Upper Canada Chorus: Canada’s preeminent choral experience for youth
An extraordinary experience for elite singers, UCC is the destination for some of the finest young musicians in our city for OVER 25 YEARS!
Who Is UCC?
With choral programs, private and group lessons, and integrated arts programming for all ages offered across the GTA every night of the week, and on Saturdays too, Upper Canada Chorus is now the largest organization of its kind in Canada. Each year thousands of students experience the impact of arts education through Upper Canada Chorus programs; we have set a global benchmark for arts education among youth. Our programs are designed to cultivate the unique potential of every individual, unlocking life skills – like confidence, discipline and leadership – that carry far beyond the musical realm, affecting every aspect of academic and social development.
From our flagship choral program – The Upper Canada Chorus – to regional event-based choral experiences, to private and group lessons and more, we offer unparalleled arts experiences for every stage of growth.
Private Lessons
Voice, Piano and Violin lessons at our studio in the historic Heintzman House,Thornhill.
Upper Canada Conservatory
UCC has permanent residence in the historic Heintzman House in Thornhill. Both the environment and teaching staff are unparalleled in York Region, providing a true regional alternative to the Royal Conservatory in downtown Toronto.
First Chirp (JK & SK)
Our Internationally Acclaimed Music Discovery program for preschoolers (and their parents).>
Shaped by experience!
Amazing things happen when students choose a path of exploration and discovery. First Chirp is a dynamic exploration of music for students in JK & SK, offered in themed sessions designed to unlock a passion for the arts at an early age. There is no audition required. A parent (or suitable alternative) must attend class with their child.
Preparatory Choir (Gr. 1-4)
Come explore the transformational power of music! Preparation for choir.. and life!.
Sing with us!
Whether your goal is to sing in the Upper Canada Chorus, or to gain a musical foundation for life, we welcome you to explore our dynamic preparatory program. No audition is required for registration in our preparatory choir. We meet all students where they are and encourage them as they progress along their musical journey.
UCC (Grades 5-12)
Our flagship choral program for elite musicians in the heart of York Region.
A flagship choral experience.
Since we began in 1997, the Upper Canada Chorus has impacted tens of thousands of students in York Region and beyond with the transformational power of music. As we return to in-person rehearsals in a post-Covid era, we are excited to re-build our foundation with just 20 students in each of grades 5-8 and 9-12. Admission is by audition only.
What We Do, And How…
We believe in the extraordinary capacity of each individual to adapt and learn, and to approach the world with an almost magical sense of wonder and discovery. It is this innate human spirit that launches young people on a quest to acquire language, to fascinate over the simple movements of nature, and to explore the natural sounds and rhythms all around us.
At UCC, we use the most compelling attributes of live arts to create inspiration for young people and their audiences. We do it by focusing on 3 core educative principals. They are:
The Atmosphere of Environment
A positive, nurturing environment certainly includes the aesthetic surroundings, but also refers to the strong sense of community we believe is necessary for young artists to grow.
The Discipline of Habit
Blending both knowledge and action perfectly, experience in the arts prepares students for success in life. We encourage and cultivate the habitual behaviours of confidence and leadership.
The presentation of LIVING IDEAS
We believe arts education should be presented in such a way that it causes students to engage with the world and people around them. Education in the arts prepares students for a life of leadership.
“What a truly amazing organization with a unique capability to motivate young artists with the power of music.”
“It is a joy and a blessing to work with such a group of amazing young people. This organization has it all together.”
“Without a doubt, this is one of the greatest gems we have in the Canadian artistic community.”
“Extraordinary! Every child should have this experience.”
“The staff and faculty at Opus Alive have a remarkable capacity to impact young artists.”
“Having the opportunity to hear the impeccable blend and tone of these children brought the magic of this music to even greater heights.”
Upper Canada Chorus : Canada’s #1 Destination for Arts Education
With over 3,000 registrants across the GTA, UCC is the most acclaimed arts education community in the country.