By Meghan Power
For Jonathan, a big part of being a musician means being able to perform for audiences, but also to be able to grow as an artist, collaborate, and experiment. Learning with different artists and jazz musicians who bring different worlds of experiences is essential. Jonathan recalls one of the most difficult times for him as a musician and artist was during the pandemic. “It was a time when I was unable to perform or even travel to collaborate or study with other musicians and mentors.”
It was during that time he received his first Artist Development Microgrant from Calgary Arts Development (CADA). “The grant gave me the privilege of being able to study with renowned jazz drummer and educator John Riley. I have known John for over 20 years and have been studying jazz drumming with him, on and off, since 2009. But being able to work with John on an ongoing basis, remotely, was an important moment in my professional development during an otherwise desperate period of time.”
In 2023, Jonathan received another Artist Development Microgrant, this time to be able to travel to New York, for a week, and study with John in person, and expand on the concepts that they have been working on together over the past several years. “As a mid-career artist, I cherish the opportunity to have a mentor and teacher such as John Riley. I value his observations, constructive criticism and professional advice. I feel a great deal of gratitude for this opportunity and for the additional support that CADA has offered me.”
Jonathan believes that funding opportunities from CADA, and other granting bodies in Alberta, are important investments that are essential for artists, not only as a means of contributing to their ongoing artistic development, but it is a big part of how artists thrive. “The ongoing grant support being offered by CADA to Calgary’s artists is significant and encourages more great things to happen in our city!”
Over the years, Jonathan has watched Calgary grow, flourish and expand. Welcoming and attracting people and artists from all over the world. “Calgary is home to a great number of incredible and talented artists and they all contribute to the high quality of living that we enjoy. I believe it is important that our government and leaders recognize this important contribution that arts and culture makes towards the quality of the daily lives of its citizens.”
On a more personal note, Jonathan feels a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity and for CADA’s support. “I have come away from this experience inspired, energized and looking forward to contributing my music and artistry in my community with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.”