Find A Place To Sing: Explore The Vibrant Edmonton Choir Scene
If you’re a choir fan, Edmonton is the place to be! Whether you're a seasoned singer, a brand-new chorister, or a keen audience member, the YEG offers an array of choirs that cater to different skill levels and interests. From children’s choir organizations to university ensembles to young adult choirs to professional choirs, there's a place for everyone to share their love of singing.
First, why join a choir?
Singing in choir offers many benefits that go beyond the joy of music. First and foremost, it provides an opportunity to develop musical skills like vocal technique, sight-reading, and ear-training. You'll receive guidance from experienced choir directors and have the chance to work on fun (and sometimes challenging!) repertoire.
Plus, singing in a choir is actually good for your health! It can reduce stress, boost your mood, and improve overall well-being. When you sing, your body releases endorphins, which are natural happy hormones.
A few types of choirs in Edmonton
Youth and Children’s Choirs: Edmonton has a few different choirs specializing in musical training for youth and children. These organizations offer weekly rehearsals, performances across the city, and opportunities to tour and participate in festivals.
University Choirs: If you’re a student in Edmonton, check out your university’s choirs! The University of Alberta, Concordia University, and The King’s University all have excellent music programs with thriving choral ensembles.
Adult Community Choirs: Edmonton’s community choirs welcome singers of all skill levels and backgrounds. They provide a relaxed and inclusive environment where individuals can come together and enjoy their love for singing.
Professional Choirs: For experienced singers in Edmonton, there are a few different options for paid choral singing gigs, including Pro Coro Canada and the Schola Cantorum at St. Joseph’s Basilica.
Notable choirs in the city
Edmonton is lucky to have many thriving choir ensembles that have gained recognition for their exceptional musicality and performances. Here are a few that stand out:
Richard Eaton Singers: RES was founded in 1951 and has a long-standing tradition of musical excellence in the Edmonton community. Under the direction of Dr. Tim Shantz, RES is a symphonic choir, frequently collaborating with The Edmonton Symphony and known for their annual Christmas performance of Handel’s Messiah.
Pro Coro Canada: Edmonton is home to one of the leading professional choral ensembles in Canada. Pro Coro is a twenty-four voice choir directed by Michael Zaugg and known for commissioning and performing challenging and engaging new choral music. The Edmonton Youth Choir and Resound recently had the honour of performing with Pro Coro Canada; check out the concert replay here!
The Unversity of Alberta Madrigal Singers: U of A students can audition to sing with Madrigal Singers (known as Mads!) for credit. The choir has 30–40 voices, performs across Edmonton, participates in recording projects, and often tours across Alberta, Canada, and beyond.
DaCamera Singers: Da Camera Singers is an auditioned adult community chamber choir that specializes in performing a wide range of choral music, from Renaissance polyphony to contemporary works. They are directed by Edmonton composer and conductor Laura Hawley.
Ariose: Looking for a women’s choir? Ariose is one of Edmonton’s leading adult treble voice choirs, directed by Jolaine Kerley. They often collaborate with and perform works by local composers and have released seven recordings.
E-Town Vocal Music Society: If you’re looking for a vocal ensemble specializing in pop and a cappella music, check out E-Town! They have adult and youth programs and are directed by local conductor and composer, Jane Berry.
The Edmonton Youth and Children’s Choirs: EYCC is Edmonton’s longest-running youth and children’s choir organization for singers ages 5 and up. It’s known for having a dynamic leadership team of experienced musical educators and professional singers, as well as creating excellent musical artistry and building community.
How to find a choir in Edmonton
Finding your perfect-fitting choir home in Edmonton might be easier than you think! The city is home to MANY different choirs, each with its own unique feel and approach. Here are some ways to find a choir that suits your preferences:
Online directories: Websites like Choir Alberta provide comprehensive listings of choirs in Edmonton and the province. These directories allow you to search for choirs based on location, musical style, and skill level, making it easier to find an ensemble that works for you.
Local churches: Many churches in Edmonton have their own choirs or can provide information about choirs that rehearse in their buildings. Check their websites or give them a call to inquire about opportunities to sing!
Word-of-mouth: Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues who may already be involved in choirs or have connections in the local music community. They can give you personal recommendations and insights based on their own experiences.
Social media and online forums: Do a quick search on Instagram or join local Edmonton music-related groups on platforms like Facebook and Reddit. These online spaces often post information about choir auditions, performances, and other relevant events.
Join The Edmonton Youth and Children’s Choirs
Do you know a young person who loves to sing? EYCC offers choirs for kids, youth, and young adults. We welcome new members throughout each season and would love to connect with you and help you register for one of our award-winning ensembles!
