(Plan to be on the Esplanade front lawn. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. We will have some chairs on hand.)
Sanah Kadoura is a JUNO-nominated Lebanese-Canadian drummer, composer, educator, and producer known for her innovative approach to modern jazz. Her sophomore album, Duality, released in 2023, explores themes of balance, light, and dark, blending modern jazz with elements of neo-soul and the musical influences of her Lebanese heritage. Duality was named one of DownBeat Magazine’s Best Albums of 2023, further establishing Kadoura as a distinctive voice in the contemporary jazz scene.
Having spent a decade in New York City, Kadoura has developed a reputation as a skilled drummer and thoughtful composer, known for infusing melody and nuance into her rhythmic playing. Her first album, Hawk Eyes (2018), introduced her sound to audiences, and Duality deepens the conversation, with the album’s music reflecting a journey of hope and resilience. Kadoura shares, “As we all navigate through our own internal balance, this album is an offering of healing, guidance, and love. We all have our own battles, and I think it’s easier for us as humans to connect through darkness and find the light together.”
“Kadoura is a dexterous improviser, with a light, elastic approach that evokes Tony Williams, a major influence” (JazzTimes). Critics have praised her growth as an artist, with (DownBeat) noting that “Sanah Kadoura’s latest album Duality decisively signals her arrival as a bandleader of command, clarity, and serious composerly chops.” Meanwhile, (Modern Drummer) lauds her work on the album, saying, “Her record Duality displays her strong composing and drumming skills. She has the sound and approach of a veteran.”
With her intuitive and lyrical drumming, Kadoura brings a unique voice to every performance, blending technical prowess with a deep emotional resonance. She continues to influence the next generation of musicians as an educator and is passionate about expanding the possibilities within modern jazz.
Joining Sanah will be André Wickenheiser on trumpet, Joanna Borromeo on keyboards and Daniel Nava on bass. A special thank you to Brent Rinaldi for his support
