Bohdanna Novak

Academic title(s): 

Course Instructor (Jazz Voice; Jazz Combo/Jazz Combo Project); Course Lecturer

Bohdanna Novak
Department: 
Music Performance
Area(s): 
Jazz
Contact Information
Email address: 
bohdanna.novak [at] mcgill.ca
Instrument(s): 
Jazz Voice
Group: 
Faculty
Biography: 

Bohdanna Novak is a sought-after expert vocalist and multi-instrumentalist (piano, woodwinds, percussion) who captivates audiences with her intimate and natural style. Known as a jazz musician and educator, she is equally proficient in R&B, pop, classical, and musical theatre. More than a singer, she is a well-rounded musician with a vocal range that spans three octaves, possessing a sound that is undeniably warm, rich, powerful and engaging.

Bohdanna’s versatility makes her a natural collaborator. She is honoured to have shared the stage with many esteemed artists including Renée Fleming, Kurt Elling, and Kevin Mahogany. She has also toured and recorded locally, nationally and internationally with countless musicians, choirs and orchestras, and has performed in such venues as New York’s famed Carnegie Hall.

As a teacher, Bohdanna’s philosophy is centered on helping students find their own voice and artistic identity by developing overall musicianship and learning to use their voice as a multi-faceted instrument. The ability to accompany on piano allows her to hone students’ ear training and musicianship in real time. Her composing and arranging prowess translates directly into improved chart-writing skills, and her linguistics training and knowledge of IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) allows her to explore storytelling in a number of different languages.  

Bohdanna holds a Bachelor of Music from McGill University, and a Master of Music from the University of Miami. She has been singing and teaching professionally since 1997, has been a faculty member of the McGill Conservatory of Music since 2003, and is currently on staff at CEGEP Vanier College and McGill University’s Schulich School of Music. She is a strong advocate for music education and brings an unrivalled holistic, diverse and sincere approach to the appreciation and study of music.

Bohdanna strives to help her students unleash their potential. They continually find success in top colleges and universities across North America, and enjoy rewarding careers in performance, education, composition, music production and sound engineering.

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