Pianist Andree-Ann Deschenes to Perform at Brazil’s Music Conference

Andree-Ann Deschenes, a professionally trained pianist from Sault Ste. Marie, is set to showcase her talent at the ninth International Meeting of Contemporary Piano in Brazil. This prestigious event will take place from October 29 to 31, 2023, at the Federal University of Paraiba in Joao Pessoa. Deschenes, known for her deep connection to Latin American music, will not only perform but also participate in discussion panels focused on the theme of women in music.

Deschenes expressed her excitement about the upcoming trip, stating, “I was invited to come play and be part of discussion panels. The topic of the conference is women and music, which is a topic that is very dear to me.” Before the conference, she will perform in San Paulo on October 24 and in Natal on October 27, leading up to the conference in Joao Pessoa.

Her participation stems from her recent album, Wanderings, released earlier this year. The album features works commissioned from seven composers, six of whom are Brazilian. This unique collaboration highlights her dedication to promoting Latin American music. “When I was a student at California State, I worked with a teacher named Paul De Castro, who directed the Afro-Latin music program. He got me into playing music by Cuban and Brazilian composers,” Deschenes recalled.

Her passion for Latin American music was evident in her performance of the commissioned pieces at The Loft in May 2023. The album was recorded at the same venue in Sault Ste. Marie and has received positive reviews for its innovative blend of classical and contemporary influences.

Deschenes has a versatile musical background, having performed in various genres, including jazz and classical music. “I’ve done jazz gigs, I’ve done classical concerts. I was in a salsa band. I do a little bit of everything, and I think that’s what keeps it interesting,” she noted. Her musical journey began in Granby, Quebec, where her mother introduced her to music with a digital piano.

She pursued her passion for music through formal education, earning an advanced diploma in jazz from Humber College in Toronto, a master’s degree in Afro-Latin music from California State University, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Claremont Graduate University in Los Angeles.

Deschenes is committed to sharing her love for music with others. She believes music plays a vital role in everyone’s life. “I can’t imagine myself doing anything else as a career. If I can do something that makes me happy and makes somebody else happy too, then why wouldn’t I do it?”

Upon returning to Sault Ste. Marie, Deschenes will hold a concert titled “Back from Brazil” at The Loft on November 14, 2023. Tickets for this event are available online, providing an opportunity for local audiences to experience her music firsthand.

For more information on Andree-Ann Deschenes, including her music and album purchases, visit her official website. A video interview featuring Deschenes is also available on SooToday, offering further insight into her artistic journey and upcoming performances.