The New Standard

The New Standard is Windsor’s premiere jazz quartet featuring Sara Fontaine on vocals, Ryan Fontaine on double bass, Andy Tattersall on guitar and Vanessa Harnish on percussion.  If desired, horns (trumpet and saxophone) can be added. 

Originally formed as entertainment for Caesar’s Windsor, the band has expanded its repertoire to include jazz renditions of popular radio hits. They are suitable for weddings, cocktails, corporate functions, music lounges, private parties and country clubs. 

The New Standard specializes in setting a perfect mood for your special event and are sure to appeal to young and old alike.   Whether they are playing “Embraceable You” during your first dance, delighting your receiving line with “Blue Moon”  or pop standards like Laufey, Carol King and Micheal Buble, they are an upscale addition to any wedding celebration, festival or party.  Suitable for cocktail, dinner music or the main entertainment they are ready to wow your guests.  With very reasonable rates, The New Standard is a perfect fit for any size event.
 



About Andy Tattersall: 
Andy Tattersall is a highly regarded jazz guitarist based in Southwestern Ontario, with a performance career spanning over 25 years.  Andy has become a fixture in the regional music scene and a sought-after collaborator for both live performances and studio recordings.Drawing inspiration from the great jazz guitarists while forging his own musical voice, Andy’s playing seamlessly blends tradition with modern sensibilities. His versatility allows him to move effortlessly between intimate solo guitar settings and dynamic ensemble work, captivating audiences with every performance.Over the years, Andy has performed in a wide range of venues — from cozy clubs and jazz festivals to concert halls and private events. His reputation as a reliable, creative, and professional musician has made him one of the most in-demand jazz guitarists in Southwestern Ontario.

About Ryan Fontaine:
Bassist Ryan Fontaine discovered music at the early age of 5 while figuring out melodies on a small Casio keyboard. He began studying guitar at age 9 and gained an early understanding of scales and chords which he would later apply to jazz bass.
At age 14 he felt compelled to take up bass guitar, an instrument that he had always been drawn to. Encouraged by his high school music teacher Ryan began to play the double bass. He studied hard and decided to pursue the upright bass in University. Shifting styles and studying under the principal bassist with the Windsor Symphony gave Ryan a whole new classical perspective on music.
During the late '90's Ryan toured North America with the Juno award winning swing group The Johnny Favourite Swing Orchestra. Upon returning to Windsor he quickly became one of the most sought after bassists in the area, as both a live and session musician.
Returning to his first love, jazz bass, Ryan enjoys performing with fine fellow musicians in Soirée. He looks forward to new exciting musical adventures and sharing music with his wife Sara and daughter Ava.
 
About Vanessa Harnish:
Vanessa Harnish is a percussionist and educator with a passion for jazz and music theatre. She can be seen performing with the Coffee House Combo, Funk Junkies, Organization and the New Standard. Recent pit orchestra work with St. Clair College and Windsor Light Music Theatre include Mamma Mia, Beauty and the Beast, The Pajama Game and 42nd Street. Vanessa is grateful for our strong arts community and continuing opportunities to work with so many talented artists.

 
Sample Playlist:
 

Fly Me To The Moon
They Can’t Take That Away From Me
Moondance
From The Start
Autumn Leaves
Cry Me A River
Natural Woman