2018-19 • A Golden Anniversary Season

It’s hard to believe it was 50 years ago: In 1968, the young Annegret Wright and others felt it was time to create a Toronto institution which specialized in Baroque and Renaissance music. In this new “Toronto Chamber Society,” membership would include choral singers, soloists, instrumentalists, and anyone else who supported what we now call historical performance. Among the Society’s goals was the presentation of works by J.S. Bach but also works of little-known composers such as Annegret’s seventeenth-century German favourites Schütz, Schein, and Scheidt. The suggested annual donation for members was set at $3.00!

Though cancer cut her life too short, I think Annegret would be pleased to know that her Society produced a brilliant choir that is still making its voice heard half a century after its launch. Her great work was carried forward by subsequent music directors John Barron, Lorna Lutz-Heyge, David Fallis, and Mark Vuorinen. It is with a deep sense of honour that I now carry the torch as the TCC’s Artistic Director, and wish to see this choir thrive for decades into the future.

Our season theme Music & Friendship celebrates the two greatest assets which have sustained the TCC over the decades.

First, the music. So much deep satisfaction and fun come from engaging with the early repertoire Annegret Wright loved so much. It’s not surprising that the TCC has remained true to its mandate. In a review of the TCC’s 25th anniversary concert, the noted music critic William Littler wrote, “They still sing, as they did in their early years, as if enjoyment were their reward.” He could say the same now after yet another 25 years!

Second, the friendship: music, especially choral singing, has a magical power to inspire camaraderie and generate a sense of community. Indeed, the TCC’s longevity owes a great deal to the hundreds of friendships it has nurtured over many years. Our anniversary year gives us a perfect opportunity to celebrate our extended “family” even as we continue to expand it.

Warmly, Lucas Harris
Artistic Director

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