Music Year-End Showcase Concert Series

Aaron Pasacreta Showcase Genre: Indie/Rock & Folk/Pop

Personnel: 
Bruno (Drums) 
Patrick (Guitar/Bass) 
Phoenix (Guitar) 
Jonah (Keyboards) 
Aaron (Bass/Guitar/Vocals) 
Daniella (Vocals) 
Zenaya (Vocals) 
Drew (Guitar/Vocals for 1 song)

Aaron Pasacretas showcase is an immersive presentation of his favourite artists, blending elements of electronic and acoustic genres to create an atmospheric and deeply personal experience. The showcase features original material, interludes, energetic covers, and will see Aaron jumping between multiple instruments while delivering powerful lead vocals, overlaying soulful instrumentation that invites the audience to connect with every song. The night will be an emotional musical journey focusing on themes of summer nostalgia and love, along with the encouragement to the audience to pursue your passions and explore artistic expression.

Reid Erickson - Pop Rock/Alternative

Reid is a second-year drummer and performance major. Currently 20 years old, Reid has spent the majority of their secondary and post secondary years performing at a wide array of venues across the province.

By providing other musicians with a sensitive and satisfying rhythmic pocket, Reid has had the opportunity to perform live and studio record with several local bands and artists. He hits the stage with confidence and never fails to set the proper foundation for a great night of live music.

Reid's band features accompaniment from members of their first ever cover band, "Blackout Summer." This is the talented Rhyan Johnstone on vocals and Finley Kinghorn on electric guitar. Other musicians include his brother Sawyer Erickson on bass guitar, and Selkirk College peers Patrick Lehockey on lead guitar and Cris Chen on keys and vocals.

The audience can expect high energy and tight grooves throughout an evening of compelling alternative pop rock covers!

Daniela Pacheco is a singer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter whose music blends the intimacy of the singer-songwriter style with modern pop elements. Her sound is characterized by rich harmonies, organic acoustic textures, and atmospheric layers of synthesizers and pads—crafting a captivating balance between warmth and contemporary edge. 

Originally from Costa Rica, Daniela moved to Nelson in 2023 to pursue the Contemporary Music and Technology Program at Selkirk College. Now in her second year as a Songwriting Major, she studies under acclaimed singer-songwriter and vocal instructor Emily Millard. With a passion for music production, she has developed her unique blend of organic and electronic sounds, guided by instructors Joel Fountain and John Tucker. Daniela draws inspiration from artists such as Lizzy McAlpine, Gracie Abrams, Taylor Swift, and Alix Page, channeling their lyrical honesty and melodic sensibility into her own original style.

Catch Daniela live for a night of original pop music infused with folk influences, performed alongside her amazing band:

Rena Vailunas - Vocals
Zenaya Semple - Vocals
Elias Flores - Bass
Kjetil Lund - Guitar
Melissa Lozada - Keys & Synthesizers
Kaes Blommestein - Drums
Finley Kinghorn - Live sound

Zenaya Semple is a singer-songwriter from Regina, Saskatchewan. She took to the stage for the first time at the age of 9 with her family band, “The Gene Pool.” Her love for songwriting blossomed in high school, and in 2021, she began sharing her dreamlike, melodic songs live. Since then, she has performed across Western Canada, with notable appearances at the Regina Cathedral Village Arts Festival and the Winnipeg Folk Festival. 

Zenaya’s music combines soothing melodies with heartfelt lyrics that explore themes of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia. Her voice and finger-picking guitar style, complemented by her band—Daniela Pacheco (vocals), Drew Storey and Aaron Pasacreta (guitar), Reid Erickson (drums), Jonah Wingelman (keys), and Cris Chen (bass)—create an immersive experience. At her showcase, you can expect a night filled with emotional highs and lows, from upbeat cover tunes to heartfelt ballads. Zenaya’s harmonies and witty banter will leave you captivated and moved by every song

Come listen to Vibraphonist Anthony DeFlon Houchens‘ dx/dy Jazz Collective featuring a variety of original jazz fusion compositions and arrangements for his showcase concert.

Born in Indiana, DeFlon has gotten experience and gained inspiration from visiting and living in many different US cities; from Chicago to Washington D.C. His interest in Selkirk’s staff, Don MacDonald, Dave Restivo, and John Tucker has drawn him over to study in Nelson. His interest in many different styles comes through in their writing, ranging from 1960’s Minimalism to 1980’s funk to traditional 1920’s big band jazz. 

