Ostara, the Germanic goddess of the spring equinox, is the ideal icon for a group of powerfully creative Canadian female jazz musicians. The equinox marks a point of perfect balance: for a moment, the world is poised between day and night, light and dark. In spring, that moment tumbles into a season of promise and growth and it is that hope of rebirth and rejuvenation that has inspired The Ostara Project.

Co-led by award-winning bassist Jodi Proznick and pianist Amanda Tosoff, The Ostara Project showcases the strength and creativity of Canadian women in jazz. Membership is fluid: a core group provides continuity while the roster changes from project to project in order to showcase the creativity of a wide spectrum of artists, all top-tier musicians, composers and bandleaders who reflect the geographical, cultural and creative diversity of Canada’s musical landscape.

Nominated for a 2023 Juno award, Ostara’s self-titled debut album (Cellar Live, November 2022) features the compositions and talents of seven outstanding musicians who collectively hold nine JUNO nominations and three JUNO awards. This first iteration of Ostara features Joanna Majoko (vocals), Rachel Therrien (trumpet), Allison Au (alto sax), Jocelyn Gould (guitar), Sanah Kadoura (drums) and Tosoff and Proznick on piano and bass, respectively.

In a genre and industry where women have been severely underrepresented, the Ostara Project is a beautiful example of perseverance, community, and a deep love for the music. New growth rising out of darkness, stretching for new life, propelled by hope. This is the music of Ostara.