Meet the N.L. musicians nominated for Juno Awards this year

As the Juno Awards approach, Newfoundland and Labrador’s music scene is prominently featured with three nominations recognizing exceptional talent. Andrew Staniland is nominated for Classical Composition of the Year, while the Atlantic Jazz Collective, comprised of Florian Hoefner and Jim Vivian, is in contention for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year.

Classical Innovation from Newfoundland

A Decade in the Making

Andrew Staniland, a professor at Memorial University with a decorated history in composition – including three previous Juno nominations and several East Coast Music Awards – describes his latest nomination for the album The Laws of Nature as particularly meaningful. He characterized the project as a culmination of ten years of work, integrating diverse elements of his creative output.

Did You Know? Andrew Staniland’s nominated album, The Laws of Nature, incorporates a digital instrument called JADE, which can be controlled by brain waves.

Staniland’s innovative approach extends to the creation of JADE, a new instrument capable of responding to sensors and even brainwave activity through EEG sonification. This technology was brought to life with the collaboration of six dancers from Kittiwake Ballet, whose brainwaves were translated into music in real-time as they moved and thought.

Atlantic Jazz Collective’s Debut

Bringing International Talent to Newfoundland

The Atlantic Jazz Collective’s debut LP, Seascape, has earned them a nomination in the Vocal Jazz Album of the Year category. The collective features Newfoundland and Labrador pianist Florian Hoefner and bassist Jim Vivian, alongside Nova Scotia saxophonist Mike Murley.

Expert Insight: The Atlantic Jazz Collective’s nomination highlights a growing trend of artists drawing on international collaborations and bringing that talent to regional centers like St. John’s, potentially fostering a more vibrant and diverse music scene.

Hoefner emphasized the central role of St. John’s in the project, noting the success of the “Atlantic Jazz Nights” series at the Arts and Culture Centre, which brings international artists to perform. The album itself originated from an invitation extended to U.K.-based singer Norma Winstone and American drummer Joe LaBarbera in September 2023.

Seascape features both Winstone and LaBarbera as guest artists. Hoefner and Vivian also noted a growing appreciation for jazz music within Newfoundland and Labrador, citing increased jam sessions and the emergence of younger artists.

Looking Ahead

The Juno Awards are scheduled to take place in Hamilton, Ontario, on March 29. Should either Staniland or the Atlantic Jazz Collective win, it could further elevate the profile of Newfoundland and Labrador’s music scene on a national stage. A win for either artist may also encourage further investment in and recognition of innovative musical projects within the province. It is also possible that the success of these nominees could inspire other artists to explore similar collaborations and technological integrations in their work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is JADE?

JADE is a new digital instrument created by Andrew Staniland that can be controlled by sensors or even brainwaves using EEG sonification.

Who is featured on the Atlantic Jazz Collective’s album, Seascape?

Seascape features Newfoundland and Labrador musicians Florian Hoefner and Jim Vivian, Nova Scotia saxophonist Mike Murley, as well as guest artists U.K.-based singer Norma Winstone and American drummer Joe LaBarbera.

Where will the 2026 Juno Awards be held?

The 2026 Juno Awards will be held in Hamilton, Ontario, on March 29.

What does this wave of nominations say about the evolving landscape of Canadian music and the increasing recognition of talent from diverse regional hubs?