From Stages to City Hall: A Season of Music, Milestones & Gratitude 🎶💫

Hey everyone!

It’s been such an exciting few months, and I wanted to take a moment to reflect and share some of the amazing things that have been happening recently in my musical journey. From performing on big stages to receiving recognition from my hometown, I’ve been feeling incredibly thankful and inspired.

🎤 Canada’s Teen Jam – What a Night!

On February 27, I had the incredible honour of being named the solo winner of Canada’s Teen Jam, held at TD Music Hall in Toronto and sponsored by United Van Lines. It was such an unforgettable experience. I performed a cover of Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses and premiered my original song, Wake Up the People, which I’ve been developing with Harmony Hive Records.

One of the most exciting parts was getting to perform with a live band — a huge shoutout to my talented friends Kia, Brendan, Matty, and Drake for bringing so much energy to the stage with me. It meant the world to have so many of my friends in the audience, many of whom were seeing me perform live for the first time. The support was overwhelming in the best way.

Winning this competition also means I’ll have the chance to work with Mark Higgins, the show’s producer, and possibly reconnect with some of the other artists I met that night. It was such a special community to be a part of, and I made so many new friends that I hope to cross paths with again soon!

🏅 Barrie Kiwanis Music Festival & a Provincial Invite

Earlier this month, I competed in the Barrie Kiwanis Music Festival, singing four pieces — and I was so excited to receive two Diamond and two Emerald awards for my performances! Even more exciting, I’ve been selected to represent Barrie at the Provincial level this coming June. This festival has been an important part of my growth as a performer over the years, and I’m so grateful for the encouragement and feedback that’s helped shape my voice and stage presence.

🙌 Recognized by City Council

On March 26, I had the honour of being recognized by Barrie City Council for my musical achievements, alongside the amazing Maya McNair and Delilah Johnstone. We were celebrated for our first place wins at the NATS Ontario Provincial Showcase back in November — and I was also recognized for my International win last June in Knoxville. Being acknowledged with Maya and Delilah by the city was such a proud and humbling moment. I'm so thankful for our local arts community and everyone who continues to lift up young artists. Special thanks to Scott Boyer for spearheading this initiative.

🎶 Coming Up: Meg’s Melody & Mingle – May 2

I’m so excited to be performing a duet with my good friend Megan O’Donnell at her upcoming fundraising concert, Meg’s Melody & Mingle, on May 2. Megan and I go way back — we met when I was just 10 years old in my very first musical theatre production, Peter Pan Jr. Over the years, we’ve crossed paths again and again in the local music scene, and I’m thrilled to share the stage with her again.

She’ll be heading to Italy this summer to study opera (how cool is that?!), and this event will help fund her incredible opportunity.
🎟️ If you’re local, you can get tickets here

🎓 Looking Ahead: Prom, Graduation & New Adventures

With prom and graduation just around the corner, it’s all starting to feel real — high school is almost in the rearview mirror! I’m also hoping to once again be involved with the Canadian Musician’s Co-operative this summer, which has been such a supportive and inspiring place for young Canadian artists like me.

And then… a whole new chapter begins! This fall, I’ll be starting my Bachelor of Music in Commercial Voice, and I couldn’t be more excited to keep growing, learning, and making music.

Thanks so much for being here and supporting my journey. Whether you've been following me since my first musical or just found my work recently, your encouragement means more than I can say. I’ll be sharing more music and updates soon — stay tuned!

With love and gratitude,
Anna