One Good Friend that same year. He went on to win a 2005 JUNO for Country Recording of the Year, among other awards at the Canadian Country Music Awards and East Coast Music Awards (which he hosted). His follow-up album is Somebody Wrote Love. Rap Recording Of The Year The Frenzy Of Renown - Arabesque Sin Nombre*Fontana North http://www.besque.com The Frenzy of Renown is the Toronto artist’s most personal album yet. Since signing with a U.K. label, Arabesque has landed a dozen singles on commercial radio and a handful of videos on MuchMusic and MTV, as well as received international press. Hitch Hikin' Music - Classified URBNET*Fontana North http://www.urbnet.com/classified/ His latest release, Hitch Hikin’ Music, is the follow-up to Boy-Cott-In The Industry, which sold more than 10,000 units, won a MMVA for Best Rap Video, an ECMA for Rap Recording of the Year, and a 2006 JUNO Award nomination for Rap Recording of the Year. The new album features 17 tracks, all self-produced, and featuring MC collaborations with Jay Bizzy, Maestro, and others. Organic Music For A Digital World - DL Incognito URBNET*Fontana North http://www.dlincognito.com Beginning his hip hop career in 1998 by showcasing, rhyming on mix tapes, appearing on radio shows and steadily developing a following, DL Incognito received a JUNO Award nomination in 2005 for his sophomore album, Life’s A Collection of Experiences. While his beats receive as much attention as his lyrics and performances, he is equally respected as an artist and producer. The Answer - Rich London feat. Shantall SoulClap*Universal http://www.richlondon.net Born Richard Davidson, he chose the MC name "Rich London" to honour the memory of his deceased uncle. When asked what separates him from the rest, the rapper states, "My style is not practiced. I listen to everything, I have no boundaries in music… My message is stop pretending on something unless you want people to know you're pretending." Black Magic - Swollen Members Swollen Members Music*Universal http://www.swollenmembers.com Madchild (MC), Prevail (MC) and Rob The Viking (producer/DJ), together as Vancouver’s Swollen Members, are Canada’s best-selling urban group of all time. The newest album, Black Magic, kicked off with the first official single, “Put Me On,” featuring Everlast and produced by Evidence. The group has won three JUNO Awards to date. Adult Alternative Album Of The Year The Light That Guides You Home - Jim Cuddy WEA*Warner http://www.jimcuddy.com With his rootsy rock band Blue Rodeo, Cuddy has released 10 studio albums, one live album, a greatest hits collection, and an award-winning DVD, selling in excess of four million copies around the world. In 1998, he released his first solo album, All In Time, and followed it with The Light That Guides You Home. When The Angels Make Contact - Matt Mays Sonic*Warner http://www.mattmays.com Produced by Mays and El Torpedo drummer Tim Jim Baker, the work combines influences that range from straight-up rock through hip hop and electronica. The album is the soundtrack to Mays’ ambitious film about J.J. Carver, a heartbroken man searching for his missing love. Unfortunately, the film has been shelved, however the album was released in November, 2006. Living With War - Neil Young Reprise*Warner http://www.neilyoung.com Neil Young is one of Canada’s leading singer-songwriters and continues to be a relevant musical force after a 40 year career. 2006’s Living With War is a collection of protest songs against the war in Iraq that features such titles as “Let’s Impeach The President” and “Lookin’ For A Leader.” Time Being - Ron Sexsmith WEA*Warner http://www.ronsexsmith.com Time Being, Sexsmith's tenth release, marks a happy creative reunion with American producer Mitchell Froom (Elvis Costello, Crowded House, Paul McCartney). He produced Sexsmith’s first three major label albums. The latest is a sparkling collection of songs that range in tone from sad to surreal, melancholy to magical. I'm A Mountain - Sarah Harmer ColdSnap*Universal http://www.sarahharmer.com Harmer says "Most of these songs have been milling about in the back of my mind for a while now. 