PROGRAM
FLOW FEST SCHEDULE
TIME EVENT LOCATION
10:30AM 12:30PM
FESTIVAL DOORS OPEN DAY SCHEDULE
11:00AM
XENIA ADAPTIVE CONCERT
Majoko
CLINIC/MASTERCLASS
Larnell Lewis
1:00PM
1:30PM
2:30PM
3:30PM
4:45PM
CHILDREN’S CORNER
RISING STAR SHOWCASE
Larnell Lewis and Sam Williams
Feat Genesis, Elliot, Isaiah & ZWA
ALL ABOUT ENDORSEMENTS
Larry Davidson
MOVEMENT WORKSHOP
Lua Sheyanne
SUPPORTING OUR YOUNG MUSICIANS
Shelkah Francis-Williams
7:10PM
5:30PM 7:00PM 7:40PM
7:50PM
8:10PM
8:30PM
9:20PM
9:30PM
FROM SKIN 2 STEEL & BEYOND
Joy Lapps
EVENING CONCERT
WELCOME
Host Ryan Chung
AJIBOLA AND THE FLOW FEST BAND
FLOW FEST 2025 HONOUREE
Wendy Jones
DJ SET
Joshua Lucas “The FUTURE” INTERMISSION
ADRIAN BENT AND THE FLOW FEST BAND
VOTE OF THANKS
FLOW FEST AFTER PARTY
Joshua Lucas “The FUTURE”
MAIN LOBBY
THE ROSE STUDIO
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
MAIN LOBBY
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
SPONSOR LOUNGE
MAIN LOBBY
SPONSOR LOUNGE
UPPER LOBBY
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
MAIN LOBBY
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
THE ROSE MAIN STAGE
MAIN LOBBY
A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CO-ARTISTIC DIRECTORS
Welcome to the 4th Annual Flow Fest, Brampton’s International Drumming Festival!
We are honored to return for another year of music, rhythm, and community. What began as an evening of celebration has now grown into a full-day festival —an intentional step to create more opportunities for intergenerational exchange, dialogue, and shared experience.
This year, Flow Fest is not only about hearing the music but about feeling the connections it inspires across generations. We are proud to spotlight the creativity of young and emerging artists, whose voices and rhythms are shaping the future, while continuing to honour those whose artistry and dedication laid the foundation for us all to land softly and build grit in glory and style.
From the deep-rooted traditions of West African drumming to the rhythms that influenced calypso, jazz, gospel, and beyond, the drum continues to unite us, move us, and remind us of our shared humanity Today is about holding space—for learning, expression, movement, and joy.
So settle in, explore, dance, and connect. This is your festival, your community, your Flow Fest. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to continuing to grow together in rhythm and spirit.
With gratitude,
Joy
Lapps and Larnell Lewis
Co-Artistic Directors
CAST & CREW HIGHLIGHTS
Asha Lapps
@ASHALAPPS
DAYTIME CO-HOST
Asha Lapps is a dedicated advocate for her community and founder of Black Queens of Durham Region, an online platform she created in 2017 to empower and support Black women in Durham and the surrounding areas
With a growing membership of over 13,500, the community serves as a vital hub for connection, resources, and encouragement
Asha is deeply committed to inspiring women and is known as a natural connector – always striving to bring people together for the collective growth and wellbeing of those she serves
EarlLa PierreJr.
@PANMANONDUTY
DAYTIME CO-HOST
Earl La Pierre Jr , known as ESP (Extraordinary Steel Pannist), began his musical journey in 1987 with Afropan Steelband (Afropan) before launching his solo career in 1991 Within a decade, he became one of Toronto’s leading pannists, performing on stages around the world.
