John Rae

John Rae, a Scottish-born jazz drummer and composer now based in New Zealand, has become a defining figure in the jazz scenes of both countries. Appointed in 2009 as New Zealand’s first-ever jazz composer-in-residence at the NZSM, Rae has since made a lasting impact locally. He leads the acclaimed jazz ensemble The Troubles and has collaborated with renowned artists such as Vijay Iyer, Joe Lovano, Lee Konitz, Tony Scott, Art Farmer, Jamie Cullum, Julián Argüelles, Mark Murphy, Scott Hamilton and Barney Kessel. His achievements include the Herald Angel Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and two BBC Jazz Albums of the Year. Though lesser known internationally, his album Where the Wild Clematis Grow has sold over 30,000 copies, becoming New Zealand’s best-selling jazz record.