Ted Warren

Drum Stories finds Ted Warren turning his attention to the drum set as a fully expressive solo instrument. Across 17 contrasting improvised pieces, the newly released recording explores the many voices of drums and cymbals with imagination, nuance, and boldness—moving between delicacy and force, pulse and freedom, while honouring tradition and pushing beyond convention. The result is a strikingly personal and adventurous sonic journey.

Ted Warren is one of Canada’s most respected and versatile jazz drummers, known for his dynamic touch, deep groove, and instinctive musicality. A sought-after performer, bandleader, and educator, he has built a distinguished career at the heart of Canada’s jazz scene, performing with artists including Kenny Wheeler, Mike Murley, Sheila Jordan, Slide Hampton, Jeff Healey, and Chuck Mangione. As a longtime member of the legendary Boss Brass, Warren appears on six recordings, including Velvet and Brass with Mel Tormé and From Lush to Lively with Oliver Jones. His playing is also featured on Richard Underhill’s Juno Award winning Tales from the Blue Lounge and Mike Murley’s Conversation Piece, named Jazz Report’s Album of the Year. He was also honoured with the Jazz Report Drummer of the Year award.

As a composer and bandleader, Warren leads his modern jazz quartet, Ted’s Warren Commission, an ensemble praised for its adventurous interplay and inventive writing. The group has released three independent recordings, including First Time Caller, named one of Coda Magazine’s top ten jazz recordings of the year. Warren is also deeply committed to music education and mentorship. His studies include McGill University, St. Francis XavierUniversity, Thompson Rivers University, and a Master’s in Community Music from Wilfrid Laurier University, where he now serves on the jazz faculty. On stage, in the studio, and in the classroom, he continues to shape the sound and future of Canadian jazz.

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