I am so honoured to be included as an inaugural inductee in the YYC Music Awards Hitmakers Hall of Fame for Jazz Recording of the Year. The awards platform created this new recognition to celebrate musicians and industry that have won an award in a particular category since the organization started in 2016. This year, I'm joined with fellow inductees MCC Recording Studio for Studio of the Year, and band The Royal Foundry for Alternative Recording of the Year - congrats to both those groups!
Welcome
People aspire to be master of many skills and Al Muirhead is one who has accomplished this dream and has no plans of slowing down. Whether it is playing a sweet and melodic trumpet solo, composing and arranging for a big band, small ensemble or orchestra, performing one take sessions on recordings or mentoring young musicians, Al is an inspiration in the Canadian music scene and is known as the "Elder statesman of Jazz Trumpet in Alberta".
Al Muirhead News & Trumpet Tips
Previous events
.J. Perry & Al Muirhead Quintet perform live at The King Eddy in the National Music Centre on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Based in Edmonton, saxophonist P.J. Perry makes a special stop in Calgary to reunite with longtime friend and collaborator Al Muirhead. Widely regarded as one of North America’s leading jazz saxophonists, Perry’s career spans several decades of international performance and recording, earning him a JUNO Award, multiple Critics’ Choice accolades, and appointment to the Order of Canada for his contributions to Canadian jazz.
Trumpeter Al “Oop” Muirhead joins Perry at the front line, bringing a distinctive melodic voice shaped by a lifetime of performing, composing, and arranging. Beginning his professional career in Regina at a young age, Muirhead has remained an active and influential figure on the Canadian jazz scene. In October, he released his most recent album to coincide with his 90th birthday, marking another milestone in a remarkable career. A two-time JUNO nominee with an extensive discography, Muirhead is joined by Jon Day (piano), Kodi Hutchinson (bass), and Tyler Hornby (drums).
Together, the quintet will present an evening of straight-ahead swing, harkening back to the sound and feel of the 1950s. The band will perform two sets beginning at 7:30 PM. Tickets are $40 General Admission plus fees.
Christmas Magic Concert with Sherry Kennedy
Foothills United Church, 3803 69 Street Northwest, Calgary, AB
Get ready to be enchanted by the Christmas Magic Concert with Sherry Kennedy, a night filled with festive tunes and holiday cheer! Welcome to the Christmas Magic Concert with Sherry Kennedy! Get ready to be enchanted by Sherry's angelic voice at Foothills United Church on December 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM (Mountain Time). It's going to be a night filled with holiday cheer and beautiful music. Bring your loved ones along for a magical evening that will warm your heart. Don't miss out on this special event that will surely get you in the festive spirit! With Special Guest Al Muirhead. Musicians Chris Tauchner, Piano, Robin Tufts, Drums, John Gray, Bass, Lisa Ryan, background vocals.
Al joins Kait Shane as a guest for the Monday Night Jazz Series at Hotel Blackfoot.
Calgary Jazz Orchestra Presents The Music of Alicia Keys & Celebrating 90 Years of Al Muirhead
(MDT, UTC-06) (MDT, UTC-06)
Prepare to experience a diverse range of sounds with our unique music experiences designed to uplift your soul. Enjoy two distinct shows in one night, with each half featuring a different musical style.
Celebrating 90 years of Al Muirhead We will feature one of our founding members on his 90th birthday, through many of his favourite songs and his originals orchestrated for big band!
The Music of Alicia Keys Alicia Keys has created an impressive array of music soaked in soul and blues. We will explore her melodies both celebrating and re-imagining her music with the CJO and guest singers.
$54.40 - $63.02
With Canada’s population continuing to age, it’s more crucial than ever to highlight how older adults are making huge contributions in our community. Right now, almost one-fifth of all Canadians (18.9%) are 65 and older. By 2030, that number will sit at 21.4% to 23.4% of the entire population! That’s why it’s vital to inspire seniors to continue to share their expertise and experience, and to celebrate those who are doing just that, such as the 2025 list of Top 7 Over 70™ recipients in Calgary revealed on Sept. 18!
