
STRANGER FRIENDS ORCHESTRA
The STRANGER FRIENDS Orchestra is a 14-piece modern big band led by composer Dean Thiessen. The phrase ‘Stranger Friends’ evokes an awareness of the community that can be established through music and music making. The ensemble is comprised of some of the most creative and inspiring young voices in the West Coast music scene. The ensemble is grateful to rehearse, compose, and perform on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
Thiessen’s original music for this band is rooted in curiosity, collaboration, inclusion, creativity, and diversity and explores a mixture of hyper-detailed compositions and spontaneous improvisation. With little resemblance of the ‘swing era’ big band sound, the STRANGER FRIENDS Orchestra explores a mixture of modern musical and cultural influences inspired by traditions of the great African American musicians who created 'jazz' as an art form and the youthfulness and innovation of the musicians in the ensemble.
Stranger Friends Orchestra
Stranger Friends Orchestra


PLACES - Stranger Friends Orchestra

YELLOW - Stranger Friends Orchestra

THOU ART A FOOLISH CHICKEN - Stranger Friends Orchestra

SWEET THURSDAYS - Stranger Friends Orchestra
Saxophones
Brent Mah
Ardeshir Poukeramati
John Nicholson
Sofia Avelino
Trumpets
Rory Hislop
Feven Kidane
Thad Bailey-Mai
Trombones
Gregory Dent
Janine King
George McNally
Rhythm Section
Chris Fraser
Suin Park
Jen Kim
Jamie Lee
