After 177 Years, We Know How to Handel the Tough Times

In this time of uncertainty, we all know there is no crystal ball that can show us our future, but we can look back and reminisce about our past.

The Toronto Choral Society (TCS) has an illustrious history spanning a remarkable 177 years. We have survived two world wars, plagues and pandemics, and come through stronger than ever. Blessed with a loyal member base, we have thrived and grown over the years to become an integral part of Toronto’s choral music scene today.

Since it’s beginning in 1845, TCS been an important part of Toronto’s history. In 1861, the TCS performed at the launch of the TTC’s first streetcar line. In 1872, more than 130 years after it was written, the TCS treated audiences to the city’s debut of Handel’s Messiah. In 1894, the TCS performed at the grand opening of Massey Hall, one of Toronto’s most beloved concert venues.

In more recent times, we have performed at many other prestigious venues including Roy Thomson Hall, Copps Coliseum, The Lincoln Centre, and Koerner Hall at the TELUS Centre. 

Geoffrey Butler, our Artistic Director, and our accompanist, William O’Meara, have been with the TCS for 28 years. Under his guidance, Geoffrey has expanded the choir in many directions, performing a rich and challenging variety of sacred, secular, and popular vocal compositions from around the world, a direct reflection of the diversity of our great city. Performing a minimum of three concerts a year, our choral repertoire, ranging from Bach to the Beatles, has been impressive. 

During the pandemic, the TCS has continued to rehearse, adapting our format as regulations and safety protocols evolved. Some rehearsals were conducted via Zoom, others in-person while physically distanced and masked. Check out the virtual videos that TCS performed during the pandemic or visit the TCS YouTube page.

These are by no means ideal conditions, but it just goes to show our 150 members’ allegiance to this passionate artistic society. With the easing of pandemic restrictions, we look forward to entertaining our audiences with the same high standard of vocal excellence for which we are known.

If you are interested in learning more about the Toronto Choral Society, or would like to join TCS, please visit our Become A Member section of the site.