Monika Wall

Deep roots in the classics, from the warmth of Puccini to the charm of Porter, feed her music whether singing in an Afro-American Gospel choir in the US or performing opera arias overseas, Monika has always captivated her audience. About 10 years ago she began writing her own songs which began as vintage cabaret and have currently transitioned into blues/roots. After singing with the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra March 2016 her powerful voice was compared to the "witch of the bayou" when singing blues.

Early songs reflect on Monika’s experience of living and singing in Europe for five years. While participating in a vocal competition in Hamburg she realized that time spent in Europe would be essential to her career. Six weeks later she, her husband and two toddler sons were on a plane moving to Germany. This sense of adventure carries over to her music which fearlessly crosses genres and creates a signature sound that is both compelling and beautiful.

Full of stories she came back to her native Winnipeg. Shortly after her return she was woken one night by a refrain echoing in her head. This new song insisted on being heard. She sang it into a recording device and immediately two more followed.

Since that call to song writing she has written over 100 songs. Her fascination with the human experience is reflected in her lyrics. Songs that consider justice, relationships, caring for the world and enduring love all reflect her philosophy that life is what we make of it.

In 2010 a major work, ‘Handmaid of the Lord’ which tells the story of the nativity seen through the eyes of Mary, debuted to a sold out house and hundreds more listeners in 2011. A solo work which transitions with influences as diverse as classical, folk and swing, it engages the listener with intelligent, touching and playful tunes. As one listener put it “I kept thinking this is my favorite…until I heard the next one.”

Monika’s first album of originals and has received enthusiastic responses from CBC radio and Live 365. ‘Parallel Mondo’ will pull you in with it’s current sound combined with the charm of bygone eras. Her next album will be released in November 2016.