Darrell Christie

Background

About Darrell Christie

Hailing from the UK, Darrell Christie (Bryan) is known for his versatility and collaborative approach to performance and arts education. Having studied at Keele University, UK; York University, Canada; and Queen’s University, Canada, Darrell specializes in teaching vocal performance and pedagogy (music theatre and classical voice), conducting, and music education. Darrell has built a successful international career as a performer, musical director and educator working across Canada, performing in the UK, France, China, and Australia. Through his energetic and holistic approach to performance and arts education, Darrell focuses on creating versatile performers and ensembles through a practical application of vocal science. Having studied extensively with vocal clinicians in Canada and Europe, Darrell uses an understanding of current vocal pedagogy to ensure ensembles and soloists attain their potential. Darrell’s teaching philosophy focuses on educating and encouraging musicians to make healthy, informed, and sustainable steps in their development. With a focus on song interpretation and presentation skills alongside the growth of technical ability, Darrell’s approach supports performers in communicating complex stories through song. Darrell holds a Continuing Adjunct appointment at The DAN School of Drama & Music at Queen’s University, where he leads the choral program and teaches voice, conducting, and music theatre. In addition to his work at Queen’s, Darrell runs an active private voice, piano and theory studio and offers musical consultation, adjudication, performance and musical theatre direction across Ontario. Darrell’s research focuses on music creation and the capacity that choral music may have outside of Eurocentric practices of choral performance. Through engaging choral groups in collaborative composition, his research examines how encouraging creativity in a group choral setting may lead to greater engagement in choral musicking, a more diverse and inclusive musical practice, and aid in supporting the wellbeing of participants. Darrell lives in Kingston, Ont. with his partner and two dogs.