The Calgary Boys' Choir is a Canadian nonprofit organization established in 1973 in Calgary, Alberta, devoted to providing boys with high-quality choral education and performance opportunities. Founded by Douglas Parnham, the choir was created to offer young boys a platform to develop their vocal and musical talents while enriching the community’s cultural life through education and entertainment[1][3][5].

History and Mission

Douglas Parnham, a passionate musician and educator, left his career with the Alberta Wheat Pool to start the choir, recognizing a void in boys’ choral opportunities in Calgary at the time. Under his leadership, the choir grew in reputation, becoming one of Alberta's premier children's vocal groups and touring extensively across Canada, the United States, and Europe. Parnham’s legacy endures through the Douglas Parnham Memorial Scholarship for Choral Music, supporting young musicians in his memory[3].

The choir’s mission emphasizes delivering formative experiences designed specifically for boys, fostering musical and vocal skills, self-confidence, leadership, and presentation abilities through performance-based activities. This mission is supported by a dedicated team of experienced instructors working with boys of various ages and skill levels[2][5].

Activities and Achievements

Over the decades, the Calgary Boys' Choir has performed internationally, including prestigious venues and events such as Carnegie Hall and tours in countries including France, Spain, Austria, the Czech Republic, England, and the United States. They have performed for royalty and collaborated with renowned artists such as Metropolitan Opera baritone Allan Monk, Canadian Brass, Natalie Cole, David Foster, Kenny Loggins, and José Carreras[1].

The choir is actively involved in community causes like Brown Bagging for Calgary Kids and the Ronald McDonald House, aligning its artistic mission with social engagement[5]. Regular rehearsals, adventure camps, community performances, and tour opportunities form part of the choir’s comprehensive program that promotes musical education alongside personal growth[4].

Leadership and Structure

Throughout its history, the choir has been guided by notable artistic directors including former members such as Gerald Wirth, Tyrone Paterson, Peter Togni, and Jean-Louis Barbier. Since approximately 2010, Kathryn Berko has served as the artistic director, bringing her extensive experience from other choral groups and continuing the tradition of excellence in boys' choral instruction[1][5].

Core Values and Vision

The Calgary Boys’ Choir operates with core values of stewardship, integrity, creative leadership, excellence, growth, friendship, fun, and humour. Its vision is to empower boys to become remarkable, expressive, and creative citizens through their engagement with music and community[2].

Business Registration Number: 106830169RR0001
Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada