Melody Diachun (DAY-shun) is an award-winning Canadian vocalist and songwriter, named Jazz Artist of the Year at the 2023 Western Canadian Music Awards and honoured as the City of Nelson’s Cultural Ambassador for 2026. With five acclaimed albums and a sixth in pre-production, plus multiple nominations, including a National Jazz Award and a JUNO Award, Melody has firmly established herself as ‘a force to reckon with in contemporary vocal music’ (Toronto Music Report).

As a seasoned performer known for her engaging live shows, Melody brings a warm energy to the stage that resonates deeply with audiences. Her latest project, Sumner’s Tales: The Music of Sting, masterfully explores legendary songs from The Police and Sting’s solo career through the lens of jazz. Supported by a stellar ensemble—David Restivo (piano), Michael Occhipinti (guitar, loops, ambient effects), Doug Stephenson (acoustic bass), and Tony Ferraro (drums)—Melody’s interpretations are both bold and nuanced, offering fresh perspectives on familiar classics.

Melody’s performances are a festival highlight, with her charming presence and distinctive sound creating an unforgettable experience. Whether delivering a "seductive stroll" through Sting’s “Fields of Gold” (Tinnitist) or exploring lesser-known gems, her artistry leaves a lasting impression.

Melody's artistry has drawn praise from industry insiders and critics alike. John Devenish of Toronto’s JAZZ.FM91 describes her palette as "richly deep," reflecting her love for music. Raul da Gama affirms that “she is—and will always be—a force to reckon with in contemporary vocal music." Lavender Sutton of Rhythm Changes commends her voice for its clarity and richness, stating that it suits the collection of songs on “Sumner’s Tales” beautifully. Darryl Sterdan from Tinnitist describes Melody's take on Sting's classic “Fields Of Gold” as a "seductive stroll.” Additional praise comes from renowned jazz pianist and author Kenny Werner, who said, "She has perfect phrasing! It's scary," and from Joseph Blake at the Times Colonist, who hailed her as "a jazz singer of the first order."

Rooted in a rich musical journey that began in Montreal and traversed Nova Scotia, New York City, Banff, and Vancouver, Melody now finds her poetic home in Nelson, British Columbia. Her impact on the British Columbia music scene extends beyond her performances; she is also a respected faculty member at Selkirk College, where she taught for ten years, and now serves as the School Chair of the School of Arts & Technology.