Biography

As a composer, Mariah writes expressive, emotional, and technically sophisticated works. She has a particular gift for the art song genre, having spent time on both sides of the piano. Her chamber orchestra pieces have been known to evoke movie scenes in the minds of their listeners, and her choral works combine word painting with harmonic knowledge to create lasting impressions. 

As a teacher, Mariah strives to equip her students to enjoy and participate in music for their whole lives. She guides her students towards well-rounded musicianship and loves watching them grow in their confidence and skills both inside and outside of the realm of music. She teaches lessons in voice, piano, composition, and music theory. 

As a soprano with a strong belt, Mariah has had the privilege of performing in both the classical and musical theatre worlds. Recent vocal credits include the premier of Canadian Composer Sarah Labun’s vocal trio “I Remain,” and playing the role of Sister Mary Leo in Nunsense (Victoria On Stage). She enjoys exploring the colours and capabilities of the voice, and encourages her students to do the same. 

As a collaborative pianist, Mariah has the unique advantage of being a vocalist herself. This allows her to anticipate what the soloist might need and seamlessly adapt to create a musical whole. Her accompanying career has included University solo recitals, as well as accompanying choirs, solo singers, and instrumentalists in a variety of festivals and performances.

Mariah has also begun a career as a conductor, with credits including both choral and instrumental performances. Most recently, she conducted the premier of Canadian Composer Samuel Parrott’s Sargasso Suite for Chamber Orchestra. Being a dancer as a child, music and movement have always gone hand in hand for Mariah and being able to paint musical pictures through gesture is a thrill and responsibility she does not take lightly.