Peter Katz :: More Nights, Old News

A Very Real Dream Come True!

Hi Folks!

I recently found out that on July 12th, at the gorgeous Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Toronto, I will be opening for my #1 hero, Glen Hansard (The Swell Season, The Frames, ‘Once’). I wanted to share this with you for a few reasons. For one, I was scratching my head wondering how I went from playing my first show at the Free Times Café over 7 years ago, to now having this opportunity. I’ve always struggled to notice progress, to feel like I’m getting anywhere. I guess it’s hard to see it from the inside but I know what I want, and it always feels so far away. In this very moment (and I’m sure the feeling will likely pass…) this feels like I’m actually on the way, a moment in time, a very real dream come true.

Second of all, this show is particularly special to me, because I decided I was going to be a singer-songwriter for the rest of my life the first time I saw Glen play. His band The Frames were opening for Damien Rice at Convocation Hall in Toronto and I was at the show. I was so blown away, and yet I felt like I could somehow be a part of what they had done, I HAD to be a part of it. After the show, I was pretty overcome by emotion and couldn’t go home. I was just standing outside, unable to leave, and Glen happened to walk by. I started talking to him, but he seemed to notice that I was pretty overwhelmed and asked if I was okay. I don't quite remember what I answered but I know he proceeded to take me back inside the venue, took me up on the stage, introduced me to Damien Rice, his band and the rest of The Frames, and then invited me out for drinks. I’ll never forget that genuine warmth and kindness; the same warmth and kindness he has always shown me every time he comes to Toronto, even after Academy Awards and sold-out shows worldwide. Ever since then, I have been pursuing this career relentlessly and trying to do it in the way that Glen taught me that night.

All this to say, thank you for your support along the way and helping to make this happen. Some of you have been checking this site for the past 7 years, some maybe for the first time. Either way, I’m incredibly grateful that you’re here. There is much work to be done, and I’m a pretty far away from that imaginary ‘place’ I want to be, but I feel lucky to be alive, lucky to get to do what I do, and so lucky that I have people like you to share it with.

Wishing you all many ‘dream come true’ moments too, much warmth, Peter

n.b. Tickets are ALMOST sold out! Please click banner or HERE if you're in the area and would like to see the show

n.b.b. And seeing as I'm here, thank you for your incredible support on the last tour. I had over 85 shows in 4 months (almost every night!) from the Netherlands to Germany to the UK to the U.S. and of course Canada, what a haul! I’m busy planning my return so please keep your eye on the SHOWS page as it will be filling up again. Plenty of other exciting stuff in the works too, please stay tuned!

Toronto, Wakefield (Ottawa) and Montreal

Hi Folks!

Another quick one to say that I have some really great shows coming up in Toronto, Wakefield (near Ottawa) and Montreal (as part of the Montreal Folk Fest!) Please find out more about all of them HERE

For the Wakefield show at the BlackSheep, advance tickets are on-sale now HERE The Black Sheep is one of my favourite places to play in Canada, hope you can make it out!

Sorry for the rushed update, about to turn off for 10 days. Lots to report when I re-emerge. Take care and thank you for an incredible past 4 months. 85+ shows!!

lots of love, Peter

UK TOUR POSTED IN FULL!

ukflag

Hi Folks!

Just a quick one to say that all my U.K. tour dates and details have been updated in the shows section. Check 'em out HERE

Pictures and more coming soon from my dream-come-true (and sold-out!) show last night in Toronto. Holy Moly...

Take care and thank you!! Peter

May Update!

Hi Folks!

Finally home for a few days after an incredible Canadian tour, thanks for making it so great!

VERY SPECIAL TORONTO SHOW:
For all of you in Toronto, near Toronto, prone to travelling to Toronto, friends of people in Toronto: just a reminder that I am doing a very special show this coming Friday (May 14th) at one of the most gorgeous venues in the city: The Music Gallery (197 John Street). I will be joined by a 4-piece string/horn section (with arrangements by Bryden Baird (Feist) and Mike Olsen (The Hidden Cameras, Arcade Fire)), Valery Gore will be playing piano and singing (she’s so bloody good), sirens of song Emma-Lee and Layah Jane will be melting hearts with lush harmonies (2 incredible singer songwriters in their own right), Dave Tolley (just came off tour with Xavier Rudd) will be adding some tasty grooves and producer/songwriter Rob Szabo will also be there adding his magic. It will still be a solo show at heart, heightened by a few very special guests. My good friend and Netherlands tour-mate Matthew De Zoete will also be opening the night.

Just when I thought I couldn’t get any more excited, Justin Broadbent (the artist who does all my album artwork) and his sisters Rose and Joy agreed to do an art installation as part of the stage setup!

Tickets are over 75% sold-out! If you would like to come, it is highly recommended that you get your tickets in advance. You will also save $5! Tickets are available now HERE for only $15.

CHARTS:
I am very pleased to report that the new album 'First of the Last to Know' debuted at #1 on itunes on the singer-songwriter charts, and thanks to your incredible response, it has even charted in the top 200 of retail sales (in all genres nationwide!) for the past 4 weeks in a row! Thank you!

UK TOUR:
The final chapter of this 4-month non-stop 80+ show tour will see me touring for 2 weeks throughout the UK. If you have any friends/family/anyone in the UK, please see my list of dates HERE and feel free to spread the word.

LOOKING AHEAD:
I have some great shows later in June including the Black Sheep in Wakefield, the Montreal Folk Festival on the Canal and plenty others coming in, please stay tuned to the SHOWS section for regular updates

Also, I have some really exciting online content that I’m developing including a multi-angle video tutorials series for all the new tunes, a brand new online concept I’m tentatively calling ‘esongs’ as well as many other surprises. More on that over the coming months.

In the meantime, thank you for your continued support, looking forward to seeing you again on the next tour! (really, it’s just one big on-going tour isn’t it...)

Take care, lots of love, Peter

n.b. TICKETS FOR THE TORONTO SHOW are available HERE

Toronto CD release tickets selling fast!

Hi Folks,

Tickets for my big Toronto show at The Music Gallery are selling quickly!

I have confirmed some really incredible guests who will be singing/playing along including singer songwriters Emma-Lee, Layah Jane, Valery Gore (singing harmonies, playing piano, melting hearts), cellist Mike Olsen, violinist Jaron Freeman-Fox as well as a horn section. Also Matthew de Zoete will be opening the night (an incredible songwriter).

I cannot WAIT for this show!

If you would like to come, it is highly recommended that you buy your tickest in advance (you also save $5!) They are available securely through ticketweb, just click HERE or on the poster image on the left.

ALMOST done my Canadian tour, then it's off to the UK for 2 weeks, and then... off to bed! (for 2weeks, then Wakefield, Montreal and more announced soon)

Take care and thank you! Peter

Greetings from the road/ GravyTrain

Hi Folks!

Just a quick little hello to say that the tour is going delightfully. I have barely had any time to do anything other than drive, sleep and play but I'm loving the shows and have been blown away by the turn-outs every night. Thanks so much for coming out and for all of you who have been sending your friends and family in other cities out too, that goes a very long way.

I also wanted to let you know about my very good friend's movie 'GravyTrain' which opens THIS Friday in Toronto (screenings are taking place in many locations, please check HERE for details) 2 of my songs are in the soundtrack (although not what you would expect... I wrote them just for the movie, see if you can spot them) They're doing a really fun premiere on opening night at the AMC at Yonge and Dundas square, hopefully you can check it out! (they're the creators of the hit movie 'The Way of the Tosser', one of my favorites of 2008)

Off to soundcheck for my show at the Artspace in Prince George tonight, I'll check back soon! In the meantime,for daily updates please follow me on twitter (peterkatzmusic)

Thanks and take care, Peter

Today is the day! (and a very special video)

My first time with 'First of the Last to Know'

Hi Folks!

Today is the day that my new album ‘First of the Last to Know’ physically comes out in stores. I have waited a very, very long time for this moment. I am so proud of this record and am so excited to share it with you. The packaging was designed by the incredible Justin Broadbent, he is a miracle worker. I want to say an enormous thank you to everyone who helped support the creation of it (emotionally, financially, good-vibingly, etc. etc.) I literally could not have done it without you.

Instead of going into some long-winded schpiel, I thought I would share a short video with you that my best friend/documentary filmmaker Melissa Dozois made. I think it sums it all up.
Please watch that HERE

Beyond that, I’ve just begun my 5-week Canadian tour (I’m actually writing you from Thunder Bay). I have shows from Montreal to Victoria (East Coast, I will be back eventually!). All of the dates are posted HERE and I also made an e-flyer that you can check out HERE and I added some ‘share this’ buttons so you can easily pass it along to a friend/tweet/facebook etc if you’re so inclined.

