The Jacob Gorzhaltsan Quartet is a contemporary jazz ensemble brought together by Juno-nominated Toronto-based woodwind player, Jacob Gorzhaltsan. Blending a variety of sounds from around the world, the J-Gor Quartet primarily focuses on performing Jacob’s original compositions, as well as showcasing songs by the artists that helped shape his sound (eg. Eli Degibri, Avishai Cohen, Idan Raichel, Omer Avital to name a few). Born in Jerusalem, Israel, Jacob’s music is heavily influenced by his roots and the sounds of the Israeli-Jazz scene, as well as Klezmer/Jewish-music, classical traditions and Middle-eastern folk melodies. The band strives to bridge the connection between the musicians and listeners, with an emphasis on interaction, musical dialogue, and a special focus on melody. The Jacob Gorzhaltsan Quartet features the virtuosity, mastery and creativity of Noam Lemish, Bret Higgins, and Eric West (all of whom are Juno-nominated and acclaimed musicians in their own right).