'I Am Aglow,' 'The Ring,' 'I'm A Mountain,' are tunes inspired by country music and bluegrass bands, singing for the joy of it, and telling new versions of old stories in song." The new folk song, "Escarpment Blues," tells the story of a current land-use conflict on the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Alternative Album Of The Year Skelliconnection - Chad VanGaalen Flemish Eye*Outside http://www.flemisheye.com/chad.php His every day life is devoted to drawing, painting and recording songs, rarely leaving his colourfully painted house in Calgary. In the last two years, after the release of 2004’s Infiniheart, a group of fans helped spread the word about this intimate textured album, later picked up by Sub Pop. The follow-up, Skelliconnection, flirts with anthemic rock, prepared piano cartoon soundtracks and quirky banjo airs. Sometimes - City and Colour Dine Alone*Universal http://www.cityandcolour.ca The solo project from the Alexisonfire singer Dallas Green features melodically driven songs on solo acoustic guitar. With a poignant vocal style and lyrics that speak of impulse and introspection, he affects his audience by offering his own personal testimonies. The album, which has surpassed gold in Canada, landed City And Colour the People’s Choice Favourite Canadian Artist award at the 2006 MMVAs. Return To The Sea - Islands Equator*EMI http://www.islandsareforever.com Calling themselves a “non-genre specific band” from Montreal, helmed and founded by Nick Diamonds, Islands explores music best categorized as “other.” In what seems a tribute to the timeless sound of great pop music, the album, Return To The Sea, combines rhythms and sounds of cultures from the southern and eastern hemispheres, with even a dash of rap. Trompe-l'Oeil - Malajube Dare To Care*Outside http://www.malajube.com Songs from Malajube’s debut album Le Compte Complet, charted in Quebec’s college/university stations and on MusiquePlus. Their second album, Trompe-l-Oeil received attention in English-speaking Canada, in addition to earning Felix Awards in Quebec. With sounds oscillating between rock, punk and pop, the band distinguishes itself with insightful French lyrics. Not Saying/Just Saying - Shout Out Out Out Out Normals Welcome*Warner http://www.shoutoutoutoutout.com As the Edmonton group likes to say, “Shout out out out out = two drummers + four bass players + two samplers + five synthesizers + one vocoder.” On their myspace page, their music is listed as “electro/ disco house/ rock.” Conceived in May of 2004, this past July, they released their debut full-length, Not Saying / Just Saying, and a 12" single, “Dude You Feel Electrical.” Pop Album Of The Year Ghost Stories - Chantal Kreviazuk SONY BMG http://www.chantalonline.com After establishing herself as a premier songwriter by penning hits for Avril Lavigne, Gwen Stefani, Kelly Clarkson and others, Kreviazuk got to work on her new solo album, Ghost Stories. Written entirely by herself and husband Raine Maida of Our Lady Peace (who also produced the album), the resulting songs contain no guitar whatsoever and showcase her piano talent. She chose the title Ghost Stories because “there were ghosts all over the album,” Kreviazuk says. Atlantis:Hymns For Disco - k-os EMI http://www.k-osmusic.com In Canada, singer/rapper k-os continually nets gold and platinum sales and has garnered three JUNO Awards and a Grammy nomination for his work with The Chemical Brothers. Always pushing boundaries, Atlantis: Hymns For Disco mines a range of influences from the stirring '60s soul on the song "The Rain" to the Jailhouse Rock-nod in "Equalizer" and faintly-islandesque "Born To Run." Loose - Nelly Furtado Geffen*Universal http://www.nellyfurtado.com Furtado is back on top with Loose, her third album after 2003’s Folklore and 2000’s Whoa, Nelly! Songs like “Promiscuous” and “Maneater” show her sexy side, while the ballad “In God’s Hands” is a beautiful lament, pure and classic, that showcases her voice. Furtado, who was born in Victoria, BC, to Portuguese-Azorean parents, also includes on her album the Spanish-language percussive hop “No Hay Igual” and ballad “Te Busque. Wintersong - Sarah McLachlan Nettwerk*SONY BMG http://www.sarahmclachlan.com McLachlan’s holiday album is a 12-song collection and her first studio album since 2003’s Afterglow. Working with producer Pierre Marchand at her home studio in Vancouver, she reinvented classics such as “River,” “Song For A Winter’s Night,” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” McLachlan has sold more than 26 million albums worldwide throughout her career. Stalled Out In The Doorway - Tomi Swick WEA*Warner http://www.tomiswickmusic.com The 13 songs on the Hamilton, ON singer-songwriter and guitarist’s debut album, Stalled Out In The Doorway, tell honest tales of some of the harsh realities of relationships. His beautiful voice and lilting melodies sometimes belie the dark subject matter in many of the songs. He’s a rock ‘n’ roll troubadour, who draws inspiration from Radiohead and Jeff Buckley to James Taylor and The Beatles. Rock Album Of The Year Billy Talent II - Billy Talent Atlantic/WEA*Warner http://www.billytalent.com While Billy Talent II is the Toronto-based quartet’s sophomore album, the band has been playing together for 13 years. Comprised of frontman Ben Kowalewicz, guitarist Ian D’Sa, bassist Jon Gallant and drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, this year the band reached an incredible level of success including headlining hockey arenas across the country. Their first self-titled