Loop Sessions Toronto - Masterclass

Music production is all about pushing boundaries, experimenting, and collaborating to

create something new. This week, QWave is bringing two talented artists of the Toronto music

production scene to Queen’s University for an exclusive masterclass. Pursuit Grooves (Venese

Smith) and SlowPitchSound (Cheldon Paterson) have spent years refining their craft in

sampling and turntablism. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply curious about these

sonic techniques, this session promises a rare opportunity to explore the art of live sound design

in an immersive, hands-on setting.

Pursuit Grooves was originally from the Washington, DC area, though she has used

Toronto as a base to explore music throughout her life. She started producing music as a

teenager, and has since explored a vast sonic landscape, blending genres and sounds. She first

gained attention when she was featured on Rush Hour’s Beat Dimensions compilation. From

there, she had made her music impact heard across the world, earning a spot at the Red Bull

Music Academy in Barcelona, working with artists from Tokyo to Sweden, and releasing many

experimental projects. In 2019, she co-founded the music organization Loop Sessions Toronto,

which focuses on production, sample curation, and music education. Pursuit Grooves has also

DJed and performed live using her sampling techniques, lighting up sets at Boiler Room, Mutek

Montreal, and Movement Electronic to name a few. For this upcoming tutorial, Pursuit Grooves

will place emphasis on the art of sampling, sharing both skills as well as a short live set.

While Pursuit Grooves brings her expertise in sampling and production, SlowPitchSound

offers a different yet equally innovative approach to music creation. With over two decades of

experience, the toronto-based artist proclaims his style as “sci fi-turntablism”, using nature, outer

space, and dystopian energy to build his sound. He has performed all across the world including

Canada, Australia, USA, UK, France, Sweden, and even Taiwan. Combining vinyl manipulation

with live improvisation is no easy feat, but SlowPitchSound has turned it into an art form — and

now, he’s sharing these skills with us.

At QWave, we recognize the importance of bringing industry leaders to Queen’s

University to inspire and elevate the next generation of artists. This event is free to attend, but

spots are limited, so make sure to register right away. The masterclass will take place this

Wednesday at 7PM in Rotunda Theatre, Theological Hall, for a deep dive into the world of

sampling, turntablism, and live sound design. - Adam Satov