Gifted Jazz Musician Fraser Hollins: Insights on Cultural Roots, Creativity, & Resilience

We're thrilled to welcome one of Canada's accomplished and versatile double bassist, Fraser Hollins. He is also an educator, composer, and bandleader.

Hailed by legendary musician Don Thompson as "one of Canada's great bassists," Fraser has been a vital figure in the jazz world both in Montreal and New York City. His deep love for diverse musical cultures has shaped his unique style, allowing him to seamlessly blend genres and create music that is both imaginative and inspiring.

Critics have praised Fraser’s playing as "highly imaginative and creative spontaneous music making," while fellow musicians admire the "strong foundation" he brings as a rhythm section player, offering far more than just keeping the beat. He has performed around the world and appeared on over 30 recordings with bands featuring national and international artists and collaborations with jazz icons. Fraser’s musical journey has taken him across the globe—from Europe and Asia to South America and Africa.

Not only is Fraser an in-demand performer, but he's also a dedicated educator, having shared his expertise through clinics worldwide and as a faculty member at McGill University's Schulich School of Music since 2006. His passion for music and teaching shines through in every note he plays and every lesson he gives.

In this interview, we’ll dive deep into Fraser's career, his approach on music, and the stories behind his incredible journey. You won’t want to miss this fascinating conversation with one very creative and highly respected jazz musician who lives in  Montreal!

Listen & or download to listen later

Podcast INTRO Music credits: With permission

The Tree's Dream with The Phoenix band (recorded at GigSpace in Ottawa, 13/10/2023)

Fraser Hollins- Contrebasse/ Double bass

Samuel Blais- Saxophone alto

Carlos Jiménez- Guitare

Rich Irwin- Batterie/ Drum

 

Podcast OUTRO Music credits: With permission

The Phoenix with Treehouse (recorded at Jazz Bistro in Toronto, 20/02/2022):

Fraser Hollins- Contrebasse/ Double Bass

Joel Miller- Saxophone tenor                                                                                               

Jon Cowherd- Piano

Brian Blade- Drum

Useful Links

The Layers, article-The Claw, June 28, 2024

https://substack.com/@fholls

Contact: FRASER HOLLINS

E-mail: fraserhollins@gmail.com

Website: https://fraserhollins.ca/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fraser-hollins-48068b249/

Facebook Fraser Hollins Band: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084573294411

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fraserhollins/                

Band camp: https://fraserhollins.bandcamp.com/album/treehouse

Fraser’s Substack: https://substack.com/@fholls

 

About Ancr'âge Travail Podcast & Cause en - Image

Host and producer of the podcast, Linda Couture on LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-couture

Balado Ancr’âge Travail Podcast is an initiative of Cause en -Image

Cause en-Image website: https://causeenimage.ca/en/                                           

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