Our Program
Widely recognized as one of Calgary’s premier performing ensembles, 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.
Each week, over 150 children ages 6 through 18 come together in four ensembles to experience the joy of singing. Though they represent diverse abilities and backgrounds, our choristers are united through the study and performance of great choral music and discover that music can be a bridge to understanding. We aspire to instil ideals of compassion, sensitivity, consideration, commitment, tolerance, discipline, co-operation and teamwork. 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.
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, our choirs have performed for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Calgary Opera, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Festival Chorus, Calgary Civic Symphony, 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.
Cantaré has earned the highest critical acclaim and an international reputation for excellence evidenced by numerous awards and invitations to perform at prestigious events abroad and with Calgary's finest professional ensembles.
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 Renaissance 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—and even the languages of Middle Earth!
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. Lifelong friendships are nurtured here.
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.
See for yourself: MEet our ensembles
Cantaré: Ages 12-18
Cantiga: Ages 9-12
Cantilena: Ages 6-9
What others have to say
“Cantaré is a shining star among children’s choirs. Repertoire, vocalism, education, and spirit - Cantaré has it all. Any composer would be thrilled to have his music sung by Cantaré and taught by Catherine Glaser-Climie! ”
“Since first working with Cantaré Children’s Choir in Dublin, Ireland in 2002 I have been enchanted, moved and delighted by the artistry and spirit that this wonderful choir and their amazing music director have brought to the many works of mine that they have performed, and to everything else that they do. Vive la Cantare! ”
“Through our daughter’s participation in Cantaré, she has had the opportunity to cast a light on her innate musical and vocal ability. In the process, she has learned the virtues of team play, organization, self-discipline and commitment. Above all, she has made many great friends with equally motivated kids just like her. It has been a great adventure.”
“Cantaré Children’s Choir provided my daughters an unparalleled foundation for their music education. Besides a thoroughly professional and rewarding musical experience, my daughters developed relationships that I am confident will last a lifetime. THE CANTARE EXPERIENCE IS SO MUCH MORE THAN THE MUSIC!”