Originally born and raised in the UK, Jonathan Hutchinson now proudly calls Saskatoon home. Growing up in a musically inclined family, Jonathan discovered his passion for music at a young age. His journey began at 13 when he started playing the church organ, igniting a lifelong devotion to musical expression. Jonathan is the founder and driving force behind CHI Productions, his own production studio dedicated to crafting high-quality and impactful music and video content for local artists. Additionally, he serves as a valued member of the faculty at Pulsworks, a local recording studio, where he shares his expertise and passion for music with aspiring artists. With a commitment to excellence, Jonathan has collaborated with a diverse array of talent, including notable names such as Sonia Reid Noble, Brock Fehr, and the Redroom Worship Band. Being a part of the uplift duo is a dream turned reality for Jonathan. He is excited for what the future holds and the lives they will be able to impact with their music.
Originally from B.C., cellist Christina Bakanec holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of Calgary where she studied with renowned teachers from across North America. In 2009, she debuted with the Calgary Symphony Orchestra performing Ernest Bloch’s Schelomo. She has been with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra since moving to Kerrobert, SK in 2009. In 2019, Christina collaborated with musicians Sindy Yui and Vanessa Klassen to form the Mosaic Trio, performing Brahms’ clarinet trio among other works. Christina runs a private music studio, teaching cello and piano to students of all ages. She lives on a 4th generation grain farm with her husband and 4 children (soon to be 5!), keeping very busy with homeschooling, gardening and her second passion, homebirth support. She is so thrilled to be a part of the Uplift Duo. Sacred music has been a part of her life since she started playing in church services at age 12. It has been a long time dream of hers to record and perform sacred music and she is so thankful for the opportunity to bring this dream to fruition!