• What do you like most about the Faculty of Music? Is there a teacher in particular who was a source of inspiration for you?

The main reason I decided to study at the Faculty of Music was to be able to work on vocal piano accompaniment with Francis Perron, whom I met a few years ago at Orford Music. Since then I’ve enjoyed working with all the Faculty’s classical singing teachers and I’ve had many opportunities to play in public and to collaborate with other disciplines and teachers, including the Atelier d’opéra and the Ensemble de musique contemporaine. I’ve also had the chance to collaborate with the Nouvel Ensemble Moderne and to take part in a number of masterclasses.

• How has your stay at the Faculty of Music influenced your life?

Coming to Montréal has been an experience that changed my life. After spending six years in graduate programs in the United States, I’m very happy to have plunged into a different cultural environment and musical training. I’ve had the chance to broaden my knowledge of the French vocal repertoire and the French language. Learning different music perspectives is an asset in every respect.

• How will you remember the Faculty of Music when your studies are over? Is there a vivid memory or an anecdote that comes to mind?

When I think of my time here, I think of work and more work! And that’s wonderful, because that’s what a doctorate’s for! The amount of repertoire that falls under your fingers is large, and works must be ready quickly. If I had to pick a special memory, it would be the production of the Ana Sokolovic opera Dawn Always Begins in the Bones with the Atelier d’opéra. In working closely with the composer and with just a small group of performers, there’s a lot of pressure, but the experience is highly rewarding. That’s certainly one of my favorite memoeries.

• Which aspects of life in Montréal and of Québec culture do you particularly enjoy?

Montréal is a great multicultural city with a strong sense of identity. It’s a town with an immense cultural scene where so many things are happening at the same time: there’s something for every taste. I love the kindness of Quebecers and the relaxed atmosphere. The city’s infrastructure is excellent and there are lots of green spaces.

• What advice would you give to a first-year student?

First of all, start learning French before you get to Québec, to make the most of your experience here. Secondly, get involved in lots of Faculty of Music projects and musical activities. You’ll enrich your learning experience, and you’ll get noticed!

• What would you like to say to students who are thinking of coming to continue their education at the Faculty of Music?

If you’re looking for a school to continue your studies in performance, a place that enables you to practice (often a challenge in a Ph.D. program) on quality instruments, then Université de Montréal could be an excellent choice!