Liz Upchurch is a renowned Canadian pianist and vocal coach, known for her exceptional skills in the field of classical music. Born in Toronto, Canada, Upchurch was raised in a family that valued music and the arts. Her mother was a pianist, and her father was a music lover who introduced her to the world of classical music at a young age. Upchurch began her musical journey by taking piano lessons at the age of six. She quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument and began performing in public at the age of eight. Her passion for music continued to grow, and she went on to study at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. After completing her studies, Upchurch began performing professionally as a pianist. She quickly gained a reputation for her exceptional skills and was soon in demand as a soloist and accompanist. She performed with some of the most renowned musicians in the world, including soprano Barbara Hannigan, tenor Ben Heppner, and mezzo-soprano Susan Graham. In addition to her work as a pianist, Upchurch also became known for her skills as a vocal coach. She began working with singers in the early 1990s and quickly gained a reputation for her ability to bring out the best in her students. Her coaching style was praised for its sensitivity and attention to detail, and she soon became one of the most sought-after vocal coaches in Canada. Upchurch's career reached new heights in 2007 when she was appointed the Head of the Canadian Opera Company's Ensemble Studio. In this role, she was responsible for training and mentoring young singers, helping them to develop their skills and prepare for careers in the opera world. She also worked as a vocal coach for the company's mainstage productions, helping to bring out the best in the company's leading singers. Upchurch's work with the Canadian Opera Company earned her numerous accolades and awards. In 2010, she was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of her contributions to the arts in Canada. She was also named the Vocal Coach of the Year at the 2011 Opera Awards in London, England. Despite her many accomplishments, Upchurch remains humble and dedicated to her craft. She continues to work as a pianist and vocal coach, helping to shape the next generation of opera singers. Her passion for music and her commitment to excellence have made her one of the most respected figures in the world of classical music.

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