CASEY THOMAS-BURNS, CONDUCTOR
As a music director, Casey Thomas-Burns is the founder and leader of all-female big band The Leading Ladies, along with their community and educational programs ‘Ladies Night’ and ‘Big Bandology’. In addition to her own groups, Casey directs a number of ensembles in the Lower Mainland including the Deep Cove Big Band, West Vancouver Pops, and Vancouver Fire Rescue Services Band.
As a performer, Casey is described as “swinging, singing, and sparkling,” and is known for lighting up the stage with joyful and charismatic energy. Drawing inspiration from artists such Urbie Green, Peggy Lee, and Bria Skonberg, Casey leads her bands in performances that blend the timeless elegance of the jazz Golden Age with the joyful spirit of New Orleans hot jazz.
Working behind the scenes as an artistic programmer and coordinator, Casey has been fortunate to work on an array of events and festivals including the White Rock Jazz & Blues Festival, Queen's Park Arts Festival, and Outside/In Festival. Casey is is the Jazz Vespers Coordinator at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church and is a board member for Symphony 21.