Committed to sharing the steelpan, Earl is a collaborator and advocate of soca and Caribbean culture He currently manages Afropan. He is the co-founder of the Pan Arts Network (PAN) an organization dedicated to elevating the pan on major stages Most recently, he launched Steelpan Music Radio a station dedicated to the instrument’s sound and legacy
Majoko
SON 31 (France),
Toronto-based vocalist, composer, and bandleader Joanna Majoko is recognized as one of Canada’s most exciting and celebrated young voices in the jazz world She has performed internationally with acclaimed artists such as Jane Bunnett and Maqueque, David Clayton-Thomas (Blood, Sweat & Tears), and Larnell Lewis (Snarky Puppy). She has also appeared at major festivals including J S Son 31 (France), the Inter Jazzfestival Bern (Switzerland), and the Montreal Jazz Festival
Born in Germany and raised in Zimbabwe, Majoko draws on her diverse cultural roots to craft a sound that is both vibrant and dynamic. A fixture on Canada’s jazz scene, she has graced stages from The Rex to Harbourfront Centre and was named the 2021 Emerging Jazz Artist by the Toronto Arts Foundation, among other accolades With her debut EP No Holding Back, Majoko showcases her artistry as a vocalist, composer, and multiinstrumentalist, solidifying her place as a powerful voice and contributor to jazz music worldwide.
MAJOKO PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
XENIA CONCERTS
Xenia Concerts present adaptive and inclusive performances designed to welcome everyone. Each concert thoughtfully considers sensory, physical, visual, and hearing needs, ensuring participants of all abilities can fully engage in the experience
THE ROSE STUDIO
11:00AM
60 MIN
JAZZ SUR
Juan Carlos Medrano is a Grammy nominated percussionist, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and educator based in Toronto, Canada.
Arriving in Toronto from Colombia in 2006, he became enthralled with the diversity of people, music, and culture that surrounded him – all of which would inform his unique musical style.
As a percussionist, Juan Carlos has shared the stage and collaborated with a diverse group of award winning artists such as Jesse Cook, Hilario Duran, BADBADNOTGOOD, Charlotte Day Wilson, and Jessie Reyez to name a few.
@ROSENDOCHENDYLEON
Rosendo “Chendy” León Arocha is a Cubanborn percussionist, arranger, producer, and educator from San Antonio de los Baños The son of percussionist Rosendo León Sánchez and dancer María J. Arocha Martínez, Chendy was immersed in rhythm and movement from an early age. He began performing professionally at 18, joining leading Cuban ensembles and contributing music to the Oscar-nominated documentary Policlinico Infernal.
Now based in Toronto, he has collaborated with artists including Jesse Cook, Sultans of String, Amanda Martínez, Alex Cuba, and Eliana Cuevas He is an endorsed artist with MOPERC percussion instruments and Headhunters sticks.
Felix Fox-Pappas is a Toronto-based pianist and keyboardist whose jazz and classical training began at age seven
A graduate of Rosedale Heights School of the Arts and Humber College (2021), he played with the JAZZ.FM91 Youth Big Band (2015–2017) and earned the 2017 JEN Canadian Jazz Musician of the Year Scholarship
An in-demand collaborator, he performs regularly around Toronto and serves as a touring keyboardist with BADBADNOTGOOD, appearing on their Mid Spiral project and international tour circuit He is recognized for his wide-ranging compositional voice and his ability to move fluidly across genres
Larnell Lewis
Join Grammy Award–winning drummer Larnell Lewis for a dynamic 45-minute clinic that combines world-class performance, practical drumming insights, and inspiring grooves for musicians of all levels.
Sam Williams
RISING STAR DRUM SHOWCASE
At six months, Zwa was already tapping on his chest in rhythmic pattern. As he grew older, he would drum on anything he could get his hands on From a toy drum kit at one year old, to a real drum kit at five years old, Zwa has never stopped drumming.
Zwa is a regular visitor at Long & McQuade where he loves to explore the variety of electric drum kits on display Zwa has never had drum lessons but has been showcasing his drumming skills at his school’s End of Year presentations and Black History Month community celebrations. Zwa’s favourite drummers are Larnell Lewis and Jonathan Moffett
ZWA Genesis
Genesis Heath (she/her) is a 17-yearold multi-instrumentalist and audio technician, skilled in drums, guitar, and bass. With a passion for music and sound, she creates dynamic and intricate compositions that showcase her diverse talents.
