Our Story
Over its 50 year history, the Hamilton Children’s Choir has seen thousands of children and youth participate in the choir, performing and traveling around the world.
The Hamilton Children’s Choir (HCC) has been inspiring young voices for over 50 years, cultivating not only a love for choral music but also a legacy of excellence and inclusivity. Since its founding in 1975 by Donald Kendrick, organist of Christ’s Church Cathedral, the choir has grown from a local ensemble into a world-renowned institution, celebrated for its artistry and innovation.
Throughout its rich history, HCC has offered thousands of children and youth the opportunity to perform both locally and globally, elevating the choir to new heights with each director’s unique vision. Under the baton of John Laing (1978–1985), the choir expanded its artistic reach, performing with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra and appearing on CHCH television in prestigious collaborations with maestro Boris Brott.
David Davis, Artistic Director from 1985 to 2002, led the choir into the national spotlight. Choristers performed alongside the Hamilton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, the Bach Elgar Choir, and even shared the stage with Celine Dion at the 1999 Juno Awards. Davis’s tenure also saw the choir touring internationally and producing acclaimed recordings that showcased their evolving talent and professional polish.
In 2003, HCC entered a transformative era with the appointment of Zimfira Poloz. Her extraordinary vision infused the choir with a renewed passion for choral excellence. Under her leadership, the choir embarked on over 10 international tours, captured top honours in five international competitions, and captivated audiences with their unmatched skill and heart.
Today, Artistic Director Melanie Tellez carries forward this tradition, embracing HCC’s commitment to artistry and accessibility. Since her appointment in 2022, Tellez has led the choir to new achievements, including a triumphant first-place win in the Children’s Folksong class at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales. Her vision for HCC focuses not only on continued artistic growth but also on broadening access to music education, providing free programs, and offering summer camps that welcome children from all backgrounds.
Hamilton Children’s Choir is more than a choir; it’s a community where young voices find a place to belong and grow. By moving beyond a traditional audition-only model, HCC has flourished with six progressive ensembles, expanding enrollment from 80 to over 200 singers. Their inclusive approach has not only diversified the choir but also underscored their commitment to equity and artistic excellence. As one of the most sought-after children’s choirs on both local and international stages, HCC stands as a beacon of what a passionate, inclusive choral community can achieve—showing that the transformative power of music truly knows no boundaries.
