The Accord Choir has expanded its programming to include a new children’s choir for singers ages six to 14, offering another avenue for youth music education in Ontario. The Review Newspaper reported that rehearsals are scheduled for Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. at Vankleek Hill Collegiate under the direction of Sarah Burnell.
Burnell told the publication that the initiative aims to create an inclusive environment welcoming students with or without previous musical training. The program does not require experience in reading music and operates bilingually to serve diverse learners. Burnell noted that mixing age groups allows older participants to mentor younger singers, combining energy with focus.
According to the report, the curriculum exposes students to various cultures by featuring repertoire in English, French, Hebrew, and Latin. Styles range from classical and jazz to folk and popular music. Burnell emphasized that such diversity encourages curiosity about global traditions. The children’s ensemble will perform alongside the main choir during December and May concerts, with holiday selections planned for the winter show. Burnell stated that early registration numbers are encouraging following promotions at a summer camp, though organizers hope to attract more young voices to discover the joy of communal singing.
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