Known for her technical expertise in audio, Genesis blends her musical proficiency with a keen understanding of sound engineering to produce powerful and immersive experiences.
RISING STAR DRUM SHOWCASE
IsaiahBedward-Ham
Isaiah Bedward-Hamilton is a Canadian drummer from Vaughan, Ontario whose love for rhythm began in early childhood. By age three, he was studying drums across the Greater Toronto Area at Drummers Choice, Long & McQuade, Drumland, and Zamar Music Academy, while also training with artist Tré Taylor
Isaiah has performed at Flow Fest— Brampton’s International Drumming Festival and the School of Rock Camp, playing genres from gospel and jazz to reggae, R&B, and rock In 2025, he recorded with gospel artists Michael ed es nd
liotscovered his passion for rhythm one year old, turning a pot lid e cupboard into his first “drum ” zing his gift, his mother bought drum set, and he has been ing his craft ever since.
age of eight, Elliot was already at his church, where he now as the official drummer, bringing and joy to every service He also s at his school, continuing to s a young musician with big for the future.
DLarryavidson
Larry Davidson, Managing Director of Sales and Marketing at D’Addario Canada, will share insights on building artist endorsements and fostering industry collaboration.
Larry Davidson is the Managing Director of Sales and Marketing at D’Addario Canada, a leading music accessory company He plays a key role in driving growth and building the brand’s presence in the industry Passionate about music, Larry works closely with artists and values strong relationships, community, and collaboration.
As part of a family-run business, he brings a personal touch to every partnership. Outside of work, he’s a devoted husband, father of three, and avid runner who embraces discipline and balance Larry’s goal is to uplift others and help the music industry thrive through connection and shared passion
Lua Sheyanne
MOVEMENT WITH LUA SHEYANNE
MAIN LOBBY 3:30PM
Join award-winning artist Lua Shayenne for an engaging movement workshop that blends African dance, song, and storytelling, guiding participants of all levels to explore rhythm, expression, and creativity.
Lua Shayenne, finalist of the 2025 Johanna Metcalf Prize and 2024 Muriel Sherrin Award, weaves contemporary narratives through dance, song, and storytelling. Inspired by her African heritage and the Baha'i Faith, her art seeks to ignite hearts and stir consciences, fostering dialogue advocating for ecological stewardship, social equity, and spiritual growth
Lua is the Dora-nominated creator and performer of Yassama and The Beaded Calabash, a touring children's dance-theatre tale. Lua is the artistic director of Lua Shayenne Dance Company, with seven full-length works, and teaches African dance at Toronto Metropolitan University, and in schools and communities across Canada and beyond
Shelkah Francis-Williams
SPONSOR LOUNGE 4:45PM
45 MIN
SUPPORTING OUR YOUNG MUSICIANS WITH
SHELKAH FRANCIS- WILLIAMS
Join Toronto-based saxophonist and educator Shelkah Francis-Williams for an inspiring talk on how parents and guardians can nurture children’s musical growth with confidence, curiosity, and joy.
@SHELKAHF
Shelkah Francis-Williams is a Toronto-based saxophonist and music educator with nearly 25 years’ experience guiding students and inspiring audiences. Her vibrant mix of jazz, soul, and Caribbean influences has brought her to the stages of the Juno Awards, Toronto Jazz Festival, and Soulpepper Theatre, performing with some of Canada’s top artists
As a mentor and teacher, she’s led dynamic music programs for Brampton Montessori schools and private students of all backgrounds, always centering curiosity, confidence, and joy Shelkah holds an MEd from OISE/University of Toronto and believes music should empower every child’s unique voice.
