Cantata Singers of Ottawa

Overview

The Cantata Singers of Ottawa is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the performance and promotion of choral music in Ottawa and beyond. Founded in 1964 by Gerald Wheeler, the choir initially consisted of 20 singers and performed its first concert at the National Gallery in Ottawa[3][5]. Over the years, the choir has grown to become one of the foremost choral groups in Eastern Ontario, known for its excellence in performance and commitment to fostering Canadian musical talent[5].

Mission and Activities

The Cantata Singers' mission is to perform choral music to the highest standards, promote choral music in Ottawa, and support Canadian musical talent. They achieve this by commissioning works from Canadian composers, engaging Canadian musicians, and offering scholarships to young Canadian singers[1]. The choir produces an annual concert series, featuring a wide variety of classical and contemporary music from around the world. These programs often include innovative collaborations with other musical ensembles and organizations[1][3].

Concerts and Collaborations

The Cantata Singers have a rich history of collaborations with prominent musical organizations, including the National Arts Centre (NAC) and the Ottawa Baroque Consort. Since the NAC's opening in 1969, the choir has performed annually with the NAC Orchestra, working under various renowned conductors such as Mario Bernardi, Trevor Pinnock, and Pinchas Zukerman[5]. Their concerts often feature both ancient and modern compositions, showcasing the versatility and depth of choral music[2].

Performances and Recordings

Beyond local performances, the Cantata Singers have toured internationally, visiting countries such as the Netherlands, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, Hungary, and Italy[3][5]. They have made numerous recordings for CBC Radio, CBC Television, and Radio Canada, and have received top honors in CBC Radio competitions for amateur choirs[5]. Notably, they collaborated on a CD recording of music by Canadian composer Alexina Louie with the NAC Orchestra[5].

Leadership

Throughout its history, the choir has been led by several distinguished directors. Following Gerald Wheeler's founding, Brian Law took over before moving to New Zealand in 1987. Laurence Ewashko, who previously conducted the Vienna Boys' Choir, served as director until he was succeeded by Andrew McAnerney, the current Artistic Director[3][5].

Impact

The Cantata Singers of Ottawa contribute significantly to the cultural landscape of Ottawa, promoting choral music and supporting local talent. Their commitment to excellence and innovation has made them a staple in the city's musical community, enriching audiences with diverse and engaging performances for over five decades[1][5].