Thomas Steele + 10

The Thomas Steele 10Tet is a ten-piece contemporary large ensemble based in Toronto, Ontario. While a modern and contemporary group, the music composed and performed by the group is rooted in the jazz tradition. The group has performed across the city in a variety of venues, and has been a featured ensemble in the 2020, 2021 and 2022 Toronto TU Jazz Festival.

Born in November 2019, the ensemble is most notable for its distinctive instrumentation and genre-defying compositions. The ensemble consists of four woodwinds players, two trumpeters, two trombonists, a bassist and drummer. The lack of a chordal instrument, such as a piano or guitar, creates a unique opportunity for the ensemble to experiment with incorporating melody, harmony and rhythm into their works.

In February 2021, the ensemble released their debut record “10Tet”, which has been heard across the globe. The record features seven pieces of original music written by Thomas and members of the ensemble, and features ten of Toronto’s finest young musicians.

As time passes, the group continues to expand their repertoire and look forward to continuing to compose and perform their innovative music for years to come.