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By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

april 14 & may 5

Red Deer Symphony Orchestra partnering with Choir Kids program for two shows

Apr 8, 2025 | 10:44 AM

The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra is set to put on two special shows through its Choir Kids program, now in its 26th year.

Choir Kids is composed of elementary school choirs around Red Deer and central Alberta from school divisions includong Chinook’s Edge, Red Deer Public, Red Deer Catholic, and Wolf Creek, plus Southside Christian.

It was created in 1998 by then and current RDSO music director Claude Lapalme.

This year’s two shows will take place, April 14 and May 5, in the evening, at Gaetz Memorial United Church.

“There’s nothing quite like this,” said Kati Ramsden, Vice Principal of Red Deer Public’s Mattie McCullough Elementary. “For our students, it’s an incredible opportunity to have a professional orchestra bring their music to life. They are beyond excited.”

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For months now, student have been preparing with music arranged by Lapalme.

“For students, this experience goes beyond singing – it builds confidence, teamwork, and an appreciation for orchestral music,” adds Ramsden.

“Performing with a live symphony allows them to develop discipline, stage presence, and musicality in a way that few young singers get to experience. It’s an enriching opportunity that can inspire a lifelong love of music.”

Further, she calls it a win-win for the community.

“We are fortunate to have a symphony orchestra in a city our size,” Ramsden says. “This is a fantastic outreach event, bringing orchestral music to families who might not otherwise attend a concert. It’s a wonderful way to connect and celebrate the arts together.”

This year’s Choir Kids program is generously funded by the Lacey family and Joan Donald.

Tickets are available online at rdso.ca.

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