We experienced quite the treat this past Thursday night at a charity screening of Whiplash sponsored by Mongrel Media and 4479 in support of MusiCounts. The evening began with a screening of the movie Whiplash at the Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto. Prior to the film, there was a drumming completion, with the winner receiving a 5 piece Yamaha drum kit. The winner used his whole arm to elbow out the competition.

After the competition, it was an intense and powerful experience, seeing Whiplash with a crowd full of musicians and music types. It was clear that the film resonated, (though teachers were quick to note that they were far less intense than Terence Fletcher, at the post-screening event).

And what an event we had in store! The shindig went down at Adelaide Hall, a quick walk from the Scotiabank Theatre. There, the guests were treated to Amsterdam beers, and were able to watch an evening of Jazz for which the screening of Whiplash had whet out appetites.

The evening started with an impromptu appearance by the Heavyweight Brass Band, who started in the crowd. They began the evening with a stirring performance of O Canada in light of recent events. The reworked version of the song was done jazzily, with the band bathed in red lighting, and was quite moving. The rest of the evening saw a variety of Juno-nominated Canadian performers take the stage, including Jully Black, Tom Wilson of Junkhouse and surprise guest Sarah Harmer.

Upon exiting, attendees were treated to a Mongrel tote bag containing the film Take This Waltz, and the Whiplash soundtrack.