The Ben Robertson Trio

The Ben Robertson Trio is a vibrant jazz and swing centric ensemble that blends various genres to create a unique musical experience.

With vocals and guitar, violin, and bass, we bring a fresh take on classic and contemporary tunes, from Gershwin to Gaga.

About Us
The Ben Robertson Trio offers a vibrant, multifaceted listening experience that transcends traditional genre boundaries. The trio is made up of Ben Robertson (vocals and guitar), Andrew Kent (violin) and Andy Connolly (bass). The three are former members of the award-winning gypsy jazz band Swingology, which from 2006 to 2015 delighted audiences with their interpretation of the music of Django Reinhardt and the Quintet of the Hot Club of France. The band played in some of the finest venues in Nova Scotia, and two of their CDs were selected as Jazz Album of the Year by Music Nova Scotia.

Ben, Andrew, and Andy have reunited to entertain audiences with an eclectic mix of songs centred around the “Great American Songbook” plus classic pop and country, Latin tunes, and some surprises from other genres, all presented (and sometimes reimagined) in the Trio’s inimitable swinging style.

The Band

Ben Robertson

Vocals and Guitar

Ben got his first guitar at the age of ten because he wanted to be like Elvis. In the 60s he was into folk music, in the 70s and 80s it was bluegrass, and in the 90s he got turned onto jazz and swing. He has been the guitarist and lead vocalist with the Big Valley Swing Orchestra for over 25 years. In 2006 Ben founded the award-winning gypsy jazz band Swingology to pay tribute to the great guitarist Django Reinhardt and the Quintet of the Hot Club of France. He later performed monthly as a solo artist at the Winegrunt wine bar in Windsor for four years. He has also played guitar in pit orchestras for many musical theatre productions, including 42nd Street, Fiddler on the Roof, Sister Act, Mamma Mia!, and The Prom.

Andrew Kent

Violin

`In great demand as a performer, session musician and teacher, playing the violin is Andrew’s lifelong passion. From Country to Jazz to Traditional Fiddle, Andrew's performances display a unique style and creativity which enhances the Nova Scotia music scene and expands the boundaries of Maritime fiddlers. Andrew has had several career highlights including: Playing for the Royal Family and numerous Prime Ministers; Representing Ontario at the World Fair in Osaka, Japan; Calgary Stampede fiddler for Grandstand show from 1985-1995; Playing internationally in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Carnival Cruise Ships; Concertmaster of Queen's University Orchestra, Kingston, ON.

Andy Connolly

Bass

Andy's solid bass playing provides the foundation on which the Trio's sound rests. His experience with various bands, including Swingology, the John Tetrault Trio, Grassfire, and String Theory, showcase his versatility and adaptability in different musical styles. He is also a noted repairman for all kinds of stringed instruments, initially reconditioning distressed acoustic basses. in recent years he has added another layer to his skill set by becoming a builder of fine archtop and flattop guitars. From his early days in”garage” bands to bluegrass and swing groups , quoting Willy Nelson “the life he loves is making music with his friends.”

What We Offer

Restaurants

Our music can elevate the social environment in restaurants, engaging patrons and encouraging enjoyment, complementing conversation without overwhelming it.

Private Events

Perfect for weddings, celebrations, house concerts, winery tours, and intimate gatherings, our trio delivers soulful renditions of jazz classics and modern favorites.

Concerts

Our music is chosen to captivate concertgoers, blending entertainment with artistic expression. We don’t just play notes - we tell stories, evoke emotions, and create a shared sense of excitement

Corporate Events

Enhance your corporate function with sophisticated and professional musical entertainment that will make it not just an event but a memorable occasion.

Events

Upcoming Events

TitleDateLocation
Bent Ridge Winery09 Jan 20264499 Highway 14, Windsor, NS
West Brooklyn Speakeasy21 Feb 2026410 West Brooklyn Mtn Road, West Brooklyn, NS

Past Events

TitleDateLocation
Grand Pré Winery31 Jul 2025
Bent Ridge Winery18 Jul 20254499 Highway 14, Windsor, NS
Bent Ridge Winery17 Jan 20254499 Highway 14, Windsor, NS
House Concert Windsor NS11 Aug 2024Private
Bent Ridge Winery26 Jul 20244499 Highway 14, Windsor, NS

Testimonials

Meghan Scott
Owner, Bent Ridge Winery, Windsor Forks NS

It's always a pleasure to have Ben Robertson and his trio perform at Bent Ridge Winery! Our easy-listening audiences adore his music, and we book him regularly due to popular demand. Talented and professional, Ben is always one of our favourite performers throughout the year.

Bent Ridge Winery
Robert Buranello
Owner, Winegrunt Wine Bar, WIndsor NS

Ben was one of the first people to play for our place, and he remained an important part of our music nights for our entire run. Be it solo or accompanied, Ben's music makes magic. Most definitely, Ben shouild be a part of your musical calendar!

Jon Hall

The Ben Robertson Trio performed at a house concert in my home. About 30 guests attended and thoroughly enjoyed the performance. It was an extremely pleasant performance on a Sunday afternoon. The mellow music filled the room beautifully, and guests left in a delightful mood.

Contact

  • Windsor, NS, Canada