Renee Rosnes, born Irene Louise Rosnes on March 24, 1962, in Regina, Saskatchewan, is a Canadian jazz pianist, composer, and arranger whose name resonates with excellence in the world of jazz. Raised in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Rosnes’ musical journey began at the tender age of three when she embarked on classical piano lessons.
However, it was during her high school years at Handsworth Secondary School that she discovered her passion for jazz, thanks to the guidance of her band director, Bob Rebagliati.
Upon graduating, Rosnes pursued her musical education at the prestigious University of Toronto, studying classical performance under the tutelage of renowned pianist William Aide. In 1985, armed with a Canada Council for the Arts grant, Rosnes made the pivotal decision to move to New York City, the epicenter of the jazz world, to further hone her craft.
Renee Rosnes’ Exceptional Career Trajectory
Rosnes’ ascent in the jazz scene was meteoric. In 1986, she caught the attention of legendary tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson, who invited her to join his quartet, thus marking the beginning of her international career. Subsequently, Rosnes became a sought-after collaborator, performing and recording with illustrious figures such as Wayne Shorter, J.J. Johnson, Bobby Hutcherson, and James Moody, among others.
Her tenure with the Wayne Shorter Band in 1988 and later with trombonist J.J. Johnson’s Quintet solidified her reputation as a formidable pianist. Rosnes’ musical prowess and versatility were further showcased during her 20-year tenure as the pianist in James Moody’s quartet, captivating audiences worldwide with her virtuosic performances.
In addition to her role as a performer, Renee Rosnes is also a prolific composer and arranger. Her compositions, characterized by their sophistication and emotional depth, have garnered widespread acclaim, earning her prestigious accolades such as the Juno Award and the SOCAN Composer of the Year.
Continued Innovation and Collaborations
Rosnes’ artistic journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a spirit of innovation. In 2020, Renee Rosnes spearheaded the jazz supergroup Artemis, comprising top-tier musicians such as Ingrid Jensen, Nicole Glover, Alexa Tarantino, Noriko Ueda, and Allison Miller.
Their debut album, released under the esteemed Blue Note label, garnered widespread acclaim and further solidified Rosnes’ status as a trailblazer in the jazz genre.
Her recent release, “Kinds of Love,” recorded during the challenging times of the pandemic, serves as a testament to Rosnes’ resilience and creativity. Teaming up with jazz luminaries such as Chris Potter, Christian McBride, and Carl Allen, Rosnes delivers an emotive and enthralling musical experience that transcends boundaries.
Honors and Legacy
Throughout her illustrious career, Renee Rosnes has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including multiple Juno Awards and the prestigious Oscar Peterson Prize. Her contributions to jazz have not only enriched the musical landscape but have also inspired aspiring musicians worldwide.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Renee Rosnes is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of jazz talents. As the artistic director of the Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival and the host of CBC Radio’s “Jazz Profiles,” she continues to champion Canadian jazz musicians, ensuring that their voices are heard on a global platform.