Lori-Ann Speed is a Vancouver based pianist who creates minimalist, virtuosic and cinematic music. CBC’s David Wisdom writes “Lori-Ann’s music gives body to emotions that are beyond words. It is thoughtfully composed and expressively performed.” Kolin Lymworth of Banyan Sound writes “Lori-Ann Speed is a visionary composer and pianist of our time. This uniquely channeled contemporary classical music will touch you deeply.” 

From the time Lori-Ann saw a big white upright piano wheeled into her grade three classroom, she had a burning desire to play. For five years, she incessantly pleaded for a piano until finally, one day the local piano teacher rolled into her yard with his piano on the back of a pick up truck. Thus began her life with music. She received a Bachelor of Music from the prestigious school of music at the University of British Columbia where she was inspired by composers like Chopin, Debussy, Rachmaninoff, and Philip Glass. 

One of the rare women composers in the modern classical world, she released several albums of original compositions.  Her second album had popular appeal that transcended genre, culture, age and ethnicity. Her third album garnered her a nomination for Best Instrumental Release at the West Coast Music Awards. 

In pursuit of her dreams, Lori-Ann's music career came to a screeching halt. After national airplay, distribution, and recognition, her journey in music had been replaced by a twelve-year battle with cancer and the loss of four loved ones which prostrated her ability and focus. She left music for an extended period of time. However, Lori-Ann was called back with renewed purpose and vision. Her life trajectory has been one of tragedy to triumph several times over. 

People describe her playing as transcendent. They are touched by a depth of emotion in her work which may come from facing adversity. Indeed, the challenges have forged her soul. Revealed in her music is the bittersweet recognition of life’s fragility and a melody of beauty for the naked heart as the sound of love. 

“Dancing with the Mystery is a very personal album” says Speed. “Prior to cancer I struggled with anxiety and depression, but with the two diagnoses I had to face death in myself twice while four people I dearly loved, died around me. Suddenly life got real and I had to look deep within myself to survive. I am excited to return with this album where I explore our poignant and precious transit through life and discover a deeper meaning. I belief we are all heroes and heroines at the centre of epic stories. I attempted to capture the beauty of a powerful journey to Love.”

In conclusion, through the pure, simple, unadorned beauty of the piano, Lori-Ann Speed has not only made a name for herself in the neoclassical music scene but also as a facilitator and energy healer. Her concerts are now an immersive and transformative experience for the audience, often described as ethereal and emotive.  Despite facing adversity, she never gave up on her passion for music and has come out stronger and more determined than ever before. She delivers a timeless message that inspires and touches the lives of many.