Upper Canada Chorus

The Upper Canada Children's Chorus was founded in the fall of 1999 under the Artistic Direction of Brian Rawlins. Over the past 10 seasons UCC has grown to become a world-class choral institution. Over 400 potential choristers auditioned for the current season, and over 160 singers ranging in age from 3 to 18 currently participate. UCC ensembles have toured through the United States and Canada, including Chicago, Boston, Martha's Vineyard, New York, Montreal and Quebec, as well as international destinations including England, Ireland and Italy where they performed at the Vatican.

MISSION

With a commitment to outstanding music education, excellence in performance, and strong social development, the Upper Canada Chorus provides the children and youth of York Region with a rich and rewarding choral music experience. The experience will enhance musicianship, self-growth, creativity, personal expression, and social growth through active participation in a positive and dynamic learning atmosphere.

FACULTY

Musical Director Brian Rawlins received formal music education from the University of Toronto, and the Royal Conservatory of Music, Toronto, where he studied piano with Antonis General. He studied opera, voice and vocal technique with celebrated voice teacher Inna Golsband, and composition with Alexander Dubois. He has written or arranged over 100 works for choir, including 5 complete musicals for children's voices. In 1999 he founded what was to become the Upper Canada Children's Chorus, and currently holds the position of Musical Director.

Assistant Musical Director Michelle Rawlins received her musical education from both the University of Western Ontario and the University of Toronto where she studied piano with John Hess, Ronald Turini, and Boyanna Toyich respectively. She graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Music Education (Honours) where she was a two-time recipient of the Jean Chalmers scholarship. Michelle studied voice and choral techniques with Inna Golsband, and was a member of the prestigious MacMillan Singers under the choral direction of Doreen Rao.