The Edmonton Columbian Choirs began in 1966 under the direction of Edmonton musician, Paul Bourret. In its early years it was sponsored by the Edmonton Chapter of the Knights of Columbus, but over the years have developed an identity of its own.
We currently have choirs for children, teens, young mixed adults and a Ladies choir.
The Columbian Choirs have a very diverse program. We currently present a Christmas Concert, Spring Concert and two evening Broadway Cabarets. Each choir sings at various other events in the Edmonton and surrounding areas.
These award-winning choirs have sung across Canada, the United States, Great Britain and Europe. They have performed with the Edmonton Symphony, Alberta Ballet, and have commissioned works by Canadian composers Dr. Mark Sirett and Larry Nickel. Besides competing in the world-famous Eisteddfod Festival in Wales, they have also participated in festivals in Toronto, Winnipeg, Nova Scotia, Seattle, Calgary and here in Edmonton.
The current conductors are Heather Bedford-Clooney and Elaine Dunbar. The accompanist for the Chanteuses is Linda Steinbring. Both Paul Bourret, the choir’s founder, and Artistic Director Heather Bedford-Clooney are members of Edmonton’s Cultural Hall of Fame.
If you are looking to sing in Edmonton, we would love to have you sing with us.