Draft:Shelly Berger Bassist and Arranger

Sheldon Berger (born February 22, 1955) is a Canadian arranger, composer, producer, jazz bassist and educator known for his versatile musical contributions across various genres.

Early Life and career
Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Shelly Berger relocated to Los Angelas California in 1979 to study jazz arranging at the Dick Grove School of Music. During his nine years in LA, he established himself as a multifaceted musician. His musical journey included recording and/or touring with illustrious jazz figures such as Louis Bellson, Kenny Burrell, Red Norvo, Don Menza, Matt Catingub, Joanie Sommers and Mavis Rivers. He served as the Musical Director for Anita O'Day from 1981-1984, showcasing his exceptional leadership and arranging skills.

Contributions to Contemporary Entertainment
Upon his return to Toronto in 1989, Shelly continued an active jazz career, collaborating with renowned artists such as Diana Krall, Ernestine Anderson, Larry Goldings, Ruby Braff, Mark Murphy, Joanne Brackeen, Herb Ellis, Lew Tabakin, Roger Kellaway as well as producing and releasing 5 CDs (see Discography below).

Beyond the realm of jazz, Berger's talents extend into contemporary entertainment. He has served as an arranger-producer for notable acts like Sharon, Lois & Bram, Quartetto Gelato, and Matt Dusk. His production, arrangement, and recording work span a wide array of pop acts including Loreena McKennitt, Chaka Khan, Don Ross, Emilie-Claire Barlow, and David Clayton-Thomas.

Berger's creative expertise also graced the broadcast field, where he arranged and produced music for television series such as "The Elephant Show" and "Sesame Street," along with themes for TSN Sportsbreak and TSN Toronto Blue Jays baseball broadcasts.

Shelly Berger's prowess extends to orchestral and symphonic realms. He has written arrangements for esteemed orchestras including The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Metropole Orckest, Utah Symphony Orchestra, Portland Symphony Orchestra, Moscow Symphony Orchestra, and many more.

Notable Education, Awards, and Productions
Berger's dedication to his craft is underscored by his musical training and awards. In addition to his studies under Dick Grove, he received training under the guidance of renowned mentors such as Michael Colgrass (Composition), Rick Wilkins (Arranging), and Mundell Lowe (Film Scoring )

Berger's contributions to teaching include sharing his expertise with the next generation of musicians - he founded and ran The Shelly Berger Music School from 2001-2005, and currently teaches arranging, composing, and leads the big band in Humber College Jazz program.

Awards

 * (2018) “JUNO NOMINEE” – “Old School Yule!” Matt Dusk (CD) – Arranger
 * (2017) “JUNO NOMINEE” – “Quiet Nights” Matt Dusk (CD) – Arranger & Producer
 * (2016) “JUNO WINNER” –  “Jazz Vocal Recording” “ – ” Clear Day “- with the METROPOLE ORKEST conducted by JULES BUCKLEY” – Emilie- Claire Barlow – (CD) – Composer/Arranger
 * (2014 ) “JUNO NOMINEE” – My Funny Valentine – The Chet Baker Songbook” Matt Dusk (CD) – Arranger & Producer
 * (2013) ” INDEPENDENT MUSIC AWARDS”  – Rush Mode- The song Rush Mode was NOMINATED for “Best Jazz Song” and “The Last Of The Summer Days” for best “Jazz Song With Vocals” Mike Field (CD) – Producer
 * (1998) ” JUNO NOMINEE”  – “As If ” Ted Quinlan  (CD)  – Producer
 * (1991) “JUNO NOMINEE”  –  “A To Z” Sharon, Lois & Bram (CD) – Arranger
 * (1984) “GRAMMY NOMINEE” –  “Hi Tech Big Band” “Matt Cattingub Big Band” (CD)  – Bass
 * (1981) “JUNO  NOMINEE”  –  “Swinging and Singing”  Sharon, Lois & Bram (CD)   – Arranger
 * (1980) “JUNO WINNER” –  “Smorgasboard”  Sharon, Lois & Bram (CD)  – Arranger