Eric Paetkau

Singer-Songwriter

Through my experience as an orchestra conductor, violist, singer-songwriter, and kids’ music specialist, I’ve shared the joy of music with 1000s of people.

I’d love to share it with you too.

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Three musical pillars I live by:

  • Creativity: Whether you’re performing or listening, it pulses through all of us

  • Curiosity: Approaching music with wonder can uncover so much

  • Connection: Music has the ability to bring us together and create incredible bonds

What People Are Saying

“The music making was fantastic with Paetkau shaping the music with a balanced combination of sensitivity and dramatic flair.”

- Musical Toronto, John Terauds

“Eric is so amazing. Everyone was raving about his show, especially his voice. His sound is so velvety, smooth, and calming. A place to enjoy, let our minds wander and remember, lighting up souls along the way. That’s what Eric’s show is about. What a night. Thank you for lighting us all up!”

- Ellen Nasser, Recording Artist and House Concert Host

“Eric is truly a multi-talented world class musician. He has a particularly impressive story telling ability as well, drawing one into the music and his journey through three decades of an accomplished artistic life. “

- Cathy & Bob Barnes

“This is the work of a master artist. Paetkau shows how good he is in shaping and pacing this music.”

- Fanfare Magazine

Creativity and Connection

Music has a profound power to transform, uplift, and connect. Through the joy of music, we find pathways to our innermost selves and to the lives of others. It can mirror our struggles and triumphs, or be a window into new perspectives and experiences. It has the ability to bring people together, build communities, and create deep connections.

Ways To Engage With Me

  • LIVE SHOWS

    Whether it’s a venue show or a house concert, I like to infuse my audiences with beautiful melodies, poignant tales, and pure joy. As I float through original songs, old favourites, and even a silly kid track or two, the coziness becomes palpable. Add some stories from a pretty varied life, and you might not be able to help but be drawn into a world that touches hearts, young and old. 

  • SONGS & STORIES

    Experience the warmth of a house concert, live from my studio to yours. In a world overflowing with digital content and commercialized playlists, "Songs & Stories" offers a rare, deeply personal escape.

  • MR. ERIC

    Mr. Eric, aka Eric Paetkau, is just a big kid who loves sharing music and stories. His infectious and engaging energy gets people singing, dancing, and yearning for ice cream and bananas.

Meet Your Guide,
Eric Paetkau

I have built a diverse career as a professional orchestra conductor, violist, singer-songwriter, and kids' music entertainer, but despite my success, I felt misaligned with traditional paths that I felt often stifled my true musical expression.

Over time, this disconnection took a toll on my health and joy until I realized that to regain happiness, I needed to fully embrace my inner musicality and express my authentic voice. I’ve lived this journey and continue to live it—expressing my inner musicality across various areas, always evolving.

Now, I help others (re)discover the joy of music through curiosity, creativity, and storytelling. Together, we experience music with confidence, joy, and a renewed sense of connection.