album, Billy Talent has won JUNO Awards for New Group of the Year (2004), Group of the Year (2005) and Album of the Year (2005). Tomorrow Starts Today - Mobile M&B*Universal http://mobiletheband.com The Montreal five-member rock band recorded their major label debut, Tomorrow Starts Today, with Canadian producer Matt DeMatteo (Big Wreck, Danko Jones, Ashley MacIsaac), and the first single, “Montreal Calling,” became an instant hit. The five writers and players have a passion for bands like Primal Scream, Stone Roses, The Police and Pink Floyd. Chemical City - Sam Roberts Secret Brain*Universal http://www.samrobertsband.com The rocker followed his full-length debut, We Were Born In A Flame, with the more ambitious Chemical City, recorded in Australia and in his native Montreal. The anthemic first single, "The Gate," serves as a cautionary tale about a "faded empire," while the acoustic rocker, "Bridge To Nowhere," also plays a part in the album’s overall sci-fi laden theme. Never Hear The End Of It - Sloan murderecords*SONY BMG http://www.sloanmusic.com/ Blink and there’s a different singer, a different person on drums. Four different configurations, they are each comfortable at whatever post they guard. Jay Ferguson, Chris Murphy, Patrick Pentland, and Andrew Scott have now been together as Sloan for 15 years. Never Hear The End Of It is the band’s eighth studio album and contains songs that clock in at :56 seconds, 5:37 minutes and everywhere in between. World Container - The Tragically Hip The Tragically Hip*Universal http://www.thehip.com The multi-platinum-selling rock act from Kingston, Ontario, consists of Gordon Downie (frontman), Paul Langlois (guitar), Rob Baker (guitar), Gord Sinclair (bass) and Johnny Fay (drums). Formed in 1983, the band was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the 2005 JUNO Awards and received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2002. Bob Rock produced the Hip’s latest album, World Container. Vocal Jazz Album Of The Year From This Moment On - Diana Krall Verve*Universal http://www.dianakrall.com “This album coincides with a happier time in my life,” says the jazz singer/pianist. “I think it’s very obvious in the music. It reflects how I’m feeling now, the joy that I have in my marriage and family, and hopefully in the future.” From This Moment On is the tenth album for Krall, who is married to Elvis Costello, with whom she has twins. It was recorded with her quartet and the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Start to Move - Elizabeth Shepherd Do Right Music*Outside http://www.elizabethshepherd.com Voted Best Jazz Artist of 2006 in Now magazine, singer-pianist Elizabeth Shepherd adds her unique blend of jazz-funk, soul, blues and samba to the fundamentals of jazz, performing alongside her rhythm section, bassist Scott Kemp and drummer Colin Kingsmore. Start To Move was co-produced by John Kong of the Movement Collective and mixes originals and classics. Fight or Flight? - Kellylee Evans ENLIVEN! Media*Festival http://www.KellyleeEvans.com She is a unique voice in the urban-jazz world. With a smooth style that slides through jazz, soul, R&B, blues and world music rhythms, her calming sound speaks volumes - rich, soothing, robust and energizing. As a songwriter, her first collection of songs comprise the extraordinary album, Fight or Flight? In 2004, she was awarded second place at the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Vocals Competition in Washington, DC. Calling For Rain - Lori Cullen Independent*Fontana North http://www.loricullen.com Poised to present herself both as an acoustic guitar playing singer-songwriter and the leader of a jazz structured quintet, Cullen is able to play both fields. Calling For Rain, her fourth recording, is a cover album, including great songs by Joni Mitchell, Bruce Cockburn, Harry Nilsson, Gordon Lightfoot, as well as two originals. Messin' Around - Molly Johnson Anthem*Universal http://www.mollyjohnson.com Her voice evokes the aura of the dark, smoky night clubs of a bygone era. Molly Johnson’s voice is filled with humour, joy, surprise, sassiness, and of course, love. The jazz recording, Messin’ Around, is the follow-up to 2003’s Another Day, which became a major hit in France. Johnson rose to fame in Canada with the 80’s band Alta Moda, a funky art rock group, and later with the more rockin’ sound of The Infidels. Contemporary Jazz Album Of The Year From the Heart - Hilario Duran and His Latin Jazz Big Band Alma*Universal http://www.hilarioduran.com With this album, Duran has realized his life-long dream. A showcase for the Cuban-born, Toronto-based musician’s love for his native country’s seminal jazz band orchestras, From The Heart features his rhythmically sophisticated compositions and sensual arrangements written for his new 20-piece Latin jazz big band. Hugmars - Hugh Marsh