Rennie Pearson’s music is deeply rooted in the traditional music of Ireland, Scotland and Maritime Canada, blending centuries-old melodies and original compositions with fresh energy and artistry. A multi-instrumentalist, composer and storyteller, he performs on the wooden flute, guitar, Irish whistles, bodhrán, fiddle and voice, taking audiences on a journey through history and culture.
His shows feature soaring flute melodies, captivating songs, foot-stomping jigs and reels, and heart-wrenching slow airs. Each performance is a carefully crafted tapestry of tunes, songs and storytelling, designed to engage and transport listeners to another time and place. Rennie’s ability to transition seamlessly between high-energy tunes and intimate moments where you can hear a pin drop keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, making each performance dynamic and unforgettable.
Rennie has built a reputation as a sought-after performer in the traditional music scenes of Australia and New Zealand and is now establishing himself in Ireland and the UK. He has performed and taught across New Zealand, Australia, China, Canada, Ireland and the UK, working with music schools, festivals, cultural organisations and arts presenters, alongside his own independently organised shows.
He has toured extensively with his own projects, including the five-piece Irish band Criú, the duos Half Light, Polytropos and Rennie & Lúan, as well as under his own name. He has also worked closely with the Irish Embassy in New Zealand and performed with internationally acclaimed Irish dance productions including Celtic Illusion, Rhythm of the Dance and Celtica, appearing on stages across New Zealand, Australia, China and beyond.
His recorded work includes releases with Polytropos, Half Light, his solo album From Across the Seas, and his latest single, The Old Hag of Thunder, which introduces a bold new full-band direction for his original music. He has also contributed to international recording projects, most notably appearing alongside artists including Yo-Yo Ma, Stuart Duncan and Lyle Lovett on Sandra Boynton’s album Cows and Holly.
