Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Eric St. Godard has been establishing himself as a bandleader and an active member of the Manitoba music scene. 

 

Eric began taking piano lessons at the age of five, and later received his Royal Conservatory of Music Grade 8 Certificate. However his interest in jazz music grew exponentially during his time in high school. Eric graduated from the Brandon University School of Music, where he studied under the tutelage of the widely-acclaimed pianist, Micheal Cain. In addition, Eric also studied under the intelligent and well-known Canadian musician and composer, Jeff Presslaff. 

 

Eric’s musical influences are quite diverse, but can mostly be credited to the blues/post-bop language and virtuosity of Oscar Peterson, the harmonic textures of Bill Evans, as well as the exploratory natures of Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea and Keith Jarrett, just to name a few. Eric has also been influenced by genres outside of the jazz realm — from The Meters, Billy Joel, and The Beatles. Ultimately, Eric strives to use elements from his influences to tell a story through his compositions and improvisations, and aims to bring an invigorating, thought-provoking, and individual sound to the Canadian music scene. 

​

Eric has also been able to work with some of Manitoba’s finest jazz musicians for numerous live events in Manitoba and for his recording projects. In addition to performing, Eric has a growing private studio of students, ranging from 4 years old to adults. He also is an instructor at the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts in Winnipeg, Manitoba as a part-time Jazz, Classical and General piano instructor. 

 

His latest EPs, Perspectives, and Look Here, are available on all streaming platforms, and will be releasing two solo piano EPs in the winter of 2023.