🎷 Scott Morin Presents: Jazz at The Attic 🎷
Join us for an intimate evening of world-class jazz in one of the city’s coziest venues. Each month, Scott Morin curates a rotating lineup of top-tier jazz musicians, delivering soulful sets that blend timeless classics with fresh improvisation.
🕢 Bi-Weekly Series | 7:30 PM Start Time | Doors at 6:30pm (but happy hour starts at 5pm;)
📍 The Attic
Thursday Oct 16th - Legends of the Calgary Jazz Scene Feat. Eric Friedenberg, Al Muirhead, Derek Stoll, John Hyde and John deWaal.
Thusday Nov 6th - EDEN TAYLOR SINGS THE MUSIC OF DIANA KRALL
Thursday Nov 20th - COOLHAVEN FEAT. SHELDON ZANDBOER, RICH HARDING
Thursday Dec 4th - MALLORY CHIPMAN AND BRETT HANSEN
Thursday Dec 18th - MIKE RUD CD RELEASE PARTY FEAT. DAVE RESTIVO, KODI HUTCHINSON AND JON MCCASLIN
🎟️ Get your tickets under the SAME NAME, no reservation required ! Your table will be ready 1 hour prior to showtime.
If you plan on arriving earlier, OR if you accidentally purchase your tickets under different names, just send us a note at hello@theatticyyc.ca so we know to seat you together or have your table ready earlier.
Come early for a seat, stay late for the vibe. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz lover or just looking for something new, this night is not to be missed.
Still Cookin' at 90 - Celebrate Al's 90th birthday and the release of his new album
(MDT, UTC-06) (MDT, UTC-06)
Celebrate a true Canadian jazz legend as trumpet master Al Muirhead marks his 90th birthday with an unforgettable concert honouring both his remarkable career and the release of his final album, Still Cookin’ at 90: The Canada Sessions Volume 2. This special evening brings together friends, fans, and fellow musicians to pay tribute to Al’s lifelong artistry, decades of mentorship, infectious spirit, and enduring influence on the Canadian jazz landscape. Don’t miss this extraordinary milestone for one of our country’s most beloved musical voices.
$76 Adults, 15% discount for NMC members
NMC Presents: Al Muirhead — Still Cookin’ at 90: The Canada Sessions Volume 2
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, 850 4 St. SE, Calgary, AB
Celebrate a true Canadian jazz legend as trumpet master Al Muirhead marks his 90th birthday with an unforgettable concert honouring both his remarkable career and the release of his final album, Still Cookin’ at 90: The Canada Sessions Volume 2. This special evening brings together friends, fans, and fellow musicians to pay tribute to Al’s lifelong artistry, decades of mentorship, infectious spirit, and enduring influence on the Canadian jazz landscape. Don’t miss this extraordinary milestone for one of our country’s most beloved musical voices.
About Al ‘Oop’ Muirhead Composer | Arranger | Trumpet Player | Recording Artist | Band Leader | Mentor | Husband | Father | Grandfather | Great-Grandfather
Al Muirhead is the embodiment of musical mastery, having achieved what many aspire to. Known as Canada’s “Elder Statesman of Jazz Trumpet,” Al has inspired generations through his sweet, melodic trumpet solos, composing and arranging for ensembles of all sizes, and mentoring young musicians. Approaching his 90th birthday, Al continues to make his mark on the Canadian jazz scene.
Having started his professional career at age 10 in his hometown of Regina, remarkably Al only began his solo recording career at the age of 79 and has since become a two-time JUNO-nominated artist that has topped the charts in Canada and the US. His own discography to date includes five critically acclaimed albums: JUNO-nominated It's About Time (2014), a collaboration with his lifelong friend Tommy Banks; Oop! (2016), featuring Banks and saxophonist PJ Perry; Northern Adventures: The Canada Sessions Volume 1 (2017); JUNO-nominated Undertones (2018); and Live From Frankie's and the Yardbird (2021).
