If you’ve spent any time in Vancouver’s downtown music scene over the past decade, chances are you’ve felt Zach’s influence, whether you realized it or not.
Born and raised in Calgary, Zach made the move to Vancouver in 2009. He studied at the Pacific Audio Visuals Institute while working at the city’s iconic Scratch Records. From his early days “walking the streets posting posters for local events,” to booking and production-managing shows at Vancouver landmarks like the Commodore, Civic Theatres, The Vogue, and Venue (now The Pearl!), he has worked across nearly every avenue of the entertainment industry. He also produced the downtown Vancouver festival Levitation Vancouver in 2015 and 2016.
Since 2023, Zach has been a Partner and Director of Talent for MODO-LIVE and The Pearl, an under-1,000-capacity live music venue, nightclub, and event space on Granville Street. From its inception, he has been deeply involved in The Pearl’s operation and ownership, helping shape its identity as a flexible, artist-forward space with a strong commitment to hospitality and diverse programming.
When asked about his career highlights, Zach says that “there are too many to count, but seeing the venue grow into what it has become today through a dedicated focus on programming and more importantly the people who we employ who have changed the reputation of the establishment, and I believe Granville as a whole, is something I am deeply proud of.” In terms of specific events, the two nights with legendary psych band The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Australian punk band The Chats, and their regular programming with Brazilian presenters YOU CAN Productions, Roda De Samba, and Sambacouver come to mind.
Looking ahead, Zach is optimistic about what’s next. With global attention coming to Vancouver through events like the World Cup, he’s excited about The Pearl’s planned programming during that time and the opportunity to showcase the city on an international stage. He’s equally passionate about continuing to build the venue’s reputation as a breeding ground for local and global talent, one that champions diversity, expression, and the ever-growing community of artists and presenters shaping Vancouver’s sound.
You can check out The Pearl at 881 Granville or find out about upcoming events on their website.
Upcoming highlights include Sun Ra Arkestra; multi-night residencies with internationally renowned acts like GOAT and Sleaford Mods; performances by Canadian legacy artists Big Sugar and Hawksley Workman; PRIDE weekend programming with The Birdhouse Presents; the Girls to the Front Festival; and regular monthly nightclub staples with Seoul Society and FREE FOR ALL.
