Silence Presents: Shapeshifter

Shapeshifter is an experimental Canadian jazz trio led by Toronto based saxophonist Brittany Pitt.

Shapeshifter is an experimental Canadian jazz trio led by Toronto based saxophonist Brittany Pitt. In the unconventional setting of a bassless trio, Shapeshifter creates atmospheric music that combines angular melodies, spontaneous compositions and rhythmic concepts with atmospheric textures from each contributing member of the trio.

The music blends influences that have affected the bandleader, such as her experience studying and playing in the New York improvised music scene, as well as years of listening to music of the ECM label and other European jazz artists.

The recording of “Shapeshifter” has been a reflection of Brittany’s shift and progression of her musical career, both compositionally and performatively. After attending the School for Improvisational Music in August of 2025, she felt the intense inspiration to explore and create a new musical project, focusing on the art of improvisational music. While attending the SIM program, Brittany studied under New York musicians Ralph Alessi, Matt Mitchell, John Hebert, Tom Rainey and Tim Berne. Each of these musicians inspired Brittany to look at composition and improvisation in a more open way and inspired her to explore more creative and less structured ways of composing and playing through original pieces, all while drawing upon the strengths of each individual band member.

Shapeshifter also features two in demand Canadian musicians, drummer Aidan McConnell (Potions, Burs) and guitarist Dan Pitt (Dan Pitt Trio, Dan Pitt Quintet). Both Aidan and Dan have been an integral part of the evolution of Shapeshifter, contributing their musical and performance abilities to both the written and open sections of the music.