Ted Warren

As a teacher at Laurier, I bring more than four decades of experience as a drummer, composer, bandleader, and educator to my practice. Throughout my career, I have worked with a wide range of Canadian and international artists, including Kenny Wheeler, Mike Murley, Sheila Jordan, Slide Hampton, Jeff Healey, Chuck Mangione, Rob McConnell and the Boss Brass, David Liebman, Jerry Bergonzi, and many others.

I am one of Canada's most respected and versatile jazz drummers, known for a dynamic touch, deep groove, and instinctive musicality. As a performer, I have built a distinguished career at the heart of Canada's jazz scene, appearing on numerous recordings as both a sideman and leader. My work includes six recordings with the legendary Boss Brass, including Velvet and Brass with Mel Tormé and From Lush to Lively with Oliver Jones. My playing can also be heard on Richard Underhill's Juno Award-winning Tales from the Blue Lounge, Mike Murley's Conversation Piece, the soundtrack to CTV's Bomb Girls, and the acclaimed video game Cuphead.

As a composer and bandleader, I lead my modern jazz quartet, Ted's Warren Commission, an ensemble recognized for its adventurous interplay and inventive writing. The group has released three independent recordings, including First Time Caller, which was named one of Coda Magazine's Top Ten Jazz Recordings of the Year.

I am deeply committed to music education and mentorship. My studies have included McGill University, St. Francis Xavier University, Thompson Rivers University, and a Master of Arts in Community Music from Wilfrid Laurier University, where I now serve on the jazz faculty. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the classroom, I remain dedicated to shaping the sound and future of Canadian jazz.