From playing Wendy in Garden City Productions 1996 rendition of “Peter Pan,” to becoming a JUNO Award nominee, Sarah Jerrom is “excited to represent her Niagara community.”

Jerrom is nominated for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year for her album “Magpie” at this year’s JUNO awards.

“It’s definitely a dream come true. I’m very proud of this album and am honoured and thrilled it was nominated for a JUNO,” she told Dear Niagara.

Not only is this one of her biggest projects to date, with over 30 Canadian artists contributing to the recording, it’s also a project that holds a lot of meaning.

“The Magpie Suite is dedicated to removing the and taboo surrounding pregnancy loss,” Jerrom told Dear Niagara.

“My biggest hope is that this nomination brings Magpie to new ears — to those listeners who may experience some healing and catharsis from the narrative.

Jerrom was in Rochester, NY, in the United States — where she is currently completing her masters degree in jazz writing at the Eastman School of Music — when she found out she was nominated.

Jerrom’s husband Rob, who plays bass on the album, was with her the moment she became a JUNO nominated artist.

“Some happy tears were shed by the both of us,” she said.

Jerrom has always loved singing and also had an early fascination with the piano at her family home growing up.

“The road certainly isn’t easy but the journey is rewarding,” she said.

To other local musicians, Jerrom says to “keep going.”

“Make time for creativity and make the sounds that make you happy. Celebrate community and support each other,” she said, noting there is a lot of talent in the region.

The Mahtay Cafe is a favourite spot of hers to catch some local talent, along with the Cat’s Caboose jazz jam on Saturday afternoons.

The 2025 JUNO Awards take place March 30 in Vancouver, B.C.

“I’m excited to represent my Niagara community in Vancouver,” Jerrom said.