I have lots to tell you about this month so please forgive me for a slightly higher volume of emails. Lots of exciting stuff like the launch of my e-songs, more touring, new tutorials, etc. etc. All in good time, for now I’d love it if you could check out the video my friend Melissa made. It really touched me and I’m eager to share.

See you on the road! take care and THANK YOU! Peter

BIG TORONTO CD RELEASE ON SALE NOW!! CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Maple Music Exclusive Pre-Sale!

Hi Folks!

The fine folks over at Maple Music are offering some pretty cool pre-sales options for my new disc 'First of the Last to Know'. One of them includes a Limited Edition USB key which includes 5 early demos of songs from the new record, exclusive photos, high res-album artwork, videos, old show posters/postcards, etc. etc. If you would like to find out more please click HERE or on the image on the left and you'll be re-directed to the Maple Music Page. They ship all over the world too, not just Canada.

Toronto show tickets are selling fast. See post below for more info!

Thanks and take care, Peter

Toronto CD release, TICKETS ONSALE!

Hi Folks,

I'm very excited to announce that tickets for my Toronto CD release party are on-sale now! I have a host of super exciting special guests confirmed including several people who appeared on the record. The Music Gallery is one of my favorite venues in the city and has hosted concerts for the likes of Feist, Royal Wood and countless others. Supporting the bill will be my good friend and Netherlands tour-mate Matthew de Zoete. I promise this will be a night to remember.

Tickets are on-sale now for $15 in advance (save $5). I highly recommend getting tickets now as seating at the Music Gallery is limited.

Please click HERE for tickets

Thanks and take care, Peter

First of the Last to Know goes #1!

Hi Folks,

I am UBER-pleased to report that my new album 'First of the Last to Know' just went #1 on the itunes singer-songwriter chart!

I nearly fell over!! If you would like to join in on the buying fun please click HERE

The physical release with the beautiful artwork by renowned designer Justin Broadbent will be in-stores April 6th!

Thanks so much for your support!! take care, Peter

First of the Last to Know on iTunes Worldwide TODAY!

Hi Folks,

"First of the Last to Know" is now available digitally WORLDWIDE through itunes.

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR DIRECT LINK

Physical release coming April 6th!

Thanks and take care, Peter

First of the Last to Know Trailer

Hi Folks,

The video says it all.

Getting really excited!

Take care, Peter

3FM Netherlands

Hello folks! (hallo vrienden!)

In case you're wondering whyno tour vlogs, I left my camera at the radio station the first night I got here... I should be getting it back soon but in the meantime, 3FM just posted a video of me performing there so I thought I would share it (thanks to RJ and Rhee for having me!)

Having an amazing time by the way, trying to post regular mini-updates at twitter:peterkatzmusic. Sorry to be so brief, running around like a madman without much internet time but loving every minute!

Take care and hopefully play for you soon! Peter

Under a Paper Moon

Hello folks!

I have somehow managed to be in 2 places at once! I created a soundscape for dancer/choreographer Andrea Spaziani and it's running in Toronto until Saturday to rave reviews!! I am so proud to be a part of this, if you're in town, please check it out, you won't regret it!
Click HERE for the latest review

Click HERE for some amazing pics!

It's at Hub 14 in Toronto (14 Markham St) at 8 pm every night. Tickets can be booked by calling 416 404 6429 ext. 42 –seating is limited so this is highly recommended)

And greetings from the Netherlands!! Having an amazing tour so far. I left my camera a the radio station the first night so vlogs will be a little delayed, should get it back soon! In the meantime, follow me on twitter: peterkatzmusic Thanks and take care, PEter

Here We Go!

Hello folks! (Hallo Nederlands Vrienden!)

I leave in 3 hours for Europe to begin 4 months straight of touring in support of the release of my new album ‘First of the Last to Know’ (so far shows in the Netherlands, Germany, Canada, U.S., the U.K. with more to come). I am unbelievably excited, slightly terrified, significantly overwhelmed and all-round delighted to begin. The early reports from the pre-sales perks campaign are that people really seem to like the record so that’s encouraging news. My favorite part about what I do though has always been to get out there and play in person. I can’t wait to do so much of that over the next 4 months (and beyond!)

The first leg of my tour will be in the Netherlands with 28 shows throughout the country. Some will be solo, most will be with another great Canadian singer-songwriter named Matthew de Zoete. For a complete list of dates, please click HERE I have also created a new video where I display my incredible mastery of the Dutch language. It’s really quite astonishing. You can check it out HERE

Over the next several months as I release ‘First of the Last to Know’, (Feb 9th in the Netherlands, April in Canada, tba beyond), I have a whole bunch of really exciting content that I’ll be putting out beyond the actual songs. I’ve been developing something called an ‘esong’ which I’m SUPER excited about along with lots of original video content and more. I’m also developing a new website that will be way more interactive than anything I’ve ever done before, I can’t wait for it to all be revealed over the next few months. Stay tuned for that!

A quick note to my Guelph and Toronto friends. Guelph: I’m very sorry the Jan 29th show was postponed, it will be re-scheduled in March! Toronto: I know you’ve been neglected (not intentionally). I am planning a really special event just for you. Can’t announce it quite yet but I promise I’ll make it up to you.

Last but certainly not least, I created an original soundscape for dancer/choreographer Andrea Spaziani. The show runs from Feb 9th – 13th at Hub 14 in Toronto (14 Markham St) at 8 pm every night. Tickets can be booked by calling 416 404 6429 ext. 42 –seating is limited so this is highly recommended) I am so proud to be a part of this evening.

This is much longer than I intended but there’s just so many exciting things going on, it’s hard to stop! You’ll be hearing from me a lot more frequently over the next few months so please check back soon.

Thank you so much for letting me do this, see you all very soon!

Take care, Peter

Judy Shepard

Hi Folks,

I had the incredible honour of getting to playmy song 'The Fence (Matthew Shepard's Song)' before Judy Shepard spoke at York University last night. It was an amazingly powerful experience, I still haven't fully processed it yet. Just wanted to share a little pic with you, and say thanks again to Judy for doing what she does. If she's speaking in a town near you, please go and hear what she has to share. Take care, Peter

n.b. For those of you who have been emailing me looking for a copy of the song, it will be available on my new record starting April 6th. If you drop me a line though, I'll see what I can do to get it to you a little earlier.

REMINDER - Montreal THIS Sat. Night with Juno Award Winner!

Hello my Montreal Friends! Just a quick reminder that I will be playing my first show of the year supporting 2009 Juno-Award winner Old Man Luedecke at Petit Campus, THIS Saturday night, January 16th. Old Man Luedecke is an incredible performer and songwriter, it should be an amazing night. I will be playing songs from my brand new record and might just have a little surprise for you… Full show info HERE This will be my only Montreal show until the summer, hopefully you can make it out! Thanks and take care, Peter

Jan 13th Craig Cardiff show cancelled

Hi Folks, I owe you a proper Happy New Years (coming soon) but in the meantime, just wanted to update you that unfortunately the Craig Cardiff show that I was supposed to support at York University next week has been cancelled. I'm pretty sad about it but that's just the way it goes sometimes... Better news soon!

Thanks and take care, Peter

'Posters' Video!

Hi Folks,

Tomorrow is the big day when I FINALLY master my new record which means that 48 hours from now, it will be locked-in and ready to be manufactured.

As one final hurrah from my last record ‘More Nights’, I am extremely pleased to announce the release of the music video for ‘Posters’. I have been wanting to make a video for this song for years but could never get the funding in place. After countless attempts, we were finally successful and brilliant director Tim Martin made a video I’m extremely proud of.

Please check it out by clicking HERE or the above image.

Plenty more soon! Thanks and take care, Peter

Look at all those beautiful shows....

Hi Folks,

Just a wee note to say that my 'shows' section is alive and well with tons of new shows added. PLENTY more to come, please check back regularly AND, if you want me to play in your city, drop me a line (peter<a>peterkatz.com). Back to it! Take care, Peter

The stuff of dreams... Glen Hansard sings on my record!

Hi Folks,

I still can't believe it but a genuine dream came true for me yesterday. My #1 musical/integrity hero, Glen Hansard (star of 'Once', lead singer from The Frames and The Swell Season), sang on my new record. Amidst a very busy touring schedule, he took the time to come down to the studio and record before heading back over to Massey Hall to play a sold out show. I was in the audience last night and it was easily one of the best concerts I have ever seen by any artist in my life. Take my word for it, go see them live, that's where it's at. Their tour dates are posted at www.theswellseason.com

Back to work, there is much to be done. Playing tonight in Waterloo, going to try to channel some of that energy from yesterday. Take care, dream big, Peter

Waterloo show this Wednesday, Nov 4th (and Happy Halloween!)