STEEL
Join internationally acclaimed steelpan artist Joy Lapps for an interactive workshop that traces the instrument’s evolution from West African percussion to steelpan, inviting participants to build rhythm and groove together. 60 MIN
@JOYLAPPSMUSIC
Ajibola
Ajibola, a renowned percussionist from Trinidad and Tobago, is celebrated for her exceptional talent and is sought after across the island She began her percussion journey at just three years old, playing traditional folk drums
With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts and a Master’s in Carnival Studies from the University of Trinidad and Tobago, Ajibola has collaborated with notable artists like Arturo Tappin, Machel Montano, Vaughnette Bigford, Joy Lapps, and Larnell Lewis
Passionate about promoting Afro-centric culture, she also advocates for women in music through her campaign, “Girls Can Play Drums Too,” enriching Trinidad and Tobago’s musical landscape and inspiring future female percussionists.
Wendy Jones
Wendy Jones is the quintessential international ambassador of the steelpan. As the bandleader of Pan Fantasy Steelband and the driving force behind the North York Inter-Community Youth Group (NYICYG), she has championed steelpan as both a cultural artform and a tool for social change. Under her leadership, Pan Fantasy has provided nearly four decades of meaningful, highly recognized music programming igniting youth leadership, fostering family connection, and strengthening the Pan fraternity across Toronto and beyond
In April 2024, the Toronto Arts Foundation honored Pan Fantasy Steelband with the prestigious “Arts for Youth” Award, a testament to Wendy’s vision of using music as a pathway for mentorship, empowerment, and community building.
Beyond the stage, Wendy embodies the heart of Toronto’s Caribbean community
A proud daughter of Trinidad and Tobago, she is known for her unwavering support always offering her time, talents, and even her kitchen to nurture and uplift others in mind, body, and spirit. More than a bandleader, she is a cultural matriarch whose presence has touched countless lives through generosity, service, and steadfast dedication
Ryan Chung
EVENING HOST
Ryan Chung, better known to the city of Toronto as R. Chung, began hosting local events and talent shows all over the Greater Toronto Area before chasing his dream in broadcasting With a push from faithful friends, he was featured in the 2009 Much Music VJ Search, which was a springboard to career opportunities with MTV Canada and Corus Entertainment.
His love for broadcasting, along with his hidden talents of entertaining people, would lead him to host major events on stages like Echo Beach, the Harbourfront Centre, Toronto's City Hall, the Pan-Am Games & many other events across the city.
Ryan’s savvy nature, personality, and drive led him to produce and host an all-Canadian music highlight show on Toronto’s first Black Canadian radio station, G98.7FM (now Flow 98.7). The show ran for seven years and featured interviews with artists such as JUNO Award winner Savannah Ré, Jully Black, JUNO nominee TOBi, and many other musicians and entertainers
His most recent roles include being a former associate producer for the award-winning arts & culture show Q with Tom Power. He now sits as a Producer for CBC Music's National Morning Show @RDOTCHUNG
Joshua Lucas
DJ, PRODUCER, CULTURAL CURATOR
@JOSHUAXLUCAS
Referred to as “The Future,” Joshua Lucas is one of Canada’s most versatile Caribbean DJs, producers, and cultural curators. A JUNO Award-winning musician and founder of Avalanche Productions, he is dedicated to elevating Caribbean culture through music, visuals, and live events
Known for his sharp mixing skills and deep knowledge of Reggae, Dancehall, Soca, R&B, and Hip-Hop, Joshua has performed internationally and across major festivals, stadiums, and exclusive events. As visionary behind Toronto’s Skankin’ Sweet party series and Musical Director for Toronto
Revellers, he continues to preserve island sounds while pushing their influence into new creative spaces
Adrian Bent
ADRIAN BENT AND THE FLOW FEST BAND
@ABENTIMUS
Adrian Bent is a multi-instrumentalist and producer best known as the drummer for Drake, performing on international tours and select studio projects Equally skilled on drums, bass, guitar, and piano, he has also performed with Jay Z, Eminem, Nicki Minaj, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Usher, Justin Bieber, H.E.R., Kanye West, Daniel Caesar, and many others.
As a Musical Director, he has arranged live shows for Jully Black, Jilly, and Tink Adrian’s film and television credits include Making It, Mariah’s World, and A Beautiful Peace, earning awards for Best Original Score and Outstanding Achievement in Film Score.
