Darren Creech

An innovative artist, queer classical pianist Darren Creech “shows his belief in a new potential for the classical concert stage” (CBC Music), and his playing has been heralded as “remarkably fresh and enticing” (Ludwig van Toronto). His unique solo performances take diverse audiences on an emotional journey. Subverting expectations, they are described as “tours de force, propelled by a powerful narrative” (Ludwig van Toronto). With his distinct touch, Darren designs the lighting, composes poetic interludes, and styles his seditious outfits.

As a collaborator, Darren composed and played piano on Witch Prophet's Polaris-nominated album Gateway Experience (released in May 2023), and worked with theatre artist Dasha Plett on their show Études for Keyboard at Winnipeg's Cluster Festival. Darren also frequently performs and records with Cree-Mennonite cellist and composer Cris Derksen.

Darren’s work extends beyond the stage, connecting communities and organizations. Live performance highlights include the Toronto International Film Festival with Call Me By Your Name author André Aciman, the closing show for Luminato Festival alongside Cris Derksen and eight choirs at sunset, and the closing show of Montreal’s Suoni Per Il Popolo with Queer Songbook Orchestra.

As a studio musician, Darren has recorded for NPR Tiny Desk, the 2023 Pulitzer Prize and Peabody Award-winning podcast Stolen: Surviving St. Michael’s, and CBC Radio’s Q. He has contributed his playing to the film scores for NEON’s documentary Spaceship Earth (2020) and Leilani’s Fortune (2023). A discerning voice, he is on the Artistic Advisory Council for The Music Gallery and has served as a jury member for the JUNO Awards.

Having grown up in Senegal, West Africa, Darren’s unconventional approach to the stage is informed by his cross-cultural experiences. He holds a Master of Music in Piano Performance from Université de Montréal, and an Honours Bachelor of Music from Wilfrid Laurier University.