For five decades, the Cellar Singers have been enriching the cultural life of Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka through traditional as well as contemporary repertoire, setting a high musical standard unique in the area. By regularly commissioning and performing new works, the choir continues to support Canadian music.
The choir had its beginnings in 1968 as a small group of music lovers rehearsing in the basement of Dr. William Monk’s home in Bracebridge, Ontario, hence our name, the Cellar Singers.
In 1977, Albert Greer, renowned choral conductor, teacher and tenor soloist, became Artistic Director. With his retirement in 2012, the incredibly talented Mitchell Pady, our current Artistic Director, took up the baton.
As a regional choir, the Cellar Singers have been finalists in the CBC choral competition, have performed at the Elora Festival, the Toronto International Choral Festival, the Guelph Spring Festival, the Muskoka Lakes Festival and have played a major role in CBC Canada Day extravaganza from Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
The Cellar Singers have also distinguished themselves on two international tours, performing in England, Scotland, Wales, The Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Austria. Two dedicated Christmas CDs and one compilation CD, Say It With Music, document the choirs virtuosity and musicianship.
Dr. Monk, the founder of the Cellar Singers, with Artistic Director Mitchell Pady