FLOW FEST HOUSE BAND
Led by Marc Manhertz, The Flow Fest House Band brings together some of Canada’s most dynamic and versatile musicians, each rooted in diverse traditions of jazz, R&B, gospel, Caribbean, and global sounds. Known for their individual artistry and ability to harness a clear and collective synergy, they provide the heartbeat of Flow Fest, elevating every performance and artist that takes the stage.
MarcManhertz
MUSICAL DIRECTOR
With over 15 years of experience in music industry, Marc Manhertz i seasoned and versatile bas bandleader, and musical director kn for his dynamic range and mu sensitivity. His work spans performances, studio sessions, appearances in film and television. M has had the privilege of perform alongside some of the industry’s m respected artists, consistently bringing depth, groove, and leadership to every project.
@marcmanhertz
ChrisBlair
Meet Chris Blair. A prolific drummer and Toronto native. Chris is known for his power, placement, and creativity behind the drum set and is emerging as one of Toronto’s session go-to powerhouses!
Chris has been fortunate to collaborate with some of Toronto’s iconic talents, including Daniel Caesar, Shawn Desman, Jully Black, Savannah Ré, and more.
Guided by an unwavering passion for music, he moves through his artistic journey with intention—leaving behind a trail of inspiration, soulful energy, and a sound that continues to stretch the limits of possibility.
FLO
Rosh
Roshane Wr composer, Jamaica He went on to Jamique En accompanist the Visual moving to Humber Coll Lewis, Rosha in Toronto’s of the Rosh musical dire he leads musicians f Bammy Frid monthly eve
Toronto Arts Foundation s Breakthrough Jazz Artist Award and released Yaad to Abroad, available on all streaming platforms.
@roshanewright
GarethBurgess
Canadian-born steel pan player Gareth Burgess carries deep Trinidadian roots and a lifelong connection to the instrument through his father, a renowned pan player A dynamic arranger, director, and performer, Burgess has led and played with steel drum orchestras on international stages and in Toronto’s Caribana competitions, earning recognition for his artistry and leadership in the pan community
FLOW FEST HOUSE BAND
JosephCallender
Joseph Callender is a dynam saxophonist, composer, and bandlead whose artistry bridges tradition a innovation. Based in Toronto, he h captivated audiences with his soul tone, improvisational brilliance, a genre-crossing versatility.
As the founder of Joejoe Music Servic Joseph leads projects such as Toron Roots Jazz, Saxx n Traxx, and Studio 8 blending jazz, Caribbean rhythms, a contemporary sounds into a distin musical voice. A graduate of Humb College, he has performed across Cana and internationally, bringing passion a storytelling to every note Joseph’s mission is to create meaningful musical experiences that inspire, uplift, and connect communities.
@jozefteeuwsen
@b4saxx
zefTeeuwsen
Teeuwsen is a touring and session st based out of Toronto He began al lessons at the age of 12 with r Eric Golding. Rock and blues his primary genres of interest but quickly became accompanied by azz, fusion, gospel, and r&b Jozef ed Redeemer University to study ean Meredith-Jones and graduated Bachelor of Arts double majoring h music and history. Since that Jozef has gone on to perform and for artists of all genres across America including BLXST, Tyla, Rowland, Queen Naija, Justin Nozuka, Dylan Sinclair, Nate Haller, and many more.
FLOW FEST HOUSE BAND
LiamMyrie
Liam Myrie stands as a distinguished figure in the music industry, revered for his multifaceted talents as a music producer, arranger, recording engineer mix and mastering engineer, and pianist all anchored in the vibrant city of Toronto, Canada His illustrious career has seen him collaborate with JUNOnominated and award-winning artists leaving an indelible mark as a keyboardist and music director.
