I am excited to be attending Podium 2026, Canada’s national choral conference and festival, from May 14-17 in beautiful Victoria, BC. I once lived in Victoria and it is like a second home to me, so it is especially meaningful to be back for Podium.
This major event in the international choral calendar is going to be particularly special this year, because I am delighted to announce that Ventus Women’s Choir of Lethbridge, Alberta conducted by Regan Brooks will be presenting the world premiere of a newly commissioned work I have just finished writing.
This commission, scored for SSAA & piano, has been a particularly powerful project to work on. I wrote the text myself, inspired by discussions with the commissioning conductor combined with written reflections sent to me by members of the choir. This has resulted in a work to which I feel a strong emotional connection.
In addition to this performance, I am so honoured that Esprit Singers of Winnipeg, Manitoba led by Valdine Anderson will also be performing a work that they commissioned me to write in 2024 – Songs of Spring. This trio of love songs celebrates sisters and sisterhood, the joyful relinquishing of emotional burden, and the power of the natural world to inspire fearless female strength. My favourite commissioning projects are those based on relationships, personal connections, or links to the commissioning musicians. This project had all three of those elements and as a result, was a collaboration that deeply inspired me and I am so thrilled to see this performed at Podium.
And finally, Fern Hill Chorus of Oakville, Ontario led by Amanda Nelli will be singing In time of silver rain. This lovely group of elementary school singers is the youngest choir to be invited to Podium, and I am absolutely thrilled to see children’s voices featured in the line-up of world-class choral ensembles attending the conference.