Is fundraising mandatory?
No. Fundraising is not mandatory, although some fundraising opportunities are available for those who wish to participate.
Where does the choir rehearse?
The choir rehearses in the central area of the city, just north of the Bow River. We are the only children’s choir located in the north end. Rehearsals are held at GoodTree Church, 1212 1 St NW, Calgary, AB T2M 2S3.
What has the choir done to provide a safe experience for choristers during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The Calgary Children’s Choir and its Board of Directors have carefully followed the guidelines established by Alberta Health Services and the Alberta Government. Specifically, this includes masking and distancing during rehearsals, with careful attention to hand hygiene/respiratory hygiene. Additionally, it mandates that choristers/parents and staff alike stay home if they are sick, and suspends rehearsals when required by public health restrictions. Our organization takes the health and well-being of our choristers and staff very seriously; we are pleased to report that to date, there have been no cases of COVID-19 transmission among our members. We will continue the necessary precautions as long as directed by Alberta Health.
What kind of repertoire does the choir sing?
We are interested in offering a variety of repertoire that has intrinsic musical value. This means the foundation of the program focuses on repertoire from recognized, well-known composers, as well as folk songs from various eras and countries. We create a concert program for the year, which offers a diverse range of styles for our singers – from Early music to classical, jazz, musicals, pop, and other contemporary genres.
Does the choir sing in languages other than English?
Yes. It is standard practice in choirs to be exposed to as much music from as many cultures and in as many languages as possible. Aside from the benefits of learning to appreciate other languages, customs, and a variety of musical styles, extensive research has proven that singing and the acquisition of different languages promote high brain function and improve critical thinking and other cognitive skills. During choir practices, the choristers and conductors spend a considerable amount of time discussing the meaning of the songs, ensuring the choristers have a clear understanding of what they are singing.
Are choristers expected to practice or review music at home?
For the most part, younger choristers can learn the music within rehearsal time. As concert dates approach, those choristers who feel they are not adequately prepared are encouraged to review music at home. Older choristers are encouraged to review their music and words at home regularly.
Does the choir operate year-round?
Choir begins in September and ends in May. New choristers are welcomed year-round.
How many evenings and weekends are devoted to performances or workshops?
The choir performs three main concerts in the year: a Christmas Concert, a Folk Concert (in March), and a Spring Concert (in May). One to two weeks before each concert, a morning workshop is held on a Saturday. The choir also attends camp in September and February (depending on the age of the chorister), and performs a fall mini-concert at the end of October.
How often does the choir tour?
The choir tours either nationally or internationally approximately every two years. The tour is available only to choristers from the Calgary Children’s Choir and the Calgary Youth Choir.