In honour of his 90th birthday, he is releasing Still Cookin’ at 90: The Canada Sessions Volume 2 (2025), a collection of collaborations with the next generations of jazz greats from across the country — such as Hilario Duran, Caity Gyorgy, Jens Lindemann, Robi Botos, Jocelyn Gould, and many more. This recording was made possible by the generous support of Executive Producers Bill & Jolene Treherne.
Al’s extraordinary career has spanned decades and includes performing with musical legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Diana Krall, Paul Anka, Red Skelton, Guido Basso, Rosemary Clooney, and many more. His legacy as a sideman on more than 30 albums is just as impressive as his solo work.
Throughout his life, Al has reached numerous milestones. He performed with the Regina Symphony, served as Assistant Conductor of the Regina Police Boys' Band, and opened Arcade Music in Calgary (now St. John's Music) in 1966. He was the Music Director for CBC’s “On Stage” in the 1970s, toured Japan with the Frank Mills Orchestra, arranged and performed in the 1988 Winter Olympics under Tommy Banks, and toured Europe with the New Orleans Connection Dixieland Band. For 34 years, Al served as the Music Director for the Calgary Stampede Youth Talent Show, mentoring many young musicians also throughout his decades of private music students.
Along with his two JUNO Award nominations, Al’s walls are decorated with awards including the American Federation of Musician’s Citation Award, the Western Canadian Music Alliance’s Heritage Award, the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival’s Special Recognition Award, a Western Canadian Music Award, plus three YYC Music Awards in Calgary and recognition in their Hall of Fame.
During his decades on and off stage, he supported his family through a life in music. Al’s legacy includes 7 children, 15 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. His treasured companion, wife Ida, has been by his side for every note for the past 52 years.
His countless stories and experiences accumulated are as compelling as the mastery that flows from his trumpet. Al Muirhead is a true musical treasure, a rare gem in Canadian jazz whose artistry and wisdom continue to inspire and captivate musicians and audiences alike.
Join the Regina Jazz Orchestra for their inaugural season-opener, featuring guest JUNO Award-nominated trumpeter Al “Oop” Muirhead!
Al Muirhead is the embodiment of musical mastery, having achieved what many aspire to—becoming a master of numerous skills. Known as the "Elder Statesman of Jazz Trumpet in Alberta," Al has inspired generations through his sweet, melodic trumpet solos, composing and arranging for ensembles of all sizes, and mentoring young musicians. At 89, with no plans of slowing down, Al continues to make his mark on the Canadian jazz scene.
Remarkably, Al began his solo career at the age of 79 and has since become a two-time JUNO-nominated artist. His solo discography includes five critically acclaimed albums: It's About Time (2014), a collaboration with his lifelong friend Tommy Banks; Oop! (2016), featuring JUNO-winning saxophonist P.J. Perry; Northern Adventures (2017); Undertones (2018); and Live From Frankie's and the Yardbird (2021). Most recently, Al was featured on the Hutchinson Andrew Trio's The Senator, a tribute to his dear friend Tommy Banks.
Part of Al’s extraordinary career has spanned decades and includes performing as a backup musician to musical legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Diana Krall, Paul Anka, Guido Basso, Rosemary Clooney, and P.J. Perry. His legacy as a sideman on 26 albums is just as impressive as his solo work. In 2008, he recorded All the Stars Aren't in the Sky with an all-star ensemble, a limited release that showcased his supreme artistry.
Throughout his life, Al has reached numerous milestones. He performed with the Regina Symphony, served as Assistant Conductor of the Regina Police Boys' Band, and opened Arcade Music in Calgary in 1966. He was the Music Director for CBC’s On Stage in the 1970’s, toured Japan with the Frank Mills Orchestra, performed in the 1988 Winter Olympics under Tommy Banks, and toured Europe with the New Orleans Connection Dixieland Band. Since the '90s, Al has been the Music Director for the Calgary Stampede Youth Talent Show, mentoring many young musicians, including Johnny Summers of the Calgary Jazz Orchestra.
