Michelle Brown, Conductor
Michelle Brown holds an Honours Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance from Queen’s University, where she sang with Collegium Musicum, a choir specializing in Medieval and Renaissance repertoire, and the Queen’s Choral Ensemble. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Education from the University of Western Ontario in 1998 and has since taught music from Kindergarten to Grade 8 in the Thames Valley District School Board.
Michelle joined the Forest City Singers in September 2000 and was appointed co-director alongside Maggie Perquin in 2003. In September 2011, she became the choir’s conductor—a role she continues to hold, making her the longest-serving conductor in the ensemble’s history.
Known for her ability to inspire and energize singers, Michelle brings both technical expertise and heartfelt enthusiasm to rehearsals and performances. She strives to draw out the passion and musicality of each choir member, creating performances that connect deeply with audiences.
Allison O’Connor, Accompanist
Allison O’Connor has been the accompanist for the Forest City Singers since the choir’s very early years, and her talent and dedication are integral to the ensemble’s success. She holds a Bachelor of Music Honours Music Education degree and a Bachelor of Education degree, both from Western University.
After more than 30 years teaching elementary music with the Thames Valley District School Board, Allison is now semi-retired and continues to share her expertise as an Occasional Teacher. She is deeply committed to inclusivity in the arts and is the Founder and Director of Dreams Come True Music Studio, an inclusive music school serving people of all ages and abilities.
Allison’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: everyone should have access to music. Her belief that “It’s Possible – Anything’s Possible” inspires both her students and fellow musicians to embrace their own unique musical journey.