Timeline Conductors Commissions

Timeline

1960s

The dawn of a new choral era in Vancouver

Vancouver Cantata Singers was first formed under the name the Philharmonic Choir in 1958. The first performance took place on February 6, 1959 at Christ Church Cathedral with the choir performing Bach’s Mass in B Minor. This photo is our earliest, from our 1959 concert at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre featuring works by J.S. Bach and Benjamin Britten.

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Conductors

1958-1967

Hugh McLean

Hugh McLean, Canadian born, received his early musical training in Winnipeg and Vancouver. Later he went to England on scholarship, where he studied piano and organ at the Royal College of Music in London. In…

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Commissioned
Pieces

  • May, 2025

    David Gordon Duke: Quiet

  • October, 2024

    Journey
    Arranged by Russell Wallace and Sam Dabrusin

  • October, 2024

    Lil’wat Lullaby
    Flora Wallace, arranged by Russell Wallace and Sam Dabrusin

  • February, 2024

    Marcel Bergmann: Calling Undine

  • December, 2023

    Sam Dabrusin: Gaudete

  • October, 2023

    Russell Wallace: Forgotten Warriors
    Arranged by Russell Wallace and Sam Dabrusin

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