The new director for Choral Evolution plans to stick with the wide-open mix of musical styles that's worked so well in the past.
"We're going to continue with an eclectic selection of songs, from classical to rock and everything in between," Andre Clouthier explained. "I like to include songs that are challenging and fun to sing because that's a great way to grow as a choir."
Choral Evolution is busy preparing for its next concert in early December, which will have a winter on the Island theme, Clouthier noted.
"We're also starting to put together a theme and selections for a show in May," he said. "I feel being director with this wonderful group is a great opportunity and I'm looking forward to the year ahead."
Clouthier has worked as a professional singer, music director and voice teacher for most of his life. He has sung with choirs and folk groups, studied trumpet and guitar, and performed with Canadian Armed Forces bands in Victoria and Québec City.
His resume includes studying voice at the Conservatoire de Québec, performing in the Music Theatre program at the Banff School of Fine Arts, two years of private study with professor Kenneth L. Nielsen in Calgary, and two summers with the Music Theatre Program at the Banff School of Fine Arts.
Clouthier taught at the Music Theatre program at Sheridan University for six years, and was a member of the voice faculty at the Canadian College of Performing Arts in Oak Bay.
He has performed with the Canadian Opera Company Ensemble and numerous other Canadian and American opera companies and orchestras.
Choral Evolution is holding an audition Wednesday, Sept. 4 from 6:30 to 9:15 p.m. at Holy Trinity Anglican Church at 1962 Murray Rd. that's open to Sooke and West Shore singers.
Visit www.choralevolution.ca or email choralevolution@gmail.com to pre-register or for more details.