Reading Sessions

An important part of Elektra’s mandate is to encourage the creation of new works for classically-based adult treble choirs. Our Reading Sessions of New Compositions provide a constructive and informal setting for up to three Canadian composers in this interactive program.  Elektra’s Artistic Director, Cassie Luftspring, composer/pianist Dr. Stephen Smith, composer Katerina Gimon and the Elektra singers are part of the process of discovery and discussion, singing new music and new sounds. Observers are welcome to attend.

Benefits of this program include:

• pianist Dr. Stephen Smith, and Guest Composer Katerina Gimon
• hearing your composition/arrangement sung by a skilled adult treble choir alongside other new works by your peers
• discovering the range of sonic possibilities of adult treble choirs and considering them as a legitimate “instrument”
• discussing with all parties involved, including the singers, compositional issues of your piece as they arise, such as vocal range, word stress, divisi, and notation
• both choir and composer becoming more familiar with each other’s work
• the possibility of programming your piece on a future Elektra concert, however, this is not guaranteed nor the principal purpose of the Reading Session.
• receiving an audio file of the reading of your composition

Coming to beautiful Vancouver to participate in Elektra’s Reading Session of New Compositions was an unforgettable experience for me. Meeting these wonderful people and hearing beautiful music made me so happy.

The Elektra Reading Session is a golden opportunity for composers to test new ideas with a skilled ensemble in a supportive environment. This kind of experience is vital for improving our craft. Morna rehearsed each of our pieces with attention to detail and a passion for translating each composer’s intentions into the choir’s best expression. I would highly recommend this workshop to choral composers who want to improve their choral writing.

2016 participant, David Archer

Stephen Smith shares his thoughts about writing well for adult treble choir in these three videos

General thoughts: https://youtu.be/F3Q1RKnjvx0?si=hfXH7NkcM_nFtx_x

Range, Divisi, Texture: https://youtu.be/doNwRz5Rw1w?si=uUBLzKjBOtsMwpeQ

Text matters: https://youtu.be/GLwud8S810g?si=mSN0vy_7a9K-r1o2

Morna Edmundson and alumna Catherine Lee share tips for treble choir writing in this downloadable pdf

Contact Elektra for more information.  Complete this form to receive notice of all upcoming Elektra Reading Sessions.