Johnny Ross took great interest in the piano at an early age and soon discovered immense joy in live performance. Audiences can see this reflected in his natural adeptness for fun, uplifting entertainment in multiple genres. He has shared the stage with a wide range of artists, including his siblings in the long-running PEI roots music show, The Ross Family Ceilidh (2006-present) and as one half of a popular country music duo with Peggy Clinton. Ross also plays with the ’50s/’60s rock ‘n roll band, Fallback, and he is a founding member of Haunted Hearts, an ECMA-nominated group that toured regularly and won six Music PEI awards for its two albums circa 2009-2011. A career highlight was house band member for the nationally broadcast CBC production, Just Bidin’ My Time: A Tribute to Gene MacLellan (2012). In addition, he is the Music Director at Christ Church Cherry Valley (2013-present). The list of collaborations has grown long over the years and Ross continues to be called upon as a freelance sideman today, as well as a session player for local artists’ recording projects — and he wouldn’t have it any other way!
When asked about being part of the Island Jubilee house band, Ross comments, ” Charlottetown is long overdue for a show like this. It’s going to be an incredible experience for both those on stage and in the comfy seats out front! In an era when downsized bands are the order of the day, it’s a rare treat to play with such a complete range of voices and instruments in one ensemble — even more so with such talented players at the helm. I feel lucky to be a band member and will treasure this opportunity for years to come. In case it’s still not clear, I am stoked!”