The Bach Elgar Choir is Hamilton's renowned concert choir and a leader in Canadian choral music.
The Bach Elgar Choir and the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra come together for two performances of Handel’s monumental work Messiah. From the soft beauty of the opening notes to the resounding joy of the Hallelujah Chorus, this performance promises to uplift and delight audiences during the festive season.
Our History
Founded in 1905 by Bruce Carey as The Elgar Choir, the ensemble quickly gained an excellent reputation, touring extensively and appearing with orchestras across the region, including the Cleveland Symphony. Following World War II, the choir merged with the Hamilton Bach Choir in 1946. As one of the longest running arts organizations in Canada, the BEC has a unique place in Hamilton’s social history, with generations of singers in its ranks. Its many musical accomplishments include the North American premiere of Verdi’s Requiem, lauded performances of masterpieces such as Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius and Mahler’s Symphony 2, and numerous commissions and dedications by Canadian composers like Nathanial Dett, Ruth Watson Henderson, and Matthew Emery. Today, the Bach Elgar Choir remains dedicated to bringing beautiful music to all members of our community. Its productions are among the most essential musical events in Hamilton.
Do you like to sing? Sing with us! The Bach Elgar Choir holds annual auditions of singers for all sections of the choir. We are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic people to join our organization for a rare opportunity to perform some of the greatest choral music ever written. Help us present both exciting and artistically fulfilling concerts, as we have done for more than a century.
