Incontra Vocal Ensemble
One of Toronto’s newest chamber choirs, Incontra Vocal Ensemble is a project-based, professional-level group of vocal artists founded and conducted by Matthew Otto. Entering its fifth season, Incontra (Latin for “encounter”) is dedicated to promoting excellence in choral music by presenting innovative performances, AND introducing audiences to new Canadian and international choral compositions whilst celebrating choral masterworks. Conceived as a space for emerging singers and conductors to showcase their artistry, Incontra is committed to authentic interpretation and clarity of expression, offering profound choral experiences for members and audiences alike. The ensemble has performed at a number of concerts, fundraisers and other special events across Toronto, and enjoys a longstanding collaboration with Regis College, University of Toronto.
Matthew Otto
647-241-3623
matthew.otto@gmail.com
www.incontravocalensemble.com
The extensive and active music program at Islington, under the direction of Jason Locke and assisted by many talented and committed musicians including two music associates, includes the Junior (grades 1 to 6), Youth (grades 7 to 12), and Senior choirs, along with two handbell choirs, chimes, string and brass ensembles. Supported by a magnificent Schoenstein organ and grand piano, music rings through the neo-Gothic sanctuary for two morning services each Sunday and numerous special services, events and concerts. The accomplished Senior choir, with 25 to 30 talented singers enriched by section leaders, is attentive to musical detail and expressiveness to enhance worship, singing Renaissance to 21st century, a cappella to orchestral accompaniment, spirituals to Bach cantatas.
Founded in 1952, Barrie’s King Edward Choir began as a ladies’ choir, named after the school in which they practised. Under the direction of founder, Jean Dobson, it blossomed into a group encompassing all voices. Past directors include Charles Woodrow, Morley Calvert, Barbara McCann and Floydd Ricketts. Today, under its new artistic director, Oliver Balaburski, it is a dedicated group of 40 musicians singing repertoire from Beethoven to Britten, Orlando di Lasso to Samuel Barber, Robert Schumann to Harry Freedman. King Edward Choir frequently collaborates with other artists; in March 2019 we will join with the Barrie Concert Band for a night at the pops! Rehearsals for our three annual performances take place Monday nights. Open auditions will occur in September 2018, but new members are welcome any time!