MuSix Studio and Services

Charissa Vandikas

DMA (Université de Montréal) D.É.P.A. (Université de Montréal) M. Mus (Université de Montréal) B. Mus (The Glenn Gould School) LRCM (RCM), ARCT (RCM)

Charissa Vandikas is a pianist whose work spans solo performance, chamber music, and collaborative artistry. She is currently completed her DMA at the Université de Montréal, continuing to refine her artistic voice under the mentorship of internationally recognized faculty. Throughout her training, Charissa has studied with distinguished teachers including Jean Saulnier, Charles Richard‑Hamelin, Jimmy Brière, Michael Esch and Janice Lin. each contributing to her depth of artistry, technical refinement, and interpretive insight.

Charissa has earned distinction on national and international stages. She is a CFMTA National Winner, a Newmarket Arts Grant Recipient, and a Hnatyshyn Foundation Grant Recipient. Her competition successes include awards at the NWIPEC Competition (Canada), the Susana Szorenyi International Competition (Romania), and the ARD International Music Competition (Germany). In 2025, she was awarded the top prizes in the prestigious Prix d’Europe, one of Canada’s most significant platforms for emerging classical artists.

As half of La Fiammata Piano Duo, Charissa has performed across Canada, including the Pan‑Canadian Tour 2023, earning praise for her expressive range, technical clarity, and imaginative ensemble work. Her performances highlight a deep commitment to storytelling through sound, whether in contemporary repertoire, classical masterworks, or collaborative projects.

Charissa has recently expanded her artistic practice into composition, premiering her own work at her most recent doctoral recital — a performance that earned high distinction. This new creative direction reflects her evolving musical voice and her interest in exploring narrative, texture, and emotional resonance through original writing.

As a festival adjudicator, she is known for her thoughtful musicianship, clear communication, and supportive approach to young performers. Her adjudication work reflects her commitment to nurturing artistry, confidence, and musical growth in developing musicians.

Outside her musical life, Charissa is an active and multi‑disciplinary athlete. She enjoys running and climbing, pursuits that strengthen her focus, discipline, and physical resilience. She also holds a black belt in Goju‑ryu karate, a testament to her dedication, precision, and long‑term commitment to mastery — qualities that mirror her approach to music. These athletic passions bring balance to her artistic work and contribute to the grounded, confident presence she brings to the stage.

Charissa is a dedicated educator, teaching piano, theory, and advanced repertoire studies.. She is known for her thoughtful guidance, structured pedagogy, and ability to inspire musical confidence in young artists.

Her work reflects a rare combination of virtuosity, intellectual depth, artistic sensitivity, and personal strength, making her a vibrant contributor to Canada’s classical music landscape.