Cantaré Children's Choir was formed in 1997 by Founder / Artistic Director, Catherine Glaser-Climie, to enrich the lives of children through the power and wonder of music.

Cantaré's commitment to training young voices and the development of comprehensive musicianship skills and literacy is evidenced by the breathtaking magic of their performances and extensive range of choral repertoire at the highest artistic level. Dedicated to educating, nurturing and providing opportunities for children to express their artistic abilities, the choir is thrilled to have performed for many prestigious events including Calgary Opera, Grammy-award-winning Bob Carlisle, and the Banff International Television Festival. This unique program offers four ensembles to meet the needs of differing ages and backgrounds.

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Although a relative newcomer to Calgary's cultural community, the choir has quickly earned the highest critical acclaim and an international reputation for excellence. In 2001 Cantaré was awarded FIRST PRIZE at the National Music Festival; Cantabile [now known as Cantiga] has been a finalist at the National Music Festival for the past two years. At Choralfest all ensembles have earned Superior Ratings and numerous special adjudicators' awards. Named "Outstanding Choir" at the Calgary Kiwanis Music Festival for each of the past three years, the choir has also captured awards at the Alberta Provincial Choir Festival.

Over 180 children ages 6 through 19 come together each week to experience the joy of singing. Though they represent diverse abilities and backgrounds, the children are united through the study and performance of great choral music and discover that music can be a bridge to understanding. Compassion, sensitivity, consideration, commitment, tolerance, discipline, co-operation and teamwork are the ideals to which we aspire. In addition to giving performances, choristers gain valuable training in musicianship, self-discipline, confidence, poise and teamwork. Singers enjoy meeting and getting to know other children who share their interests.

The very finest sacred and secular works from all styles and periods form the foundation for musical learning and serve as basis for the curriculum. Concepts about music [melody, rhythm, harmony, timbre, dynamics, form, style and tempo] and musicianship skills [singing, vocal technique, ear training, literacy, theory, part work, diction, language skills, memory] are taught through great masterpieces of the choral tradition from the Baroque to the most challenging contemporary pieces. The choir is especially known for showcasing a broad spectrum of contemporary music, especially works by Canadian composers. Our children sing in English, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Latin and Spanish.

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In addition to giving performances. choristers gain valuable training in musicianship, self-discipline, confidence, poise and teamwork. Singers enjoy meeting and getting to know other children who share their interests.

Our program of weekly rehearsals is enhanced by several components, including regular individual vocal coaching, our workshop and retreat component and performances throughout the community.

Admission into the Cantaré Children's Choir program is based on interest, enthusiasm and commitment rather than exceptional musical ability. Children who love to sing and wish to gain more experience and knowledge are encouraged to audition. Auditions are held each spring to determine placement of prospective choristers in one of our four ensembles.

Cantaré Children's Choir is supported in its endeavors through the hard work and dedication of many volunteers who eagerly offer their assistance and leadership to the choir. The Cantaré Children's Choir Society is the organization formed by parents and community volunteers to share in implementing the vision of this unique choral program. Cantaré Children's Choir Society is incorporated as a non-profit society in the province of Alberta, and is recognized by Revenue Canada as a charitable organization. The Society provides enrichment opportunities to the core program through its fundraising endeavors and leadership to support the choir in its many and varied activities.