With a solid foundation rooted in academia, Liam’s pursuit of musica excellence led him to attain professiona status, culminating in a Masters in Music Technology and Digital Media. His unwavering dedication to his craft is evident in every note he plays and every project he undertakes
@liammyrie
CO-ARTISTIC DIRECTOR FLOW FEST
LARNELL LEWIS is a GRAMMY Award winning musician, composer, producer, and educator. Larnell has quickly established himself as one of the most diverse and in-demand drummers currently on the music scene. Along with his longstanding position on drums in Snarky Puppy, Larnell has led many highly successful groups of his own and toured the globe with some of the most well known names in music, including Quincy Jones, Etienne Charles, Laila Biali, Jeremy Ledbetter, Lalah Hathaway, and more.
Larnell’s immense talent, fierce creativity, and continually evolving musical style is what has kept him at the top of the list as a musical collaborator for artists across the globe In March 2024, Larnell released his third album entitled ‘Slice of Life’ (Juno Nominated 2025) which is a snapshot of moments of learning and gratitude at his current stage of life as a father of three.
His vast talents, not just as a musician but as a producer also landed him the opportunity as Musical Director for a performance during the Toronto International Film Festival’s premiere of the critically-acclaimed documentary of Quincy Jones’, “QUINCY”, (directed by Rashida Jones & Al Hicks), where he led performances from the likes of Yebba Smith, Mark Ronson, and Chaka Khan
CO-ARTISTIC DIRECTOR FLOW FEST
@joylappsmusic
Internationally lauded artist, composer, creative consultant and thought leader JOY LAPPS activates spaces for community building and creative expression. An award-winning instrumentalist of Antiguan and Barbudan descent, Joy treats the steelpan as a tool for engagement, anchoring her artistry in a profound, communitycentered musical tradition. She is deeply committed to amplifying women’s contributions across all facets of her work, with special focus on the women of the steelband movement
Her repertoire blends Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Brazilian rhythmic and harmonic patterns while leaving “plenty space” for spontaneity. As a bandleader, Joy has performed at music festivals and events across Canada and the United States, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Victoria, Edmonton, DC, and Halifax Jazz Festivals, and Miami’s GroundUP Music Festival
Joy’s recent projects include a national initiative to map the steelpan landscape across Canada. Funded by the Canada Council for the Arts, this research and digital mapping effort aims to document and showcase Canada’s vibrant yet underrepresented steelpan ecosystem The project responds to a key challenge: the absence of a centralized, up-to-date platform for discovering and connecting stakeholders within the Canadian steelpan community.
Joy brings her strategic insight and collaborative approach to corporate, educational and nonprofit spaces, offering workshops that use the steelpan as a dynamic tool for professional development and team building
Check out Joy’s most recent recording, Girl In The Yard, follow her on social media at @JoyLappsMusic and visit her website joylapps.com.
THE AFTER-PARTY
FLOW FEST CONTINUES IN THE LOBBY
Come connect, browse vendors, grab merch, snap photos, and keep the vibes alive in community with Joshua Lucas “The Future” and the Flow Fest family.
Vendors
DECOR
Raquel John-Matuzewiski of Raquel John Events
@raqueljohnevents
STYLIST
Val Andrews of Stylin By Val
@stylin.by.val
CATERER
Chef Lee Catering Toronto
@chefleecateringtoronto
EVENT PLANNER
Raquel John-Matuzewiski of Raquel John Events
HOSPITALITY
Mercedez Thomas @raqueljohnevents
CONTENT & NARRATIVE DEVELOPER
Subria Lapps
@subriamusic
STAGE MANAGER AND TECH CONSULTANT
Sharon DiGenova
@sharon digenova
EVENT ADMINISTRATION
Alane Grancho
PRODUCTION GRAPHIC DESIGN/VIDEO
Jesse Ryan of Fwe Culture Design
@fweculturedesign
VIDEO DIRECTOR/ VIDEOGRAPHER
Mookey Wade and Jacquev Colaire of Mookey Media
@mookeymedia
PHOTO BOOTH
Dluxe Photo Booths @dluxephotobooths
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Joy Lapps for The K Group Inc
@joylappsmusic
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER
Zahra Badua
@zahra moves @alanemlopezg