Hi Folks,

Just a quick one to let you know that I'll be playing a great songwriters circle on Wednesday night at Maxwell's Music House in Waterloo (2220 King St N). Also on the bill are Mandippal and the producer of my new record (amazing singer-songwriter in his own right) Rob Szabo! I have a feeling it's going to be a really fun night. Tickets or on-sale now by clicking HERE

Final mixes on the new record should be done this week!

Take care, Peter

A little update and Sharon, Lois and Bram!

Hi Folks,

Just a quick one to let you know that I'm STILL working on the new record... I have also begun planning my CD release tour for 2010. It's going to be crazy with lots of international dates. I just posted the first few Netherlands dates, so many more to come so please check back soon. I feel like I have so much to say, so much to share but it all has to wait... I'm still here, looking forward to resurfacing soon (but not soon enough in my books). Hope you're all doing well, more updates soon (including the new music video for 'Posters'! It's a beauty...)

n.b. I was at a Folk conference this weekend and got to meet Sharon Lois and Bram!! We sang 'Skinamarinkydinkydink'! (spelling?) ... ahh the memories... sniff, sniff...(check out the photo. The Good Lovelies are there too! Sharon was just out of frame so you can pretend that Ken Whiteley (the guy with the white beard) is her. No disrespect Sharon! (no disrespect Ken too)

Take care, Peter

Guelphfest!

Hi Folks,

Just a quick one to let you know that I will be playing as part of Guelphfest on October 2nd. Full info in the shows section. Check out the poster (can you find my face? It's staring right at you...) See you then! Take care, Peter

guelph

Checking in and some photos

Hi Folks,

O Canada! Happy to be home, well-rested, jet-lag recovered and looking ahead. Speaking of looking ahead, Rob (the producer) and I are in the thick of final mixing for the record. I know I keep saying that we're almost done... Well, we are ALMOST done but that final 5% seems to take forever and we're both pretty stubborn about not rushing it for once. We're being really picky, not settling and that's just the way it's got to be I think. I promise it'll be the best I can offer when it's done.

In the meantime, I played a few great shows in Ontario and Quebec the past few days and thought I'd share a few pics, taken by my friend and photographer extraordinaire Tristan Brand. Hope you enjoythem.

This quiet will soon turn to storms. Lots of music, videos, shows, etc. to share in the next few months...

Take care, PEter

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Video Tour Blogs! (short and sweet this time, no 10-minute epics...)

Hi Folks,

This tour is definitely like no other... Having an amazing experience though, you just never know what life is going to throw at you. Check out these 2 little video blogs to see what I mean. Another week of shows, here I come!

Take care, PEter

Episode #1
"DIY... REALLY DIY" Episode #2
"He TOTALLY does his own stunts"

Homemade 'I love PK' t-shirts?!

Hi Folks,

Having a great time on my German tour! Check out these photos ---definitely a first for me! Video tour blogs coming up momentarily, internet is a little few and far between in the German backwoods but I'll find a way! Alright, sorry to be brief, gotta go! Take care, more soon, Peter

A few fun photos

Hi Folks,

A friend just sent me a few photos from my recent show in Mississauga. There were about 25 exchange students from Spain in the audience and I happened to know a song in Spanish from my shows in Mexico. I called them up on stage and we had a great time singing together. Thought I'd share the pics! Thanks to Colleen So for sending them in! (click to enlarge)

Leaving for my tour in Germany in a few days! Very excited!

Take care, Peter

I'm back!

Hi Folks,

After the longest stretch of time-off I've ever had in my life (a whole month!) I am now back and rearing to go! I've already played 3 shows since coming back and have been pulling long hours in the studio getting the mixes in tip-top shape for the new record (I am so excited for you to hear it... I hate waiting!!)

It's still going to be a while unfortunately, BUT, in the meantime, you can hear a lot of the new material live when I play a great outdoor show under the stars (depending on sunset...) in Mississauga this Sunday from 7 - 9 (please note the time change --it used to be 7:30) This will be my 3rd year in a row playing the My Mississauga Festival, it's always a really fun night so bring your family, friends and lawnchairs and soak up the summer. (And for all you Torontonians, it's only a 20 minute drive!)

I'll have more updates soon I'm sure, just wanted to at least touch base and say 'hello'.

Hello.

Take care and talk soon, Peter

Zzzz...

Hi Folks,

About to disappear for a few weeks for some down time before coming back at the beginning of July to finish up recording/mixing/mastering. Sweet sweet rest... In the meantime, hope you have a great start to summer and we'll see you out there soon! Take care, Peter

Netherlands Video Tour Blog #2!

Hi Folks! /Hallo Vrienden!

My tour of the Netherlands with Lucky Fonz III was truly a dream come true. Here is episode 2 of my video blog series, thanks so much for watching! Time to sleep now and then back to work on the new record! Take care, Peter

Netherlands Video Tour Blog #1!

Hi Folks! /Hallo Vrienden!

My tour of the Netherlands with Lucky Fonz III is going amazingly well, couldn't be better! I have posted the first episode of my video blogs. Check it out by clicking on the image or by following THIS link. Another week of shows to go! Thanks and take care, Peter

Netherlands! Studio!

Hi Folks!
I leave for the Netherlands tomorrow! Even more shows have been added including a bunch of really cool press/in-store performances so please check out the 'shows' page if you'll be in that neck of the world. VERY excited!
In the meantime, I'm in the studio until the wee hours tonight, trying to finish the first major wave of tracking (more when I get back).
<-----Trying to find the right notes... (why did I quit piano as a child. I'm going to force my kids to play. Just kidding. Or am I?!)

Take care, Peter

Award Nomination!

How about that, I just found out that I've been nominated for the COCA Emerging Artist of the year award! That's pretty darn nice. Crossing my toes... Take care, Peter

Peter Learns Dutch Overnight (and other amazing news!)

CLICK HERE

Hi Folks! / Hallo Folks! (Impressive, isn’t it)

I have mastered the Dutch language in a mere 24 hours and I have a video to prove it!

To celebrate, I am touring in the Netherlands for the first 2 weeks of May (and also, I suppose, in support of the release of ‘More Nights’ over there) I will be opening for Lucky Fonz III, a very well known Dutch singer-songwriter who toured with me here in Canada in March. We’re going to be playing at some of the best clubs and theaters in the country; I couldn’t be more excited!! If you have any Dutch family/friends then please send them along (and if you need help communicating with them in Dutch, just ask me, I’m an expert now)

In other news, the new record is progressing along very nicely. I’m actually sitting on the couch at the studio while Rob is editing what we recorded today. Sounding good! It won’t be the last time I say this but thanks again to all of you for your incredible generosity in regards to my perk campaign, (whether you could help financially or not). I really could not be doing this without you. I will have video blogs/etc., special updates for you in the relatively near future, just need time to edit them and so far I’ve been eat/sleep/breathing the studio (and learning new languages).

And finally, to my fellow Torontonians: I am very pleased to report that I will be supporting my friend and uber-talent Emma-Lee at the Drake Hotel this coming Saturday. I’ll be doing a solo opening set from 8:45 – 9:30 Even if you can’t make it for my set, I highly recommend you catch Emma-Lee before she’s selling out Massey Hall. (visit www.emma-lee.com for more info, and if you pick up her record then listen closely to track #9 ‘Where You Want to Be’ ---see if you recognize the person singing harmony…. )

That’s all for now, back underwater!

Take care, Peter

Before I'm Submerged...

Hi folks, I am about to enter the deep dark depths of studio-land and I couldn’t be more excited! Before I submerge myself, a few points of interest:

I really must start by saying and enormous THANK YOU for your support so far of my ‘Peter’s Perk Filled Fundraising Campaign’. I have been blown away by your kindness, so thank you. I’m still a ways away from my goal so I have gone a little further and sweetened some of the perks. There are more free CD’s associated with each category and there are 2 new categories (“National Hero” and “Choose Your Own Perk-Venture!”) I’m most excited about the ‘Choose Your Own Perk-Venture’, click HERE for more info (and check out the new pictures for each category!). While I’m here, I received a few emails from people saying that they’re excited that I’m making a totally raw acoustic record and I don’t want to be misleading. Yes, it will be stripped down in comparison to ‘More Nights’, but there still will be some other instrumentation. The focus however will remain vocals and acoustic guitar. Just didn’t want to falsely advertise.

While I’m in the studio, I will be back in front of the camera, keeping my infamous video blogs. My goal is to post something at least once a week, depends on how things play out and whether or not I hit any birds (for those of you who saw Episode #1 of my last tour blogs, you’ll know what I’m talking about) Either way, I’ll keep you up to date. I’ll be tweeting or twittering or twittling or whatever it is the kids are up to these days as well.

That’s all for now. Netherlands tour in May, Germany tour in August, hopefully UK/Ireland/Canada and more in the fall!