Cool Papa Music*Independent http://www.hughmarsh.com Largely regarded as Canada’s leading improvising violinists, Marsh’s chameleon-like versatility has allowed him to transcend different music genres. While he studied classical violin from age 5 to 20, it was picking up saxophone in high school that led him to explore other music, such as jazz, funk and R&B. Of note, Marsh is also the featured violin soloist on Hans Zimmer’s score to The Da Vinci Code. At Sea - Ingrid Jensen ArtistShare http://www.ingridjensen.com From her early days playing trumpet in the subways of New York to establishing herself as a leader and soloist in a wide array of musical genres, Jensen’s three CDs for the ENJA label earned three JUNO Award nominations, including a win in 1995 for Vernal Fields. Her latest album is entitled At Sea. Obsession - Kent Sangster Sangster Music*Spirit River http://www.kentsangster.com One of Canada's premier jazz saxophonists, Sangster is a multi-faceted musician of the highest regard. Obsession follows such critically acclaimed albums as 2003's A Matter Of Time, 1998’s Keeping The Spirit, and 1995’s Adventures. Sangster has performed with a number of great jazz bands, including Tommy Banks, Guido Basso, Ed Bickert and Randy Brecker. Moment In Time - Richard Underhill Stubby*Outside http://www.richardunderhill.com His wonderful warm alto saxophone sound, great writing and arranging skills and in-from-the-outside solos make Underhill one of Canada’s most distinctive jazz performers. He won a 2003 JUNO Award for his jazz album, Tales From The Blue Lounge, and was nominated for the Prix du Jazz at the 2003 Montreal Jazz Festival. Moment In Time is the founding Shuffle Demons member’s latest recording. Traditional Jazz Album Of The Year ZHEN: The David Braid Sextet Live, Volume II - David Braid Independent http://www.davidbraid.com Touted as one of the most gifted young pianists and composers in Canada, Braid is a 2005 JUNO Award winner and National Jazz Award recipient. He has performed across Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan and other parts of Asia. He also performs with the David Braid Sextet, the Murley-Braid Quartet, the trio Nehring, Koller & Braid, and as a duo with Phil Nimmons. Movin' & Groovin' - Jake Langley Alma*Universal http://www.jakelangley.com For the last few years, guitarist Jake Langley has been playing almost 200 dates a year with B3 organist Joey DeFrancesco and drummer Byron Lanham. The latest CD, Movin’ & Groovin’, captures the musicians’ soulful, collective blowing on a repertoire of hip, hard-bop classics and a pair of Langley’s groove-driven originals. The trio has played in Russia, Europe and all over North America. Avenue Standard - Jon Ballantyne Real Artist Works*CD Baby http://www.jonballantyne.com The Saskatchewan-born, New York-based JUNO Award winning jazz pianist has been very busy leading a quartet in Manhattan. With seven albums as a leader, Ballantyne released two solo piano recordings in 2006, Ever Since Now, featuring original compositions and Avenue Standard, featuring mostly standards. Mnemosyne's March - Mike Murley / David Braid Quartet Cornerstone*Festival http://www.mikemurley.com David Braid - Touted as one of the most gifted young pianists and composers in Canada, Braid is a 2005 JUNO Award winner and National Jazz Award recipient. He has performed across Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan and other parts of Asia. He also performs with the David Braid Sextet, the Murley-Braid Quartet, the trio Nehring, Koller & Braid, and as a duo with Phil Nimmons. Mike Murley - An engaging, lyrical saxophonist has emerged as one of the nation’s finest jazz talents. Currently active as a leader in various formations from duo to septet, Murley also maintains a busy schedule as a sideman with the David Braid Sextet, the Rob McConnell Tentet and the David Occhipinti Quartet, among others. Murley also co-leads a quartet with David Braid, with whom he released Mnemosyne's March. Other Stories - William Carn Independent http://www.williamcarn.com The trombonist, composer and clinician is one of Canada’s leading contemporary jazz composers and performers. He has played and recorded with such artists as Rob McConnell, Randy Brecker, Mike Murley and David Occhipinti. He also leads the William Carn Quintet and is a member of numerous ensembles. He is an instructor for both the University of Toronto Jazz Studies program and Humber College. Instrumental Album Of The Year (sponsored by Galaxie - CBC's Continuous Music Network) Recording a Tape the Colour of Light - Bell Orchestre Sanctuary*EMI http://www.bellorchestre.com Conceived in an old dance studio in central Montreal, the band employs strings, bells, horns, drums, stethoscopes, samples and quiet noise. Comprised of players from Arcade Fire, IKS, Torngat, Wooden Stars and