About

The Newcomer Choir Association – Canada is a federally registered not-for-profit agency, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, and operated by a team of musicians, educators, and settlement workers.

Founded in Halifax, Nova Scotia in November 2021, we now offer several groups across Nova Scotia, and are growing across the country.

We are funded by grants, donations, sponsorships, and payment for performances. We are grateful for donations provided by the community.

We provide space to build community for newcomers in a joyful setting where they can practice their English and meet locals.

Check out the Halifax Newcomer Choir in our upcoming concert with Scotia Brass: Thursday, April 24, 7pm at Knox United Church in Lower Sackville, NS. Free will offering at the door.

“I can sing beautiful songs and make new friends and improve my English. Best of all, the teachers are so kind, so friendly.” – Halifax Newcomer Choir singer

“This project is so important for us. For [those] who like to sing, it is amazing. I think my best day in the week, is on Tuesday.” – Halifax Newcomer Choir singer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Halifax Newcomer Choir strives to be a welcoming, barrier-free space where immigrants, refugees, newcomers, locals, and their families can be welcomed.
If you don’t see the answer to your question here, contact us by email at newcomerchoirhfx@gmail.com.

“There is nothing I love more than singing in the Halifax Newcomer Choir! As a Canadian English speaker, I enjoy learning about different cultures, and the experiences of new Canadians. The songs are so much fun, and I especially enjoy our performances. Rachel creates a wonderful learning environment for all! I could not think of a better way to spend my Tuesday evenings!

-Halifax Newcomer Choir Member, and Canadian musician

I’m not musical/I’ve never sung before/I’ve never sung in choir. Is that a problem?

Not at all! You’re in the right place. Most of our members had not sung at all before coming to choir. We teach musical technique and skills, as well as English language strategies. All levels of skill are welcome.

I’m an experienced choral singer, used to singing high level, SATB music. Is this a good choir for me?

It might be, but we might be a bit different than what you are used to. We do not sing in four-part harmony, and generally we do not sing with scores (sheet music). We learn most pieces orally, using call and response techniques. Occasionally we use a score to practice reading music. We are still learning how to sing in rounds or with more than one part.

But, if you are open to helping newcomers learn English, and you are willing to be patient in rehearsal this could be a good fit.

I don’t speak English. Can I come?

Yes! You are welcome. We will help you. We have an English teacher, and a music teacher. It is very welcoming.

I am new to Halifax, but I am not an immigrant. I moved from another city/province in Canada. Can I come?

Yes! Everyone can come. We are called the Halifax Newcomer Choir, but we encourage locals, and newcomers from other parts of Canada to come also. No one is turned away.

The logo for the Newcomer Choir Association – Canada was generously designed for us by Adam Bali of Yellow Sticker