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The Elmer Iseler Singers (= EIS), a twenty-voice professional chamber choir based in Toronto, has built an enviable international reputation since its debut performance in 1979. Founded by and nurtured under the direction of the late Dr. Elmer Iseler, the "Dean of Canadian Choral Conductors", this justly celebrated choir makes numerous appearances annually throughout Canada and the USA.
With repertoire that spans 500 years of choral music, The Elmer Iseler Singers are noted for their flawless technique and wide interpretive range. Champions of contemporary choral repertoire, The Elmer Iseler Singers regularly commission and perform new works. The choir is frequently involved in radio and television broadcasts and a variety of recording projects.
The Elmer Iseler Singers won the Grand Prix du Disque (Canada) for "Serenade in Harmony" with the Netherlands Chamber Choir, and again for "Welcome Yule" and "Laudate Dominum". The Elmer Iseler Singers were winners of the 1997 Lieutenant Governor's Award for the Arts.
The Elmer Iseler Singers have made many festival appearances including the Canada In Holland Festival, the Olympic Arts Festivals in Seoul and Calgary, the Joy of Singing International Choral Festival in Toronto, and most recently, Festival 500 in Newfoundland. The Elmer Iseler Singers are highly valued for their contributions to master classes and workshops for schools and community choirs, and are the current professional Choir In Residence at the University of Toronto, Faculty of Music.
The Elmer Iseler Singers launched two new CD's in 1998: "The Maple Leaf Forever", recorded on the Opening Day label and Noël, which was released by Marquis Classics in conjunction with the Canadian Musical Heritage Society.
Highlights of the 1999-2000 season of The Elmer Iseler Singers included their performance at the installation of Madame Adrienne Clarkson as she was sworn in as Canada's new Governor General, two very successful tours - one to the Canadian midwest and one to the United States - and the most recent EIS recordings of choral music of the late Harry Somers and Louis Applebaum in commemorative albums.
This season is an ambitious one for The Elmer Iseler Singers. Highlights include a 24-concert circuit to the USA and hosting hosting the 24th annual conference of Chorus America June, 2001 in Toronto. |