Thanks and take care, Peter

Hughs' Room!

Hi Folks!

For all of you in Toronto (or anywhere nearby) tomorrow night (Thursday) is the big show at Hugh’s Room! I’ll be performing ALL of the potential songs from the soon-to-be recorded new album in the first set, followed by an unheard-of ALL request set! That’s right, following the first set, there will be a request sheet at the pre-sales table and the songs that receive the most requests will be performed. I might regret it, but am looking forward to it nonetheless. See you tomorrow at Hugh’s Room (2261 Dundas St w, doors at 6, Rob Szabo at 8:30, PK at 9:30 latest). 416 531 6604 for reservations, or email info@hughsroom.com or click HERE

Time to get back to practicing... Take care, Peter

New record campaing gets a new category AND pictures!

I added a new category (National Hero) and some silly pictures to www.peterkatz.com/newrecord.html Is that news-worthy? Probably not. But there you go. Thanks and take care, Peter

Toronto Hugh's Room Show Reminder!

A picture says a thousand words... click to enlarge, click HERE for reservations!

Have Song, Need Help!

Hi Folks,

I am making a new record and it’s going to be very different from my last one. Focus will be on the vocals and acoustic guitar, sparse production, singer-songwriter. The feedback I consistently get from you is that you would like a more stripped-down record, intimate, personal, reflective of the live show. So, that’s what I’m doing and I couldn’t be more excited!

But…

I need your help. Pretty badly. That being said, I’m not looking for freebies here! I’m offering real perks in exchange for your support. It could be as simple as purchasing an advance copy, or as involved as donating larger sums and having me write songs for you, come to play at your house, give you tickets to shows, etc.

So…

If you have a moment, please visit www.peterkatz.com/newrecord.html There you will find my much belabored-over ‘categories’ and their respective ‘perks’. If anything, if you think you’ll likely be buying a copy of the record, please consider purchasing an advance copy now so I can actually make it. You’ll get it delivered to your front door, signed if you would like, and before everyone else! Not too bad eh?! Donations/purchases can be made through paypal, credit card, e-chequing, etc. all 100% securely and easily. They can also be mailed to Shape of a Boy Productions, PO BOX 65006, RPO Chester, Toronto, ON, M4K 3Z2

And…

In case you need a little motivation, I have made few videos to hopefully get you excited and/or be horrified by my shameless self-promotion and never want to be associated with me again. Check them out at the top of the page at www.peterkatz.com/newrecord.html

Well…

I’m not known for being brief but I’ll leave it at that. Whether you can help or not, I appreciate your support just by reading this.

Hope I’m not being too pushy here… thanks and take care, Peter

n.b. In other news, just a quick reminder that I'm playing a SOLO headlining show in Toronto on April 2nd at one of Canada's best singer-songwriter venues, Hugh's Room. I will be previewing ALL the new material from the upcoming record in the first set and then playing 'old favorites' in the second. Reservations are highly recommended by calling 416 531 6604 or emailing info<a>hughsroom.com or visiting www.hughsrooms.com/reservation.htm

n.b.b. To my European friends, I'll be touring in the Netherlands in May, Germany in August and hopefully back to the UK/Ireland and more in September!

Guten Tag meine Deutschen Freunde!

(Hope my German is ok....) 'More Nights' gets its first international release today in Germany! Releases in several other European markets coming over the next few months. I'm excited. Ok, back to work, more music to be made! Take care, Auf Wiedersehen, PEter

The Story of Stuff

Hi folks,

I'm busy at home working on pre-production for the new record and this little movie showed up in my inbox from a friend. Thought I would pass it along as it's definitely worth a viewing or two. It's called 'The Story of Stuff' www.storyofstuff.com/index.html
Definitely time for eco-packaging with the new release! Take care, talk soon, Peter

Home! Making Music! Shows!

Hi folks!

Just a quick one to tell you I'm home, happy and working on my new record like a maniac. Doing all the pre-production for the next 6 weeks and then it's studio time all April. In the meantime, I have added a bunch of shows including a big SOLO TORONTO SHOW AT HUGH'S ROOM! (look at all those capital letters!) I'll have more info soon but please make your reservations now (416 531 6604 or info<at>hughsroom.com or go to their online reservation form ) I am extremely excited about this show as I'll be previewing ALL the new material from the upcoming record as well as playing selections from my other records. Rob Szabo will be supporting the night which is also super exciting. I'll have a big blab about it soon but in the meantime, back to the guitar! Thanks and take care, Peter

Greetings from the East!

Hi folks! After a whirlwind trip to France and back, I'm now out in Halifax, on tour with the delightful Good Lovelies. We are having a little too much fun so far, plenty more laughs than my usual 'all by my lonesome' tours. I'm slowly adding dates here and there around Ontario/Quebec so please check the 'shows' page regularly for updates. Also, my UK + Ireland tour will have to be delayed slightly for the recording of my new record but it will still definitely happen at some point in the relatively near future (how's that for specifics!). Looks like a tour of the Netherlands is in the works for May though, crossing my toes. Back at it, hope you're all doing well! Take care, Peter

A few more shows added, off to France!

Hi folks! Added a few more shows (Fredericton, Wakefield, Toronto, etc.) More to come! Please just check the shows page. Gotta run! Au revoir! Peter

Looking Ahead and Thanks for a Great 2008!

Hello Folks, Happy New Year, holidays and all the rest.

I completely disappeared for the past 2+ weeks, soaking up family, friends, festivities and food (far too much food…)
It was a much-appreciated rest after what felt like a very long and very wonderful year.

I finally crossed the 100 mark and played over 100 shows this year, which I’m very proud of and am now busily figuring out how I can top that in 2009… Truth be told, I will likely play a few less shows this year as I am turning my attention to recording my next record. I have been working on the songs like a maniac and the plan is to start recording in April. I’ll have updates, previews and goodies along the way. I am incredibly excited to lay these tracks down; it’s going to be a much different record for me. The focus will be vocals and acoustic guitar, sparse, spacious and warm. People consistently tell me that they want a record that reflects the intimacy of the live show; that’s what I’m going for. My very good friend, and incredible musician/producer Rob Szabo will be at the helm, keeping me in-line and true, can’t wait!

In the meantime, ‘More Nights’ will be getting new life overseas with releases in Germany and Austria in February, with more to follow in the Netherlands, Belgium and others. ‘I Do’ is also starting to get played on commercial radio in Canada, so we’ll where that goes.

In the immediate future, I have an East Coast Tour of Canada coming up with my friends the Good Lovelies (they have an unbelievable new record!), I’m showcasing at MIDEM Festival and Conference in Cannes France, and I have a couple of one-off shows around Ontario and Quebec that should be really fun. In March-April I should be heading back over to the UK and Ireland for another string of shows and then maybe one big Toronto show in April… still have to figure this all out.

More importantly, I just wanted to say thanks for a great year. I think I ask a lot of people with help spreading the word, finding shows, putting me up, etc. etc. and sometimes I wonder who the hell I think I am. At the end of the day, I’m consistently met with such warmth and kindness; I can’t help but keep going. I want to be able to keep doing this, very badly, and I can’t without you, so, for what it’s worth, thank you for making it work.

I’ll have more concrete details for all things shortly, please check back soon for details.
Also, I finally posted my final tour blog from my West Coast Solo Tour. I know it’s a little late, and it’s quite ‘patchy’ compared to the first 2, but hey, it’s there and you can tell I was burning out, which, maybe is worth watching. (It's like a reality TV show where the main character ultimately ends up going crazy). Just click HERE .

I’ve taken up much of your time, thanks again and take care PEter

Western Tour Blog #4 is up! (late... I know)

Hi Folks!

My western tour blog, episode #4 is up! It' s the last one, and it's called 'Peter's Demise'. You'll see...

I know... it's late... but I needed to take a break from the internet. I'm back now. Big update very very soon! take care, Peter

The great disappearance !

Hi Folks!

Just a quick one to say that I'm going to disappear for about 10 days to recover and get to know my loved ones again. I'll be back soon after Christmas with a big update and the final episode of my tour blogs. In the meantime, happy holidays to you and yours and thanks for an amazing tour!!!! take care, Peter

Western Tour Blog #3 is up!

Hi Folks!

My western tour blog, episode #3 is up!!

The next one is coming up very soon too so please check back in a week or so. Thanks for such a great tour so far, take care, Peter

Western Tour Blog #2 is up!

Hi Folks!

More video blogging! More music!
Much less bird murdering!

More soon!

Take care, Peter

Western Tour Blog #1 is up!

Hi Folks!

The video blogging train rolls on!

More soon!

Take care, Peter

Tour help & camp song link

Hi Folks! Just a quick one to ask for your help in spreading the word about my tour. I made a little onepage thing that you can send to your friends so they can take it all in, in a quick and easy manner. If you know someone in another city who you think might enjoy the show, please pass the link along to them. It's www.peterkatz.com/help.html
THANKS!

