About

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Ellamay Mantie recently completed her B.Mus in Cello Performance at McGill University with Brian Manker. In Montreal, she explored her passion for orchestral music by serving as principal cellist of the McGill Symphony Orchestra and performing with the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal as a substitute. Also an avid chamber musician she co-founded the Lyra String Quartet in 2023, whose performances have been praised as "both rigorous and profoundly human" (PAN M 360).  The quartet performs frequently in Montreal, most recently including a recital at the Schulich@Bonpasteur program and appearances in the Schulich in the Neighborhood community concert series. This fall, Ellamay is excited to begin her Master of Music at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with Allison Wells. ​

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Outside of her primary studies, Ellamay pursues projects such as studio recording, contemporary composer collaborations, and traditional fiddle sessions. She enjoys frequent collaboration with Canadian composer Fiona Marchetto, and has premiered several works for solo cello and small ensemble. Having been trained in both classical and traditional fiddle styles, Ellamay's background informs her musical voice and inspires her to explore a wide range of creative endeavours. She enjoys teaching traditional folk music to others as well as incorporating it into her classical work. 

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During her studies Ellamay earned several scholarships from McGill University for academic excellence, and participated in masterclasses with esteemed artists such as Brannon Cho, Phillipe Muller, and Cibran Sierra Vazquez. A frequent participant in summer music programmes, she has attended 

festivals such as Toronto Summer Music, the ENCORE Chamber Music Institute, Orford Musique, Domaine Forget, Tuckamore Music Festival, and Garth Newel's Emerging Artist programme. ​​