MAR-SCHELL'S MUSIC TEACHERS
Roger Cloutier
Instruments: SAXOPHONE
Styles: MacEwan University, formerly Grant MacEwan College, Edmonton Alberta
Musical Education: Multiple
Languages: English, French and some Spanish
Roger Cloutier's musical journey began with early lessons from Beatles songbooks and playing guitar in his father's old-time band, where he learned the diverse repertoire of polkas, waltzes, and other cultural music essential for Winnipeg weddings. His uncle, a trombonist for CBC Winnipeg from the late 1950s to 1980, was also a significant musical influence.
Early on, Roger was inspired by artists like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and the blues-influenced British invasion acts such as Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood. He later discovered the works of BB King, Ray Charles, and John Coltrane.
Roger initially started his musical career on guitar before attending the jazz program at Grant MacEwan in Edmonton, Alberta, where he majored in saxophone, jazz performance, and jazz studies. A significant part of his career included singing and playing saxophones for the Million Civilians band throughout the 1980s and 1990s. This band performed Motown, Rock/Pop, and Afro-beat at various venues, including The Forks, numerous festivals, socials, events, and bars.
Two years ago, Roger furthered his studies in Latin music in Puerto Vallarta, with a particular focus on Jobim. More recently, he has been exploring big band sounds, playing tenor sax for the University of Winnipeg downtown jazz band. He also traveled to Mozambique, Africa, with the Nafro Band, with whom he has been performing since the 1990s.
Early on, Roger was inspired by artists like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and the blues-influenced British invasion acts such as Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood. He later discovered the works of BB King, Ray Charles, and John Coltrane.
Roger initially started his musical career on guitar before attending the jazz program at Grant MacEwan in Edmonton, Alberta, where he majored in saxophone, jazz performance, and jazz studies. A significant part of his career included singing and playing saxophones for the Million Civilians band throughout the 1980s and 1990s. This band performed Motown, Rock/Pop, and Afro-beat at various venues, including The Forks, numerous festivals, socials, events, and bars.
Two years ago, Roger furthered his studies in Latin music in Puerto Vallarta, with a particular focus on Jobim. More recently, he has been exploring big band sounds, playing tenor sax for the University of Winnipeg downtown jazz band. He also traveled to Mozambique, Africa, with the Nafro Band, with whom he has been performing since the 1990s.