Calling All Singers!

Photo credit: Darrell Theriault

The PEI Symphony Orchestra is celebrating our 60th anniversary in 2027 and we want Island singers to celebrate with us! We are issuing an open call to invite members of the community to register to join our choir for an epic performance of Beethoven’s ninth symphony to take place on the evening of May 15, 2027 at the magnificent St. Dunstan’s Basilica.

This “Ode to Joy” will be a true community event that we hope will include up to 80 Islanders from all walks of life, from all regions of the province. No auditions will be required; to register, simply upload a video recording of yourself singing ‘O Canada,’ as well as singing your highest and lowest sounds to help us with your vocal placement. Interested Islanders should complete the online form before the end of October.

Beethoven’s Ninth symphony was his final composition and is often performed to mark special occasions. It is considered one of the cornerstones of orchestral music and it was the first time that a major composer scored vocal parts in a symphony. The final fourth movement, commonly known as the Ode to Joy, features four vocal soloists and a chorus.  PEI Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce that Soprano Christina Haldane, Mezzo Soprano, Hannah O'Donnell, Tenor Jacques Arsenault and Baritone Nathan Keoughan will perform along with our community choir.

The deadline to register is November 2 and we will confirm your participation by mid-November. All choir members will have ample time over the winter to prepare, with materials and online resources provided. The PEISO is pleased to collaborate with Leo Marchildon, who will lead the choir for this celebration event. Choir rehearsals will take place at St. Dunstan’s Basilica on Wednesday evenings from March 31 through April with the final four rehearsals in May before the grand PEI Symphony Orchestra 60th anniversary concert on May 15, 2027.