The man behind the music.

Ethan Gough is a bassist and composer from St. John’s, Newfoundland. His work is rooted in contemporary jazz, improvisation, and a love of community, conversation and interaction in music. Gough’s philosophy is quite methodical and sophisticated, and his music grapples with topics such as climate change and nature, mental health, and human connection.

​

As the leader of the Ethan Gough Project, Ethan draws from modern jazz alongside the sounds, landscapes, and atmosphere of Newfoundland to create a unique, singular voice. His 2026 album, Echoes of April, marks a shift toward raw, intimate, and emotionally driven instrumental music, drawing inspiration from Newfoundland’s changing seasons and the phenomenon of “false spring.”

 

Ethan’s approach to jazz is shaped by his background in contemporary composition. As a composer, he has collaborated with groups such as the Tenacious String Orchestra, Gonzaga High School, CALOS Youth Orchestras, Quintessential Vocal Ensemble and the Kawartha Lakes Concert Band. His works have been performed across North America.

 

In addition to leading, Ethan has shared the stage with numerous ensembles and performers including the MUN Jazz Orchestra, CALOS Youth Orchestras, Heather Bambrick and some of the city's best jazz musicians. He studies bass with Jim Vivian and composition with Florian Hoefner, while returning this past summer for a second year of studies at the Stratford Summer Music Jazz Academy. Ethan is a two time recipient of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Arts and Letters Award.

 

Currently based in St. John’s, when not playing or composing, you can find him doing some of his other hobbies like cooking, writing, photography and exploring nature.