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Artist Wiki

Fergus McCreadie

Overview

Fergus McCreadie is a dynamic Scottish jazz pianist and composer known for his enchanting blend of contemporary jazz and Scottish folk music. With a career marked by critical acclaim and innovative albums, he captivates audiences through his evocative performances and rich musical storytelling.

Fergus McCreadie

Fergus McCreadie, born on July 12, 1997, in Jamestown, Easter Ross, Scotland, is a renowned Scottish jazz pianist and composer. Growing up in Dollar, Clackmannanshire, McCreadie began his musical journey with bagpipes before transitioning to the piano at around age 12. Inspired by a life-changing jazz piano performance, he pursued his passion for jazz, leading to a distinguished career.

Education and Formation of Trio

McCreadie attended Dollar Academy before studying jazz at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland under the guidance of Tommy Smith. He graduated in 2018 and during his time at the conservatoire, he formed a trio with bassist David Bowden and drummer Stephen Henderson. This formation marked the beginning of his evolution as a pivotal force in the jazz scene.

Musical Style and Influences

McCreadie's style is a unique blend of contemporary jazz infused with Scottish folk music, drawing inspiration from the natural landscapes of Scotland. His primary influence is American jazz pianist Keith Jarrett, alongside inspirations from Glenn Gould, Martha Argerich, Oscar Peterson, McCoy Tyner, Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh, and Mick O'Brien.

Career and Discography

Fergus McCreadie's discography as the leader of his piano trio includes:

  • "Turas" (self-released, 2018)
  • "Cairn" (Edition Records, 2021)
  • "Forest Floor" (Edition Records, 2022)
  • "Stream" (Edition Records, 2024)

He also released a solo piano EP titled "Sketches" (Edition Records, 2023).

Notable Achievements

  • "Forest Floor" was shortlisted for the 2022 Mercury Prize.
  • It won the Scottish Album of the Year Award and the Scottish Jazz Award for Best Album in 2022.
  • McCreadie was named the 2022 Jazz FM Instrumentalist of the Year.
  • Shortlisted for the 2019 Scottish Album of the Year Award for "Turas".
  • Won the Peter Whittingham Jazz Award in 2016.
  • Runner-up for Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year in 2015.
  • Won the Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year's under-17 category in 2013 and 2014.

Recent Work

McCreadie’s latest album, "Stream," released on May 3, 2024, continues his exploration of natural themes, particularly focusing on the essence of water. The album features nine tracks and has received acclaims from critics for its innovative approach and thematic depth.

Live Performances and Recognition

Known for his captivating live performances, McCreadie engages his audience with storytelling between songs. His trio has performed to sold-out audiences across the UK.

  • Described as "one of the most exciting jazz pianists on the world stage today."
  • Received praise from BBC 6Music, The Times, and NME.
  • Selected for BBC Radio 3's New Generation Artists program, becoming the first non-classical musician to be chosen.

Fergus McCreadie continues to enchant audiences with his skillful fusion of jazz and folklore, carving a significant place for himself in the global jazz landscape.

Sources

Date added:
Sat Feb 08 2025 17:24:45 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)