Featuring the combined talents of John Garner, Clement Rooney and Jamie Kenny, the Garnish Trio aims to breathe life into tired old standards. With an unusual line-up of violin, keys and double bass, and an enthusiasm for unorthodox instrumental techniques, together they create a fresh and unique sound.
James Kenny, double bass, hails from Edinburgh. He enjoys playing a wide range of music including classical, jazz and folk. In Scotland, James is a regular performer at the Edinburgh International Festival and has worked with some of Scotland’s finest folk musicians including Mary MacMaster, Donald Hay, Leo McCann and Sandy Wright. As a keen Klezmer musician, he also plays with numerous Eastern European music groups.
James is currently studying at the Royal College of Music in London with Thomas Martin. Since joining, he has performed with conductors such as Vladimir Jurowski and Bernard Haitink. In 2009, James played at the South Bank Centre under the famous jazz conductor Michael Gibbs alongside British Jazz legends such as Guy Barker. The concert received rave reviews and was broadcast on BBC Radio 3.
Clement Rooney took up the piano aged only three. Guitar, clarinet and composition were shortly to follow. He was awarded a scholarship to study at the Purcell School, where he continued studying composition under the guidance of Dr Jonathan Cole and, later, Dai Fujikura. His works have been performed by the likes of the NASH ensemble, in world-famous venues including London’s Wigmore Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall.
Whilst at the Purcell School, Clement took up jazz piano under Simon Colam. As a member of the Sam Healey Quartet, he performed in numerous concerts throughout the UK, including the 2009 Jazz Gala Concert which featured such legends as Dame Cleo Laine and the late Sir John Dankworth. He has taken part in masterclasses with eminent jazz musicians including Tom Herbert and Andrew Bain.
Clement also pursues an interest in Latin House music as a member of the highly successful group Tr(eE)o. With a sophisticated combination of a unique live house style and a raw energetic sound, they infuse strong Latin and jazz elements with a club vibe.