About Michelle

Sr Vocal

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Canadian, Indigenous Mezzo-Soprano Michelle Lafferty from Tłichó Nation NorthWest Territories. She now resides in Calgary Alberta.

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Michelle is a two time Dora Award–winning mezzo-soprano and international opera singer specializing in voice instruction. She has a Bachelor and Masters degree in Music with a major in vocal pedagogy.

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Celebrated for her vocal versatility and theatrical dynamism, Michelle has performed with renowned institutions such as Calgary Opera, The Banff Centre, and the National Arts Centre, Korner Hall, Calgary Philharmonic and internationally in USA and Europe.

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Her latest work is with Sound streams production of Two Odysseys Pimooteewin/Gállábártnit in 2020. In 2021 she has been part of project on improvisation lead by Parmela Attariwala, Germaine Liua and Nicole Ramperaud called Understory. Understory is a web-based, inter-provincial series dedicated to showcasing improvising artists working across Canada, and to building a network between the artists and their audiences. The piece performed and created between Understory, Viviane Houle, Danielle Jakubiak and Michelle called “We were children” came from around the time the 215 graves were found in Kamloops British Columbia and was taken from this project and shared Nationally on Truth and Reconciliation Day September 30th 2022. A Bandcamp was created for people to be able to purchase and all proceeds continue to go to residential school survivors.

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In 2022 she was a performer in “Kisaageetin” a concert of Tomson Highway’s with the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. “The Indigidivas” is her newest venture alongside Allegra Chamber Orchestra with Director Janna Sailor who provides production and financial support. The Indigidivas include Melody Courage, Rebecca Cuddy and Michelle Lafferty with performances starting in 2024.

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2023 she had her American debut in “Missing” performing the role of Native Mother with Anchorage Opera Alaska. Composed by Brian Current and libretti by Marie Clements. Currently working with Manitoba Opera in “Li Keur.” Libretto by Dr. Suzanne Steele and composition by Neil Weisensel/Alex Kusturok.

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In addition to her vibrant performance career, Michelle is an inspiring and engaging teacher, guiding students and creating a fun and nurturing environment for musical growth.