Come tonight on March 20th to hear several compositions and arrangements ranging from slow and emotional to fast and upbeat from this large ensemble jazz band. Special thanks go to Drummer Steve Parish, Pianist Aaron Zukewich, Bassist Jeremy Luth, Saxophonist Don MacDonald and TBA, Trumpist Quin Tanner, Trombonist Keith Todd, and Sound Engineer Alexander Leffelaar.

Aaron Zukewich - Original Contemporary Jazz

Aaron Zukewich is a pianist with a passion for discovery, creativity, and composing. His compositions incorporate a myriad of sounds from jazz, classical, pop, and world music, weaving unique rhythmic and harmonic combinations, lyrical melodies, evoking a wide array of feelings. The original compositions his group will be performing are influenced by artists like the Esbjorn Svensson Trio, Avashai Cohen, Gerald Clayton, and Joel Ross, among others. 

From an early age, Aaron was captivated by improvisation and exploring harmony. He first studied jazz performance at York University on saxophone with prominent saxophonist Mike Murley. A love of composition drew him back to the piano, studying with award-winning pianist/composer Adrean Farrugia. He was drawn to Nelson primarily to study with the incredible pianist Dave Restivo, and is currently finishing the composition program at Selkirk College. Joined by local bass phenom Rob Fahie, drummer Reid Erikson, percussionist Luisa Zuniga, vibraphonist Tony Houchens, vocalist Sapphire Guthrie, Guitarist Peter Macintyre, and sound engineer Alex Leffelaar, the evening will be an exciting, evocative exploration of current music.

Elias Flores is a composer and multi-instrumentalist currently studying composition at Selkirk College. Originally from Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico, Elias has studied and worked on multiple cinematographic and live projects that have helped develop his unique style. He specialises in film scoring and experimental sound design, drawing inspiration from rock, classical, and folk influences. Some of his earlier work includes the soundtrack for “Coyotito,” an animated short film created by students from the SAE Institute. Elias Flores, will be the composer bringing a fresh and unique perspective on the unique films presented on Annecy festival In Annecy (2023), Sauvage Film Festival in Paris(2023) and Morelia Film Festival(2023) created by Javiera Dolores Soledad. 

His music blends dark, immersive textures with unexpected elements, enhancing the surreal and offbeat nature of Soledad's work. By balancing tension and humor, his scores draw audiences deeper into the strange worlds of these films. Explore the darkly whimsical world of Mexican artist Javiera Dolores Soledad through Elias’s Flores musical bison on the captivating short films: “El Hombre de la Esquina (The Man in The Corner)”, “La Maldita Nube Negra (The Damned Black Cloud)”, “Runa y las Mortificaciones (Runa and the Mortifications)”. By combining stop motion, live action, and animation, each film weaves together suspense and quirky humor, inviting audiences into eerie yet playfully bizarre narratives. 

Mackenzie Layne - Folk with a Fantastical Flair

Mackenzie Layne is a songwriter and composer whose work blends rich storytelling with emotionally resonant melodies. With songs that reflect the complexities of the human experience, often through metaphorical and mythological lenses, her music invites listeners to explore the space between dreams and truth. Delving into alchemical themes of identity, growth, and transformation, Mackenzie draws from her journey, her visions, and the stories that shape us all. Her musical influences span a wide array of genres, combining the dramatic flair of musical theatre with the subtle, reflective nature of folk and pop. 

Mackenzie’s showcase promises an intimate evening of original compositions, each song crafted to take the listener through poignant moments of self-discovery, imagination, and the dance between reality and fantasy. Prepare for a captivating night of story and song that brings both the fantastical and the personal to life. Joining her for her showcase will be Colby Greaves on piano, Matthew Osborne on guitar, Andrea Abreu on vocals, Melissa Lozada on sound, and a special appearance by Gianna Stoltz on cello for the final number.

Sofia Barquin is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Mexico City. Sofia was featured in multiple live performances from a very early age where she sang in acapella groups, and the blues on the streets of Mexico City. She was also featured in mexican reality TV show “Tu Talento,mis Contactos (Your talent, my contacts). 2 years ago, she embarked on a journey to follow her passion for music and moved to Nelson to study at Selkirk College's Music and Technology program. She has since been developing a unique sound inviting listeners to connect with her exploration of the human experience. Sofia grew up surrounded by talented artists in all different areas, from painters like Sostenes Ortega to musicians Alex Cuevas(producer), Sandra Cuevas(singer songwriter). Her inspiration comes from a wide range of artists like Fleet Foxes, Silvio Rodriguez to Massive Attack and Plastilina Mosh. 

