Percussionist and composer Agneya is the winner of the Toronto Arts Foundation’s 2026 Breakthrough Jazz Artist Award!
Generously supported by Michael Bourgeois and Marilyn Legge, the award is presented to an outstanding jazz artist based in Toronto with two to seven years experience in the field as solo artist and/or artists who have supported other artists in the field. It comes with a $10,000 cash prize to help further the artist’s career.
The winner was announced Tuesday evening at the OLG Village Stage during the Toronto Jazz Festival.
Born in India and based in Toronto, Agneya has been an in-demand percussionist for over a decade working with internationally acclaimed artists such as Mike Downes, Larnell Lewis, Justin Gray and more. Earlier this year, Agneya released his debut album, AGNEYA, reflecting his journey across India, Canada, and Europe while exploring rhythm as connection and identity. The album weaves together South Asian rhythmic cycles, West African grooves, and contemporary jazz improvisation into an organic, rhythm-forward sound with guest appearances from Ingrid Jensen, Rich Brown and Shirantha Beddage.
The other finalists, Julian Anderson-Bowes (Acoustic & Electric Bassist) and Jon Catanus (Drummer), received a $2,000 cash prize.