Recipient of a 2025 JUNO award and Performer of the Year at the 2025 Prix Opus, Montreal string ensemble collectif9 is known for their innovative programming and approach to chamber music. The group aims to promote classical music from a personal perspective, where new voices and interpretations are welcomed and encouraged, performing “with an infectious energy and vigour that grabs an audience’s attention” (The WholeNote). Since their 2011 debut, collectif9 has performed numerous concerts across North America, Europe, and Asia. collectif9 operates on the premise that a change of context can influence communication and experience.

Soul and jazz fusion drummer Ronny Désinor is a sought-after collaborator based in Montreal. Active for over twenty years, he is known for his stylistic versatility and musical intuition. He has performed alongside artists as diverse as Anomalie, Malika Tirolien, Jireh Gospel Choir, Magi Merlin, Marie-Gold, and Fredy V & The Foundation on international stages including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, SXSW in Austin, and the Blue Note in Tokyo. Under the name Ronny D13, he will soon record an EP of his first solo project for which he writes, produces, sings, and arranges the music.

URBAN NATURE is the first collaboration between collectif9 and Ronny Desinor.