Sofia based her musical style on the artistic world she grew up in with a wide range of genres and languages. But her biggest motivation to pursue music comes from her family, friends and hometown. Enjoy a captivating show by Sofia Barquin as lead singer will be featuring talented artists such as, Elias Flores, Dune Macdonald , Luisa Zuñiga, Mika Elkuf-Warthe, Peter VanderMeulen and Melissa Lozada running sound.

Adam William Cripps (AWC) - The 40-year-old Composition Major

Having spent the last 2 years in beautiful Nelson BC, AWC’s student showcase is coming to Shambala Hall! AWC is a musician and bass enthusiast from the northern Territory of the Yukon and has spent the over the last two decades in the music scene. Wanting to finally follow his dream to continue studying music, improving bass playing and becoming a composer to film, AWC enrolled at the Contemporary Music & Technology program at Selkirk College. 

After two glorious years of learning under a truly amazing faculty, AWC now has the tools needed to start his next chapter in his musical career. AWC’s showcase will feature both original compositions put to film and original songs performed live with his incredible band: Rena Valiunas on Vocals, Tony Houchens on Vibraphone & Keys, Matt Osbourne on Guitars and Lee Campese on Drums. For the live performances will include the musical styles of Jazz, Neo-Soul and good old Rock ‘n’ Roll!

Peter Macintyre - Jam Band/Jazz Fusion

Peter Macintyre is a guitarist, composer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He is a founding member of The Smokin’ Yogis, a Nelson-based electric, genre-bending musical collective. Peter also performs as a side musician in groups ranging in genre from country, R&B, indie, jazz and classic rock. Joining him for his showcase will be members of the Smokin’ Yogis, including bassists Adam Cripps, drummer Travis Yost, pianist Aaron Zukewich, and Guitarist Peter Johnston. The showcase will also feature percussionist Luisa Zúñiga, vocalist Daniela Pacheco, and sound engineer Melissa Lozada. 

Peter’s taste in music transcends genre and geography, drawing inspiration from music all over the spectrum and globe. Some key influences include The Grateful Dead, Joni Mitchel, John Scofield, Julian Lage, Marcus King and Tedeschi Trucks band. As a songwriter composer, and performer, Peter draws inspiration from themes of adventure, the human experience and connection to the natural and spiritual world. Peter grew up in Toronto, Ontario and now lives in Nelson, BC, where he is rocking out and studying music at Selkirk College.

Drew Storey – Singer-Songwriter/Indie Pop-Rock

Drew Storey is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, known for his blend of high-energy anthems and introspective ballads. His lyrics, reminiscent of a classic coming-of-age film, explore themes of love, loss, and everything in between. Drew began writing music at 8 years old, and a decade later began studying at Selkirk College. Now 20, he is completing his second year, honing his skills in voice, guitar, piano, and songwriting. His showmanship and connection with the audience make each performance emotionally resonant, leaving you with a new favorite tune to hum long after.

Drawing inspiration from modern indie pop artists like Rex Orange County and classic singer-songwriters such as Bruce Springsteen and The Beatles, Drew’s music blends the contemporary with the nostalgic. Drew's live performances feature a talented 7-piece band, including Jayden Elnas on guitar/vocals, Aaron Pasacreta on bass/vocals, Reid Erickson on drums, Rocco Kong on keys/vocals, Jonah Wingleman on keys, Quin Tanner on trumpet/percussion, and a string trio with Don Macdonald (violin), Gianna Stoltz (cello), and Adam Cripps (double bass). Mixed by Peter Johnston.

Rocco Kong - Pop Ballad/Singer-Songwriter

Rocco Kong is a singer-songwriter whose primary genre is pop ballads, blending high-energy tunes with soothing, soft melodies driven by piano and strings. Growing up in Hong Kong, he was shaped by the pop music scene there. He began playing guitar at 16, which helped him develop his sound. His passion for music stems from his belief that it’s a powerful way to capture and convey emotions. He aims to comfort listeners through his songs, helping them persevere when they feel stuck or down.

