Andree-Ann Deschenes – Wanderings

Wanderings is a collection of seven new piano works written for Andree-Ann Deschenes by Cassio Vianna, Jasnam Daya Singh, Bianca Gismonti, Jovino Santos Neto, Kerry Politzer, Carmen Sandim, and André Mehmari.

Each piece is its own musical space to be explored, each one of them waiting for you to wander around, and maybe stay for a bit.

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Celebrated by The Whole Note as possessing “a tremendous amount of energy, humour and astonishing talent,” Canadian pianist Andree-Ann Deschenes brings a fresh perspective to piano music. Encouraging listeners to sit back and settle into the music, she pairs her classically-trained sensibilities with elements borrowed from jazz and other inspiring art forms to communicate “just the right amount of drama, power and/or grace” (Mainly Piano) each piece demands.

Placing Latin American music at the forefront of her studies, Deschenes takes to the bench with reverence and intrigue to present vibrant interpretations that spotlight her “intense virtuosity and cool control” (Villa Lobos Magazine). Her commitment to sharing the works of lesser known composers keeps her in pursuit of unearthing regional rarities. Her 2018 studio album, The Ovalle Project, is a direct result of this passion and drive, showcasing the unique and bold works of early twentieth-century Brazilian composer Jayme Ovalle.

Daring to push the boundaries of the classical landscape, Andree-Ann rebels against tradition. From salsa groups and jazz ensembles, to accompanying singer-songwriters, Deschenes has leant her artistry to a variety of projects and performances. Unafraid to explore creative connections in unlikely places, her curiosity once led her to sharing a stage with Motörhead’s Lemmy Kilmister, but that’s a story for another time…

Both educational and performance opportunities have taken Deschenes across North America, from Montreal, to Los Angeles, to her current home, Sault Ste. Marie. Currently on the faculty of the Music & Visual Arts department at Algoma University, Andree-Ann Deschenes has spent over a decade immersed in academia. Having earned an Advanced Diploma in Jazz (Humber College), followed by a Master’s Degree in Afro-Latin music (California State University), and most recently, a Doctor of Musical Arts degree (Claremont Graduate University), Andree-Ann brings considerable experience and enthusiasm to both her lectures and recorded works.

Her new album, Wanderings, is a mosaic of newly commissioned compositions, underscoring Deschenes’ commitment to new piano works influenced by jazz, Brazilian, and classical aesthetics.. Recorded at The Loft Studio in Sault Ste. Marie, the collaborative album features new works by seven esteemed composers, highlighting exploration of the spirit and the spaces it occupies. Wanderings joins Deschenes’ previously released albums on all major retail and streaming platforms February 2024.

Running time: 63 minutes.