Biography
Born and raised on Silver Star Mountain in Vernon, BC, I spent my time playing in the trees, singing to my horse and listening to my dad sing the folk music I love, mostly John Denver or Gordon Lightfoot. I studied classical style from a young age, learning the techniques of good singing. Although I also learned guitar later on, my voice is still my main instrument, and I have learned to use my voice to better reach others and encourage healing through music.
There are so many amazing things to experience in this life, I have never really decided what I want to be when I grow up ... but singing is my passion. So I continued my voice training in the Music Program at Capilano University. I began my own healing journey in my twenties and later returned to university to enter the Music Therapy Program. I knew it was the perfect fit for me, being a musician who loves working with people. After my training, I returned home to the Okanagan to complete my Internship and began a private practice. I worked in Seniors Extended Care and then in Palliative Care at the Vernon Hospice House, Vernon Cancer Center and the Vernon Cancer Relaxation and Support Group.
After several years in Vernon, I moved to Northern BC to song write with a friend and finally record my songs. I worked as a recreation coordinator in a small aboriginal community and learned much about myself and the people. I believe in the power of community and over my career have started coffee houses, facilitated songwriters circles for beginning musicians and hosted music nights to highlight women's music as well as offering my voice to any local event that needs it. This experience has helped to refine my style and I feel more comfortable now in my music and in my own skin and it shows in my performance.
I have now made my home in Vancouver, working as a music therapist, among other things, and continue to get involved in community and share my music. I carry on this musical life journey and I pray you find your heartsong and share it with all those around you.
Peace, Shannon
