Short bio:

David Rourke is a NYC-based jazz guitarist, singer-songwriter, and producer. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Performance from McGill University in Montréal, he completed a master’s degree at The Juilliard School. In 2019, David won first place at the International Jarek Smietana Jazz Guitar Competition in Kraków, Poland. During his final semester at Juilliard, David released his debut album, An Evening of Fiction, blending jazz, pop, and rock. He played all the instruments and vocals, producing the album himself. A versatile performer, David plays at NYC’s top jazz clubs, including Smalls, Mezzrow, Dizzy’s, and Ornithology, and has been performing his original music with his band at venues like Rockwood Music Hall, Arlene’s Grocery, and PIANOS. In addition to his work as a guitarist, David is a sought-after producer and mixing engineer, having mixed numerous albums and projects. He continues to release singles and will debut his second full-length album in April 2025.

Long bio:

David Rourke is a NYC-based jazz guitarist, singer-songwriter, and producer whose music seamlessly blends jazz, pop, and rock. A Montreal native, David began his musical journey at the age of five studying classical piano before transitioning to guitar at ten. He later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Performance from McGill University, where he honed his craft and collaborated with some of Canada’s top jazz musicians. In 2019, David’s talent was recognized internationally when he won first place at the Jarek Smietana Jazz Guitar Competition in Kraków, Poland, judged by renowned guitarists Mike Stern and Peter Bernstein. Following this success, David moved to New York City to pursue a master’s degree at The Juilliard School, graduating in 2022. During his final semester at Juilliard, David released his debut album, An Evening of Fiction, in which he played all the instruments and vocals, showcasing his skills as a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer. Since then, he has been regularly releasing singles and performing his original music at iconic NYC venues such as Rockwood Music Hall, Arlene’s Grocery, and PIANOS. As a member of Tony DeSare’s group, David has performed with symphony orchestras including the Edmonton Symphony, Minnesota Symphony, and the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall. He is also a regular presence at top jazz clubs like Smalls, Mezzrow, and Dizzy’s. In addition to his work as a guitarist, David is an accomplished producer and mixing engineer, having worked on numerous albums and projects. His anticipated second full-length album, Apple Hill, is set for release in April 2025, further cementing his reputation as a dynamic and innovative voice in modern music.