get involved
Inspiring young people. Uniting voices. Singing our stories.
The CCOC is dedicated to the development of young voices ages 4 and up, through a program of musical, dramatic and artistic development, and professional level performance opportunities. CCOC not only introduces young people to the world of opera, but also provides a space to ignite their passion, discover a sense of belonging, and broaden their artistic horizons. In the CCOC young people to develop essential creative, collaborative, and leadership skills through the powerful medium of opera—where music, passion, and storytelling intersect.
HOW TO JOIN THE CCOC
1. Let us know you’re interested in joining the CCOC by completing the Audition Application form and we’ll reach out with more information about the CCOC program that would be the best fit for your child (including information on the current season’s schedule and fees).
2. Confirm your interest and schedule your audition with the CCOC (children enrolled in JK/SK do not require an audition, they will move onto the registration process to join our Butterfly Beginnings program).
3. Once your child has been officially placed in a CCOC Chorus, we’ll reach out and provide you with everything you need to get started in our registration package.
4. Complete and submit your registration package and payment, and we’ll see you at rehearsals!
Auditions – What to Expect
An audition is an opportunity for us to get to know you and to understand how you learn. It’s not a test—rather, it’s an interactive and supportive process, and we strive to make every audition a positive experience.
During the audition, we’ll chat about your interests, hear you sing, and explore a short poem or monologue. We’ll also guide you through a few simple music activities to get a sense of your musical aptitude and skills. This helps us place each singer in the chorus where they will have the most positive and rewarding learning experience.
Auditions take place in person and last approximately 10–15 minutes. Please see below for preparation details. If you choose to sing a piece with accompaniment, a pianist will be provided.
Children entering JK or SK in September are welcome to join Butterfly Beginnings and do not require an audition. Simply complete the Audition Application form, and we’ll be in touch to help you get registered.
WHAT TO PREPARE FOR YOUR AUDITION
CHILDREN IN GRADES 1 – 5
- Prepare to sing one musical selection: A folk song or classical piece is preferred if you have experience, or a common song like O Canada, Happy Birthday, etc. is perfectly appropriate!
- Recite one short spoken dramatic selection. For example, four lines of a poem or nursery rhyme. You may also be asked to read a few lines of new material.
- Our team will lead you through some basic music exercises: matching pitches, singing back melodies, and repeating clapping patterns.
CHILDREN IN GRADES 6 AND UP
- Prepare to sing two musical selections: one of which should be a folk song or classical piece if possible, and the other can be a piece that you’re excited to perform.
- Recite one short spoken dramatic selection. For example, four lines of a poem, speech or monologue.
- Our team will lead you through some basic music exercises matching pitches, singing back melodies, and repeating clapping patterns and sight-singing.
APPLICANTS FOR THE YOUNG ARTIST STUDIO
- Prepare to sing two contrasting musical selections: preferably at least one of these is an art song, aria, musical theatre piece, or folksong.
- Prepare to share one short spoken dramatic speech or monologue.
- Our team will talk with you about your interests and experiences.
THE CCOC OFFERS Financial Assistance/Bursaries
Could fees be a barrier to your child’s particiption with the CCOC?
We believe in the accessibility of music education for all young people and we’re working towards breaking down many barriers to participation, including financial ones. We are proud to be able to offer assistance to families through a bursary program. Bursaries are awarded based on a combination of financial need, artistic ability, expressed interest, and ability to commit to the CCOC’s activities.
To learn more about our bursary opportunities email bursary@canadianchildrensopera.com or call (416) 366-0467.