in session, 2007 (photo by Andrew Kielbowicz)
the Program
“If you have a chance to learn about the Community Choir experience from Siobhan and Denis, run, don’t walk, to sign up. As a member of the Gettin’ Higher Choir and as a life long scholar in the area of adult education and community development, I assure you that Siobhan and Denis are not just good, they are gifted. The experience of singing with them and others in the Gettin’ Higher Choir is a highlight for me every week.”
Who should consider Community Choir
Leadership Training?
The program is open to anyone who feels drawn to form, and/or to lead, this style of community choir. We are looking for participants who have:
- a strong desire to build joyful community through group singing
- the ability to sing confidently and in good tune
- the ability to learn, hear, and sing harmonies independently
- some basic understanding of written music theory
- a genuine love of, and sense of ease with, people of all musical backgrounds
If this sounds like you, you may want to explore this course. It will provide you with a solid underpinning for your musical work in the world.
Note that a strong background in formal music training, while certainly useful, is not essential.
Please note that in some cases, in the application process, the directors may advise that applicants involve themselves in some up-grading of certain aspects of their qualifications in order that they are able to fully benefit from the program.
Part One :: The Training
Applications are now being accepted for the 2025 Training:
Sunday, October 5 through Saturday, October 18, 2025.
Classes will be held each day from 9am–3pm. Some of the topics covered will be:
- managing group dynamics, creating an ideal atmosphere for singing
- leading warm-ups
- teaching songs with and without sheet music
- understanding the vocal range of singers across the gender spectrum
- working with “pitch challenged” singers
- repertoire development
- score preparation
- basic conducting techniques
- the business of running a choir: finance, governance, membership, newsletter, concerts
In addition, participants will be invited to attend our various choirs, both daytime and evening.
Part Two :: Ongoing Mentorship
The program also includes a year of mentorship, which will allow participants to contact Denis, Cathy and Dick for support and advice by phone or e-mail. Participants will be provided with a body of repertoire to take home for use in their own groups.
It is strongly recommended that applicants lead a group of singers in their home communities throughout the year of the training in order to achieve the maximum benefits from the course through actual application of the teaching.
It is also strongly recommended that participants bring a way to record audio (digital voice recorder, smartphone, etc) to record songs, sessions, and talks as this is a valuable way to collect repertoire, ideas, and techniques.
Financial requirements
The cost of the Program is CDN $3,200. All necessary course materials, including core choral arrangements, will be provided. The course is limited to 14 participants. A deposit of $300 will hold your space. If an applicant needs to withdraw an application for any reason, a deposit is refundable only if another applicant is available to fill the spot. If another applicant is not available, the deposit will not be refundable.
We will assist in finding room and board lodgings with local choir members, however we cannot guarantee such accommodation. The course fee also includes carefully catered meals for two evening group events and six lunches at the program location.
To apply
If you are interested, please complete the on-line application form.