A Century of Harmony: The Winnipeg Boys’ Choir Celebrates a Milestone
The crisp notes of young voices rise in a symphony of youthful exuberance and practiced precision, marking not just another concert season but a century of harmonious tradition. The Winnipeg Boys’ Choir, a cornerstone of Canada’s musical landscape, celebrates its 100th anniversary, a testament to the enduring power of music and mentorship. From the tender age of six to the cusp of adulthood, boys from across Winnipeg have found a home within the choir’s ranks, their voices intertwining in a tapestry of melodies that have resonated through generations.
Nine-year-old Jeremy Grella, a relative newcomer to the choir, captures the essence of the experience, describing the exhilarating crescendo of a song’s finale, when voices blend in perfect harmony, a moment of collective musical transcendence. For Salvador Tait, another junior chorus member, the choir represents not only a musical pursuit but a family legacy. Drawn to the choir by his family’s deep appreciation for music, Tait finds fulfillment in the disciplined pursuit of excellence that defines the choir’s ethos. Both boys, though new to the fold, embody the spirit of dedication and passion that has sustained the choir for a century.
The choir’s remarkable longevity is a point of pride for Artistic Director Carolyn Boyes, a 27-year veteran of the organization. In a city and province relatively young in historical terms, the choir’s centennial milestone stands as a testament to its enduring presence and impact on the community. Boyes oversees three ensembles, catering to boys aged 6 to 21, providing a continuous pathway for musical growth and development. She emphasizes the collaborative nature of choral singing, where individual voices merge to create something greater than the sum of its parts. The choir instills valuable life lessons, teaching the boys the importance of teamwork, communication, and reliance on one another to achieve common goals.
Conductor Albert Bergen echoes Boyes’ sentiments, highlighting the boys’ innate musicality, their eagerness to learn, and their unwavering enthusiasm for honing their craft. This dedication is evident in the choir’s current strength of 52 singers, each committed to upholding the high standards of musical excellence that define the Winnipeg Boys’ Choir. The Christmas concert season, a highlight of the choir’s year, showcases the culmination of their hard work and dedication. The performances, while tinged with the expected nerves of performing before a large audience, are ultimately a celebration of the joy of music and the shared accomplishment of a collective endeavor.
Greer Kanhai, a member of the senior chorus, articulates the mixed emotions that accompany the Christmas concert season. The anticipation and excitement of showcasing months of practice are interwoven with the natural nervousness of stepping onto the stage. Yet, the overarching sentiment is one of joyful anticipation, a chance to share their musical gifts with the community. The two performances, scheduled for Sunday and Tuesday, represent not only a culmination of the year’s work but a continuation of a century-long tradition.
The Winnipeg Boys’ Choir stands as a living testament to the power of music to transcend generations. From the fresh-faced newcomers to the seasoned senior members, each boy contributes to a rich tapestry of sound, carrying forward a legacy that has shaped countless young lives. Their voices, united in song, echo the past while simultaneously shaping the future of choral music in Canada. The choir’s centennial celebration is not just a reflection on a remarkable past, but a vibrant promise of continued harmony for years to come.
The choir’s impact extends beyond the realm of musical performance. It serves as a training ground for life, instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. The boys learn not just how to sing, but how to work together, how to support one another, and how to strive for a common goal. These lessons resonate far beyond the concert hall, equipping them with skills that will serve them well in all aspects of their lives.
The Winnipeg Boys’ Choir’s centennial is a celebration of more than just music; it’s a celebration of community, of mentorship, and of the enduring power of tradition. It’s a testament to the dedication of the boys, the guidance of their instructors, and the unwavering support of the community that has embraced them for a century. As they step onto the stage for their Christmas concerts, they carry with them not just the weight of expectation, but the pride of being part of something truly special.
The choir’s continued success lies in its ability to adapt and evolve while remaining true to its core values. It embraces new musical styles and repertoire while maintaining its commitment to high-quality vocal training and performance. The boys are not just singers; they are musicians in the making, learning the nuances of musical expression and developing a lifelong appreciation for the art form. The choir provides a nurturing environment where their talents can flourish, guided by experienced instructors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and inspiring the next generation of musicians.
The Winnipeg Boys’ Choir’s story is one of continuity and growth, of tradition and innovation. It’s a story that resonates with the power of music to connect individuals, to build community, and to create lasting memories. As they embark on their second century, the choir’s future is bright, filled with the promise of continued harmony, continued growth, and continued impact on the lives of the boys who call it home. The legacy of the Winnipeg Boys’ Choir is not just etched in the annals of musical history; it’s alive and vibrant, echoing in the voices of the boys who carry its torch forward.