Tickets are $43.29 for adults and $15.54 for students, inclusive of fees and taxes. Seating is not assigned.
It's About Time! An Evening with Al Muirhead and The Regina Jazz Orchestra
(CST, UTC-06) (CST, UTC-06)
Join the Regina Jazz Orchestra for their inaugural season-opener, featuring guest JUNO Award-nominated trumpeter Al “Oop” Muirhead!
$43.29 Adults
NMC Presents ‘The Senator: A Tribute to Tommy Banks’ by Hutchinson Andrew Trio
(MST, UTC-07) (MST, UTC-07)
Join NMC and Chronograph Records for an unforgettable evening as the Hutchinson Andrew Trio returns with The Senator — a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Tommy Banks. Featuring an all-star lineup of special guests, including Jens Lindemann, PJ Perry, Al Muirhead, and Mallory Chipman, the evening will celebrate three generations of jazz brilliance.
ABOUT 'THE SENATOR: A TRIBUTE TO TOMMY BANKS'
Released on boutique Alberta record label, Chronograph Records, this album pays tribute to the jazz legend who was both a world-class musician and a champion of the performing arts across Canada. The musicians carrying out this task represent some of the finest talent in Canadian jazz, but more significantly comprise a group of individuals who were influenced greatly and personally by Banks’ as a mentor, bandleader and collaborator.
The Honourable Tommy Banks was known as a pianist, conductor, arranger, composer, TV personality, actor, producer and politician (1936-2018). Tommy had an unparalleled, multi-faceted career spanning more than 60 years in virtually every aspect of the entertainment industry in Canada. A professional jazz pianist at age 14, he went on to lead his own bands, conduct symphony orchestras around the world, direct musical ceremonies at international events, host his own long-running television show, and act in film and television. He also served nearly 12 years in the Canadian Senate.
Tommy was chair (1978–86) of the Alberta Foundation for the Performing Arts and chair (1983–87) of the music program at Grant MacEwan College, Edmonton. He was a member (1989–95) and a policy consultant (1996– 98) of the Canada Council, and the chairman of the Edmonton Concert Hall Foundation (1989–91). In 1999, Edmonton named a street Tommy Banks Way in his honour. In 2010, he received SOCAN’s special achievement award for his contributions to Canada’s music industry and musical heritage.
Supported by the CKUA Radio Foundation, this album pays tribute to Tommy’s legacy as an artist, but also to the important marks he left on Alberta and Canada as a community leader, politician, and champion of the performing arts.
LINEUP
Special Guests: PJ Perry – saxophone Jens Lindemann – trumpet Al Muirhead – trumpet Mallory Chipman – vocals
Hutchinson Andrew Trio: Kodi Hutchinson – double bass Chris Andrew – piano Jon May – drums
$85 VIP / $55 Adult / $35 Youth
Ninth Avenue Band Celebrating Al Muirhead
(MST, UTC-07) (MST, UTC-07)
Calgary’s newest sensation, the Ninth Avenue Band, is set to carry on the city’s big band legacy with a special tribute to 2X JUNO-nominated trumpeter Al Muirhead, a true gem in the Canadian jazz scene at 89 years old. Formed in the wake of the passing of beloved bandleader Dave Jones and the end of his iconic Prime Time Big Band, this ensemble is injecting fresh energy into Calgary’s music landscape. With a setlist brimming with swing, blues, and more, the Ninth Avenue Band presents an exciting new chapter in the city’s big band tradition while honoring the legends who paved the way.
Bringing together some of Calgary’s finest musicians, this performance promises to be a dynamic and heartfelt celebration of the city’s vibrant jazz community. Featuring the soulful sound of Tina Hartt on vocals and a powerful horn section, this special concert goes beyond being a tribute—it’s a celebration of the deep-rooted musical spirit that thrives in Calgary. With the Ninth Avenue Band taking the stage, expect a night that honors both the past and the future of big band jazz.
Band members Vocals: Tina Hartt Saxophones: Rich Harding, John Roggensack, Pat Belliveau, Keith O'Rourke, Shane Statz Trumpets: Jim Murray, Leanne Paisley, Chuck Mallet, Jeff Bryant, Al Muirhead Trombones: Brian Walley, Dave Reid, Mark Harding, Paul Toutant Piano: Michelle Gregoire Bass: Jon Wielebnowski Drums: Jon McCaslin
$19.99-$39.99
National Music Centre and Chronograph Records are pleased to present a special album release show for The Senator: A Tribute to Tommy Banks by the Hutchinson Andrew Trio. The live concert will also feature special guest musicians PJ Perry, Al Muirhead, and Mallory Chipman.
About Hutchinson Andrew Trio:
Formed in 2004 by bassist Kodi Hutchinson and pianist-composer Chris Andrew, the trio — which includes drummer Dave Laing — is a prominent force on the Canadian and North American jazz scene, earning an Editor's Pick and feature in Downbeat Magazine as well as numerous award nominations in addition to winning the prestigious TD Grand Jazz Award at the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
The Hutchinson Andrew Trio looks forward to showcase music from their upcoming album in tribute to the late, great Hon. Tommy Banks. As one of western Canada's musical icons, Tommy had a great effect on the careers and approach of all the members of HAT as well as countless others across Canada. We look forward to presenting music closely connected with this JUNO-winning master of the piano.
Chris Andrew (piano) / Kodi Hutchinson (bass) / Dave Laing (drums) / PJ Perry (saxophone) / Al Muirhead (trumpet) / Mallory Chipman (vocals)
General admission: $34.95 / NMC Members: $29.95 / Youth (under 25): $19.95
Yardbird Suite and Chronograph Records are pleased to present a special album release show for The Senator: A Tribute to Tommy Banks by the Hutchinson Andrew Trio. The live concert will also feature special guest musicians PJ Perry, Al Muirhead, and Mallory Chipman.
About Hutchinson Andrew Trio:
The multiple-award-winning Hutchinson Andrew Trio (HAT) is a vital and distinctively western force on the Canadian and international jazz scene. Winners of the prestigious TD Grand Jazz Award at the 34th Annual Montreal International Jazz Festival and a four-time Western Canadian Music Awards nominee, HAT brings a unique perspective to their music inspired by the vast prairie landscapes and majestic Rocky Mountains that surround them. Downbeat Magazine made the group an Editor’s Pick and called them “a terrific listen, with great musicianship throughout.”
The Senator pays tribute to the the Honourable Tommy Banks (1936-2018), a jazz legend who was both a world-class musician and a champion of the performing arts in his community. Banks – a pianist, conductor, arranger, composer, TV personality, actor, producer and politician – had an unparalleled, multi-faceted career spanning more than 60 years in virtually every aspect of the entertainment industry in Canada. A professional jazz pianist at age 14, he went on to lead his own bands, conduct symphony orchestras around the world, direct musical ceremonies at international events, host his own long-running television show, and act in film and television. He also served nearly 12 years in the Canadian Senate.
Recorded live at the Yardbird Suite and supported by the CKUA radio foundation, this album is a tribute to Banks’s legacy as an artist, but also to the important marks The Senator left on Alberta and Canada as a community leader, politician, and champion of the performing arts.
Chris Andrew (piano) Kodi Hutchinson (bass) Dave Laing (drums)
featuring:
PJ Perry (saxophone) Al Muirhead (trumpet) Mallory Chipman (vocals)
Tickets will also be available at the door if not previously sold out online. Doors open at 7:00 pm.
Yardbird Suite and Chronograph Records are pleased to present a special album release show for The Senator: A Tribute to Tommy Banks by the Hutchinson Andrew Trio. The live concert will also feature special guest musicians PJ Perry, Al Muirhead, and Mallory Chipman.
