About the McMaster University Choir & Cantemus Vocal Ensemble
About the McMaster University Choir & Cantemus Vocal Ensemble
The McMaster University Choir & Cantemus Vocal Ensemble is made up of the McMaster University community, with a strong focus on academic and artistic excellence, musical development, and personal growth through collaboration. The McMaster University Choirs’ mission is to create choral music with artistry and integrity through choral repertoire study, technical facility, and creative collaboration. Directed by Melanie Tellez, the choirs consist of auditioned singers across campus who specialize in fields as diverse as Science Rehabilitation, Economics Policy, Engineering, Nursing, Music Cognition, Music Performance, and Mathematics & Statistics. Students are encouraged to take the choirs for credit (not compulsory). Cantemus Vocal Ensemble (formerly Women’s Choir) was the Winner of the 2015 National Competition for Canadian Amateur Choirs, organized by Choral Canada. The choirs have an active schedule of collaborative engagements throughout the year.
McMaster University Choirs are members of Choirs Ontario.
Featured performances
Salve Regina
Salve Regina
McMaster University Choir
Watch and listen as the McMaster University Choir under the Choral Direction of Melanie Tellez
Panta Rhei
Panta Rhei
McMaster University Cantemus Ensemble
Enjoy the choral experience as the McMaster University Cantemus Ensemble under the Choral Direction of Melanie Tellez
Perform with us
Auditions
Auditions
Auditions are now OPENED for new singers only! Returning singers, please fill out the form below; you will only be asked to audition if you request a change in vocal part, or if other concerns are raised.
Audition Protocols:
- Complete this form with your personal information, musical background, and interest in our ensembles.
- Once completed, use this link to schedule a 20-]minute audition slot with Prof. Tellez.
What to Expect:
- In this brief audition, you’ll sing a <1-minute long piece that best demonstrates your voice. This is encouraged to be a folk song, or something from classical or jazz repertoire. (Examples: Happy Birthday, O Canada,
- You’ll be asked to demonstrate your musical literacy by identifying concepts within a new piece of music, and asked to demonstrate ear training with sight-singing a small portion of the phrase.
- You’ll be asked to sing a range check to identify your vocal range.
That’s it! Questions regarding the auditions, rehearsals, and concerts can be directed to Melanie Tellez at tellezm@mcmaster.ca
Learn about registration and fees
Meeting time
University Choir Rehearsals: Tuesday 5:30 – 8:30pm
Cantemus Vocal Ensemble Rehearsals: Thursday 5:30 – 8:30pm
Room: TSH 118
