What's the difference between the CCOC and a choir?
Opera is a much broader experience than choral singing. In addition to the benefits of singing in a group and learning music, opera incorporates aspects of musical theatre, drama, and acting, providing a well-rounded music AND arts education. Whether singing and acting on stage, in rehearsal or at summer camp, our choristers discover the rewards of working as a team. They develop their self-discipline and confidence, and heighten their cognitive, perceptual and emotional learning. They gain a sense of achievement through meaningful creative and collaborative opportunities.
What makes the CCOC unique?
Founded in 1968, the CCOC is a world-class ensemble that introduces the magic of opera to children and youth. We are one of Canada's oldest children's choruses and known as a world leader in children's opera having commissioned and performed more new works than any other such company on the world.
The CCOC performs as the children's chorus of the Canadian Opera Company, and produces and performs our own staged operas each year. Arts education through music and drama provides a uniquely rich foundation in a child’s development.
The education and performance opportunities we offer our chorus members are unparalleled anywhere else in Canada.
But isn't opera written for adults?
Many operas are, but the CCOC is committed to producing and commissioning repertoire written specifically for young voices. Our choristers learn healthy singing technique using age- appropriate material, under the direction of our world-class music staff.
Will my child like opera?
Is it healthy for children to sing opera?
What makes voice training with the CCOC different than with a choir?
To convincingly bring a story to life in an opera, a singer must sing with total commitment. Besides being skilled musically, we must also be physically, emotionally and mentally connected. We get to make choices in our interpretations and are responsible to the others that we perform with. At CCOC, we work not only on developing a child’s singing and musical skills but also honing their craft as wholistic performers through our graduated education program. Our choristers are taught by seasoned artistic staff, who have trained and performed in various aspects of opera. CCOC also hires leading guest professional artists to work with our members including singers, conductors, actors, instrumentalists, composers, directors, librettists, and designers.
Are there boys in the CCOC?
Absolutely! We know that some boys are shy to share their love of singing. At the CCOC, we have a large number of boys in our choirs who love to sing and be part of the opera experience. We teach the same voice lessons for boys and girls, and we love the energy and tone that comes from having mixed voices in the choruses. As your son gets older, we'll take care of his voice through the transition, and help him build a strong, healthy singing voice.
What age can my child start?
We have 6 choirs for children and youth grades from JK and up. Our choirs include:
- Butterfly Chorus (JK & SK)
- Ruby Chorus (Grade 1 & 2)
- Apprentice Chorus (Grade 2 - 4)
- Intermediate Chorus (Grade 4 - 7)
- Principal Chorus (Grade 6 - 10)
- Youth Chorus (Grade 10+ and boys with changed voices)
Still have questions?
You can contact us at info@canadianchildrensopera.com or visit our FAQ page.
