Joshua Banks’ Para Sayo Album Release

A graduate from MacEwan University’s Bachelor’s of Music in Piano Performance, he has achieved a Level 10 certification with the Royal Conservatory of Music, and is a regular participant in the Edmonton and Calgary music scene as a freelance pianist, keyboardist, and sessional recording artist.

His debut album as a bandleader, Para Sayo, received joint funding from the Edmonton Arts Council and Alberta Foundation for the Arts and released in May of 2025. Striving to expand the presence of Asian-inspired jazz in North America, Para Sayo explores themes of ethnic and cultural identity, diaspora, and the asian/POC sociopolitical experience through the lens of modern instrumental music, while showcasing the artistry of many of Western Canada’s most exciting up-and-coming young musicians.

Joshua would like to acknowledge that his career in playing Black American Music is possible because of the Black musicians that have and continue to pave the way for all jazz musicians. He acknowledges and is grateful for the privilege that has allowed him to practice and enjoy the music of this African-American cultural tradition.