Charles Trudel is a Montreal pianist and keyboardist known for his versatility and artistic commitment, which make him a key player on the Canadian and international music scene. His ability to navigate with ease between jazz, blues and popular music allows him to adapt to each project with fluidity, making him a respected and sought-after musician. He has played on many prestigious stages, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, as well as in festivals in Vienna (France), Mexico City, Vancouver, Victoria, Halifax, Quebec City, Rimouski, Kalamazoo (United States), as well as in Poland, Switzerland, Belgium and Spain. Throughout his career, Charles has collaborated with many artists and groups, including Dawn Tyler Watson & Ben Racine Band, Lulu Hughes, among others. He has also participated in notable projects in Canada and the United States, such as Danse Lhasa Danse and several tribute shows to Pink Floyd. Since 2005, he has had the opportunity to work with renowned musicians such as Alain Caron, Damien Schmitt, Ron Di Lauro, Rachel Therrien, Jean-Nicolas Trottier and Jacques Kuba Séguin. He continues to collaborate closely with Benjamin Deschamps, Alain Bourgeois and Sébastien Pellerin, enriching his musical approach and constantly exploring new creative avenues with these long-time partners. Initially trained in classical music, he then studied jazz at Cégep de Saint-Laurent and then at McGill University, where he obtained a bachelor's and master's degree in jazz performance. He was influenced by influential mentors such as Lorraine Desmarais and Jan Jarczyk, who left a lasting mark on his musical development. In addition to his work as a pianist and keyboardist, Charles is an experienced arranger and copyist. He also shares his passion for music with the next generation of musicians by teaching at the CEGEP and high school levels.

 

Awards • 1st Prize at the JPL Victo Jazz with Benjamin Deschamps Quintet (2019) • Grand Prize at the Rimouski Jazz Festival with the Charles Trudel Ensemble (2017) • 1st Prize at the Memphis “International Blues Challenge” with Dawn Tyler Watson & Ben Racine Band (2017) • 1st Prize at the Halifax Jazz Festival with Rachel Therrien Quintet (2016) • TD Grand Prize at the Montreal International Jazz Festival with Rachel Therrien Quintet (2015)