About

Jean-François Desrosby – Guitarist, Professor, and Researcher

Celebrated for his energetic artistry and expressive sensitivity, guitarist Jean-François Desrosby has established himself as a distinctive voice in today’s classical guitar world. His performances across Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Europe  have enthralled audiences and critics alike, earning praise for both his virtuosity and captivating stage presence: “Equivalent to the energy of a rock band” (Classical Guitar Canada), “A captivating purity of interpretation” (FIGI Mexico).

An inspiring teacher and lecturer

A passionate pedagogue, Jean-François devotes much of his career to mentoring the next generation of musicians. He is an Associate Professor at the Université de Sherbrooke and has served as Director of its School of Music since 2023, where he teaches performance and interpretation, musical optimization, and artistic entrepreneurship. He also played a leading role in the redesign of the university’s music programs, introducing modern, interdisciplinary approaches that prepare students for the realities of the 21st-century music world.

His reputation as a teacher and speaker has led to invitations around the globe:

• Canada: Conservatoire de musique du Québec, national and regional guitar societies, universities and CEGEPs, Music and Health Research Institute (Ottawa), Canadian University Music Society (MusCan), ACFAS
• United States: Guitar Foundation of America, universities, and guitar festivals
• Mexico: guitar festivals, universities, and academic conferences
• Europe: masterclasses and conferences in France, Germany, and a presentation at the 15th International Conference on Visual and Performing Arts (Athens, Greece)

Research and innovation

After a hand injury forced him to reimagine his playing technique, Jean-François turned to biomechanics and performance psychology—work that has since shaped his unique artistic and pedagogical approach. His research has been funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), the Canada Council for the Arts, the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec, the Quebec Ministry of Culture and Communications, the Université de Sherbrooke, the Université de Montréal, and A3CRASH.

He is a regular member of the Centre de recherche acoustique-signal-humain de l’Université de Sherbrooke (CRASH-UdeS), the Music and Health Research Institute (Ottawa), and the Canadian Network for Musicians’ Health and Wellness—highlighting his commitment to advancing knowledge at the intersection of music, health, science, and applied research.

An artist still at the forefront

Alongside his teaching and research, Jean-François maintains a vibrant international performing career. His two critically acclaimed solo albums reveal a repertoire that bridges tradition and innovation, reflecting both technical mastery and interpretive depth. A frequent guest at prestigious festivals and concert halls, he continues to captivate audiences with performances marked by dazzling energy, rare emotional depth, and a drive to create immersive musical experiences where virtuosity, expression, and artistic exploration converge.

Awards and recognition

Winner of the Quebec Conservatory of Music Guitar Prize with High Distinction, Jean-François is regularly invited to serve on juries for international competitions and academic examinations. His career seamlessly combines artistic excellence, scientific rigor, and academic leadership, positioning him as a leading voice in the evolution of classical guitar and higher music education in the 21st century.

Whoever chose the term energetic, he wasn't kidding.“ –  Classical Guitar Magazine 

“Desrosby Rock !“ – This Is Classical Guitar  

“Equivalent to the energy of a rock band, leaving aside Hedfield!“ – Classical Guitar Canada  

“He has great taste and a true sense of music.” – InfOpera 

“I was impressed by the purity of his interpretations and his ability to captivate his audience“ – R. Servin, Dir. FIGI, Mexico