For many years Nicole Yunker has dreamt of recording an album.
Yunker says it all started when she was 12 and her music teacher approached her parents saying she had a classical voice.
“That’s when I started singing lessons. So, this has been a huge dream of mine for many, many years.”
Yunker ended up studying at the Manitoba Conservatory and Brandon University. There, she decided to use her time in university to build a career because she figured being an opera singer wouldn’t pay the bills.
A big step towards going after the dream of recording an album came one night when Nicole was scrolling through Facebook.
“Mirusia, who is an amazing classical singer, who I’ve seen in concert touring with André Rieu Orchestra, posted ‘I’m not touring right now, so I’m going to offer singing lessons on Zoom, if you’re interested, apply.’ So I told my husband, I applied, I didn’t tell anybody else because I thought, ‘oh I’m probably going to be rejected.’ So I didn’t tell anyone and to my amazement, Mirusia accepted me as a student.”
Yunker’s lessons with Mirusia involve both singing and the business side of things.
Nicole is about seven weeks into her lessons and has about a month left until she starts recording. This is what she pictures for the 4-track album.
“It’s easy listening, I imagine someone after a long day, sitting down on the couch, putting in the CD, just sitting back and relaxing. That’s really exciting for me because I want to connect with people. I think music brings people joy and I think during COVID-19 we need more joy.”
Nicole has been active on Facebook and Instagram, keeping everyone updated with her progress. She shares what it means to have the community’s support.
“Community support is massive. This community has supported me through the years, not just now. I’ve had opportunities to be a vocal coach at the high school, I’ve had opportunities to sing at concerts with amazing musicians and amazing people who have just encouraged me to keep singing. Without all that feedback, I wouldn’t have held onto the dream.”
To follow along with Nicole’s journey on Facebook, click here.
