In this episode, saxophonist and composer Allison Au reflects on the winding path that brought her to a life in jazz—from childhood days pulling records off her father’s shelves in suburban Toronto, to private saxophone lessons that offered solace after stepping away from school band programs altogether. She speaks with Ernesto Cervini about how a single teacher, Maggie Thompson, sparked her love for the saxophone, and how imposter syndrome nearly kept her from pursuing music altogether. They explore the pivotal role Humber College played in her artistic rebirth, the community that shaped her sound, and the deep relationships within her long-standing quartet. Allison also shares the personal and global threads that shaped her award-winning Migrations project, and how collaboration—with string quartets, vocalists, and trusted bandmates—has become central to her creative process and her voice as an artist.
Canadian Songbook is a documentary-style podcast hosted by Juno-winning drummer and composer Ernesto Cervini, celebrating the diverse voices that define Canada's musical landscape. From opera stars and jazz artists to music educators and community leaders, each episode explores how music has shaped the life of one guest at a time, across generations and geographies.
Told through candid conversations and warm storytelling, these are the journeys of real people—musicians who honed their voice and found connection in childhood choirs, high school bands, smoky jazz clubs, and summer music camps. You’ll hear how one person's family, heritage, and community helped forge their path to international stages—and how collaboration, creativity, and mentorship continue to shape their uniquely Canadian sound.
Whether you are drawn to stories of growth and transformation, curious about creative culture, or simply interested in the lives behind Canada's creative scene, Canadian Songbook offers an intimate and inspiring portrait of what it means to grow through music in Canada.
🎵 This podcast is a growing archive of voices and visions, rooted in rhythm, memory, and home.
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