Chris Donnelly — better known in the Pico-8 community as Gruber — is a professional pianist, Steinway Artist, and former jazz player and tutor at the University of Toronto who’s taken his love of music in an unexpected direction: composing soundtracks for tiny retro-styled games on the fantasy console Pico-8. His chiptune soundtracks have graced fan-favourite titles like Alpine Alpaca, Golf Sunday, and Pico Pirates, blending musical sophistication with 8-bit charm.

In this episode, Chris joins me from Nova Scotia to talk about his journey from the jazz world to retro game music, how Pico-8’s strict limitations inspire new forms of creativity, and what the experience taught him about community, creativity and learning.

But behind the creativity lies a more personal story. After years in academia and performing, Chris faced burnout that led him to step back from the piano - even selling his most cherished instruments. He has come out the other side and has an amazing, inspirational story to tell.

And of course, we wrap up with a visit to the Retro Rocket Museum, where Chris chooses his one must-have retro device, two treasured games, and a track to send drifting through the cosmos.

🔗 Links: YouTube – @Gruber_Music

Pico-8 www.lexaloffle.com/pico-8.php

🎵 Music: Intro – Neon Gaming, by Dope Stuff

Kind of Bloop, by Andy Baio

Fez, by Disasterpeace

Ghouls 'n Ghosts, by Tamayo Kawamoto