Toronto Welsh Male Voice Choir (TWMVC)

he Toronto Welsh Male Voice Choir (TWMVC) was established in 1995 when its founding member and first president, Gwyn Roberts, gathered together a group of like-minded individuals of Welsh heritage sought to kindle the spirit of traditional Welsh male voice singing in their adopted country. Ably assisted by, now emeritus, music director David Low, the founding members saw their numbers grow to a membership of sixty choristers. the choir continues to grow musically under the direction of William Woloschuk and his principal accompanist Matthew Coons. Although many of the current members still lay claim to Welsh connections, the TWMVC now has members from a variety of ethnic backgrounds.

The TWMVC proudly draws on the great Welsh tradition of singing hymns and songs born of the mountains and valleys of Wales. At the same time it emphasizes a multicultural context in its broad repertoire which also includes spirituals; operatic arias, Canadian folk songs as well as Broadway show tunes and contemporary music. Our blend of traditional and contemporary music, all sung off book in accordance with tradition, appeals to a broad audience.

From its inception, the Choir has performed in churches, cathedrals and concert halls throughout Ontario, Quebec and New York State. It was invited in June 2001, to sing at Roy Thomson Hall as part of the 2008 Toronto Olympic Bid Festival. The Choir was honoured with a finalist’s position in the 1998 CBC Choral Competition. In August 2002 the choir embarked on a highly successful tour of Wales. During July 2005 they toured the Maritimes where they performed five concerts to a very appreciative audiences in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. In September 2008, the choir was honoured to be invited to take part in a combined choir of 400 voices at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City. The soloist of the evening was Bryn Terfel, the renowned Welsh Opera star. The choir was also privileged to perform “Nidaros” by Daniel Prothereo, during the evenings performance. In 2010 the choir had a very successful tour of the Canadian Rockies.

The TWMVC is proud to have the world-renowned Welsh bass-baritone, Bryn Terfel, as its honorary patron. Shortly after its inception the Choir enjoyed the much-valued patronage of the Jean Rich Foundation. The Choir is proud of its accomplishments and seeks to continue to grow by attracting new members and supporters.