Snailhouse, those who like Kronos Quartet, Aphex Twin, Penguin Café Orchestra, Autechre, Rachel’s, Arvo Part and Red Snapper will be intrigued. ...and another thing... - Joël Fafard Bayard Island*Festival http://www.joelfafard.com The gifted slide finger-style player writes stirring, melodic compositions that paint pictures as vivid as any song with words. He introduces them onstage with a hilarious commentary delivered in a “hillbilly farm-boy” stage persona. …and another thing…is his second collection of moving and atmospheric instrumentals that draws on roots, blues, country, bluegrass and even Celtic inspiration. Café Tropical - Johannes Linstead Earthscape Media*Trend Music http://www.johanneslinstead.com From three “best album” awards to four Top 10 charting albums to Top 10 radio play, Linstead has become internationally recognized as one of the best selling guitarist/composers in the nouveau flamenco genre. He plays guitar, piano, mandolin, bouzouki, bass, wood flute and various percussion. His sixth album is Café Tropical. Yours Truly - Natalie MacMaster Foreign Media Group*KOCH http://www.nataliemacmaster.com The East Coast native continues to stun crowds around the globe with her feverish fiddling and mesmerizing step dancing. Each new album displays a creativity and range that constantly expands the boundaries of the genre. Yours Truly is her tenth album. MacMaster, who picked up the fiddle at age 9, became one of the youngest people ever to be named a member of the prestigious Order of Canada. Run Neil Run - Sisters Euclid NorthernBlues*Festival http://www.kevinbreit.com There are no sisters in this quartet. Guitarist Kevin Breit (Norah Jones, Rosanne Cash) bassist Ian de Souza (LAL, Jesse Cook, Melanie Doane), organist Rob Gusevs and drummer Gary Taylor (The Downchild Blues Band, Jani Lauzon) join forces in this instrumental band, which formed in 1996. Francophone Album Of The Year Il était une fois dans l'est - Antoine Gratton Tacca*Select http://www.antoinegratton.com Since his first album, Montreal Motel, the multi-instrumentalist has contributed to albums by Faulkner, Painchaud, Dicaire and Belliard along with becoming a major player in the Quebec music industry. Produced with help from Eloi Painchaud, Gratton's second album, It Was Once In The East (Il était une fois dans l'est) introduces listeners to the feel of Motown along with a ‘70s-styled rock beat. La coeur dans la tête - Ariane Moffatt Audiogram*Select http://www.arianemoffatt.com The former background vocalist/keyboardist for Daniel Bélanger composed, co-produced and recorded her first CD, Aquanaute, in 2002, which went platinum. Through her clever mix of electrofolk, jazz and pop, she captured three Félix Awards in 2003. Her latest album is Le cœur dans la tête. Trompe-l'Oeil - Malajube Dare To Care*Outside http://www.malajube.com Songs from Malajube’s debut album Le Compte Complet, charted in Quebec’s college/university stations and on MusiquePlus. Their second album, Trompe-l-Oeil received attention in English-speaking Canada, in addition to earning Felix Awards in Quebec. With sounds oscillating between rock, punk and pop, the band distinguishes itself with insightful French lyrics. La forêt des mal-aimés - Pierre Lapointe Audiogram*Select http://www.pierrelapointe.com The singer from Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, has won many prizes since his debut, including six Felix Awards in 2005 and at least one in 2006. He is well known for his obscure, esoteric lyrics, which tend to be melancholy. Another distinct characteristic of his lyrics is his literary style. Compter les corps - Vulgaires Machins Indica*Outside http://www.vulgairesmachins.org Largely known for quality punk rock with a heavy dose of catchy pop, the group’s new album, Compter les corpes, proves to be a completely different animal, with arrangements stretched far and wide, while pianos duke it out with their familiar down-stroke guitars. Children's Album Of The Year Dinosaurs, Dragons and Me - Donna & Andy Red Castle Publishing*CD Baby http://www.donnaandandy.com Donna Rhodenizer and Andy Duinker create something for everyone — adult folk music, original songs, and children’s music in a variety of styles. In addition to singing, Donna plays keyboards and violin, and Andy sings and plays the guitar and various novelty items. In 2004, the duo won an ECMA for Children’s Recording of the Year for the CD Computer Cat. My Beautiful World - Jack Grunsky Casablanca Kids*EMI http://www.jackgrunsky.com The past quarter of a century, Grunsky’s name has become synonymous with excellence in children’s music. He has released countless CDs and family concert videos, garnering two JUNO Awards for Best Children’s Recording, several U.S. Parent’s Choice Gold Awards and multiple American Library Association Notable Recording lists. He has also developed a symphony show for kids called Welcome To The Orchestra. Join The Band - Ken Whiteley Merriweather*Fire The Imagination http://www.kenwhiteley.com Drawing on blues, gospel and folk, this six-time JUNO Award nominee has played virtually every major folk festival in Canada and performed with such legends as Pete Seeger, John Hammond Jr., Stan Rogers, and others. As a producer, he has worked on more than 80 albums, which have resulted in 11 gold or platinum albums, two Grammy Award nominations, two JUNO Awards, and sales of six million copies. Snooze Music - Rick Scott Jester*Festival http://www.rickscott.ca An award-winning singer, songwriter, actor and dulcimer player, Rick Scott has released 17 albums and performed his lively, original music in nine countries. His children's albums have sold more than 80,000 copies. 2001's Making Faces won Best Children's Release at the West Coast Music Awards, and 1999's Philharmonic Fool was nominated for a JUNO Award. Murmel Murmel Munsch! - Robert Munsch The Children's Group*KOCH http://www.robertmunsch.com The children's author's list of awards and recognitions are countless and include a JUNO Award, the Canadian Booksellers Association's Author of the Year, and has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada. Munsch apparently publishes his home address of Guelph, ON in his books, prompting visits from children, parents, teachers and even grandparents. Classical Album Of The Year: Solo or Chamber Ensemble On The Threshold of Hope: Chamber Music by Mieczyslaw Weinberg - Artists of the Royal Conservatory SONY BMG ARC is the Royal Conservatory of Music’s resident ensemble. This group of virtuosi is dedicated to performing chamber music and to creating diverse and compelling programs. ARC’s members are seasoned chamber musicians and veteran performers, either as soloists or principals in major orchestras. Mozart the Mason - Jonathan Crow, Douglas McNabney, Matt Haimovitz Oxingale*KOCH http://www.oxingale.com Douglas McNabney - The Associate Professor (Chamber Music, McGill) and violist is currently Chair of the Performance Department at the Schulich School of Music of McGill University. He also pursues a busy schedule of appearances as a soloist and guest artist in festivals and with chamber music societies and ensembles across Canada and Europe. Jonathan Crow - Concertmaster of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and Assistant Professor of Violin at McGill University, Crow has been featured as a soloist with orchestras throughout North and South America with conductors such as Charles Dutoit, Sir Yehudi Menuhin, Mario Bernardi and João Carlos Martins. He is currently a member of the Canadian string trio Triskelion. Matt Haimovitz - The cellist has established himself as one of classical music’s most adventurous artists, equally at ease playing the masterworks of his instrument in solo, chamber and concerto performances in leading concert halls, as he is bringing classical music to new listeners in surprising new venues. He is a professor of Cello at McGill University in Montreal. Piazzolla - Les Violons du Roy /Jean-Marie Zeitouni Atma*SRI http://www.violonsduroy.com Les Violons du Roy - The chamber orchestra, that has a core membership of fifteen players, was formed in 1984 by artistic director Bernard Labadie and specializes in the vast repertoire of music for chamber orchestra, performed in the stylistic manner most appropriate to each era. Two of their recordings, Apollo e Dafne (Handel) and Requiem (Mozart), won two JUNO Awards for Classical Album of the Year – Vocal or Choral Performance. Jean-Marie Zeitouni - Associate conductor of Les Violons du Roy, Jean-Marie Zeitouni has been working very closely with this ensemble since 2001. Over the years, he has led them in over 100 performances in North America. Since 2002, Mr. Zeitouni has been associate conductor and chorus master at L’Opéra de Montréal and music director of its young artist program. He is also music director of the Opera as Theatre program at The Banff Centre. Shostakovich:String Quartets 3, 7 & 8 - St Lawrence String Quartet EMI http://www.slsq.com The quartet is comprised of Geoff Nuttall (violin), Scott St. John (violin), Lesley Robertson (viola) and Christopher Costanza (cello). Having walked onstage together more than 1700 times the past 17 years, the St. Lawrence String Quartet has established itself among the world-class chamber ensembles of its generation. Mozart: Complete Piano Trios - The Gryphon Trio Analekta*Select http://www.gryphontrio.com Annalee Patipatanakoon (violin), Roman Borys (cello) and Jamie Parker (piano) are The Gryphon Trio. Touring internationally since 1993, the JUNO Award-winning group has been described by the Globe and Mail as "one of the best ensembles of its kind in the world." Based in Toronto, the Trio has performed in