Ramona Borthwick

Born and raised in Bombay, a mega-metropolis on the west coast of India, Ramona Borthwick was exposed to music at an early age. Encouraged by her father, a well known musician and film composer, she began piano studies at age five, soon followed by studies in Western classical music. A move to Canada in the early 90's and later Boston, MA, allowed her to widen her artistic depth and growth as a musician, composer and teacher.

Her latest project, released in November 2009 and her second jazz CD release as a leader, showcases her evolution as an artist and composer. “One Of Us” is a celebration of planet Earth, reflecting on the urgency for us to act as protectors of its bounties. The ten original compositions written specifically for this project, feature Ramona's distinctive writing, playing and vocal styling, as well as great performances from trumpet/flugelhorn player Ingrid Jensen, guitarist Noel Borthwick, bassist Johannes Weidenmueller and drummer Adam Cruz. Even more so than the her previous release, Ramona's compositions are a highlight, yielding deeply harmonic music that stimulates vibrant and spirited playing from the quintet.

Ramona currently resides in Boston, MA, where she continues to write and perform. She is also actively involved with music education, conducting workshops and lessons from her studio. A graduate in Economics, she holds degrees in piano performance from the Trinity College and Royals Schools of Music, London, UK

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Album Reviews

One of Us by Ian Patterson
One of Us by Raul d'Gama Rose
A New Leaf by Budd Kopman
A New Leaf by Jerry D'Souza

“The wonderful music of 'One of Us' dwells on the interconnection of all things... Ramona Borthwick proves that there is some depth among younger composers. Her bright work is agape at the immensity of all things. It appears that she looks at the world with childlike wonder, but is also privy to the true and deep nature of what she sees.”

~ Raul daGama, Editor, AAJ

“On this new CD (A New Leaf), Ramona Borthwick's first, she displays a wonderful talent for composition and imagination in the various settings she chose for the pieces. Her playing is also creative and energetic

~ Raul daGama, Editor, AAJ

“On this new CD (A New Leaf), Ramona Borthwick's first, she displays a wonderful talent for composition and imagination in the various settings she chose for the pieces. Her playing is also creative and energetic. If this is her first installment, we can eagerly keep track of Ramona's coming chapters. Something nice is developing here.”

~ Kenny Werner, pianist, composer, author

“Here’s a fantastic recording by pianist/singer Ramona Borthwick. All her own compositions, the tunes are rich, lush, and highly emotional. All the musicians play beautifully together and Ramona's playing is very much her own. The tracks are interesting and entertaining, and the recording sound itself is excellent. Bravo!”

~ Jack Wilkins, jazz guitarist

“Borthwick displays an amazing talent for composition. Her fellow musicians bring the music to a level that is rarely shown on a debut release.”

~ jazzreview.com

“'A New Leaf' is at turns melodious, swinging, emotional and cool... Brimming with energy and good vibes, the compositions are first rate. Shape shifting and extremely warm, 'A New Leaf' is a pleasure to listen to from beginning to end, and marks a terrific and important debut album from a fine composer and player. Most certainly, Ramona Borthwick is someone to watch.”

~ Bud Koppman, All About Jazz

“Ramona Borthwick brings us a set of new music which pushes the boundaries both harmonically and rhythmically. The result is a fresh and creative disc that is not for the faint of heart. This is a great recording and I hope many get a chance to hear it and buy it!”

~ JazzRadio247.com

“Ramona approaches jazz as a communicator of this her idiom, she brings wit, intellect, and joy to her listening audiences”

~ The Musicians Ombudsman

“Ramona Borthwick has made a major statement with this superb initial release.”

~ Billboard Magazine

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