O. KOSHETZ CHOIR INC.

O. Koshetz Choir Inc. is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Ukrainian and Ukrainian Canadian choral music. With its roots tracing back to the early 1940s, the choir is named after Oleksander Koshetz, a renowned Ukrainian composer and choral conductor who significantly influenced the Ukrainian choral tradition in Canada.

History

The choir originated in the early 1940s as part of the Ukrainian Summer Courses sponsored by the Ukrainian National Federation of Canada. During this time, Oleksander Koshetz served as a guest lecturer and conductor, inspiring students and enthusiasts of Ukrainian choral music across the country. Initially formed as the Ukrainian National Youth Federation Choir, it consisted of summer school students and choral music lovers.

Following Koshetz's death in 1944 in Winnipeg, the choir continued to develop under the leadership of notable conductors such as Tetiana Koshetz and Dr. P. Macenko. Since 1951, Walter Klymkiw has led the choir, guiding it to extensive performances and artistic achievements, including appearances with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and recordings that highlight the choir's rich heritage.

Mission and Activities

O. Koshetz Choir Inc. is committed to the performance and preservation of a diverse repertoire encompassing religious, historical, secular, and modern Ukrainian choral music. The choir serves as a cultural institution within the Ukrainian Canadian community, fostering appreciation and understanding of Ukrainian musical traditions. It regularly performs in concerts and festivals, contributing to the cultural life of Winnipeg and beyond.

Recognition and Status

The organization is a registered charity under Canadian law, recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency with the business registration number 103982492RR0001. As a charitable entity, the choir benefits from public support to further its mission of cultural preservation through music.

Legacy

Over its many decades of existence, O. Koshetz Choir Inc. has become a living legacy of Ukrainian choral music in Canada, maintaining the connection between Ukrainian heritage and Canadian multiculturalism. The choir's historical significance and ongoing artistic excellence underscore its role as a prominent cultural ambassador for the Ukrainian Canadian community.

This article reflects information verified from the choir's official website and charitable status records, presenting an overview of O. Koshetz Choir Inc. as a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to Ukrainian choral music.[2][4][5]