Finland, Germany, France, Belgium, Mexico, Russia, Poland, Greece and Egypt. Classical Album Of The Year: Large Ensemble or Soloist(s) with Large Ensemble Accompaniment Rhapsodies - Orchestre symphonique de Montréal / Alain Lefèvre Analekta*Select http://www.osm.ca Alain Lefèvre - Described by Classica as “a new personality that truly stands out from the typical trends and artifices offered on the international scene,” Lefèvre has been invited to appear with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London, England, the SWR in Stuttgart, the Detroit Symphony, Hamburg Symphony, the Nurnberger Symphony and numerous others. He is a two-time Felix Award winner for Best Classical Album (2001, 2002). Orchestre symphonique de Montréal - Founded in 1934, the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal is one of the major cultural organizations in the city whose name it bears with pride. From Salle Wilfred-Pelletier, OSM has toured nationally and internationally. The OSM has made about 90 recordings and has received 47 awards, of which 24 are international. Shostakovich's Circle - I Musici de Montréal Analekta*Select http://www.imusici.com Founded by cellist and conductor Yuli Turovsky, I Musici de Montreal is a chamber orchestra of 15 musicians that presents a vast repertoire extending from the baroque to the contemporary. The orchestra presents more than 100 concerts per season, throughout the world, including three prestigious series in Montreal. I Musici has also performed in some of the greatest halls, including New York’s Lincoln Center and Kioi Hall in Toyko. Mozart: Violin Concerti - James Ehnes/ Mozart Anniversary Orchestra CBC Records*Universal http://www.jamesehnes.com James Ehnes - Ehnes has rapidly established a pre-eminent reputation among concert violinists. A prolific and award-winning recording artist, he has more than twenty titles in his impressive discography. In January of 2006, he celebrated the 250th anniversary of Mozart’s birth (which coincided with his own 30th birthday) with the release of Mozart’s complete output for solo violin and orchestra. Mozart Anniversary Orchestra - James Ehnes, who conceived this project, had a discussion with his good friends Jonathan and Molly Crow regarding the orchestra with which he could possibly record. “They suggested that the ideal orchestra for this project would be one that I would form myself,” he says, “an ‘all-star’ ensemble made up of some of my favourite players from around the globe.” Mozart: Piano Concerti - Jon Kimura Parker / James Parker / Ian Parker / CBC Radio Orchestra / Mario Bernardi CBC Records*SRI http://www.radio.cbc.ca/orchestra CBC Radio Orchestra - Formed in 1938, the CBC Radio Orchestra is North America’s last remaining broadcast ensemble, a legacy of the days when radio orchestras were to be found all over the continent as they are in Europe. The Orchestra’s mandate is to make engaging musical programs, commission and perform works by Canadian composers, showcase Canadian performers and conductors, and discover and expose Canadian excellence. Ian Parker - Born in Vancouver, BC, Parker studied music for 13 years with his father, noted pianist Edward J. Parker, before learning from other musicians. Now in his late-twenties, the multiple award winner made his solo debut with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and has played with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, the Seattle Philharmonic Orchestra and the Victoria Symphony, among others. James Parker - Whether a soloist, or in chamber and orchestral concerts, the two-time JUNO Award-winning pianist has appeared across Canada, U.S. and Europe. Celebrated by critics, he has performed with every major Canadian orchestra, including Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. He has also given solo recitals across North America. In 2004, he was appointed as the Rupert E. Edwards Chair in Piano Performance on the music faculty at the University of Toronto. Jon Kimura Parker - The internationally acclaimed concert pianist was born, raised and educated in Vancouver. His extraordinary career has taken him from Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House to Baffin Island and Zimbabwe. A true Canadian ambassador of music, Parker has given two command performances for Queen Elizabeth II and has performed for the Prime Ministers of Canada and Japan. Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3 "Organ" - Philippe Bélanger, Orchestre Métropolitain du Grand Montréal / Yannick Nézet-Séguin Atma*SRI http://www.orchestremetropolitain.com Philippe Bélanger - Born in Ayler, Quebec, Bélanger is renowned for his love of organ buildings and is presently the Artistic Director of the Baumgarten Organ building firm. In November 2002, then 27 years old, he was appointed titular organist at St. Joseph-du-Mont-Royal Oratory in Montreal. He has given recitals in Canada, the United States, and France, and has been heard on various CBC radio programs. Orchestre Métropolitain du Grand Montréal - Founded in 1981 by graduates of various faculties and conservatories of Music in Quebec, the Orchéstre Métropolitain has distinguished itself in its goal of promoting classical music. Conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin, the Métropolitain is a veritable institution at the heart of Montréal cultural life. Yannick Nézet-Séguin - Maestro Nézet-Séguin has been at the helm of the Orchestre Métropolitain du Grand Montréal since March 2000, and is at the forefront of Montréal’s music scene in addition to leading an active conducting career on the international stage. The 2006-2007 season brings Nézet-Séguin to Switzerland, France, Germany, England, Spain, Australia, and to Canada in Toronto, Calgary and Victoria. Classical Album Of The Year: Vocal or Choral Performance Adrianne Pieczonka Sings Wagner and Strauss - Adrianne Pieczonka, Münchner Rundfünk Orchester / Ulf Schirmer ORFEO*Gilmore http://www.adriannepieczonka.com Dramatic and stunning, the Toronto-based soprano is hailed for her “beauty of tone that can bloom radiance or shrink to a whisper,” according to a writer at the Daily Telegraph. She performs on premier opera and concert stages throughout Europe, North America and Asia. This marks her first solo recording featuring some of her greatest Wagner and Strauss roles. Wagner: Arias - Ben Heppner, Staatskapelle Dresden / Peter Schneider Deutsche Grammophon*Universal http://www.benheppner.com Ben Heppner - Born in Murrayville, BC, the dramatic tenor has numerous awards and distinctions, as well as several honourary doctorates from Canadian universities, including the Royal Philharmonic Society’s Music Award 2005 and Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee Medal 2002. In 2001, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada. Staatskapelle Dresden - Steeped in tradition, the orchestra was created on September 22, 1548 by Prince Moritz of Saxonia and is probably the only orchestra of Germany which has made music continuously for more than four and a half centuries. Fabio Luisi, the principal conductor, will start the 2007/2008 season. Mozart: Arie e Duetti - Isabel Bayrakdarian, Michael Schade, Russell Braun, Canadian Opera Company Orchestra / Richard Bradshaw CBC Records*Universal http://www.byrakdarian.com | http://www.russellbraun.com | www.mschade.com Richard Bradshaw - Conductor Richard Bradshaw is the general director of the Canadian Opera Company. Born in England, he first came to the COC as a guest conductor in 1988 and has remained with the company for 18 years, rising to his current position. During this time, he has conducted more than 60 operas. His greatest challenge has been building a new opera house for the company, The Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, which opened its doors in June of 2006. Isabel Bayrakdarian, Michael Schade, Russel Braun - Three of Canada’s most outstanding Mozart singers, Bayrakdarian (soprano), Schade (tenor) and Braun (baritone), are recognized for their many Mozart roles and interpretations, among them: Bayrakdarian as Zerlina in Don Giovanni and Susanna in The Marriage of Figaro; Schade as Tamino in The Magic Flute and Don Ottavio in Don Giovanni, and Braun as the Count in The Marriage of Figaro, and title role of Don Giovanni. Purcell - Karina Gauvin, Les Boréades / Francis Colpron Atma*SRI http://www.karinagauvin.com Gauvin lends her effervescent charm and pearly sound to a selection of airs from Henry Purcell’s various dramatic enterprises, most of them familiar from King Arthur, Dido and Aeneas or The Fairy Queen. She was recently chosen as Soloist of the Year by the International French Radio Community. She was also awarded the Virginia P. Moore prize by The Canada Council for the Arts. Les Boréades de Montreal was founded in 1991 by Francis Colpron. With a passion for the music of the 17th and 18th centuries, the ensemble takes an interpretive approach in keeping with the spirit of the Baroque era by adhering to the known rules of performance practice and playing on period instruments. Extase - Measha Brueggergosman, Orchestre symphonique de Québec / Yoav Talmi CBC Records*Universal http://www.measha.com Noted by the San Francisco Chronicle as “a singer of rare gifts and artistic intensity” and by the Washington Post for singing with “an all-encompassing warmth and joy, melding honed artistry with youthful enthusiasm,” the soprano has emerged as one of the most magnificent entertainers of the day. Extase is comprised of 19th century French songs and arias by Hector Berlioz and Jules Massenet. Classical Composition Of The Year Clere Vénus - Denis Gougeon À L'AVENTURE! Centrediscs*Fusion III http://www.musique.umontreal.ca/363.html