Canada’s International Choral Festival is returning for its 46th season. From July 11 to 27, 2025, music lovers can enjoy three weeks of world-class vocal performances and guest artists in the charming villages of Elora and Fergus.
The festival will offer more than 20 concerts in stunning locations. These include the Festival’s main venue, the Gambrel Barn, the Fieldstone Barn, cozy local churches, and the scenic Sandy Hills Regional Forest, where audiences can experience the unique Music in the Woods event.
“This summer’s festival features a remarkable lineup of concerts and musical experiences,” said Evangeline Drost, Festival Marketing Coordinator. “We will host acclaimed international artists, talented soloists, and famous vocal groups. Highlights include performances by Jeremy Dutcher, Chanticleer, The Gesualdo Six, and Junges Vokalensemble Hannover.”
The Elora Singers, the festival’s ensemble-in-residence led by Artistic Director Mark Vuorinen, will perform in many concerts. These include the Opening Night Gala, the Festival Finale, and a special Indo-fusion collaboration with Autorickshaw and the Penderecki String Quartet.
Drost added, “The Elora Singers will also appear in immersive concerts, such as those held at the Fieldstone Barn and the returning Music in the Woods event.”
The Opening Night Gala at the Gambrel Barn will showcase works by Mozart. It will feature pieces from his famous opera Idomeneo and the Piano Concerto in A Major, K.488. South Korean-Canadian pianist Chelsea Ahn will perform the concerto’s well-loved Adagio movement.
The evening will conclude with Mozart’s powerful Mass in C Minor, K.427, often called the “Great Mass.” Composed in 1783, this monumental work highlights Mozart’s skill in sacred music, with dramatic arias, complex fugues, and deeply spiritual moments.
In addition to large concerts, the festival will present intimate chamber music performances. Special guests include cellist Elinor Frey, pianist and vocalist Rachel Fenlon, pianist Janina Fialkowska, the klezmer-chamber ensemble Schmaltz & Pepper, and a collaboration between organist Andrew Henderson and saxophonist Paul Cohen.
“We haven’t forgotten families,” Drost assured. “There will be fun family events like the Elora Festival Barn Dance with the Barrel Boys on July 27 and a family-friendly concert featuring Shoestring Opera on July 12. These are perfect opportunities to introduce children to music.”
Tickets start at $20 plus fees for adults and $10 for children. They can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 519-846-0331.
“There is something for everyone at this summer’s Elora Festival,” Drost concluded. “From intimate chamber concerts to immersive musical experiences, special venues, and family events — all set in the beautiful villages of Elora and Fergus.”
