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 Prize-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. Working alongside fashion designers, Darren has collaborated with and been dressed by Lesley Hampton and L’Uomo Strano, and has been featured in the New York Times.

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, a theatrical narrative concert with tenor Isaiah Bell in partnership with Pride Toronto and Tapestry Opera, 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.

In complement to his performing career, Darren is in demand as a panelist and workshop presenter to all ages, regularly sharing how he has “carved himself a niche in the music world” (Laurier Alumni) and the importance of centring identity in artistic practice. Recent speaking engagements include the National Academy Orchestra, Toronto Metropolitan University, McGill University, Wilfrid Laurier University, and the Canadian New Music Network.

In the 2023-2024 season, Darren performed at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa alongside rising star soprano Midori Marsh, recorded for Agatha Kaspar’s upcoming album seavoda written for solo piano and string ensemble (releasing June 2024), and performed at the Royal Ontario Museum alongside Fashion Art Toronto.

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. Based in Toronto, Darren continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences with his artistic endeavors.