Similarly, I have a simple e-flyer with the dates that you can send around if you feel so inclined, Just right-click on the image on the left and 'save as' to download and then send away!.

Finally, for all my new friends from the OSLC, 'The Camp Song' is posted at www.peterkatz.com/camp.html

Thanks for such an amazing show!! Video Tour blogs coming very very soon!

lots of love, PEter

n.b. Vote

National Post Interview

Hi folks, just a quick one to say that the National Post ran a little Q&A with me. Just CLICK HERE to read it.
n.b. Arrived safely here in Thunder Bay. That was a long drive... Video blogs coming soon! Tour dates here!

HERE I COME!!!

Hi folks,

I'm leaving on tour! Right..... now! Please check the shows section for details. I'll be adding shows, updating start times, etc. etc. as I go. And yes, of course, VIDEO BLOGS! and LOTS of new music! So please check back soon, please please tell your friends and I'll see you out there on the open road!

take care, Peter

I made a commercial

Hi folks,

I have sunk to a new low. Bear witness

take care, Peter

BIG Toronto show tickets onsale TODAY!

CLICK FOR TIX

Hi folks,

Just a quick one to let you know that tickets for my big Toronto show at the BEAUTIFUL St Stephen in the Fields Church with the INCREDIBLE Emma-Lee supporting are now on-sale. (note: this is an ALL AGES event) This is the show I'm probably most excited about to date; it's such a great venue and having Emma-Lee on the bill is the cherry on top. She's a world-class talent and I highly recommend you check her out (her song 'That Sinking Feeling" is single of the week at itunes = FREE! So go download it! Yes, the show is going to be great, and as an added bonus, all advance ticket buyers will receive a FREE digital EP of solo-acoustic songs from 'More Nights' on the night of the show , and maybe even a few surprises....

So... get your tickets now, I strongly suggest getting them in advance as you'll save $5, you'll get the digital EP, and all signs are pointing to the show selling out so best of all, you'll get in!

Just CLICK HERE and you'll be directed to the very secure ticketweb site.

Thanks and take care, see you on the 17th!

Album in-stores Oct 7th, BIG Toronto show October 17th!

Hi folks, I am sorry I am so slow with my updates these days. Truly, I have been busier than I could have ever imagined and I don't know where to begin when I wake up in the morning! Let's start with some information.:

My album 'More Nights', as you know, was recently picked up by Curve/Universal Music. Well...I am very pleased to announce that it will hit (or politely knock) stores on Tuesday October 7th. It will have a fresh new track order and will have more aggressive anti-copyright language than I had on my self-release (maybe I'll get in trouble for saying that...). Many of you reading this probably already have it, so to you I say "thank you". Because of you and your generous support, the 'totally independent' version sold over 3000 copies and allowed me to cross-back and forth across Canada many times, including a tour over to the UK and Ireland. That's pretty amazing and fortunate so thank you. And hey, now you have a collector's item! ( I don't know of any 'Peter Katz' collectors, but I'm crossing my toes --- as long as they're not collecting my stuff in a creepy kind of way...) The re-release will still be on an Indie label, so please, no hate-mail. And to all you newbies who might be thinking of picking up the record on October 7th, I also say 'thank you'. That would be very wonderful, I'll see you at the stores (yes, I'll be walking into a record store(s) on October 7th and looking for my record, maybe even buying one, just to fulfill the childhood dream).

In order to celebrate the re-release, I'll be doing an extra-special show at the GORGEOUS St Stephen in the Fields Church in Toronto on Friday October 17th with very special guest: Emma-Lee!. I could not be more excited about this show, I'll have way more info in a few days so please stay tuned for that.

Alright, I'm probably too wired to be writing this right now so I'll get back to my tour booking duties (oh yes, November = national tour!) and we'll check in with you soon. Take care, PEter

n.b. Montreal show, 2 days!

Just checking in!

Hey Folks! Long time no speak, I have been lost in the land of moving and renovations... almost there... (I'm not a big fan of moving... only when it's done!) I will be emerging from the piles of dust and drywall for a few shows this week so hopefully you can come check them out if they're in your neighborhood. National tour plans are underway, big show announcements soon including the Toronto CD re-release! I'll be back shortly for a better update, in the meantime, hope you're all doing well, take care and thanks for stopping by! PEter

FINAL UK + IRELAND TOUR BLOG #3 IS UP !

Hey Folks! Home at last... Final Video Blog is up now! Short, sweet and silly (senility on account of exhaustion got the better of me I'm afraid). Just click on the link below or in the blog section and you'll be taken right to it. Thanks for following the journey, take care and hopefully see you soon! PEter

Video Blog #3

UK + IRELAND TOUR BLOG #2 IS UP !

Hey Folks! More adventures from my tour in the UK and Ireland, including me driving on the other side of the road! Watch this death-defying stunt and many more by clicking on the image below. Thanks and take care, PEter

Video Blog #2

UK + IRELAND TOUR BLOG #1 IS UP !

Hey Folks! Having a wonderful time in Europe and have once again been keeping a video blog of my adventures. Please click on the image below to check out 'Episode 1' and be sure to check back soon for the next installment! Thanks, take care and see you soon! PEter

Video Blog #1

Oliver Schroer and a Tour of Europe

Hey folks,

Thought I’d start this update off with a little story. A few years ago I caught an interview with a violinist by the name of Oliver Schroer. He was talking about this 2-month trip he had made walking along 1000 kilometers of the Camino trail in Spain and France with a couple of friends. When he would find a church that had the acoustics he was looking for, he would set up his gear and do a recording of a song. The end result was an incredible CD called 'Camino' which features recordings from 20 different churches, including the found sounds of people walking by, occasional chatter, chirping birds, whatever was happening in the moment. The interviewer played several songs from the CD as part of the feature and I was completely spellbound. Somewhere, crumpled amidst the chaos of papers in my car is a napkin with 'Oliver Schroer, Camino' scribbled across it.

About a month ago, I heard that Oliver was going to be playing a concert at the Trinity St Paul's Church in Toronto and that this was going to be his final concert as he was dying of terminal leukemia (he called it ‘Oliver’s Last Show on His Tour of This Planet’). The show sold-out and I unfortunately didn't have a ticket; I was very sorry to miss it. I turned on the radio yesterday and they were airing that same interview I heard a few years ago. At the end, they announced that he had passed away.

I have been reading Oliver’s blogs on his website (which he kept up until the end) and he talks about how when he knew that he was going to die, it only amplified what he was already doing. He didn't really change anything because he was already doing what he loved to do. He just squeezed as much in as possible given his known time-limit. There’s the age-old question ‘what would you do if you were going to die tomorrow’ and it’s a pretty miraculous thing when you can I say ‘I would be doing exactly what I’m doing right now’. I was pretty inspired by that and a little song came out last night. I did a quick first-draft recording of it in my bedroom and thought I’d pass it along. (click here to listen)

--- On another note, I am leaving for my cross-Atlantic adventure on Tuesday, with stops in Russia, England, Scotland and Ireland! This is my very first time playing any of these countries so I’m extremely excited and somewhat nervous as well, but I have blind faith which is always a good thing for me. The dates are listed on the shows page with more still to be added. I know that 99% of you are from Canada but if you have a friend, relative, facebook-associate, etc. etc. that you could pass the word along to I would greatly appreciate it! And who knows, maybe you’ll be in the neighbourhood...

Beyond the Ontario/Quebec shows which are listed in the shows section, full tour plans are in the works for Canada and the US in the fall to coincide with the re-release of ‘More Nights’ on Curve/Universal Music. I’ll be starting to book those dates very soon so if you have any venue recommendations I might not know of/ you want to host a house concert/ you want to practice your cooking skills on me (etc.) then please let me know.

Alright, that’s plenty of information; thanks very much for reading and hopefully see you soon!

Lots of love, PEter (please click here to listen to the song)

n.b. I highly recommend 'Camino' to anyone, it is a magical CD and is available on itunes. Here's a track from it called 'Ultreia'. (n.b. This is just from the line-in of my computer, the actual recording sounds even better)

International Adventures! (and a great video about a lion)

Hey folks,

Yet another quickie to tell you that I've posted the first batch of UK + Ireland Tour dates in the shows section along with some new Canadian shows. Many more to come (I hope) so please stay tuned. Sorry for the quickie, things are really crazy busy trying to get this all organized so I don't have time to write usual novella-sized updates! I'll have more news for you soon! Lots of love and thanks in the meantime, PEter

n.b. Here's a video about a lion that my friend Don Brownrigg sent to me.

Quick Update

Hey folks,

Just a quick little update to let you know that the UK tour is coming together nicely and I should be announcing the dates very very soon. Also, more news soon about the re-release of 'More Night's in the fall (including Canadian and US tours!) And finally, I hit the studio this week to start recording demos of the new songs for the next record! Can't wait for you to hear them! Hope all is well with you, take care, PEter

Forgiveness Aftermath

Hello friends,

Every now and then, I overstep my bounds and share some thoughts beyond the latest career move. This is one of those times so I hope you don't mind.

I just got back from my trip to Pennsylvania where I got to perform 'Forgiveness' for Michael Berg and many of Nick Berg's closest friends, family, teachers, classmates, neighbours and co-workers. I also got to go on a long drive with Michael where he took me around to all of Nick's special places and we chatted for several hours. This experience has had a profound effect on me and I can't resist the need to share it with you along with some of the ideas that we discussed.

Over the course of our conversation we inevitably talked a great deal about the concept of 'forgiveness' and what it means exactly. I don't want to put words in Michael's mouth so please keep in mind that my thoughts are liberally mixed in here but what I have come to understand is that forgiving someone doesn't mean you in any way condone the deed that they have done; you are not letting them off the hook. Forgiving is really relieving yourself of the incredible burden of hate, anger and vengeance. It is so powerful that it can even partially right the wrong that has occurred (Michael told me a story about a man whose son was killed in a robbery. The man visited the murderer in prison for 20 years, learning to forgive him and they became extremely close friends. Now they go around speaking together at schools and are truly like family. Can you imagine? The loss of his son, through the power of forgiveness, was channelled into an incredibly positive thing and the life of the murderer has been turned around. Had the father's reaction been 'rot in hell' (which no one can be blamed for having), the outcome would likely have been very different).

Another important point that keeps coming back to me is the concept that under different circumstances, we all have the ability to do terrible things and that we all need to be forgiven for our shortcomings. We don't know what it's like to grow up with bombs constantly overhead and our country under siege. We don't know what it's like to be born into a culture of violence. We dont actually know what it's like to be anybody other than ourselves. Understanding, compassion and empathy are all important pieces of the forgiveness puzzle. One of the exercises Michael told me about was called 'The Empty Chair' where you privately act out a conversation with the person you are trying to forgive, actually speaking to them and replying as them. What is their perspective? What has made them the way they are, or do what they did? What do you need to say to them? What do you need to know about them? How are you alike? How are you different?

Eye for an eye just hasn't worked, so what else can we try??

At the end of the day, I think forgiveness serves the forgiver first and then hopefully the forgiven in turn. I do think that it's a lengthy, imperfect and extremely challenging process and one should never be frustrated with oneself for not finding it right away.
Those are my thoughts and some of the things I feel I learned from Michael. I really believe in the power of forgiveness, but I have never been challenged to forgive in any way near what Michael unimaginably went through (and I hope I never am) so in many ways, it's too easy for me to say all these things.
I'm going to take this experience and carry it with me for all time. Hopefully I will be able to pass it along. It's a palpable thing to me, not just a concept in the air. It is a real possibility.

Thanks for reading, take care, PEter

2 Incredible Fundraisers = 2 Incredible Shows!

Just a quick one to let you know about 2 shows that I'm very proud to be a part of in support of 2 wonderful charities. The first show is on May 28th at the Toronto Center for the Arts in support of Alli's Journey. I will be performing SOLO along with such great artists as Matthew Barber and Jackie Richardson. The second show is on May 31st at the Opera House. We'll be performing FULL BAND along with The Dunes, The Framework and Pat Robitaille in support of Million Dollar Youth. Both flyers are posted below so please click on them for full details. Thanks and take care, PEter

VIDEO TOUR BLOG #4 IS UP ! (The Final Episode!)

The 4th and final tour blog is up along with more bonus footage! (It's a live version of my new song 'Dangerous' performed live on air!) Hope you enjoy them, take care, PEter

Video Blog #4

Bonus 'Dangerous'

VIDEO TOUR BLOG #3 IS UP ! (and bonus footage -- New Song!)

The 3rd tour blog is up and the first 'bonus footage' too! (It's a new song, a lullabye for my nephew Jackson). Hope you enjoy them, more soon! Take care, PEter

Video Blog #3

Jackson's Song

Toronto tickets onsale now !

I made another fancy banner! Just click on it to get your advance tickets for the big 'End of Tour Celebration Show!' on May 2nd at the Rivoli. It's going to be an amazing night and we'll be premiering a bunch of new songs. Hope to see you there! Take care, PEter

VIDEO TOUR BLOG #2 IS UP !

The headline says it all; check out Episode 2! Sorry to be brief but I'm off to Prince George! Stay tuned for the next episode! Take care and see you soon, PEter

Video Blog #2

VIDEO TOUR BLOG IS UP !

Hello friends! Just a quick one to report that the tour is going extremely well and that the first installment of my tour blog is now up in the 'blog' section. I decided to keep a video blog this time around as I'm out here all by my lonesome and it's the only way I can keep up! I'm having a lot of fun making it, hope you enjoy watching! The next installment is almost done so please check back very soon. Take care and see you soon, PEter

Video Blog #1

Peter Strikes a Deal and More Good News!

Hello friends, old and new! Oh where oh where to begin?! There is so much to report that I think the only answer is a good old fashioned point form:

- I am very pleased to announce that "More Nights" has been picked up by Curve Music and will be released worldwide in various stages over the next little while. In conjunction with that deal, I also welcome label president Brian Hetherman as my new manager. Brian has a long history in the music industry from being head of A&R at Universal music for many years to running the Radio Starmaker Fund. He has worked with so many incredible artists; I’m thrilled to be working with him and his great team.

- Last week, we showcased at Canadian Music Week (thanks for coming out!!) and at the end of the night we were BLESSED to have Garth Hudson (of THE BAND!) come up and rock out with us! Garth is a true hero to all of us and this was an impossible dream come true. I have posted a couple of videos and photos from the night both on youtube (linked below) and on facebook. If you were there that night, please join the 'Garth Hudson live at the El Mocambo' group and add your pics, videos and anecdotes. What a night!!!

- I'm leaving on tour across Canada very shortly; dates are listed in the shows section with even more to come. Unfortunately due to budgetary concerns I had to make it a solo tour. Rest-assured, I will get the band out there someday soon, just need to have it make sense financially so that I don't perish. Further rest-assuredness, I will still 'bring it' with all my heart for the solo shows so hopefully you can make it out if I'm coming to a town near you!

- I'm in a movie! I got the lead role in a short film that will be airing on CBC in November (long time) but in the meantime, there's a very cool trailer for it up at www.acrossthelinefilm.com Check it out!

- The Blue Rodeo video that I make my little cameo in was nominated for a Juno! That really means nothing as far as my career is concerned but hey, it feels like I'm at least getting closer.... maybe...

- I was thrilled to find out that my song 'Posters' was arranged for a classical ensemble of Marimba, Vibraphone, Flute and 2 voices by composer Laura Savage and was presented at The 4 Seasons Center for the Performing Arts as part of their programming. It was such an honour to be in that gorgeous building watching the performance; I will post a clip as soon as I have one

- My old track 'Lazy Sunday Morning Room' is featured in the HILARIOUS movie "The Way of the Tosser", written, directed and starring my good friends April Mullen and Tim Doiron. The film is on a promo tour across Canada and all the screening dates are up on their facebook group Go see this movie (click here for trailer), you will love it!

... That was a whole lot of information. Thanks for making it down to the bottom, SO much to be excited about!

Hope all is really well with all of you, take care, lots of love, Peter

PK and the Curious rock out with GARTH HUDSON!!

Last night (or rather in the wee hours of this morning), the band and I along with The Dunes had the unbelievable honor of playing The Band tunes live onstage with the one and only Garth Hudson! This was a dream come true for all of us and had to share a a couple of video clips with you (just click on tv images below). To everyone who stuck around to the wee hours with us, thanks for your patience! lots of love PEter

I made a banner! Somebody please be proud of me...

I'm plugging a show, but I think my beautiful banner really speaks for itself.
More news soon, love PEter

An Update and an East Coast Tour !

Hello Folks!

I'm chiming in a little late after the New Year but I needed to take some time away from the interweb machine and get my headback on...

I'm sitting in a coffee shop because there's no power in my house and I'm just thinking about what an incredible year this was: I finished and released "More Nights", performed on Vimy Ridge in France, went completely across Canada playing nearly 100 shows, performed on my beloved CBC, got "Forgiveness" to Michael Berg and was asked to play it in all kinds of incredible settings, shared the stage with so many remarkable musicians, met so many wonderful people... I have been extremely fortunate and I just want to thank you all so much for your incredible support and kindness.

