Rick Shadrach Lazar

Rick has been hailed as one of Canada's finest and most influential percussionists. Presently he performs with his group, The Montuno Police and is the leader/artistic director of Samba Squad, a Brazilian drumming group that can often be seen bringing the streets of Toronto to life with high-energy music. Rick is also known for his work with the legendary Loreena Mckennitt and he has recorded with Bruce Cockburn and Jeff Healey to name just a few.

Rick was voted Canadian Percussionist of the Year in 1996, 1997 and 1998 and 2000 (Jazz Report Magazine) and his album "Touch" was nominated for a Juno (Best Contemporary Jazz Album), in 1995. Rick is currently a musical educator and faculty member at the Humber College of Music (Toronto).

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