References, Testimonials and Adjudications
References
To whom it may concern,
Re: Michelle Kyle
I am pleased to write in enthusiastic support of Michelle Kyle in the role of collaborative pianist for singers, both young and mature. I have performed classical repertoire with Michelle in a concert of French repertoire and several young students from my voice studio performed in the Davenport Music Festival in April 2009, all with excellent musical results.
Michelle accompanies singers with the sensitivity required to work with voices of all dynamic ranges in repertoire that ranges from Classical to Musical Theatre. Her technique is superb and her playing enhances the singer's performance. Michelle's musical mind clearly communicates the composer's intentions, while always being sensitive to the needs of each singer in terms of breath management, dynamic range and musical expression. A very important benefit in working with Michelle is that she remembers the tempos that the singers practiced in rehearsal with her!
Singers are very comfortable and supported when performing and rehearsing with Michelle Kyle and I highly recommend her as a collaborative pianist.
- Krystina Lewicki (view original)
To whom it may concern,
Michelle Hunchak has played for my classes many times. She is an excellent pianist and a sensitive musician. I am happy to recommend her.
- Stuart Hamilton (view original)
Re: Michelle Hunchak, pianist
To whom it may concern,
I initially encountered Ms Hunchak about one year ago in my capacity as Artistic Director of Opera York. Ms Hunchak was accompanying some singers at Opera York auditions, and as we had not met previously, I was struck by her keyboard ability, sensitivity, and adaptability, and asked her to provide me with additional professional information.
Since then, I have frequently employed Ms Hunchak as my alternate pianist for the long-running 'opera cabaret' concerts which I present in the Toronto area. Neither I nor the performers involved have been disappointed. Ms Hunchak's ability to step into a performance situation and achieve a totally smooth transition, demonstrating both the necessary preparation and easy-going personality essential for this task has been unfailingly noted by all her colleagues.
Her versatile performance and professional background are definite assets in enabling her to meet new challenges and performance opportunities. I recommend her unequivocally for any position which meets her qualifications.
- William Shookhoff (view original)
Testimonials
Dear Michelle,
Thank you so much for making yourself available to accompany the Joyce Public School Junior Choir to our concert at the seniors' home on May 6, 2009. It was stressful for me because our regular pianist was taken sick and we were faced with either cancellation or rescheduling.
You came in, sight read the music extremely well, dealt with the fact that you and I had no eye contact (in fact we were across the room from one another!), basically managing both to read my musical interpretation and have eyes in the back of your head. Well done and thank you again! I received a lovely "thank you" letter from Villa Colombo -- we made some people very happy that day.
Kind regards and I hope to have the opportunity to work with you again sometime.
Shelley Koke
Music Teacher
Joyce Public School
Adjudications as a Student (1987-88)
"This was one of the most outstanding student recitals I have ever attended. The pianist throughout showed a remarkable sense of ensemble in someone so young."
- Professor Bruce Mather, McGill University, M.Mus. recital (piano chamber music)
"Michelle is a well developed pianist and musician who performs with personality and commitment. The ensemble was excellent. Ms. Hunchak is undoubtedly a very talented young pianist. I feel that she possesses the requisite ability to pursue a professional career."
- Professor Dorothy Morton, McGill University, M.Mus. recital (piano chamber music)
"Wonderful performance. I'm impressed by the sophistication and awareness of your chamber music skills. Highly competent presentation of this magnificent piece."
- Paul S., Adjudicator, Kiwanis Music Festival (piano chamber music - Messiaen Quartet)
"A splendid performance. Excellent emotional involvement with the text. Efficient technically. A highly gifted young pianist."
- James Lawton, Adjudicator, Kiwanis Music Festival (piano solo - Anhalt Fantasia)
"I consider Michelle very capable. I find her talent as a performing pianist a very exceptional one."
- Herman J. Maes, Examiner, Trinity College of Music, London, England (piano solo)
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