Noah Franche-Nolan is a JUNO-nominated Canadian pianist, improviser, composer, and producer based in Vancouver, BC.
He leads the Noah Franche-Nolan Trio, featuring bassist Jodi Proznick and drummer Nicholas Bracewell. The trio also forms the rhythm section for the JUNO-nominated Indo-jazz fusion group Raagaverse, led by Shruti Ramani, where they weave together rich cultural traditions and contemporary jazz influences.
As a film composer and interdisciplinary collaborator, Franche-Nolan has built an expansive and eclectic portfolio. His live score for the 1922 silent film Häxan—commissioned by Vancouver’s independent theatre The Cinematheque—showcased his ability to bridge historical cinema with modern musical expression. His other scoring credits include NYC filmmaker Talha Jalal’s documentary Rite of Passage and Vancouver playwright Shelby Satterthwaite’s play Light Rapid Transit.
In the recording sphere, Franche-Nolan co-leads Arid Landscapes, an electro-acoustic duo with Toronto-based guitarist and composer Dan Pitt. Their self-titled debut album was released on Signal Chain Records, the label they co-founded and operate together.
Through his work as a performer, composer, and producer, Franche-Nolan continues to explore the intersection of emotional depth, musical sophistication, and creative experimentation—offering audiences and collaborators a distinctive and expressive artistic voice.
Name:
Noah Franche-Nolan
Genre:
Jazz
# of Albums:
I have put out 6 recordings of my own, and have appeared on a total of 6 additional albums by other artists.
Latest Album:
Rose-Anna
Latest Single:
Haxan
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
Radiohead was my longest-standing favourite band/group back when I was growing up.
Favourite musician now:
I have strong admiration for Tyshawn Sorey’s work, although I wouldn’t say I have a favourite musician.
Guilty pleasure song:
I don’t feel guilty for listening to any music or song in particular. There is no guilty pleasure song for me.
Live show ritual:
A good solid early morning practice session, followed up by a run. Other than that, I try to eat before the gig, and I prefer not talking too much before or during the gig.
Favourite local musician:
I feel very fortunate to get to work with local trumpeter Feven Kidane. I believe Feven is doing a lot of great things for the improvised music community, and for the arts community here in Vancouver.
EP or LP?
LP
Early bird or night owl?
Early Bird
Road or studio?
Studio
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
I believe Kishimoto, on Commercial Drive, makes the best sushi in Vancouver. I’ve only gone there twice, and both times were amazing. The smoked Oshi is mind-blowing.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
I love Commercial Drive. I grew up busking on the street there, and I developed my chops as a young teenage pianist playing the happy hour set at the Libra Room, all thanks to the wonderful Mr. Bruno Hubert. I am a proud resident of the area and hope to stay there for as long as I can.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
McSpadden Park. My fiancée and I go there to watch the dogs in the evenings when we’re both free.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Tyrant Studios. Best Jazz club in town with the coolest vibe. It is the spot, all thanks to Dan Deorksen.
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Neptune Records. Great selection. I also saw Nardwar perform there on car-free day when I was a teenager!
