Live Music

Pianist and Composer Zita Petrak traces her musical roots back to the enchanting city of Prague, Czech Republic.  Immersed in its rich cultural heritage from a young age, after graduating from the prestigious Prague Conservatory in 1976, she continued her studies in jazz and composition, further enriching her artistic repertoire. 

In 1981, Zita made a bold decision to seek political freedom and defected to Canada, embarking on a new chapter in her life and career. Embracing the opportunities and challenges of her newfound artistic landscape, she dedicated herself to teaching, performing, and composing.

Zita has recorded two solo albums of her own compositions, her debut dreamy and passionate piano solo album, “Reflections” (2010), and her second album, "Streets I knew" (2017), which explores a rich tapestry of musical styles, blending classical, jazz, and flamenco influences to craft captivating musical stories. 

Zita's composing style is characterized by its ability to evoke mood and atmosphere, transporting listeners to a world of emotive dreamscapes. Drawing from classical, jazz, and impressionist influences, her music captivates with its lyrical beauty and evocative imagery.

Beyond her solo endeavors, Zita has collaborated with Lenka Lichtenberg, contributing her musical talents to projects such as the Juno Award-winning album "Thieves of Dreams" (2023), "Songs for the Breathing Walls" (2012), and "Masaryk" (2018).

Through her music, Zita Petrak continues to enchant audiences with her boundless imagination and unwavering passion for artistic expression.

Inspired  by a childhood full of music with a family full of singers and other musicians, I've been singing for as long as I can remember.  

My musical  tastes and experiences have been called eclectic, and range from jazz, blues, rock and pop to-- more recently--"a little country".  

For me, it's more about  quality  than  genre.  I love good songs that speak to my heart, make me happy or sad, or make me laugh.

Since moving to Southern Georgian Bay, in 2020, I am enjoying exploring the local live music scene and becoming part of that community.  Stay tuned for  more upcoming gigs in the Collingwood and Town of the Blue Mountains area.  .

I've been singing at clubs, restaurants & private events in duos, trios and other combos for many years now.

With the help of award-winning producer and versatile musician, Tony Quarrington, I released an album of torch songs with my   Deep Dark Secrets Jazz & Blues band in 2012. 

My dear friend, Ros Kindler and I love to collaborate as  Jazz Sisters -- you can see the poster from our latest gig on this page.

I am fortunate to work with such accomplished and talented musicians as Tony Quarrington, Peter Hill, Stu Harrison, Rob Thaller, Jordan O'Connor, Ros MacIntyre, Carlie Howell, John Collin, Glen Anderson, Daniel Barnes, Alison Young, Chris Gale, Ian MacGillivray and so many others, most recently, the pianist and composer, Zita Petrak.