Singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, sideman, innovator, recording artist, award winner. His names are many, but underlying that is a young man with an ancient soul who has traveled the world for the past 23 years bringing his unique brand of joy to audiences wherever he goes.
J.P. Cormier began playing guitar, self taught, at the age of 5 and quickly became immersed in the rich musical heritage of his Cape Breton roots. By the age of 9, he was considered a genuine prodigy and won his first guitar competition against 30 other players three times his age. By his mid-teens, it became obvious J.P. could play almost any stringed instrument he picked up. However it was his guitar playing which shone with his flawless executions of tunes he learned from records of giants like Chet Atkins and Doc Watson.
At 16, Cormier recorded his first album, a collection of bluegrass instrumentals. With the project in hand, he worked his way across the U.S. festival circuit - performing for anyone who might take notice. These appearances led to a move to the U.S., and 10 years of session work, live appearances, and many memorable nights at the Grand Ole Opry with such notable artists as Waylon Jennings, Marty Stuart, Earl Scruggs, Bill Monroe, Charlie Louvin, and Vince Gill.
Since his return to Canada over decade ago, Cormier has released ten award winning recordings. The foundation for his highly anticipated fourth song collection has already been laid, and is slated for release in late 2006.
Fans of the writing traditions of Stan Rogers and Gordon Lightfoot tend to equate the name J.P. Cormier with "songwriter", even before multi-instrumentalist. As a performer, J.P. is known for his flawless delivery of original 'story songs', most often basing his lyrics on true events. Inspiration comes when he least expects it and, in his words, "I just hold the pen." The title track from J.P.’s Juno nominated Another Morning, among others, has been covered by countless artists across North America and overseas.
J.P.’s impressive body of work has earned him a vast and loyal fan base, and multiple award nominations and wins, including, most recently, Instrumental Album of the Year at the 1st Annual Canadian Folk Awards, the 2006 ECMA Folk Recording of the Year for “The Long River: A Personal Tribute to Gordon Lightfootâ€, and a placing in the prestigious International Songwriting Competition.
J.P. Cormier brings his dazzling compositions and finger-work to the stage 250 nights a year in theatres, at festivals, and with symphonies as guest performer. He is accompanied by Hilda Chiasson-Cormier on piano and harmony vocals, and multi-instrumentalist Darren McMullen. No matter the combination, J.P.’s performances are simply electrifying
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