biography

Ethan Gough* is a Canadian bassist, composer, and producer based in St. John’s, Newfoundland with a strong dedication and passion for creating original contemporary art music. Ethan’s works are quite methodical and sophisticated, and grapple with topics such as climate change and nature, mental health, and human connection. He is currently a grade 11 student at Gonzaga High School, intending on pursuing music in post-secondary.

The stylistic range of Ethan’s compositions is dynamic and vast, regularly including elements of popular, electronic, jazz and contemporary classical music. This results in a unique compositional voice, often blurring the line between the synthetic and natural worlds. To enhance the world building around Ethan’s compositions, he incorporates surreal aspects to his works such as electronics, projections or narrations alongside the music. Ethan’s piece "...et le vent est silencieux" was recently a recipient of a 2025 Government of NL Arts and Letters award for a piece which "[showcased] an incredible sense of melody, harmony, and emotion." He currently studies composition under Jack Etchegary. Ethan's works have been performed across North America, in both Canada and the USA.

In addition, Ethan is an avid performer. A bassist by trade, he performs with his school band, MUN Jazz Orchestra, MUN Wind Ensemble, CALOS Youth Orchestras and Spear Jazz Collective. He currently studies bass with Jim Vivian. Ethan is also dedicated to community engagement, having served as a mentor for beginning band programs, a Junior Mentor for CALOS, and the Newfoundland Symphony’s Youth Ambassador for the 2025-26 season.

When not composing or playing, you may find Ethan spending time with his family and friends or enjoying some of his other hobbies including photography, biking and writing.

*A note on pronunciation: please read Gough as ‘Goff’ in performance contexts.

Link to access a shorter biography