Patrice Barbanchon is a trumpeter, composer, and educator who has performed extensively across North America. Born in St. Boniface, Manitoba, Patrice started playing the trumpet at age 12. He was introduced to this instrument by his band teacher at the time, Hubert Grernier. Monsieur Grenier, a trombone player, was very persistent in helping Patrice with his early development as a trumpet player. Patrice played his first gig under the direction of Grenier, performing O'Canada at a Winnipeg Jets game back in 1992. Monsieur Grenier's style of teaching fit very well with Patrice's personality, and because of this, Patrice was inspired to begin his journey into the world of music and trumpet artistry.
In high school, Patrice immersed himself in every musical opportunity that presented itself. His music teacher, Reno Gerl, was a trumpet player, and for this reason, Patrice was very much looking forward to working with him. Patrice soon realized that Mr. Gerl was not only an excellent trumpet and band teacher, but went above and beyond to help Patrice with his advancement as a trumpet player. Once again, Patrice was blessed with another amazing and inspiring teacher to help him light the path. Mr. Gerl eventually recommended that Patrice take lessons with another fantastic Winnipeg-based trumpet player, Jeff Johnson. Patrice learned a great deal from Jeff who eventually passed him onto studying with two of the finest trumpet players in Canada, Dr. Richard Gillis (University of Manitoba) and Brian Sykora (Principle trumpet, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra). Patrice was actively involved in the Winnipeg music scene where he had the pleasure of performing regularly with the likes of Ron Paley, Gilles Fournier, Scott Hamilton, Rob Siwik and many other great Winnipeg based musicians.
Patrice moved to Toronto, Canada in 2002. As a leader, Patrice released his first album “Trio Nouveau Live” in 2003. As a sideman, Patrice has been a full time member of the Toronto Jazz Orchestra since 2009, and is a current member of the Latin ensemble Conjunto Lacalu. Patrice received his Bachelor of Music Performance from Thompson Rivers University, and his Diploma of Jazz Studies from Humber College, where he studied trumpet with the likes of Steve Crowe, Brian O'Kane, Steve McDade, Denny Christianson and John McCleod. He has had the pleasure of playing alongside musical giants such as Paquito D'Riviera, Byron Stripling, Rob McConnell, Phil Nimmons and Guido Basso. Patrice is currently a full time faculty member at The Country Day School.