“… The very best that songwriting has to offer. On the cusp of 20 years old she was composing material that was outrageously original, melodic and passionate… Now Ariana Gillis will prove that she is no flash in the pan but a force to be reckoned with for a very long time.” –Bernie Taupin​

Hailing from just outside Toronto, Ariana Gillis began taking singing lessons at the age of six, but she was hardly thrilled. So, her father encouraged her to write her own material and learn to play the guitar. An award-winning songwriter himself, he gave her invaluable insight into the process. Gillis made an immediate impact on the Niagara music scene, and the Canadian Folk music scene, winning Songwriter of the Year at the 2009 Niagara Music Awards, followed by Female Vocalist and Album of the Year in 2010, as well as 2009 Canadian Folk Music Award, Young Performer of the Year. When played on  Sirius XM, she caught the attention of Elton John’s songwriting partner Bernie Taupin, which in turn, led to Buddy Miller.

Fast forward a year later — Buddy witnessed Ariana perform at the City Winery in Nashville experiencing first hand the conviction and power of her song writing, singing and stage presence.  This led to further conversations and ultimately brought them together to create the album, “The Maze”. Recorded live-off-the-floor in Nashville at Buddy’s studio – this album features lyrics and performances that feel both natural and strangely unique all at once.

​“I have been a fan of Ariana Gillis since discovering her music on satellite radio…something rare and unseen – genuine, uncalculated, un-co-opted art from a soulful gem.” – Grammy Award-winner, Buddy Miller

Don’t miss this rising star at the Treehouse!