For many, not pursuing professional singing after adolescent lessons likely marked the end of harmonizing with someone other than the radio — a void that a new group has made it their mission to fill.
Calgary Voices Collective held its first adult-only drop-in choir event on Jan. 17, and founder and creative director Roli Edema said the success of the inaugural session has piqued residents’ interest, and that it will not be the last.
“Since the launch, we are opening and building this very intentionally,” she said.
While the first session was free, Edema said that future bookings will require passes, with a one-time price of $30 and monthly or multi-passes ranging from $55 to $90. She said sessions will be planned based on participant demand and will likely take place on weeknights.
Healing Calgary’s hidden choral deficiency
Located in a studio along 5 Avenue NW in the community of Parkdale, Edema said it was her love of singing and her craving for community that planted the seed for the collective. What pushed her to do it, she said, was the lack of no-strings-attached clubs in the city.
“When I looked around Calgary, most of the choirs required auditions or long-term commitments, which can feel intimidating,” said Edema.
“I wanted to create something where people could just show up, sing, and feel connected, whether they sing in the shower or on stage.”
People from all backgrounds and levels of experience are welcome to attend, as she said, the focus is not on performance or perfection but on simply enjoying music and feeling connected to others.
Edema said that groups built on this philosophy are almost never catered to adults. She said that wholesome activities are seen as desirable by many, but the market for them is still fairly unexplored.
“I think a lot of adults in Calgary are looking for ways to meet others that don’t revolve around networking or nightlife,” said Edema.
“Singing together naturally breaks down these barriers.”
Nothing but a good time, participants say
Jericho Jingco said he was browsing Eventbrite when he saw an advertisement for a Calgary Voices Collective session. As a creative mind who shamelessly sings in his car and frequents karaoke bars, he decided to check it out — and is glad he did.
“The biggest takeaway for me is just being able to be in a shared space full of passionate people,” he said.
“It was a great time for me. I just love how everyone was so relaxed about it, and even the teacher did a good job of making us settle in.”
Like Edema, Jingco said that this is something he’s always longed for, and that he is grateful it exists. For contemplating attendees, he advised not to let your skill level stop you from picking up a new hobby.
“The unique part about it is that I’m able to just go in there without any expectations and pressure,” said Jingco.
“Anyone can just join this group, and that’s what’s amazing about it.”
