Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Choral

 

The Festival Singers of Canada is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances for over four decades. Founded in 1979 by conductor and composer, Dr. Elmer Iseler, the ensemble has become one of the most respected choral groups in Canada. Dr. Iseler was a highly respected figure in the Canadian music scene, having conducted the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. He founded the Festival Singers of Canada with the aim of creating a professional-level choir that would perform a wide range of choral music, from Renaissance to contemporary works. The ensemble's first performance was in December 1979, and it was an instant success. The group's impeccable musicianship and Dr. Iseler's masterful conducting quickly earned them a reputation as one of the best choral groups in Canada. Over the years, the Festival Singers of Canada has had a rotating cast of members, but some of the most notable include sopranos Patricia O'Callaghan and Shannon Mercer, tenor Lawrence Wiliford, and baritone Brett Polegato. The ensemble has also collaborated with many renowned musicians, including pianist Angela Hewitt and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. One of the highlights of the Festival Singers of Canada's career was their performance at the 1988 Olympic Winter Games in Calgary. The ensemble was chosen to perform the Canadian national anthem at the opening ceremonies, which was broadcast to millions of viewers around the world. The group's stirring rendition of "O Canada" was widely praised and helped to cement their reputation as one of Canada's premier choral groups. The Festival Singers of Canada has also performed at many prestigious venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall in New York City, the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Sydney Opera House in Australia. The ensemble has also toured extensively throughout Canada, performing in cities and towns from coast to coast. In addition to their live performances, the Festival Singers of Canada has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. Their 1995 album, "A Ceremony of Carols," which features the music of Benjamin Britten, was nominated for a Juno Award, Canada's top music award. The ensemble's 2009 album, "Northern Lights," which features music by Canadian composers, was also highly praised and won a Western Canadian Music Award. The Festival Singers of Canada has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 1997, the ensemble was awarded the National Choral Award by the Association of Canadian Choral Conductors, which recognizes outstanding contributions to choral music in Canada. In 2003, Dr. Iseler was posthumously awarded the Order of Canada, one of Canada's highest honors, for his contributions to Canadian music. Today, the Festival Singers of Canada continues to be a leading force in the Canadian choral scene. The ensemble is currently led by conductor and artistic director, Dr. Robert Cooper, who has been with the group since 1997. Under his leadership, the ensemble has continued to push the boundaries of choral music, performing a diverse range of works from around the world. In conclusion, the Festival Singers of Canada is a world-class choral ensemble that has been captivating audiences for over four decades. Founded by the legendary Dr. Elmer Iseler, the group has become one of Canada's most respected and beloved musical institutions.

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