Nelson Choral Singers

Welcome to the Nelson Choral Singers

The Nelson Choral Singers has been a beloved part of Nelson’s music community for many years. We are a large, non-audition choir that presents concerts twice a year—at Christmas and in the spring.

Our repertoire spans a wide variety of music, both secular and sacred, and we welcome anyone who loves to sing to join us.

We also enjoy collaborating with other choirs in the area, inviting them to share the stage in our concerts. These partnerships not only delight our audiences with diverse performances and styles but also provide opportunities and a platform for smaller choirs to showcase their repertoire.

Little Jazz

A jazzy Latin Mass? The Nelson Choral Singers are pushing musical boundaries with their upcoming choral concert.

The program features “A Little Jazz Mass” — a swinging, toe-tapping mix of sacred and jazz composed by renowned and prolific British choral composer Bob Chilcott. First performed in New Orleans 20 years ago, it has been enthusiastically embraced and recorded by leading choirs around the world.

The movements range from upbeat and funky to reflective, harmonic and slow. Other selections include traditional spirituals and choral arrangements of songs the audience will be familiar with, such as Carly Simon’s "Let the River Run’, the Beatles “Yesterday” and "Down in the River to Pray" from the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou. Another highlight is “Ad Astra” (“To the Stars”) — a work by Jacob Narverud that radiates energy, hope and empowerment. “To the stars through difficulties, look upwards, move forwards, leave all cares behind.”

The 55-member choir is directed by Kathleen Neudorf, with musical guests Carlisle Beresford on piano, Steven Parish on drums and Rob Fahie on bass.

Two performances at the Nelson United Church: Saturday May 3rd at 7:30 pm and Sunday May 4th at 2 pm. Tickets will be available at Otter Books and at the door (cash only please): $20 for regular seating, $15 for the balcony, half price for children 12 and under.

Scroll down for older concert recordings

Rehearsals / Registration

Welcome to our Spring 2025 session!

We’re excited to invite you to join us and help spread the word about this season’s work: Little Jazz Mass by Bob Chilcott—an uplifting and celebratory piece!

Rehearsals will take place:

Wednesdays, 7 PM to 9 PM
Location: Nelson United Church (602 Silica Street).
Please use the rear entrance—the door with the ramp leading up to it.
Start Date: Wednesday, January 22th, 2025

Register here (link to register)

Have questions? Contact Vivien at 250-825-4392.

About NCS

We are a mixed SATB choir of approximately 60 voices. Previous musical experience including the ability to read music would be helpful, but is not required. You will be guided through our program of music under the sure hand of director Kathleen Neudorf, and your fellow choristers.

Covid

Click here to read more about covid

Costs

Costs are $120 per season/concert.

Executive Committee

President:
Vice-President:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Director:
Accompanist:

Vivien Bowers
Heather Dean
Monique van Gendt
Pat Hendrickson
Kathleen Neudorf
Carlisle Beresford

Director: Kathleen Neudorf

Kathleen Neudorf is a highly respected choral conductor, celebrated for her warm leadership style, engaging sense of humor, and deep commitment to community music. She has been the director of the Nelson Choral Society (NCS) since 2004, where she has built a strong, inclusive community of singers, fostering a welcoming environment that encourages musical growth and camaraderie. Under her guidance, NCS has become a significant part of the cultural life in Nelson, British Columbia.

In addition to her work with NCS, Kathleen has made significant contributions to several other choirs in the region. She directed SongCore, a children’s choir where she nurtured the musical development of young singers emphasizing fun and the joy of making music together. Kathleen was also the artistic director of the Cottonwood Singers, a chamber music choir known for its rich vocal harmonies and expressive performances. Additionally, Kathleen leads the Inspirare Women's Choir, an ensemble that celebrates the unique voices and perspectives of women. The choir's performances often include a diverse range of styles, and Kathleen’s passion for varied choral repertoires has helped the group develop a distinctive sound.

Kathleen’s work extends beyond the choirs she directs; she is a passionate advocate for the power of community choirs and the role of music in bringing people together. Her leadership is defined by a balance of musical expertise and personal warmth, creating a space where singers can feel both challenged and supported. Through her efforts, Kathleen has made an indelible impact on the local music scene, inspiring a love for choral music across all age groups and levels of experience.