The CCOC runs seasonal programming from September to June for children ages 3 to 19 years old. All children, with the exception of those in JK – SK who are placed directly into our Butterfly Chorus, require an audition before being placed in one of our six choirs. Placements are decided based on a number of factors, including age, musical ability, dramatic ability, and willingness to learn! Once placed in a choir, our Choristers join us at either the start of a new season (September) or mid-season (Nov/January) and attend weekly rehearsals while also taking part in a number of performances throughout the season. 

At the CCOC we give our young people the tools to have their voices heard, develop their confidence, improve their musical and performance skills, and build a strong and supportive community of friends and mentors!

Junior Division

Our Junior Division consists of four training choirs – Butterfly (BC), Ruby (RC), Apprentice (AC) and Intermediate (IC) choruses. These choirs foster social growth and musical development, deepen opera knowledge, and inspire creativity. The Junior Division participates in our annual all-choir fall concert, special opera workshops, and presents their very own opera at the end of the season.

Our Apprentice and Intermediate choirs may also take part in our yearly mainstage opera, depending on the opera being produced that season. 

Principal Chorus

After a good foundation of musical and dramatic learning in the Junior Division, our strongest musicians and performers, and most committed singers, are invited to audition for our Principal Chorus for a more intensive training and performance experience. The Principal Chorus is the CCOC’s main performing chorus and also acts as the children’s chorus for the Canadian Opera Company when their productions call for young voices.

Young Artist Studio

Once voices change or choristers reach a certain age, young people are then welcomed to audition for the Young Artist Studio (YAS), where learning shifts from mostly choral work to emphasis on the individual singer as an artist.

The Canadian Children’s Opera Company’s school programs bring the CCOC experience into schools through an opera creation program, Opera Kids Onstage (OKO), and performances for schools.