About
Dr. Tracy Smith Bessette is an Assistant Professor of Voice at McGill University's Schulich School of Music. She holds a Doctorate of Music (D.Mus.) from McGill, specializing in Early Music performance practices. Her expertise spans Baroque opera, oratorio, and vocal pedagogy with a focus on Handel ornamentation and breath management techniques. She has performed with major institutions including the Opéra National de Paris and collaborated with renowned conductors like Yannick Nézet-Séguin and Bernard Labadie.
Education:
- B.Mus. (University of Calgary)
- Art. Dip. (University of Toronto)
- M.Mus. and D.Mus. (McGill University)
Research Interests: Her doctoral research explored vibrato usage in Handel's opera seria arias, blending historical performance practices with contemporary vocal techniques. She emphasizes co-created teaching methods that integrate holistic student development.
Performance Highlights: Notable engagements include roles in Le Nozze di Figaro, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and recordings with the Aradia Ensemble for Naxos, praised for their 'gloriously fresh' interpretations. She has also participated in interdisciplinary projects with director Laura Taler, creating short films based on lieder.
Labs/Teams: Affiliated with the Schulich School of Music's Early Music and Voice programs. Collaborates with ensembles like Le Concert Spirituel and Aradia Ensemble.
