From a young age, I knew I loved to sing.
So cliché, right? But music - especially singing - has been in my life for as long as I can remember.
I started singing in church, which led me to a long relationship with the award-winning Calgary Boys’ Choir — the first place outside my family where I truly felt I belonged.
My singing journey began with the Calgary Boys’ Choir, under the leadership and mentorship of the late Douglas Parnham.
Thanks Mr. Parnham <3
Success came early. In addition to frequent solo opportunities, I also earned two mainstage roles with Calgary Opera. It seemed certain that I would have a life of music ahead of me.
Or so I thought.
My opera career started with a seven-note solo (five of which were the same note)!
In case you’re wondering, it was Puccini’s La bohème with Calgary Opera.
Can you pick out which one is me?
I found my voice change really traumatic. I hated the sound of my singing voice and turned away from it for a long while. I focused instead on the piano, studying with my choral mentor, Mr. Parnham, to develop my skills as a solo and collaborative pianist.. If I bothered to sing, it was anything but classical: pop, R&B, gospel, jazz, musical theatre, even country!
Hindsight being 20/20, I’m glad I took that break. Experimenting in other types of music made me a better musician. And while I dabble in non-classical music from time to time, my first love is classical. In 2009, I returned to classical singing with under the tutelage of Winston Noren at Mount Royal Conservatory. Again, success came quickly: within five years, I enjoyed a few high-profile solos with local choirs and ensembles, and won various awards in local competitions such as NATS, Contemporary Showcase and the Calgary Performing Arts Festival.
In 2014, I was told I wasn’t good enough to be considered for a concert opportunity. The comment really stuck with me and it lit a fire under me to become better. That journey took me to the University of Alberta where I attained a Master’s degree in vocal performance. That experience started me on a journey that continues to this day under the watchful eye of operatic tenor John Tessier and vocal coach and collaborative pianist Shannon Hiebert. I also train with international tenor Thomas Cooley on the works of JS Bach, and have trained with bass-baritone Neil Craighead and baritone David Wilson on other technical aspects.
With my coach Shannon Hiebert and voice teacher John Tessier. So grateful to have them both in my corner as I continue to develop. #neverstoplearning
Lending my voice to Mysterious Barricades, a cross-Canada concert series in support of suicide awareness, prevention and hope. #musicheals
Celebrating my first time as tenor soloist in one of my favourite works: Mozart’s Requiem. Thanks to director John Brough (second from right) for asking me! #mozartrequiemdebut