Michelle received her Bachelor of Music from Queen’s University in 1985 with a double major in Performance and Music History. She has studied with Donelda Gartshore and Camilla Watts. She has been teaching Flute and RCM theory and History (all levels) for over 25 years and has been part of the Oakville Suzuki Association for the past 15years. Michelle received her Suzuki Teacher Training at the Great Lakes Institute in Hamilton, ON.
Many of Michelle’s students have received scholarships at local music festivals; many have been invited on to the Provincial level Music Festivals. Several students have also been awarded the Silver Medal for their RCM flute practical exams. Michelle’s students have won school music awards, the Hollier and Young Artist awards through the Oakville Symphony Orchestra, and have gone on to continue to study flute at University.
Michelle teaches all levels and ages of flute and is passionate about her teaching. She believes that music must be fun and serious all at the same time.
Michelle Started the Oakville Suzuki Flute Orchestra (OSFO) in 2004 for her senior students which adds in the larger and smallest members of the flute family, the piccolo, Alto and Bass flutes which gives the ensemble their beautiful and unique sound. The OSFO has played in many venues around Oakville including Oakville Place, Whole Foods, dinners, receptions and business openings. Michelle arranges and composes music for the group. The younger students wanted to have the opportunity to work with the larger and smaller flutes as well so Michelle started the Junior Orchestra several years later.
Michelle has a passion for teaching theory at all levels including all the RCM co- requisites (Rudiments, History, Harmony) She has written a book called “Music Theory in a nutshell” for parents and enthusiasts to help them understand the basics of theory and is working on a music reading booklet.
Michelle has done pit orchestra work but finds small chamber groups most rewarding. She currently plays in a Trio with Piano and Cello, and has performed in many places in and around Oakville.
Michelle has served on the OSA executive and as the chair of the OSA Music Committee. She has two children and her daughter took Suzuki Cello so she has also been a Suzuki parent and knows both sides of the equation. An animal lover, she has two friendly dogs and a cat.
