Born in Victoria, British Columbia, internationally lauded bassist NEIL SWAINSON began working with Paul Horn in 1975, and played in his band for two years. He also backed up legendary jazz musicians including Barney Kessel, Herb Ellis, and Sonny Stitt. In 1977, he moved to Toronto, where he became very active in the local jazz scene, playing with such artists as Moe Koffman, Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, and Peter Appleyard.
He has also played with dozens of visiting jazz greats including James Moody, George Coleman, Jay McShann, Tommy Flanagan, Lee Konitz, Joe Farrell, Slide Hampton, and Woody Shaw. Swainson travelled and recorded with Woody Shaw, and Neil’s own recording, 49th Parallel (Concord Jazz), features Woody Shaw on trumpet, and Joe Henderson on saxophone.
In 1986 Neil began working with George Shearing and made numerous recordings with him. Together, they worked worldwide with many other great artists including Mel Tormé, Joe Williams, Nancy Wilson, Robert Farnon, and Diana Krall. Neil has also recorded with a lengthy list of other jazz greats including Jay McShann, Doc Cheatham, Geoff Keezer, Sam Noto, Peter Leitch, Pat LaBarbera, Kevin Dean, Rob McConnell, Ed Bickert, Lorne Lofsky, Kirk MacDonald, Gene DiNovi, and JMOG, a cooperative band featuring Don Thompson, Pat LaBarbera, and Joe LaBarbera.
Numerous recordings on which Swainson plays have won Canada’s Juno Award. He has frequently toured internationally with singer Roberta Gambarini, teaches at Humber College, and continues to compose and perform music.
Tonight’s performance of the NEIL SWAINSON TRIO features Order of Canada member DON THOMPSON (piano) and guitar luminary REG SCHWAGER, entertaining in the up-close-and-personal ambience of the Home Smith Bar.