Rocco writes songs in Cantonese and English. Cody Fry and Chinese singers like Jay Chau and JJ Lin influenced his songs. The result is a captivating blend of heartfelt lyrics and melody with an energetic, uplifting vibe. His showcase will feature Dylan Boyd on piano, Gianna Stoltz on cello, Drew Storey on guitar, Pete Macintyre on electric guitar, Jeremy Luth on bass, Luisa Zuñiga on Drums, and Jayden Elnas as sound engineer.

Luisa Zuniga - Composer/Contemporary Latin-Fusion

Luisa Zúñiga is a Mexican multi-instrumentalist and composer who incorporates elements of Latin music into contemporary composition and film scoring. Her songs combine English and Spanish with poetic and deep lyrics about emotions, taboo topics such as proximity to death and social criticism. With a background in classical music, she is currently finishing a diploma at Selkirk College’s Music and Technology Program. She has been building and improving her compositional techniques, primarily inspired by minimalism, Mexican Nationalism, and her favorite cinematic composers such as Maria Grever, Angela Peralta, Yann Tiersen, Phillip Glass and Steve Reich. She brings her compositions to a live audience with an amazing 9 piece band. 

Vocals - Sofia Barquin, Mika Elkuf-Warthe and Rena V
Guitars and rythm - Peter Macintyre and Alex Leffelaar
Latin bass - Bruno Bosio
Keyboard - Aron Zukewich and Melissa Lozada
Cello - Gianna Stoltz
Mixing - Grace Woodcox

Mika Moon is a vocalist majoring in performance at Selkirk College. She was raised by jazz musicians, and grew up right here in the mountain town of Nelson, BC. Her influences range from the bebop lines of Ella Fitzgerald to the eclectic indie folk of Regina Spektor. Mika also has a background in choral singing with Corazon Youth Choir, as well as a background in musical theatre. With a grab-bag of music tastes, Mika Moon can be found performing jazz standards alongside Hozier covers, followed by folk-ified versions of Broadway hits. 

No matter the style, Mika focuses on the message of a song, and she always strives to use music to connect with others. Enjoy an alt-folk/Broadway/jazz extravaganza featuring the incomparable Adam Cripps on bass, the outstanding Dylan Boyd on keys, the spectacular Jayden Elnas on guitar, the fabulous Luisa Zuñiga on drums, the incredible Daniela Pacheco and the phenomenal Zenaya Semple on backing vocals, as well as the stupendous Grace Woodcox handling the soundboard for the evening.

Kaes Blommestein is an emerging percussionist from Revelstoke, BC, whose dynamic playing fuses the fluidity of jazz with the experimental edge of post-hardcore rock. With a passion for rhythmic complexity and creative improvisation, Kaes has developed a distinctive sound that pushes musical boundaries. Currently studying composition at Selkirk College in Nelson, BC, Kaes is dedicated to refining his craft as both a performer and composer. His deep love for intricate grooves and unconventional structures is evident in his work, particularly in his band Transient, a post-hardcore group he co-founded with close friends. 

For his final capstone showcase, Kaes will take the stage with Transient—Ryder Leigh (guitar/vocals), Silas Boyden (bass), and Santiago Brodie (guitar)—to present an electrifying set of original compositions. The performance will highlight odd time signatures, relentless energy, and a fusion of technical precision with raw emotion, promising an unforgettable experience for progressive and heavy music fans. Don't miss this explosive display of musicianship and passion!

Quin Tanner is a dedicated and passionate trumpet player who is currently a Selkirk College student studying music, with a focus on composition.Throughout their academic journey, they have honed their skills under the mentorship of the renowned faculty and collaborated with fellow students to create a memorable performance. He will be joined by Peter Vandermeulen (Guitar), Chris Chen (Bass), Anthony Houchens (Vibraphone/Piano), and Kaes Blommestein (Drums). Of course, none of it would be possible without Silas Boyden handling live sound.

Quin’s final showcase performance marks the culmination of two years of hard work, creativity, and growth. It features a diverse program that blends classical jazz techniques with modern funk interpretations, showcasing versatility and technical ability. If you enjoy instrumental funk artists like Cory Wong or traditional fusion like Casiopea, Quin’s showcase is for you. This performance is not only a celebration of their academic achievements but also a testament to their passion for music and their journey as an artist. Quin hopes to inspire their audience with a performance that resonates emotionally and highlights the power of music to get your head moving.