Ross Porter

As a teenager I worked at the Treble Clef, a record store in Ottawa, where I found the old CTI (Creed Taylor International) catalogue, which introduced jazz to me in a whole new way. More mature then, and with a deeper appreciation of how music is made, I learned to listen properly to the songs and tunes that accompanied my life, and the ability to really hear the nuances has served me ever since, no matter what music I am listening to. Jazz can do that. Listening to it carefully, noting the interplay of instruments and of voice or the way a solo takes flight and how it returns to its nest, can lead you to a deeper appreciation of the genre and other genres of music as well.

In order to appreciate any jazz, you need a sense of fun, adventure, and a desire to take risks. I crave music that grabs my attention. When I hear a great album, the easiest way I can describe it is to say that it feels like Christmas. It gives me a feeling of wonder, appreciation, and, there’s no other way to put it, it makes me feel good. What’s the test of a superior album? Well, to me, if it still sounds terrific years later, and I find I listen to it repeatedly, it’s got to be good.

I was asked recently if I could have any job I wanted, what it would be. The answer was easy – I have it. I think I’ve always had it. I first wrote about jazz for the Winnipeg Free Press, then made documentaries on jazz and pop culture for CBC Radio and Television, and for ten years I hosted CBC Radio Two’s daily national jazz program, Afterhours. Then I was fortunate to be asked to launch CoolTV, Canada’s 24/7 jazz channel, and I am currently the president and CEO of what truly is Canada’s premier jazz station, JAZZ.FM91 in Toronto.