Pianist Jamie Parker is in town this weekend to perform in the Women's Musical Club of Winnipeg series. Morning Light host Michael Wolch caught up with Jamie over the phone at the University of Toronto where he teaches.

Jamie is well known to us here in Winnipeg, both as a solo artist and a member of The Gryphon Trio. He is one of the best pianists on the Canadian scene, has a very demanding and busy scehdule between touring and teaching, but when you speak with him, he is so at ease, warm and fun. There is no pretension, just an honest individual with a great attitude. 

Last time I met with Jamie was in October 2014 when he was in town with the Gryphon Trio on their way back to Toronto from a concert in Brandon. They made a special stop by our studios to visit and chat, and I was more than happy to have another opportunity to talk with him before his upcoming solo recital this weekend.

Awards came early and often. Beginning in 1984 with a first prize at the Eckhardt-Gramatté Competition, James served notice that he was a rising star. The CBC competition concurred, selecting him winner of the 25th National Competition for Young Performers. The Virginia Parker Award as the most promising young classical artist soon followed, further solidifying Parker's place as one of Canada's best.

Concerts given by Dr. Parker consistently garner artistic acclaim. His style has earned him praise as "one of the most searching musical intellects and 10 of the nimblest fingers in the business" according to The Globe and Mail. James has enthralled audiences in North America and Europe, counting diplomats and dignitaries among his receptive audiences. He has made frequent appearances on CBC, and has performed on Bravo!, the CanWest Global Network, MuchMusic and a myriad of stations across the globe.

A consummate professional, James is recognized as a soloist, a chamber musician and as the pianist for Canada's foremost ensemble, the Gryphon Trio. Add to this his critically acclaimed performances with major Canadian symphonies like Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Quebec City, Edmonton, National Arts Centre, Symphony Nova Scotia and many in between, one is reminded of the scope of his contributions to the national classical music scene. With three JUNO recording awards and many other nominations from his vast discography, James Parker continues to graciously strive to do it all.

Michael started his conversation with Jamie by asking him what he's been working on since he was in Winnipeg with the Gryphon Trio back in October.

 

 

 

Watch Jamie below with The Gryphon Trio: