About Oakville Choir for Children & Youth

Founded in 1994, Oakville Choir for Children & Youth (OC) has been a vibrant part of the Oakville community for over three decades. Formerly known as The Oakville Children’s Choir, OC is a registered charitable organization dedicated to exceptional choral education, leadership development, and meaningful performance opportunities for children and youth.

Through structured music literacy, healthy vocal training, artistic mentorship, and a strong sense of community, OC supports young singers in developing confidence, discipline, creativity, and a deep sense of belonging.

OC is led by an experienced artistic team and governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. Together, they are committed to helping every singer find their voice and reach their full potential.

WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE OC

OUR VISION

To cultivate confident young leaders through high-quality musical training, meaningful performance experiences, and strong mentorship within a supportive and inclusive community.

OUR HISTORY

Inspired by her mentorship with Jean Ashworth Bartle, Dr. Glenda Crawford founded OC with a vision of creating a high-level choral program where young people could experience the joy, discipline, and connection of singing together while developing musicianship, confidence, and leadership.

Following Dr. Crawford’s retirement in 2006, Dr. Sarah Morrison served as Artistic Director for fifteen years, leading a period of significant artistic and organizational growth. During this time, Janet Stachow and Dr. Charlene Pauls also played important leadership roles as Associate Artistic Directors.

Maria Conkey guided the organization through an important period of transition, continuing its focus on strong choral training, youth engagement, and artistic growth.

Today, under the artistic leadership of Amanda Nelli, Artistic Director, and Dr. Charlene Pauls, Associate Artistic Director, OC builds on this legacy through exceptional music education, meaningful performance opportunities, and youth leadership development.

We believe music education builds more than musicianship. It builds discipline, empathy, teamwork, and confidence that lasts a lifetime. At OC, singers are challenged artistically and supported personally in an environment that values excellence, belonging, and long-term growth.

“OC challenges me to be my best as a singer and gives me opportunities I never imagined.”
OC Chorister, Chamber Voices

High Artistic Standards

Healthy vocal technique, music literacy, expressive performance, and ensemble discipline are central to every rehearsal.

Comprehensive Music Literacy Training

Singers develop structured music theory, sight singing, and ear training integrated into rehearsals. Older ensembles complete weekly theory assignments and strengthen independent score preparation.

Progressive Training Pathways

Age appropriate ensembles intentionally build skills from early childhood through late adolescence.

Meaningful Performance Experiences

Professionally produced concerts, regional and provincial festivals, collaborative major works, and community events provide authentic artistic growth.

A Culture of Leadership

Senior singers participate in a Young Leaders program, mentoring younger choristers, supporting sectional work, assisting with music literacy development, and representing OC within the community.