2008 is shaping up to be a great year with at least 2 national tours on the horizon, including my first national tour with my band 'The Curious' in March/April as well as starting work on my next record (which is already almost completely written!). I also have my sights set on the US and the UK, hoping to tour in both areas by the end of the year.

In the end, I don't really know what will happen this year, but I know that I am full of energy, excitement and that it's going to be a good one. I wish the same to all of you!

So...please keep your eyes on the 'shows' section of the site as many many more will be posted very soon and you can guarantee that if you live in Canada I'm coming near you and if you live outside of Canada, I'm coming soon!

For you East-Coasters, I'm coming tomorrow! All the info is posted in the 'shows' section. Can't wait to see you!!

Take care, lots of love, Peter

Quick update!

Hey folks, I have a proper New-Year update coming soon but I just wanted to quickly wish you all a happy New Year! The band is playing a FREE show at Fanshawe College in London on Friday so hopefully you can make it out if you're in the neighborhood. Lots of updates and tour dates are right around the corner, please check back often over the next few weeks. Hope all is really well with you, sorry for the brevity, busy busy busy!! Take care, PEter

'LAST CHANCE FOR HOLIDAY SALE & LONDON SHOW'

Hey folks,

Just a quick reminder that Sunday is the last day for the holiday sale. Thanks to everyone who made purchases so far, hopefully you have received them (or will very shortly). Once again, the deal is: 5 for $75, 10 for $140, 20 for $250 and all shipping and handling is included (I'll express post it at no extra charge). I know my last post was a really cheesy infomercial, sorry about that... If you're interested in the deal, please CLICK HERE (or on the huge button at the top) to make your purchase 100% securely

Also a little reminder that I have the huge honour of opening up for Melissa McClelland at the London Music Club this Saturday night (Dec 15th, 8 pm (not 9pm as listed before), 470 Colborne St, $10). Tickets are available at www.londonmusicclub.com This is my last show for 2007 so hopefully you can make it out(Melissa is UNBELIEVABLE, even if you can't make my set, come for hers!)

Lots of big plans and exciting announcements for 2008 are coming together. Can't quite let the cat out of the bag yet but I'll be posting a big update in couple of weeks so stay tuned for that.

That's all for now; last chance for the holiday sale so please CLICK HERE if you're interested

Hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and thanks again for an incredible year!
Take care, Peter

'HOLIDAY SALE!'

I know...I know...I’m just like the rest of ‘em; starting with the holiday ads... but at least you can feel good that it’s just me, your mom and pop musician, trying to make an honest living...so here goes...

Enter Ron Popeil (The pasta maker guy) or maybe Dr Ho:

Want to get all your shopping done in one fell swoop? Want that gift that says “I care about you; you’re a special person; you’re a fantastic employee; I love you more than your brother/mother/sister/other boyfriend” Want a gift that does all this, is at a bargain price AND delivered to your door? (and personalized if you like!)

Well how about a copy of ‘More Nights’ for everyone you know! Friends, family, co-workers, all your great staff that puts up with your daily berating, illegitimate children, estranged family members, pets, live-in pastry chefs... From now until Dec 16th, ‘More Nights’ will be available for bulk sale at the following prices:

5 copies for $75

10 copies for $140

20 copies for $250

Prices include all shipping and handling (old price was $20 with shipping and handling) + I’ll throw in some stickers and autograph/personalize if you’d like!

JUST CLICK HERE to securely place your orders

Want more copies? Talk to me; we’ll make it work!

Alright, I feel slimy, let’s leave it at that, point made.

Beyond this little sale announcement, also wanted to mention that my good friends The Good Lovelies are doing a Christmas show at The Supermarket in Toronto on Thursday Dec 6th and I’m part of the Merry-men choir (along with Rob Szabo and Scott Cooper!). We’ll be wearing ties, singing in harmony and doing cool parts like “Buh Bum, Buh Bum, Buh Bum...” maybe even shoo-wap if we get carried away. It’s going to be a really fun night; hopefully you can make it out.

The Curious and I will also be playing a short, not-so surprise set as part of the Jolly Jam Fundraiser for SickKids at Grace O'Malleys in Toronto on Dec 5th. We’re on last at midnight.

And finally, I just confirmed 2 shows with the INCREDIBLE Melissa McClelland on Mon Dec 10th in Hamilton at the Casbah and Saturday Dec 15th at the London Music Club. Melissa is a huge talent and I’m so thrilled to be playing with her. Hope you can make it out!

Some big announcements coming soon, in the meantime, get your orders in now for ‘More Nights’ so I can get them in the mail to you right away!

JUST CLICK HERE to securely place your orders

Thanks, take care and happy holidays! Peter

'Forgiveness' Comes Full-Circle

As many of you know, my song ‘Forgiveness’ was inspired by an interview I heard on CBC’s ‘As it Happens’ with a man (Michael Berg) who chose forgiveness instead of hatred in the face of the most trying of circumstances: the kidnapping and murder of his son Nicholas in Iraq. The song was written to get his message out to as many people as possible, especially knowing that he had been persecuted for his courageous position, even shot at.

On Tuesday I got a call from ‘As It Happens’ and they interviewed me about the song and then played that interview paired up with Michael’s on the evening program. Sitting there in my car, listening to the 2 stories come together was without a doubt the most rewarding moment of my life/career. I know that so many of you have helped spread the message and I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you also to everyone who heard the interview and sent me such wonderful emails. It is so encouraging to know that his message is getting out there. Despite all the horrible things we hear about on a daily basis, there is so much more goodness and humanity happening.

I wanted to share the piece with you in case you missed it and were interested. I have posted it in the 'Forgiveness' section of my site. You can also just click HERE

While I’m here, I should just mention that the FULL tour blog is up. What an incredible time we had. Read (and see) all about it HERE

Things will quiet down on the touring front for a few months with the odd show here and there. Full band national tour will be coming your way in March/April so please stay tuned for that.

Thanks to everyone for your support, encouragement and all-round goodness!

See you soon, lots of love, PEter

n.b. If you really want to spend the next few hours looking at all things Peter Katz on the internet, there are a TON of youtube videos that were posted, including footage from my appearance on GO.

FREE CBC Tickets and Tour Blog!

Hello old friends and new faces (and a special welcome to the 100+ new people from the tour!)

This is just a quick email to update you on a few of things:

1. For all of you in the Toronto area: If you would like to attend the live taping of GO on CBC (for which I am the musical guest!) on Saturday Nov 10th there are FREE tickets available. For those of you who don't know much about GO, it's a wildly entertaining comedy/variety show on Saturdays from 10-11:30 am and it's loads of fun. There's even free coffee to boot! It happens in the CBC building on Wellington Street so it's all very exciting and it sure would be nice to have some friendly faces in the audience for my very first NATIONAL broadcast! Just email gotickets@cbc.ca and they'll take care of you.

2. For those of you in the rest of Canada (and the world), you can listen live on Saturday morning across the country and on the internet www.cbc.ca/radio (click on the listen live button, top left)

3. The Lanky Wimps Tour Blog is up! Our first two weeks have been meticulously documented, complete with over 100 photos and entries from both Rob and I. We're really excited to fill you in on what we've been up (and maybe you'll see yourself in the pictures!), so please CLICK HERE

That's all for now, more updates when I get back from this amazing tour (and please check back for the rest of our tour blog soon! (highlights include me in a giant pink bunny outfit and Rob dressed as a mummy!)

Don't forget, tickets for GO are FREE, email gotickets@cbc.ca

Hope all is well with all of you, thanks so much to all of you who have made this tour so incredible. Still a few dates left!

Take care, lots of love, Peter<

Lanky Wimps Hit The Road (and prove their manly-ness)

Hello Friends!

I am a bit of a frantic maniac as I prepare to leave on the western leg of this tour, but I wanted to quickly say that I'm coming your way in moments!

All of the 'Lanky Wimps' tour dates (we're trying to be humorous) are listed in the shows section. If you are so inclined, we would greatly appreciate your help in getting the word out by sending links along to friends across this great expanse. Our street team guru Emma has made it a little easier for you by creating a Facebook group with all the dates listed as well as an individual page for each night that you can invite your friends to. (Thank you Emma! Just click HERE)

If you're not a facebooker, then no worries, a simple link to peterkatz.com or the myspace site would be just as helpful. Am I being pushy? I just hate being lonely up there on stage... Rob too...

For those of you who aren't interested in any of this promo rigamarole but are into general points of interest -I have a couple of things to report:

1. I am the new Blue Rodeo video for "Cmon" singing and playing! Here's the link to the youtube video, see if you can find me (it's not hard) Hint: check out about 1:20...

2. I will be the musical guest on the national CBC Radio show GO on Saturday November 10th! Show goes live to air at 10:05 am EST and I will be interviewed and play 2 songs. How exciting!

3. 'These are the Days' was picked as the campaign song for Sandra Parrot of the NDP (Thanks Victoria for letting me know!) I don't know, I thought that was pretty cool...

