a Journey of unified diversity …
Palenai Piano Duo is an acclaimed Canadian piano duo consisting of pianists Joy Innis and Adrienne Shannon. Named Palenai after an ancient symbol of unified diversity, the duo is known for its dynamic performances, innovative educational initiatives, and multimedia explorations of music and art.
Concert artists…
Joy Innis and Adrienne Shannon have performed across Canada, in the U.S., Israel, Korea and Ukraine, and at festivals in England, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. Appearances with major Canadian orchestras include the Toronto Symphony, National Arts Center Orchestra, Montreal Symphony Orchestra, Calgary Philharmonic, Edmonton and Victoria Symphonies, and the Mainly Mozart Orchestra in Toronto. Their public recitals and studio recordings have been broadcast on CBC, PBS, RAE Italy, RIAS Berlin, and BBC.
Originally from Calgary, Joy Innis studied at Mount Royal College Conservatory with Gloria Saarinen and graduated from the University of Toronto where she studied with Pierre Souverain and Patricia Parr. Adrienne Shannon studied with Boris Berlin at the Royal Conservatory in Toronto and completed her MMus with Ania Dorfman at the Juilliard School. Both pianists earned Doctor of Arts degrees at Ball State University with their mentor, Michel Andrews.
New initiatives…
Set against the breathtaking west coast of Vancouver Island, the Pacific Rim Summer Festival celebrated artistic excellence and cultural exchange. From 1984 to 2002, founding directors the PALENAI Duo brought together international musicians and students for inspiring chamber music concerts. The festival proudly showcased the vibrant music and dance traditions of the Nuu-chah-nulth people, creating a rich dialogue between cultures in an unforgettable coastal setting.
Pacific Rim Summer Festival
One of Canada’s finest showcases of chamber music. Department of Canadian Heritage
Vienna: A Musical Heritage was produced by PALENAI with sponsorship from CBC Calgary and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. 40 musicians in 4 concerts at 4 churches celebrated the Mozart Bicentennial in Calgary, Alberta.
Festival on the St Lawrence was sponsored by Human Resources Canada and St. Lawrence College in Kingston. As Administrative Directors, Joy and Adrienne produced concerts in communities along the St. Lawrence Seaway and initated a Young and Emerging Artist program.
Outreach…
Harmony Under the Stars
Aug 23, 2026
Experience a magical outdoor recital featuring timeless classics and contemporary favorites.
Masterclass with PALENAI
Oct 14, 2026
Engage in an interactive session with the duo, exploring the art of piano performance and interpretation.
Winter Serenade Concert
Dec 07, 2026
Celebrate the season with an evening of warm, festive music performed by the PALENAI Piano Duo.
Comments…
The lecture on the Interpretation of the Mozart’s Markings was so interesting, the students were reluctant to let her stop.
Chair, Sesol Research Society, Seoul,Korea
Seldom do we witness such high caliber of teaching, all done with joy, humour, and sincere positive encouragement to the performers.
Salt Spring Music Guild, BC
The intensive preparation and depth of the Romantic workshop was enjoyed and thoroughly appreciated by all.
Alumni of the Royal Conservatory, Calgary AB
The comments were overwhelmingly positive. Thanks to you for the part you played in high caliber sessions.
Alberta Music Conference
The duo’s professionalism and musical talent exceeded every expectation we had.
Emily T.
Concertgoer
An awe-inspiring performance that left us in complete admiration of their craft.
Michael R.
Festival Director
Blog
Discover articles, stories, and resources that celebrate the art of piano performance and education.
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Behind the Scenes with PALENAI Duo
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PALENAI’s Contributions to Piano Music
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The Intersection of Artistry and Education