Though the musicians of Fort Saint John hold incredible talent and provide the locals with an endless torrent of live entertainment, they do face certain barriers. There is a proverbial glass ceiling of sorts in which the artist can see the next level of their talent, but cannot reach it due to our geographical limitations and isolation.

This is where artists like Jacob Verburg come in.  As the first of many artists to participate in The Musician Exchange Program, Jacob is an incredible talent with much to offer local musicians.

Having instructed extensively throughout the Shuswap in a variety of styles, his unique and diverse experience offers our music community a fresh, new perspective. 

Jacob’s guitar has taken him to many music scenes and schools across Canada and the United States, his talents earning him widespread awards and honours. Now, he’s ready to rock it in the north.

Jacob’s expertise is in jazz, folk, blues, fingerstyle, gypsy jazz and flatpicking, among others, and given the opportunity he’ll teach even the skilled guitarist a thing or two about their trade. In return, our own locals and legends can show him the FSJ ropes.

Jacob plans to share his knowledge with the prospective professional about vital and fundamental aspects of the artistry, collaborating with local talents, and jamming at local venues. With all of this in mind we eagerly await the arrival of new blood with the hopes of strengthening an already thriving community, and forming a musical alliance which transcends location and genre.