4. 'Forgiveness' was given an honourable mention in the 'Songs from the Heart' contest run by the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals.

5. The East Coast tour was a total blast, thank you to everyone for your support and smiling faces. Thanks also for all the fish!

6. I will be keeping my tour blog so look out for that

7. I know I'm behind on my video tutorials... I will get back on track!

8. I have a couple of extra shows that aren't part of the Lanky Wimps tour so please check for that in the shows section.

And finally, for all you Vancouverites and Victorians, I am very sorry that there is no date in your city. I assure you that we TRIED, HARD, but alas, too many people were on tour at the same time. I vow to be back on tour, with the band in the spring and Van/Vic will be top-priority!

Thank you all for indulging me in my somewhat manic state, I am really running around like a fool and should probably eat something. Can't wait to hit the road and play music for you!

Lots of love, PEter

Forgiveness Article

My Father wrote an article about my song 'Forgiveness' and its significance to him and the Montreal Gazette published it this morning. I'm very touched by the gesture. If you are looking for the song then it can be found in the music section. Just click on Forgiveness and you will find the song, the video, the lyrics along with the interview that inspired it. On another note, I was overwhelmed to get an email from Michael Berg himself yesterday. I am dry for words at this moment as it is hard to process the emotion that came over me as I read his email. All I can say is that I had always hoped it would make its way to him and I am so grateful that it has. Thank you to everyone who has helped it along its way.
Lots of love, PEter

Jeremy Fisher, CAMfest and National Tour!

Hello Folks!

Some BIG news to announce:

I will be opening for Jeremy Fisher for 4 tour dates in Ontario and Quebec!
For everyone in Toronto, the full band and I will be opening for Jeremy Fisher on Wednesday Sept 5th at the Rivoli (our favorite venue!). This is a HUGE opportunity for us (Jeremy is breaking out big time all over and just did 2 nights on the Late Late Show!) If there has ever been a show to come to, this is the one! We're doing a full 45-minute set and then Jeremy will be doing an amazing show with his band. I promise you, you will LOVE his set so hopefully you can come on down! Doors are at 9 and this show is guaranteed to sell-out so please come early. We'll be on at 9:30, tickets are only available at the door. (www.jeremyfishermusic.com)

That same week, I'll be opening solo for Jeremy at the Black Sheep Inn (near Ottawa) on Thursday Sept 6th (show at 8:30) and the London Music Club on Saturday Sept 8th (doors at 8pm, I'm on at 10pm). These are both INCREDIBLE venues and are guaranteed to be great nights of music. I really hope you can make these shows if you're in the neighborhood (or you're into road trips!).

On the college front, I'll be playing Cambrian College in Sudbury with the oh-so talented Melissa McClelland on Tues Sept 4th, and then Algonquin College on Fri Sept 7th with the dream line-up of Jeremy Fisher, Melissa McClelland, Craig Cardiff and Pat Robitaille. I can't quite believe my good fortune; it's going to be a GREAT week!

I also wanted to let you know that I'll be performing this Saturday night (Aug 25th) at 7 pm as part of a new folk fest called CAMfest in Bowmanville (just outside Toronto). I'm one of the 3 headliners along with Liam Titcomb and folk-legend Murray McClauchlan. Should be a wonderful night of music, more info at www.camfest.ca

For addresses and all other info for the above shows, please visit the shows section

Apart from that, many other shows are coming in for September, October and November. I've listed some of the National tour dates in the shows section. Many more to be added very soon, including live performances on the CBC!

Hope you're all doing very well, I'm feeling pretty darn lucky!!

Welcome to the new peterkatz.com!

I am VERY excited to announce the launch of the new www.peterkatz.com along with the brand new music video for 'Forgiveness'. To help celebrate these online festivities, I am also very pleased to announce that 'More Nights' is now available on itunes, puretracks, cdbaby, indiepool and many other online retailers (both for physical copies and digital downloads). Look at me embracing the interweb!

The new peterkatz.com was designed with YOU in mind. It is extremely user-friendly (I hope), loaded with content and all kinds of cool features. One cool feature to mention is the video tutorials area. Over the next 10 weeks, I will be posting a new video tutorial every week where I show you how to play a song from the new record. You can then email your youtube, myspace and facebook links of you playing the songs and I will feature them on the site. There's already one up there! Other fun areas on the site include: a complete lyrics database, fancy-looking photo galleries, all the great new press we've been getting for 'More Nights', free music downloads, photo blogs and more!

I feel like Ron Popeel (the infomercial guy)

I will be diligently updating it and adding features like live-concert downloads, more videos, more galleries, blogs, etc. etc. I'm also very open to your feeback on the site, any improvements I can make, content I can add, just let me know!

Just a few words about the new 'Forgiveness' video. I was very touched to have filmmaker Andrew Moniz and Producer Daniel Mazzucco donate their time and services to me to make a music video for the song. I'm really proud of the final product and am hoping it will serve as another channel to get Michael Berg's incredible message out to as many people as possible. For those of you who would like to find out more about the back-story of that song and hear the interview that inspired it, please click here. If you feel moved by the message, then please feel free to share the video with friends. It's available on myspace, youtube, facebook, metacafe as well as a higher quality download in the 'video' section of the site. We give you free reign to distribute it; we just want to get it out there.

On the touring front, I have a big show in Mississauga this Saturday (18th) at 7:30 pm in front of City Hall. I'll be doing a full-length solo set. Then the following Saturday (the 25th) I'll be one of the mainstage performers at CAMfest is Bowmanville (set time still tba but it will be in the evening). In September I have a few college dates (Cambrian in Sudbury on the 4th and Algonquin in Ottawa on the 7th). Then we'll be doing a full-band show in Brantford at the Ford Plant on the 15th and hopefully some other Southern Ontario dates (booking is tough this time of year!) An East coast tour is also in the works and then a Western tour with my wonderful friend and incredible talent Rob Szabo from Oct 15th – Nov 10th. We'll be hitting everything from Sault-Ste Marie to Victoria, heading up to the likes of Grande Prairie and Fort St John and most other cities across the country. Can't wait to see you all again and get the new disc into your hands! Tour dates will be announced shortly.

Alright, once again I have proven myself to be incredibly long-winded. Thanks for making it down to the bottom. Please check out the Forgiveness video if you get a chance and send the link along to friends. The best viewing of it is the direct download in the video section. Hope you're all having a wonderful summer; can't wait to play for you sometime in the very near future!

Take care, lots of love, PEter

Hello there Curious!

My new nephew Jackson!! ---->

Long-time no speak, things have indeed been busy busy busy! First things first, the first half of the CD release shows have been simply incredible; thank you for coming out and for all your amazing feedback on the new disc. We have many more shows around the corner including Peterborough (Gordon Best) tonight, Wakefield (Black Sheep) tomorrow July 14, Kitchener-Waterloo (Boathouse) July 20th, Toronto (Drake Hotel) July 21st, as well as some fun shows like a solo show with my friends the Good Lovelies at the Gladstone on July 26th and a bunch of festivals in August. After all of that, we'll head out and tour colleges in September, then I'll hit the East Coast (including Newfoundland!), then the rest of Canada and then the US!! I think I'm basically going to be on tour for about 2 years...so get your spare beds fluffed and de-loused!

Just a quick note about the Drake Hotel show on Saturday July 21st, it is FULL BAND and with Jason Bajada (www.myspace.com/jasonbajada) and JF Robitaille (www.mypsace.com/jfrobitaille) , 2 AMAZING singer-songwriters from Montreal and New York. I'll be the 3rd of 3 and the schedule will be tight. First act will be on at 9 and we'll be on no later than 11 (for real!). I don't know the exact price but it will be cheaper than usual (under $10 for sure). Hopefully you can come check it out.

Also wanted to mention that tickets for the Good Lovelies show on the 26th (I'm doing a solo opening set) are onsale now in advance at Soundscapes (572 College St).

And now for the point-form section:

The 'Forgiveness' video is ALMOST done and will be released very shortly...

My track 'Posters' has been selected as the featured song at garageband.com for July 17th, 2007!

The new record 'More Nights' is available for purchase WORLDWIDE through www.cdbaby.com/peterkatz3, indiepool.com, Puretracks as well as HERE It will be up on itunes in a couple of weeks

Lethbridge loves PK and the Curious! We're #2 for Folk/Roots and #5 for Rock/Pop on the Lethbridge charts! Thank you!

The new website is ALMOST done. Thank you for your patience and hate-mail telling me to get it up already.

Alright, sorry to put you through the point-form there for a moment, I'm a little long-winded otherwise... I believe that's it. I'll be announcing the national tour dates in a couple of weeks, can't wait to hit the road!

Take care, lots of love, Peter

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