Odeon Richmond presents Piano 4TE #4

Featuring:

Ryley Duncan, Andreana J. Micanova, Jeremy Poole-Johnson, and Damon Smith.

Piano 4TE is a series of solo piano performances curated and moderated by local pianist and composer Adam Rudegeair.

The piano has been a dominant force in Western music for over 300 years. As both a solo instrument and an integral part of ensembles, the piano has influenced countless genres, from classical to jazz, pop, and electronic music. The strength of the piano lies in its ability to convey a wide range of emotions through dynamic touch, as well as its adaptability in creating complex harmonies and rhythms.

The four featured artists will perform one set each, displaying their artistry, contrasting styles and unique stylistic influences. Following the performances, Adam will lead a panel discussion in which the audience will have the opportunity to engage with the artists for lively discussion on any facet of their musical journey.

Join us for a celebration of one of history's greatest inventions, and a riveting cross-section of Melbourne's musical landscape.

Piano 4TE provides four pianists the opportunity to showcase their own unique connection with the instrument.

This edition will feature the following perfomers:

Ryley Duncan

Ryley Duncan is an award-winning composer, contemporary/jazz pianist, a graduate of The Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music (BMus) and a current Honours student at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music.

He was recently featured on the PBS 106.7fmradio program Black Wax, performing Herbie Hancock’s composition ‘Sonrisa’ live to air.

Andreana J. Micanova

Andreana J. Micanova is a Macedonian pianist, composer, arranger, singer and educator based in Melbourne.

Born and raised into a musical family, she began her tireless musical exploration at the age of five, growing between the strong ties to jazz into the roots of her family, and the naturally, deeply self perceived love and devotion for classical music.

After undertaking a Diploma of Classical Studies, and taking part in numerous festivals and valuable classical competitions in Europe,  Andreana decided to ride the winds of change and completed her Bachelor of Jazz, followed by a Masters studying with Dave Frank in New York City.

Her style reflects outburst of noticeable sharp contrasts, romantic lyricism, a true fusion of jazz, classical music and all the unknown in between.  Andreana has been the band leader of Jazzobell Deux since 2010, and was known for her work in the Phileas Fogg Trio (2016-2023). Andreana is presently working on her solo album Diaries of the Womb.

Jeremy Poole-Johnson

Born into a musical family, Jeremy Poole-Johnson began learning piano from his parents at the age of five. In his teenage years, he developed a keen interest in jazz, classical, and progressive rock music, going on to study at the esteemed Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, where he earned a bachelor’s degree with honours. Several years ago, Jeremy moved to Victoria, where he has continued his postgraduate studies at the University of Melbourne. He has performed across Melbourne in various jazz and progressive rock groups, and has composed classical works for a variety of ensembles, including the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

Damon Smith

For his performance as part of Piano 4TE #4, award-winning musician Damon Smith steps into a different space. Known for his blues and roots foundation, New Orleans-inspired left-hand romps and humorous gig narratives, this set moves away from the familiar.

With a deep love for improvisation and ostinato-based rhythmic wandering, Damon leans into the meditative and the unresolved. Among the pieces he’ll explore are selections from his rarely mentioned instrumental record Weather Patterns and Natural Catastrophes Are Reactions to Human Cognitive Processes, an album released only digitally, and never performed live.

Expect open-ended phrasing, repetition, drift, and moments that are more question than statement.

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