For Canadians, the arrival of spring is momentous: the air is fresh and full of possibility as tender green shoots reach up towards the light and the cycle of rebirth and renewal begins again. The Ostara Project, named for the Germanic goddess of the spring equinox, embodies hope and growth by showcasing the strength and creativity of Canadian women in jazz.

Ostara artists are all top-tier musicians, composers and bandleaders who reflect the geographical, cultural and creative diversity of Canada’s musical landscape. Lead by award-winning jazz musicians Jodi Proznick and Amanda Tosoff, The Ostara Project includes Rachel Therrien, Allison Au and Valérie Lacombe, with guest artists invited on a per-project basis. Individually, they are outstanding artists: collectively, they are a force.

Ostara’s self-titled debut album (Cellar Live, 2022) received a JUNO award nomination 2023. Two upcoming albums—Roots (instrumental) and Wings (vocal)— feature original compositions that celebrate the cultural, ethnic and familial backgrounds of Ostara artists plus an impressive roster of guests: Shruti Ramani, Emilie- Claire Barlow, Laila Biali, Dawn Pemberton and Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson.

In a genre and industry where women are severely underrepresented, the Ostara Project is a powerful example of perseverance, community and creativity. New growth rising, stretching to claim space, propelled by joy. This is the music of
Ostara.

Check out the individual projects of the talented artists who have contributed to The Ostara Project: