The Toronto Children’s Chorus is a vibrant musical community that has been welcoming and nurturing young voices from the Greater Toronto Area for over 46 years.

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Under the artistic direction of internationally-acclaimed conductor Zimfira Poloz, the TCC presents a 2024-25 season that includes self-produced concerts, appearances with the TSYO, and other guest appearances.

TCC is made up of a series of Training choirs for children aged 6-12 and a Main Choir for children aged 12-18. The Chamber Choir, which forms the core of the Main Choir, regularly performs with the TSO and has performed internationally.

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TCC 2024-25 CONCERT SEASON

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Can You See Me?
Oct 26, 2024 at 3 pm, Metropolitan United Church

TCC Training Choirs (Miro, Spirito, Pasio, Anima, and Coro) take the stage with special guests from the Main Choir. The theme of the concert reflects on the desire of every child to be seen. The diverse program features both traditional and contemporary works.

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Songs of the Season with the Toronto Children’s Chorus
December 15, 2024 at 2 pm, Roy Thomson Hall  

There’s nothing like celebrating the spirit of the season with the sound of children’s voices in harmony. Special performances by emerging bass-baritone Owen Phillipson and renowned percussionist Jaime Drake add to what has become a beloved city tradition co-produced by the TCC and Roy Thomson Hall for over 30 years. All of the TCC choirs will be in performance. The program combines classic carols with Latvian works for treble choir by Ēriks Ešenvalds and Laura Jēkabsone. Prior to the concert, the audience can join the Choir in the Lobby for sing-along carols at 1:15 pm.

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Can You Hear Me?
May 4, 2025 at 3 pm, Meridian Arts Centre

Music transcends sound in this moving concert that will feature all TCC choirs. This performance weaves together beautiful melodies and sign language, creating a unique and inclusive musical experience. The children will use both their voices and hands to bring the music to life, expressing the power of connection through both sight and sound. The program features new works by Cristian Grases (Venezuela/USA), Jude Roldan (Philippines), and Tracy Wong (Malaysia/Canada).

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Can You Feel It?
June 21, 2025 at 3 pm, Eglinton-St. George’s United Church

Featuring TCC’s acclaimed international touring ensemble, The Chamber Choir, this concert will sparkle with vibrant sound and innovative arrangements, showcasing the extraordinary talent of these young musicians.

 

GUEST APPEARANCES

CF Winterville Tree Lighting
November 13, 2024 at the Eaton Centre

The annual tree-lighting at the Eaton Centre is made more festive by young voices in concert and leading a carol sing-along for all.

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High Spirits: Brahms, Borodin & Dvořǎk
November 24, 2024 at 3 pm, George Weston Recital Hall

TCC Chamber Choir joins the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra for this concert of exuberant and joyful music.

 

DR. ZIMFIRA POLOZ, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Dr. Zimfira Poloz is a passionate musician, educator, award-winning conductor, and internationally respected adjudicator and clinician. When working with young musicians, Zimfira believes that ‘brilliance has no age.’ By building the finest capabilities and encouraging superb artistry with boundless positive energy, she is able to unleash the creative and musical potential of every child. Dr. Poloz has been decorated with numerous awards, including Honoured Representative of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the city of Hamilton’s VIP Award, and the Leslie Bell Prize for Choral Conducting (Ontario Arts Council). She teaches “Vocal Pedagogy for Young Choirs” at the University of Toronto, Music Faculty, and represents Canada on many international choral organizations. 

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Zimfira established her musical credentials in Kazakhstan, where she served as founder and principal of the nation’s first choir school. Upon her arrival in Canada, Zimfira’s skill and passion was recognized by TCC’s founder Jean Ashworth-Bartle, who offered her a life changing opportunity. She then conducted at St. Michael’s Choir School, and eventually became the Artistic Director of Hamilton Children’s Choir and Young Voices Toronto. Now as the Artistic Director of TCC, Zimfira has come full circle and has returned to her home away from home.

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TORONTO CHILDREN’S CHORUS

The TCC was founded in 1978 by Jean Ashworth Bartle C.M., O.Ont. and subsequently led by Artistic Directors Elise Bradley, MNZM (2007-2021) and Dr. Zimfira Poloz (2022-present). It is recognized for the exceptional choral training and performance experiences it offers its choristers - training and experiences that inspire growth, teamwork, artistic excellence, and a lifelong passion for music.

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Throughout its illustrious history, the Chorus has graced world-renowned stages including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, the Sydney Opera House, Royal Albert Hall, and The Dom in Salzburg. As choral ambassadors, the TCC has represented Canada on 33 international tours and seven national tours, and earned accolades at several prestigious international competitions. The Chorus regularly collaborates with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, a partnership that celebrates the enduring connection and shared musical heritage between these two key institutions in the city's arts scene.