The Canadian Celtic Choir was founded in March 1996 by Dan Surman and a small group of musicians seeking to sing and promote Celtic choral music and culture in Southwestern Ontario - and eventually to tour across Canada and the world. Originally known as the Celtic Silurian Choristers, the choir renamed itself in September ‘99. Our repertoire features music from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and the Canadian Maritimes. Some of the music is traditional and some relatively modern. Included too, is a variety of other music from Europe and North America, songs that are sung for their beauty and inspiration. From summer music festivals to black tie benefits, our self-produced concerts, our production of John Rutter's "Wind in the Willows" (twice), and our CD releases "Here's To Song" (2001), "Christmas Remembered" (2004), the choir is fulfilling its musical mission. Our third CD "We Rise Again" was released in November 2006 and was officially launched in January 2007 to celebrate our 10th Anniversary.
We are a touring choir and in March 2008 we had an amazing 10-day Concert Trip to Maui, Hawaii (March 7-17) where we performed three concerts and participated in one church service.
With more than fifty singers, we welcome new members who love to sing and are prepared for the necessary commitment. Practices are held Tuesday evenings from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at South Secondary School in London, Ontario.
Choir Members
(Active)Sopranos
Bonnie Black, Liz Brearley, Carlyn Chapman (LOA),
Gloria Ellis, Patricia England, Mary-lyn Hopper,
Carmen Lamond, Barbara LePage-Margison,
Laurie McKellar, Sheila McSwiggan,
Judy O'Brien, Alice Power, Mary Randall,
Holly Reid, Elaine Smitham, Joan TurnerAltos
Mary Ellen Duggan, Donna Forward,
Margaret Kellow, Cheryl McLean (LOA), Jane Mettham,
Jenny Newton, Joyce Orchard, Jillian Todd (LOA),
Barbara Whelan, Wendy Whyte, Jean Willadsen, Melba WoodsTenors
Barry Dodd, Jim Fitzpatrick, S. Vince Gray,
Roger Jolliffe, Rob McGuire, James Saynor, Angus Sinclair
Lenore Stoyles (LOA), Tom Thorburn, Edna VokesBaritones/Basses
Ed Beck, Daniel Castillo, Ian Davies, Eric Duggan, Brian Dupuis,
Ron Hicks, Barry Margison, John F. McGarry,
Ron McLagan, Ted Misek, John Warner
Board of Directors
President: Mr. Justice John F. McGarry
Past President: Jim Fitzpatrick
Vice President: Holly Reid
Registrar/Membership: Donna Forward
Secretary: Mary Ellen Duggan
Treasurer: Wendy WhytePromotions: Ian Davies
Fundraising: Mr. Justice John F. McGarry
Librarian: Eric Duggan
Social: Barbara LePage-Margison
Steward: Barry Margison
Tour and Transport: Jean Willadsen
Wardrobe: Edna Vokes
Accompanist:
Grace Yip is the accompanist for the Canadian Celtic Choir. She has lived in London since 1995. Originally from Saskatchewan, she completed a Bachelor of Music in piano performance at the University of Saskatchewan, before relocating to begin a Master of Music in accompanying and chamber music at the University of Western Ontario. After completing this degree, Grace went on to complete a Bachelor of Education in 1999.
She is now working as a freelance accompanist and private piano teacher.
Alternate Accompanist: Angus Sinclair
For booking information contact
IDEA - Ian Davies Entertainment Agency
Call 519-473-2099 or e-mail: celtic_choir@yahoo.ca
