Pierre Schryer, Instructor, Quebecois and Celtic Fiddle Styles
Pierre was raised in the rich Franco-Ontarian culture of a family whose name has become associated the world over with great traditional fiddle music. A gifted performer, he delights in playing and composing in a range of styles from Irish, Scottish and French-Canadian, to Canadian Old-Time and American Swing. Pierre's musical talents extend beyond his famous fiddling, to include mandolin, tenor banjo, and the unique French-Canadian foot percussion.
During his years as a competitor, Pierre claimed numerous awards and titles, including Canadian Open Fiddle Champion, Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Champion, Violonneux Championnat (Québec Fiddle Champion), and North American Irish Fiddle Champion (Fleadh Cheoil). In 1995, Pierre officially announced his retirement from the competition world of fiddling to enter full-time into the world of performing, gracing audiences everywhere with the virtuosic and energetic sound of his own group, The Pierre Schryer Band.
The Pierre Schryer Band has gained critical acclaim across Canada, the United States, Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland, and have established themselves as one of Canada's most well respected traditional music ensembles. Their début album, "The New Canadian Waltz," was recorded live in 1995 and features Pierre's uncompromised fiddling dexterity, while offering authentic representation of traditional styles and innovative arrangements. Their recording "Acoustique!," represents the evolution of the band, displaying a fresh and exciting sound that combines traditional fiddle styles with a touch of World Music, Celtic and Swing.