JAZZ.FM91 celebrates the life and legacy of Stacie McGregor, a distinguished Canadian jazz pianist and composer whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the music community. Known for her passionate performances and her depth as a composer, Stacie’s journey in music began in Winnipeg, where her talent was evident from a young age. By twelve, she had already garnered national attention, placing third in the Yamaha Songwriting Competition. Her early mentor, Winnipeg jazz legend Ron Paley, recognized her potential and encouraged her to move to Toronto to attend Humber College’s jazz program— a decision that would shape her extraordinary career.
After graduation, she found herself immersed in Toronto’s diverse music scene, performing across genres and working with a variety of artists. Her dedication and versatility led her to a JUNO Award in 1999 for Best World Music as part of Madagascar Slim’s band. A regular performer in Toronto’s beloved intimate venues, she could be found at Robert’s in Kensington Market, a small bar with a big reputation for jazz, or at Nawlin’s in the Entertainment District, where she performed nearly every weekend for almost two decades. She frequently joined saxophonist Jim Heineman’s band, delighting audiences as they welcomed guest artists to spontaneous and memorable sessions.
In 2003, Stacie released her debut album, Straight Up, a bold set of compositions arranged for an all-Canadian ensemble featuring jazz icons like Kevin Turcotte, Brandi Disterheft, and Archie Alleyne. The album gained international acclaim, charting in over 20 countries and establishing her as a leading voice in Canadian jazz. Her second and third albums — SWIFT and Rhythm, Hart & Soul — showcased her collaborations with notable musicians such as Billy Robinson, Billy Hart, Curtis Lundy, and Santi DeBriano.
In 2015, as a final gesture of trust and friendship, her longtime mentor Archie Alleyne asked her to continue the legacy of his hard-bop band, Kollage. Honoring his wishes, she led a new lineup of the band and recorded No Fuss, No Muss in 2017, a project that paid homage to Alleyne’s unwavering dedication to music and featured original compositions from the group.
In recent years, she toured and recorded with Heillig Manoeuvre, the quartet led by bassist Henry Heillig, alongside Alison Young and Charlie Cooley. Together, they recorded four albums, adding a rich chapter to her expansive career. Recognized for her contributions, she was nominated for Ontario’s prestigious Louis Applebaum Composers Award, which celebrates excellence in music composition, as well as for the General Motors Grand Jazz Award and the Galaxie Rising Star Award by CBC.
Stacie McGregor will be remembered as a dedicated artist who shared her talent generously, captivating audiences and inspiring fellow musicians. Her music lives on as a testament to her artistry and commitment to jazz.