ReFERENCES and performance quotes
"Simon has actively participated in a diverse assortment of music including jazz, classical, rock, classical guitar and rudimental snare drumming. As a member of the jazz band and concert band, he had spent considerable time outside the school involved in extra-curricular activities and in the community. As a student of music, he always had an excellent rapport with his peers. I believe this is one of the reasons why he had a unique ability to understand different perspectives in the classroom." ....Read More
David Malito, Instrumental Music Teacher, West Hill Secondary School
David Malito, Instrumental Music Teacher, West Hill Secondary School
"One thing I continuously notice when watching Simon play is that you can tell how much he enjoys what he is doing. If you have watched him play, you would understand. In addition to playing at a number of shows I’ve put on, he began helping out in a number of other ways. Offering to come and help with setting up the PA for the shows (and also to learn that aspect of what goes in to live music), I’ve even used him on occasion to sit in on drums with other bands (including my own) for sound checks. He also took it upon himself to learn the lighting system at the venue, and began running the lights for shows when he was not playing." ....Read More
Stephen Kenny, Musician, Teacher, Promoter and Booking Agent
Stephen Kenny, Musician, Teacher, Promoter and Booking Agent
"I performed with Simon Kaarid in 2012 for a one time show at a Universal Music Showcase for Young musicians. In preparation for the show I was amazed by Simon's talent as a musician, and by his ability to collaborate openly and effectively. Simon is an incredibly fun and energetic person who is great to work with. He would be an asset to the Music Industry Arts program, or any music or creative collaboration."
Bruce Bell, Bassist, Will and the Knife Fighters
Bruce Bell, Bassist, Will and the Knife Fighters
"Having had the pleasure of knowing Simon Kaarid for the last ten years, I am pleased to support his application for further education. This is a young man who works hard, gets results and enjoys life. His stellar collaborations over the years, involving people of all ages, points to an essential willingness to listen, consider the advice, then create something larger than himself." .... Read More
Fiona McConachie-Anderson, Retired Teacher
Fiona McConachie-Anderson, Retired Teacher
"I have been gigging and playing with different musicians and bands for years in Ontario. I had the pleasure of having Simon Kaarid sit in on drums for a night, a couple of times. No rehearsals and the night went smooth as butter! He is an amazing musician with great groove, and not to mention a great guy to work with! I think he would be a great fit for the Music Industry Arts program, and would bring a lot to the table."
Jayden Grahlman, Singer-Songwriter, Guitarist Down Right, Jayden and The Jets
Jayden Grahlman, Singer-Songwriter, Guitarist Down Right, Jayden and The Jets
"Simon Kaarid, Tristan Kaarid, Dan White Erik Wagenaar come from right here in Owen Sound. When I first heard them it took my mind back to a workshop I played with Gil Scott Heron at the Calgary Folk Festival. Gil’s songs, particularly The Revolution Will Not Be Televised, paved the way for rap music. It’s been argued that Gil was the first rap artist. What was he doing at a folk festival? All you had to do was listen to get it. The lyrics were politically charged and relevant. The music was played acoustically on piano, upright bass and percussion. If Gil wasn’t folk music, what was? Mad Casper has the same sensibility-a story to tell against a solid back beat. It’s a mix of hip hop, dub poetry with an acoustic instrumental edge. The lyrics sung in a cadenced and measured staccato are political, sincere and relevant."
James Keelahan, Songwriter, Folk Artist, Artistic Director Summerfolk Festival
James Keelahan, Songwriter, Folk Artist, Artistic Director Summerfolk Festival