ROCHELLE DIONNE

Rochelle Dionne is an exciting new artist quickly making a name for herself on Canada's music scene. Her sound is unique and distinct, while staying firmly rooted in the tradition of jazz and popular vocalists before her. With a voice that has been described as "veloute" or "velvety", Rochelle blends the heart-felt sincerity of her lyrics with demanding harmonies and rhythms. Dionne was born and raised in rural Saskatchewan, giving her music a rootsy quality. Further musical pursuits in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal have added an urban sophistication to her sound.

As a young performer, Rochelle Dionne competed in many music festivals and talent shows, receiving accolades both as a vocalist and pianist. This further fueled her desire to perform, and she was involved in several musicals. Her most notable role was that of Liesel in an acclaimed production of "The Sound of Music." Shortly thereafter, Dionne moved out west setting her sights on Vancouver. She was briefly called in to substitute as a vocalist for the 15th Field Artillery Band in Vancouver, where she was first exposed to jazz. Desiring more knowledge and proficiency in improvisation, Rochelle Dionne enrolled at Concordia University in Montreal. In 2003 she was nominated for the prestigious Oscar Peterson Jazz Award. Also that year, Rochelle began to showcase "vignette" performances of her own works at Oscar Peterson Concert Hall. Her debut performance of "The Fall" , a song-cycle based on love, was a huge success and solidified her role as a songwriter. In 2006 she performed a second song-cycle entitled "Human Nature" , based on the concept of how humans interact with themselves, one another and the planet. After graduating with distinction from the Jazz Studies program at Concordia University, Dionne returned to British Columbia.

Drawn to the stunning landscape of the Okanagan Valley, Rochelle has settled in Summerland, BC. Since arriving in 2006, Dionne has performed throughout the South Okanagan, including Kelowna, Summerland, Penticton, Kaleden and Naramata. In July of 2007, Rochelle Dionne was chosen by Parks Alive! to headline the "Emerging Female Artist" concert series. She continues to teach voice and piano and work with husband, guitarist Paul Henbury in their group "The Midnight Blue." In 2008, Rochelle has her sights set on writing and recording material for her first full length album.