Meet The Band

Joanna Reynolds-
Co-Founder, Head Coach, vocals/woodwinds, host

A dynamic Toronto-born multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and engaging storyteller, Joanna channels a lifetime of music into a warm, effortless presence that instantly connects with every audience.

Her versatile performance career spans major festivals, intimate jazz clubs, vibrant salsa ensembles, and high-profile corporate functions. Her talents have also taken her across the pond, captivating international audiences throughout London, UK.

Joanna’s distinctive style was shaped through three years of intensive study at Humber College under Canadian jazz legends like Pat LaBarbera and Don Thompson. She further honed her craft as a scholarship recipient at the prestigious Banff Summer Jazz Workshop with global icons Dave Liebman and Kenny Wheeler—a rich musical background that brings a genuine depth and sophistication to her live sets today.

Beyond the stage, Joanna is a master educator and coach with 35 years of experience inspiring music-makers of all ages. Her extensive background includes over two decades as an itinerant instructor for the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and 15 years on faculty at the Humber College Community Music School coaching jazz combos.

Joanna’s coaching philosophy is uniquely shaped by her own journey of learning to sing as an adult. This personal transformation gives her a deeply empathetic, insightful perspective. Believing that everyone can find their voice, she is uniquely skilled at breaking the ice—whether leading a choir, coaching a student, or guiding a corporate team-building session

Rob Thaller-
Co-Founder, Coach, arranger, piano/keyboard

A master of technique, depth, and nuance, pianist Rob holds a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance from the prestigious Eastman School of Music, where he studied under legendary educator Bill Dobbins. This elite foundation shaped his lifelong dedication to the craft, transforming a relationship with the piano that began when he was just five years old into a rich and versatile career.

A gifted composer and arranger, Rob is highly sought after as a supportive accompanist and musical collaborator. He is frequently hired by professional vocalists to write custom charts and provide the steady, intuitive piano accompaniment that allows singers to shine.

Over his extensive career, his talents have taken him to international stages, including performing throughout London, UK, alongside his wife and musical partner, Joanna.

Rob's reputation as a versatile collaborator extends to the global dance community as well. He has released approximately 20 albums of specialized music for ballet classes on iTunes, which are utilized by dance teachers and studios around the world. He also shares this unique expertise locally as a resident pianist at Canada’s National Ballet School.

Rob’s brilliant technique and creative arrangements make him the perfect musical anchor for Centre Stage Experience. Beyond his impressive talents, Rob is widely known throughout the industry for his kind, gentle nature and collaborative spirit—making him an absolute joy to work with for clients and musicians alike.

Russ Boswell- bass

Russ Boswell has performed with some of Canada's top artists. He has toured extensively with David Wilcox, Corey Hart, Colm Wilkinson, Kevin Breit, Seals and Crofts, Ian Thomas, Marc Jordan, Julie Crochetière, Dianne Tell, The Parachute Club, Holly Cole and many more.

Recording credits include Serena Ryder, David Wilcox, Corey Hart, Charlie Major, The Rankin Family, Russell deCarle, Beverly Mahood, Julie Crochetière, Harry Manx, Stephan Moccio, Julian Austin, Colm Wilkinson, Alfie Zapacosta, John Landry.

Other artists he has performed with over the years include David Clayton Thomas, Michael Kaeshammer, Ian and Dave Thomas, Kellylee Evans, Mary Margaret O'hara, Carol Welsman, Harry Manx, Dk Ibomeka, Carlos Del Junco, Billy Reed and the Street People and the Men From U.N.C.L.E.

Jim Gelcer- drums

Jim Gelcer is a multiple chart topping recording artist, and sought after sideman, performing with the who's who of Canadian music.

He is a singing drummer who has been hailed as “a hidden jewel in the Canadian jazz landscape” who sings with “a purity of tone, a resonant vocal aesthetic and a deeply embedded rhythmic sensibility,” and sounds “like Chet Baker, with edge.”He is at home in an eclectic range of genres, from jazz and rock to klezmer and new age, and an accomplished film and TV composer.

His recording with Paul Hoffert (Lighthouse) "Jim and Paul Play Glenn and Ludwig" peaked at #1 in Canada on both the jazz and classical charts. “Melodies Pure and True” with Reg Schwager (guitar) and George Koller (bass) was hailed by CBC and JAZZ.FM as a great recording, and his “Quiet Expanse” recording topped the New Age charts in 2025. He is also renowned in the yoga community for his meditative music recordings. Jim endorses Headhunters Sticks and Creations.