"The very beginnings of Musica Orbium are characteristic of its unique existence. Having been asked by the local centre of the Royal Canadian College of Organists to provide a choir for two events (one local, the other international), I was then approached by the singers involved. They had all enjoyed the experience of performing challenging repertoire with other gifted musicians, prepared in a finite number of rehearsals. And so began 10 happy years of choral concerts.

The choir continues to show this level of ability, commitment and enthusiasm. Two months of weekly rehearsals regularly produce very skilful presentations of works as varied as the Six Motets of Bach or the Symphony of Psalms of Igor Stravinsky. The choir's musical curiosity is high, and its dedication to professional standards is exemplary. Each singer takes the job of learning notes very seriously, the understanding being that we begin to work on the music and its stylish performance from the very first rehearsal.

It has been a delight to note the appreciation (indeed, sometimes the astonishment in comparison with other local choirs) of the orchestral conductors who have engaged us - Musica Orbium prides itself on the highest standards of musicality and deportment. The fact that we have a regular waiting list of singers wishing to join us is testament to the pleasure the ensemble brings to its members. I genuinely believe that Musica Orbium has been a very positive influence in a city and province where the general standards of choral singing have risen steadily during the 10 years of our existence. I believe that this level of achievement can only grow in our future, and I feel privileged to conduct such a fine group of singers, both paid and unpaid."