A few words
About Us
History
Making Music Together for Over 25 Years
Our choir has been in existence since the mid-1990’s. For the first 10+ years, it was part of the Okanagan College Continuing Education program. During this time, the operations of the choir were supported by the college, our founding conductor Leroy Weins, and a volunteer committee.
In late 2006, we were approached by the Kelowna Community Music School to become part of their organization. Our choir remained with KCMS until the summer of 2007.
With strong support from our volunteer committee and our members, we were incorporated as a non-profit society in September of 2007. Leroy Weins stepped down as Artistic Director and Conductor in 2014 after the 20th-anniversary concert. Susan Skinner is the current Artistic Director and Conductor.
The continued success of our choir rests with our director and accompanist, board of directors, and the many members who generously share their time and talents.
Welcome!
The Kelowna Community Chorus is characterized by its friendly atmosphere (newcomers are always welcome) and the challenge of pushing the limits of our musical ability forward every year.
Chorus members are united by their love of good music of all genres, enjoyment of being able to sing together, and appreciation of our director and accompanist for their inspiring talent and dedication.
We believe the joy of singing should be open to all. For this reason, Kelowna Community Chorus strives to be inclusive and accessible for those with mobility restrictions.
Come sing with us
We are a non-auditioned SATB adult choir with about 80 members drawn from throughout the central Okanagan.
We welcome everyone who wants to join us for the love of singing!
join in the fun!
We perform a wide variety of music genres, including sacred and classical pieces, pop/rock, jazz, folk and show tunes.
Our concert schedule normally includes a winter holiday concert in late November, and a spring concert in early April.
We rehearse Wednesday evenings in small groups.
Fall session runs from September to December. Spring session runs from January to April.
Members can join us for either or both sessions.
Accommodations can be made for those with mobility restrictions.
KCC Member Expectations
We are a SCENT FREE zone! Please do NOT use scented body products (including hand lotion) when attending rehearsals or concerts – some people are very ‘scent sensitive’ Please do not smoke right before or during rehearsal. Thank you!
Each member of the choir is expected to:
- Be at rehearsals at 6:50 pm, so everyone is ready to sing by 7:00 pm. Rehearsal begins January 8th, 2025
- KCC is not a drop in choir. Please attend as many rehearsals as you can. The final three rehearsals each term are especially important for concert preparation. You are highly encouraged to use the practice recordings between rehearsals. If you are unable to attend, please contact a board member to let them know.
- Accept that, from time to time, our choir director will ask you to sit in a different place during rehearsals.
Music
Sheet music is purchased by the choir and is yours to keep with your paid registration. Please respect the copyright and do not copy the music.
Concerts
Concerts are held at the end of each term — the winter concert in late November to early December and the Spring concert in early April. One or two other musicians or groups are invited to perform with us to round out the evening’s entertainment. With the goal of keeping our fees as reasonable as possible, every member is expected to sell tickets to family, friends and co-workers, and to assist with advertising by putting up posters at your gym, church, business, office, etc. Volunteers will be recruited to hand out programs, to set up and take down risers, and to tidy up after the concert.
Concert Dress
Ladies – must wear black attire. You may wear black skirts or pants, but must wear black tops, stockings and shoes. Bling encouraged!
Gentlemen – must also wear black attire. Please ensure your belts, socks and shoes are also black. Although we have ties that may be used depending on number, you may be required to provide your own black bow ties.
All – Each member must use an all black binder (without lettering) to hold their music during the concert performance. Any binder may be used for rehearsal.
