“Pianist Carissa Neufeld links the classical string section and the jazz ensemble together to create seamless transitions between genres.” – Hobart Yaylor, University of California (press for Sarah Jerrom’s “Yeats Project”)
Carissa Neufeld (BMUS, ARCT) is a Toronto-based pianist, vibraphonist, and educator. Early classical piano studies began with Dr. Betty Suderman and Dr. Robin Wood at the University of Victoria where she accompanied numerous choirs, vocalists, and instrumentalists. Carissa then continued her studies in jazz at Humber College under Don Thompson and Brian Dickinson. As a jazz pianist, she has performed at Toronto venues such as the Rex Hotel and Jazz Bar, Jazz Bistro, Old Mill, Arts and Letters Club, McMichael Gallery, and Lula Lounge. Recent recordings include Toronto Jazz Orchestra’s “20″, the Composer Collective Big Band’s “The Toronto Project”, and Sarah Jerrom’s “The Yeats Project”. She is a long-time member of both the Toronto Jazz Orchestra and the Composer’s Collective Big Band.
Carissa was the pianist for the Bach Children’s Chorus from 2022 – 2024 under the artistic director of Charissa Bagan. In 2024 three BCC choirs were rewarded with first place awards at the Provincial OMFA competition. Carissa also performed with all the of BCC choirs at the Junior Treble Festivals and Senior Treble Festivals, Podium 2024 and various concerts and events (including an appreciation concert for Eleanor Daley).
As a vibraphonist, she has appeared with the Toronto Jazz Orchestra, the Chris Hunt Tentet, and the Big Sound (a Motown band that plays at the Mod Club and the Great Hall). She recently recorded a couple of tracks on Steven Taetz’s album “Drink You In”.
As an educator, she has adjudicated piano festivals in both the Yukon and Toronto and has been a guest improvisation clinician for El Sistema. She has also been a guest lecturer for business and pedagogy classes at both Humber College and Centennial College in Toronto. Carissa currently owns “On the Off Beat Music School” together with her husband Michael Skinner.
Composer’s Collective Big Band – Pianist
Bach Children’s Chorus – Pianist
Toronto Jazz Orchestra – Pianist
TJO with Toronto Mass Choir
The Big Sound – Vibraphonist
