Boreal…

“There are three wonderful writers in this band, and three beautiful voices. Magic happens when these three women combine those wonderful songs and voices on stage. I was transported. They are a rare and wonderful band and they’re not to be missed.” –  David Francey

Canadian singer-songwriters Katherine Wheatley, Angie Nussey and Tannis Slimmon come together to form the powerhouse trio, Boreal. Their new album, Winterbirds, has earned Canadian Folk Music Award nominations for Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, and Vocal Group of the Year. Their show is thrilling, moving, and beautiful, and it has earned them a devoted audience and stunning reviews. On stage, they are warm, open, and disarmingly funny, forming an immediate and genuine connection with their audience.

“I’m rarely speechless… That was so moving — oh, my heavens! Unbelievably beautiful!” – Rob Dutton (The Grand 101.1 FM)

With roots in Parry Sound (ON), Sudbury (ON), and Oak Lake (MB), Boreal carries the stories of the places that shaped them — the weather, the land, and the people who touched their hearts.

Given their shared northern upbringing, it’s no surprise that they’ve created a special seasonal Show – Songs for the Snowy Season – which they tour every November and December. The show features original songs that so many Canadians relate to, like “Shovelling Snow”, “Snowball Fight”, and “Shepherd of the Road” (about angel truck drivers who guide us home through blizzards). Songs for the Snowy Season celebrates winter in all its fun, fury, and quiet glory, gently ushering us into the cold months ahead.

“With stunningly beautiful voices, Boreal captures the festive spirit like no other act I’ve ever presented. With exquisitely intricate harmonies and heartwarming stories, Boreal connects with their audience in a profound way. Our show was a sellout and we immediately booked them for next season! Highly recommended!” – George Scott (Songwriter’s Showcase Presenter, Alliston and Beeton, ON)

Alongside a wide-ranging collection of songs, Boreal is known for exquisite harmonies and rich, inventive vocal arrangements. Their music weaves three distinct voices – Katherine’s is deep and rooted in earthy folk; Tannis’s is improvisational and explores sacred soundscapes; Angie is the emotional, untamed force. When they write and arrange their songs, they take advantage of these differences. The result is a unique sound that’s as cohesive as it is surprising.

Boreal recently performed at Hillside, Blue Skies, Summerfolk, Stewart Park, and Back 40 Festivals. They just finished a tour of folk clubs and theatres across southern Ontario and – this spring and summer – they look forward to touring Vancouver Island and Alberta with additional appearances at the Canadian Folk Music Awards, Lunenburg Folk Festival, Mariposa Folk Festival, and other select performances across Canada.