Thompson Egbo-Egbo

Acclaimed Toronto composer and pianist Thompson Egbo-Egbo is always in key. Deeply rooted in his upbringing — moving to Canada from Nigeria at age four, commencing his dedication to playing the piano at the age of six — his innate aptitude and affection for the instrument is as strong as ever. On his forthcoming project, set for release via MNRK Music Group this fall, Egbo-Egbo will draw from themes of transition, rebirth, realignment, joy, and optimism for the future. Partly inspired by the shifts and impact the last two years of the pandemic have had on both a personal and professional level, audiences will experience the growth and depth of Egbo-Egbo’s writing, as an offering of sonic catharsis and hope.

As this experience struck a chord in his youth, giving back is a trademark note of Egbo-Egbo’s ethos. Egbo-Egbo served as a member of the board at Dixon Hall for many years and is currently on the board at Jazz FM 91. His own organization, The Thompson T. Egbo-Egbo Arts Foundation, as well as the Evolving Through the Arts program, support elementary school students by recognizing that a positive change and a sense of self-worth should be instilled in children early, and that all children should be afforded these opportunities. The foundation strives to fill a void in the education of music and arts not found in many communities, and partners with talented Canadian musicians and artists to provide a well-rounded and focused curriculum. It is dedicated to creating a resource for under-served Canadian youth to advance in music and the arts; empowering them through a safe environment to learn and express themselves artistically; and providing a platform for children to build their confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills.