Coast to Coast to Coast – Celebrating Canada’s Diversity, Landscape, Provinces, and Territories for our 150th birthday.
Edmonton Metropolitan Chamber Choir Concert
Tuesday, June 13, 7:30 p.m.
Christ Church (121 Street and 102 Avenue)

Singing in a choir, and the music itself that is sung, can be both uplifting and thrilling. We all have a voice, and we can all sing – even if we think we can’t. Our single voices can make an important difference, but together we can make an inspiring sound that is greater than any one single voice can produce.

Making music with others is so much more exciting than just singing in the shower. In a group, sharing the music helps us learn to appreciate music, but it’s also an important life lesson. It is the sharing that makes it both joyful and comforting. All groups have their purpose, and one choral purpose is to join our voices in expressing praise, joy, or also grief.

When we come together in a group to do anything, we are partaking in a very important part of life: we are reminded that we are not alone. We live in a democracy, where individuals are valued, and because we share this land and this neighbourhood we are all connected. We can do a lot by combining our talents, by raising our voices with others to make a difference. Team sports use this principle – each person or position has a job to do, and when we work together we can accomplish amazing things. Recent disasters have shown us how important it is to share an experience. During fires or floods we pitch in and help each other – it’s the Canadian way. We bring out the best in each other. A choir is one example of arts activities – like orchestras, plays, and musical theatre – where a group can tell a story or celebrate a culture by joining their abilities toward a common goal.

A chamber choir, by definition, is a small group of voices who must listen to each other and adjust the quality of their voices so they blend together as one. Our Ed. Metro. Chamber choir has 20 members, and at times there are only two or three people singing each part. This very special concert coming up on June 13 will celebrate all the provinces, regions and territories of Canada. Titled “Coast to Coast to Coast,” this concert is one of the many celebrations for Canada’s 150th birthday. We are singing in many languages, songs that come from or represent the many regions of Canada. It is a challenge, but it is fun, and helps us feel the texture of the regions through numerous languages and styles of music.

Come share the joy of beautiful songs that represent the diverse people and cultures of Canada. Tickets from TixOnTheSquare cost $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Children 12 and under are free.

Joanne McNeal is a McCauley resident who is a member of this chamber choir, a musician, artist, and educator. She has been singing since she was four years old.