Taktus

In 2010, Greg Harrison and Jonny Smith created the percussion duo Taktus while pursuing Masters Degrees at the University of Toronto. With a wide range of musical influences – from classical to electronic – Taktus seeks to create music that crosses borders between genres and is relevant to contemporary audiences. Their premiere project is set of marimba duet arrangements of Glass Houses – a seminal work of Canadian minimalism by composer Ann Southam. Their performances have been described as “virtuosic” (Gapplegate Music), “impeccable and articulate” (The WholeNote Magazine), and ”daring” (I Care If you Listen). 2015 was a break-out year for Taktus with the launch of their critically acclaimed debut album, Glass Houses for Marimba (Centrediscs). The album gained national recognition by earning spot on CBC’s “Top 10 Classical Albums of 2015” and a nomination for “Classical Recording of the Year” at the 2017 ECMA’s. Taktus has performed in a wide variety of venues ranging from classical music concert series to contemporary/experimental music festivals. Highlights include performances with the Music Gallery, Toronto Summer Music in the Garden, Musique Royale, Din of Shadows, Intersection, Lupercalia, and FUZE Fest. Taktus’s music has also been licensed for use in contemporary dance and visual art projects. Their recording of Glass Houses No. 13 was choreographed by the Artistic Director of the Toronto Dance Theatre, Christopher House, and featured in dance performances across Canada and internationally. Taktus also performed live with the TDT in the finale of the theatre’s 50th Anniversary Season. Through every avenue, Taktus aims to connect with a diverse array of audiences, providing them with a fresh perspective on minimalist music.

“This albums succeeds on all fronts” — I Care If You Listen

“The playing throughout the CD was impeccable and articulate.” — The WholeNote Magazine

“…absolutely brilliant recording…” — Scene Mag

“The percussion duo Taktus wasn’t even on our radar until Centrediscs dropped this sonic bomb in July, and now we’re superfans.” — CBC Music

“The playing is impeccable and sensitive, the pick-up is clean, and the playback sound is rich.” — Canadian Association of Music Libraries