About Hutchinson Andrew Trio:
The multiple-award-winning Hutchinson Andrew Trio (HAT) is a vital and distinctively western force on the Canadian and international jazz scene. Winners of the prestigious TD Grand Jazz Award at the 34th Annual Montreal International Jazz Festival and a four-time Western Canadian Music Awards nominee, HAT brings a unique perspective to their music inspired by the vast prairie landscapes and majestic Rocky Mountains that surround them. Downbeat Magazine made the group an Editor’s Pick and called them “a terrific listen, with great musicianship throughout.”
The Senator pays tribute to the the Honourable Tommy Banks (1936-2018), a jazz legend who was both a world-class musician and a champion of the performing arts in his community. Banks – a pianist, conductor, arranger, composer, TV personality, actor, producer and politician – had an unparalleled, multi-faceted career spanning more than 60 years in virtually every aspect of the entertainment industry in Canada. A professional jazz pianist at age 14, he went on to lead his own bands, conduct symphony orchestras around the world, direct musical ceremonies at international events, host his own long-running television show, and act in film and television. He also served nearly 12 years in the Canadian Senate.
Recorded live at the Yardbird Suite and supported by the CKUA radio foundation, this album is a tribute to Banks’s legacy as an artist, but also to the important marks The Senator left on Alberta and Canada as a community leader, politician, and champion of the performing arts.
Chris Andrew (piano) Kodi Hutchinson (bass) Dave Laing (drums)
featuring:
PJ Perry (saxophone) Al Muirhead (trumpet) Mallory Chipman (vocals)
Tickets will also be available at the door if not previously sold out online. Doors open at 7:00 pm.
The Hutchinson Andrew Trio will be playing a special event for sponors and donors for CKUA in Edmonton at a special 'Garden Party'.
Chris Andrew (piano) Kodi Hutchinson (bass) Dave Laing (drums)
featuring:
PJ Perry (saxophone) Al Muirhead (trumpet)
By invite only
Saturday afternoon brunch with Prime Time Big Band at the Ironwood Stage & Grill in Inglewood is now in its 13th season! Every two weeks, the 20-piece Prime Time plays a new program to packed houses of all ages. They come to hear music ranging from Duke Ellington classics to The Big Phat Band’s exuberant contemporary tunes.
Prime Time’s membership is made up of almost all of the city’s most veteran jazz musicians, including Eric Friedenberg on saxophones and woodwinds, Al Muirhead on trumpet and flugelhorn, Brian Walley on trombone, Kai Poscente on bass and John de Waal on drums, playing alongside more recently established pros.
Reservations recommended: 403-269-5581 and reservations@ironwoodstage.ca.
Admission is $20 adults and $15 students/children plus GST Age limit: All ages
Crooner Rob Young performs a tribute to Frank Sinatra with his little big band!
$25
Al Muirhead will be at the 2020 JUNO Awards in Saskatchewan. More details to come!
Saturday afternoon brunch with Prime Time Big Band at the Ironwood Stage & Grill in Inglewood is now in its 13th season! Every two weeks, the 20-piece Prime Time plays a new program to packed houses of all ages. They come to hear music ranging from Duke Ellington classics to The Big Phat Band’s exuberant contemporary tunes.
Prime Time’s membership is made up of almost all of the city’s most veteran jazz musicians, including Eric Friedenberg on saxophones and woodwinds, Al Muirhead on trumpet and flugelhorn, Brian Walley on trombone, Kai Poscente on bass and John de Waal on drums, playing alongside more recently established pros.
Reservations recommended: 403-269-5581 and reservations@ironwoodstage.ca.
Admission is $20 adults and $15 students/children plus GST Age limit: All ages
Just found out that my Canadian Quintet with Kelly Jefferson (sax), Reg Schwager (guitar), Neil Swainson (bass) and Ted Warren (drums) have been nominated for our recent album Undertones in the 'Group' category.
Thanks so much to Rode De Waal for her lovely painting of me. Such a pleasant surprise when I received this from this great young bassist and apparently painter!