Born in Vancouver and raised all across Canada, Ian Cromwell has one true home: the stage. A classical violist by training, Ian has spent more than 20 years performing with classical ensembles, symphonies, quartets, and as a solo performer. Ian’s love of the stage put a guitar in his hands some years later, and he hasn’t looked back since. Over the past 8 years, Ian has been regularly rocking stages in Vancouver and beyond both as a solo artist, and as a member of Jack Mercer & The Whiskey Bandits. Ian is also the curator and host of Locals Lounge, a monthly performance and interview series focussed on Vancouver’s local music scene.
Ian’s love and deep passion for music transcends the cerebral classical genre and takes root in the full-throated, no-holds-barred, primal scream of rock and alternative music, tempered by an affinity for upbeat and memorable pop hooks. Blended together with his signature powerful vocals, Ian’s musical range is sure to please anyone who describes their musical taste as ‘eclectic’.
And what do you get when you put together Ian’s love for the raw power of rock, the magestic sweep of classical, the technical wizardry of hip-hop, and the virtuoso improvisation of jazz? Well, you get a live musical experience that truly must be seen to be believed. Ian uses effects, loops, percussive hits, and of course his unparalleled vocals to craft soundscapes in front of an audience that is always left wanting more. Combine all this with Ian’s trademark energy and enthusiasm for performance, and you end up with a truly addictive and unforgettable show.
Ian released his debut single ‘Cherryblossom’ in the spring of 2018.