Second Line Brass

The "second line" is a tradition in New Orleans for funerals and celebrations of life where members of the community follow the procession led by jazz musicians.

This is an ensemble of top-notch full-time Musicians
based in the Greater Toronto Area.

Doug Gibson, the Director, has performed with Hugh Jackman,
Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Barry Manilow, Jeff Beck,
Jann Arden and Manhattan Transfer to name just a few.

Services

For those looking to raise the souls of their loved ones.

Second Line Brass offers a unique and memorable way to
celebrate the life of one just lost.

In true New Orleans Spirit, our ensemble of jazz professionals will lead the funeral parade through your community.

Based in Toronto Ontario, Second Line Brass
services Southern Ontario.

About

Doug Gibson, an in demand low brass specialist in Toronto, has a lengthy list of theatre credits, Mirvish, Shaw and Stratford Festival productions.

He has performed with Hugh Jackman, Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Paul Anka, Jeff Beck, Joan Rivers, Lighthouse and Jann Arden.

He regularly tours North America with
Brass Transit.

Don McDonald enjoys a varied career as a performer. He is a classically trained guitarist, fluent in many musical styles.

Notably, he has worked at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival as a pit musician, session player and onstage as a musical actor. He performs professionally on many instruments: banjo, mandolin, ukulele, bass and guitar.

Don maintains an active teaching studio as well as composing for guitar and arrangements for DMac Music.

Jason Logue is an in demand first call trumpet player, performing with many well known Big Bands, Jazz and Symphony Orchestras and in numerous theatre productions.

He has performed with Diana Ross, Deep Purple, Diana Krall, The Funk Brothers and Martha Reeves.

As a jazz artist has performed/recorded with Sam Rivers, Woody Herman, Dave Brubeck, Dave Grusin, Louis Belson and Rob McConnell.

I’d never been to a celebration of life quite like the Second Line Brass parade!
Following a traditional funeral service, the band led the congregation
outdoors and through the CabbagetownToronto community. It was moving, tasteful and a unique send off for a loved one.

Deirdre D

My grandmother had a larger than life personality, when she passed she wanted to have a party. My parents arranged for Second Line Brass to lead the guests of her celebration of life through her downtown Toronto neighbourhood. It was a unique and beautiful send off and nothing could have suited her better.

Colin G.

Testimonials

We have all experienced the “new” funeral celebration,
but finally, this really was one!
Live jazz music made the difference. Marching through the deceased person’s neighbourhood… a true celebration. Also the playing was world class!
If you are planning someone’s celebration of life don’t hesitate to get in touch with
Second Line Brass and celebrate!.

Bruce D.