Jeffrey Ankenmann
Behind the Music
Personal Profile
My name is Jeffrey Ankenmann. I was born with a rare metabolic disorder called Methylmalonic Acidemia. MMA for short. I’m missing an enzyme that breaks down protein. This disorder was very hard on both my liver and kidneys. I was admitted often to Toronto Sick Kids. I was tube fed from birth until my liver and kidney transplants in January 2013 at the age of 13. As you can imagine, I was always nervous before my many procedures or surgeries. Music has always been a part of my life, It was during my journey at the hospital that I started listening to music to help me heal. I found it very soothing and relaxing.
I have always loved to sing. I belonged to the choir at school. I picked up the acoustic guitar that my Grandpa gave me and loved playing it. I got an electric guitar a little later on and my world expanded. One thing I have to tell you is that I love playing different types of instruments. My current instrument is a ukulele that I play for community during music club and at various functions. I also love to play the guitar, djembe drums, and piano.
My favourite musicians are Jack Johnson, Bob Marley and The Beatles.
Along with my friend Aiden Lee we have put together a few original songs that reflect both the diversity of our community as well as our sense of humour. What many people don't recognize is our depth of emotions, our creative drive to bring life to our work. Collectively Aiden and I have learned our lessons, grown with each experience, we honestly love life and it really shows in the songs.
Our song list is growing with seven songs under our belt and we will keep creating.
Original songs are fresh like the wind that blows or new buds that grow in spring. The power of love inspires the creativity of original songs. Music is another form of communication, it's real, it’s relaxing, powerful and passionate. It’s also something I have discovered I am good at. When I get the words my brain goes into creative mode and I start jamming out different rhythms and tunes until the words and music are in synch, like the perfect partnership.
A match made in heaven.
The results are amazing!