Vancouver soprano Dory Hayley is a fearless voice in Canada’s contemporary classical music scene, known for her adventurous repertoire and luminous stage presence. With a career devoted to championing new works and reimagining the old, Hayley has collaborated with leading composers and ensembles across the country, while also captivating audiences abroad. Her latest album, I Love Evil (out September 26), showcases her commitment to boundary-pushing artistry, blending the precision of classical tradition with the daring spirit of new music.
Name:
Dory Hayley
Genre:
Classical/new music
Latest Album:
I Love Evil
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
Kathleen Battle. And I had a strange obsession with violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg.
Favourite musician now:
The Netherlands Bach Society. Their All of Bach series is the best thing on the internet.
Guilty pleasure song:
I’m more or less clueless about non-classical music, but my 4-year-old son, Melvin, picks up garbled fragments of songs from the kids at daycare, and we decipher them together. Our favourite is Pink Pony Club.
Live show ritual:
At least one banana plus pre-show pacing.
Favourite local musician:
I admire all my friends who fight the good fight and devote their lives to music instead of money.
EP or LP?
LP
Early bird or night owl?
Early bird…but not too early…
Road or studio?
Studio
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Since the demise of Campagnolo Roma (RIP), maybe Bao Bei? And Strathcona Brewery for the Hawaiian pizza.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
Is the Seawall a street?
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Douglas Park (known in my house as Big Slide): paradise for 4-year-olds (zip line, the eponymous big slide, great climbing), plus shade and benches for grown-ups.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
The Annex: it’s where the new music magic happens.
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Ward Music (RIP), the Magic Flute (RIP), A&B Sound (my first job, RIP) and Sikora’s (RIP).
