Singing Week - A Brief History

Every other summer choirs from around the world meet on the edge of British Columbia's coastal wilderness in the town of Powell River to share their music and love of singing. The International Choral Kathaumixw Festival has become known worldwide for its friendly musical atmosphere and setting. The festival features international concerts, choral and vocal solo competitions, common song singing, conductors seminars, concert tour program and social events. Orchestras, Choirs in Residence and international soloists join the many participating choirs in an exciting week of music making. Kathaumixw (pronounced Ka-thou-mew) is the local Coast Salish First Nation word meaning: "a gathering of different peoples.

Kathaumixw grew from a desire to establish an international choral festival in North America similar to ones experienced by Don James and the Academy Choirs while touring in Europe. Unsuccessful in finding such a festival in North America for his choirs to attend, Don James proposed to his friend Dal Matterson that a festival be established in the beautiful coastal town of Powell River. Mr. James, Mr. Matterson and some close friends successfully launched and the first International Choral Kathaumixw in 1984.

Since that time, the International Choral Kathaumixw has taken place every two years. Approximately 1200 singers gather from around the globe to share their music, customs, language, and culture. (See the list of choirs attending previous festivals).

From its inception, the International Choral Kathaumixw has commissioned several works including staged choral works by Canadian and foreign composers. The festival also features Artists in Residence, internationally renowned soloists, orchestras and a distinguished international jury.

A key component to the success of Kathaumixw is the many volunteers. The citizens of Powell River generously open their homes to the overseas visitors and volunteer their time during the festival.

Powell River is located on the top of the sunshine coast, about 80 air miles north of Vancouver. It nestles against the shores of Georgia strait, which separates the province's mainland from Vancouver Island and the Pacific Ocean. The rugged Coastal Mountains provide a scenic backdrop to this community of 20,000. Many of the choirs arrive by coach and ferry boats from Vancouver traveling through breath-taking scenery. The citizens of this small community have gained tremendous pride in hosting the International Choral Kathaumixw and are pleased to have Powell River recognized world-wide for its choral activity.