After more than a decade of dedication to her craft, Heather Ferguson has emerged as a compelling voice in the jazz scene, collaborating with acclaimed musicians across Victoria, Vancouver, and Toronto. Her journey represents a remarkable second act – one she approaches with infectious enthusiasm and unwavering commitment.
“I am an incurable, lifelong learner,” Heather Ferguson shares, “and with music, I just find the work gets more interesting the deeper you go.” This philosophy guides her musical exploration, which began in earnest later in life when circumstances finally aligned with her longstanding passion.
Ferguson’s artistic evolution gained momentum over fifteen years of performances and recording sessions throughout Victoria. Her 2022 debut album “Lush Life” earned critical acclaim, establishing her presence in the jazz community. Now, with her sophomore release “FOUND,” Ferguson takes a significant artistic leap by showcasing original compositions for the first time. This new collection, created in collaboration with some of Canada’s finest jazz instrumentalists, reflects her lifelong dedication to learning and embodies her belief that musical discovery only deepens with time and experience.
Name:
Heather Ferguson
Genre:
Jazz Singer-Songwriter
# of Albums:
2
Latest Album:
FOUND
Latest Single:
“Kickin’ It”
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
Annie Lennox
Favourite musician now:
So many – maybe Veronica Swift? Her version of “This Bitter Earth” makes me weep
Guilty pleasure song:
Anything ABBA – especially Waterloo
Live show ritual:
I can only get by in heels for the first set. I would walk everywhere in bare feet if I could, so usually I take my heels off and just do that second set in my bare feet.
Favourite local musician:
Well, for sure, the guys I work with, but it’s hard to say. Victoria (and the Island as a whole) punches above their weight in music, and I am blown away so often.
EP or LP?
Album – I like the word better – I spend a lot of time on the lineup of songs and how they might appeal to the listener – I don’t need outdated letters – it’s an album.
Early bird or night owl?
Mid-Day (and looking at my previous answers – am I a contrarian??)
Road or studio?
I think studio – because I get to work with my Victoria musicians, and we are all focused on crafting something we love – everything is about the music!
Any shows or albums coming up?
My new album FOUND was released in April, and I have album release shows coming up at Hermann’s in Victoria and The Pilot in Toronto.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Spotify | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Vancouver’s Giardino – I just have a lovely memory of dinner there when my stepdaughter graduated from UBC. A meal I’ve never forgotten. In Victoria, I love to go to Shuck Taylors for the Oysters and their fab Oyster Spirit Caesars
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
I love the alleys – Fan Tan Alley, Trounce Alley – they are so lovely and there is always something to discover.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Beacon Hill Park. I love to perform at the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park – and the gardens and fountains – one of the more outstanding central city parks in my opinion.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Hermann’s Jazz Club of course!
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Long & McQuade or Tom Lee – it’s a toss-up for me – they hire musicians and I know I am getting experience behind the answers to my questions.
