Sarah Thawer is a self-taught drummer based in Toronto, Canada. She started playing drums at age 2 and her first stage performance was at age 5.

Sarah is currently freelancing, touring, recording and performing with international artists playing various genres including jazz, fusion, latin, gospel, funk, r&b, hip hop, indian and world music. She studied jazz and world music at York University and was the recipient of the Oscar Peterson Scholarship, the highest award given by the institution, in addition to graduating with the Summa Cum Laude distinction.

Sarah has shared the stage and played with many popular artists including AR Rahman, George Watsky, Robert Sput Searight, Jane Bunnett, Charlotte Day Wilson, Tyler Shaw, Ruth B, Osman Mir, Shweta Subram, Jeremy Ledbetter, Salim-Sulaiman, Benny Dayal, Thompson Egbo-Egbo, Roger and Sam Grandison to name a few.

Sarah endorses Vic Firth drum sticks, Evans drum heads, Yamaha drums, Zildjian cymbals, 64 Audio, Gruv Gear and Prologix Pads. Sarah is also the Brand Ambassador for the company.

MALAK

Malak’s music is inspired and driven by her experiences as an Egyptian living away from her home. Coupling electronic and organic elements, the award-winning singer-songwriter melds her impressive voice and charismatic persona into an impactful and engaging live show.

Since releasing her EP, Circus, in 2016, as well as multiple live performance videos throughout 2017, Malak has been invited to perform at MEGAPHONO, Ottawa Grassroots Festival, Festival Folk et Guitarre d’Aylmer, Canadian Music Week, and RBC Bluesfest.

This show is part of the BIG BANG Festival, the city’s most vibrant family event! Learn more.​

VivaFest
a collaboration by NAC Presents, Lula Music and Arts Centre & Axé WorldFest