ARTIST BIO
Cari Burdett : Artist Bio
Jazz, Classical, Gypsy, Folk, World Music & Songwriter
Enjoy the sensuous sounds like the great Mercedes Sosa, Lhasa De Sela, Pink Martini, Joni Mitchell sung by 2016 VIMA ‘Vocalist of the Year’ CARI BURDETT
CARI BURDETT is an accomplished vocalist, educator, and recording artist whose career bridges artistry, education, and community. Holding a Bachelor of Music in Performance Voice from McGill University and a Master of Music in Opera Performance from the Royal Academy of Music in London, Cari has studied and performed across Sweden, Italy, Germany, and Montreal. Fluent in several languages—including English, French, Swedish, and Italian—she brings a rich cultural depth to her singing.
For over 30 years, Cari has trained extensively in vocal improvisation with Rhiannon, including the year-long All the Way In program, and she completed Community Choir Leadership Training in Victoria, BC. She has led choirs, workshops, and community singing circles that highlight music’s role in connection, healing, and cultural renewal. As a teacher at the Victoria Conservatory of Music and Camosun College, she has inspired students to embrace voice as a tool for transformation.
Cari is also the founder of the Lila Music & Nature Centre in the Quwut’sun Valley, where she integrates music, deep nature connection, and community building. Through this work she collaborates with local Coast Salish Elders and leads initiatives in ReconciliAction—uniting music, service, and dialogue to nurture cultural understanding and respect.
An award-winning recording artist, Cari’s album Magnolia earned critical acclaim and national touring success. She now prepares for the 2026 release of Don’t Forget, her first album of all-original songs, a heartfelt collection that reflects her lifelong dedication to music, community, and the land she calls home.
AWARDS
Scholarship, Banff Centre of Fine Arts, Music Residency Program 2017
Vocalist of the year, Vancouver Island Music Awards, 2016
Album of the year nomination,Vancouver Island Music Awards, 2016
Artist of the year nomination, Vancouver Island Music Awards, 2016
Video of the year nomination, Vancouver Island Music Awards, 2016
Producer of the Year, Joby Baker for Magnolia, Vancouver Island Music Awards, 2016
Western Canada Music Awards– nominated for Best World Album 2015
Scholarship, Banff Centre of Fine Arts, Music Residency Program 2015
Semi-Finalist in the 2008 Eckhardt Gramatté competition
Scholarship recipient at RAM and McGill University