ENSEMBLES 2026

Saskatoon Children’s Choir

The Saskatoon Children’s Choir has developed an international reputation for artistic excellence, creative performances and for their commitment to humanitarian initiatives. Founded in 1996 by Director Emeritus Phoebe Voigts, the SCC has grown to be a family with over 120 choristers in four choirs ranging from ages seven to adult. The Concert Choir is the principal performing/recording/touring group of the Saskatoon Children’s Choir. Choristers in this advanced ensemble study a variety of choral works, with a particular emphasis on classic choral literature, world folk music, and Canadian compositions. Through an international repertoire, the choir draws attention to issues of global concern. Past performance/study projects include “For Sake of Life” (in support of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines), opera “Brundibár” (first performed in the Terezín concentration camp), “Still We Rise” and “Sing Africa!”(in support of the international fight against HIV/AIDS), “Welcome Home” and “Building Bridges” refugee fundraising and sponsorships and “Don’t Laugh At Me” project with an anti-bullying theme. The SCC has appeared on choral stages in Europe, Asia, the United States, South Africa, Ireland, Great Britain, and across Canada. In 2005, the SCC was chosen as a “Songbridge Choir” in Hong Kong. The choir collaborates frequently with other Canadian artistic ensembles. Recording credits include five compact discs, a DVD, and feature performances on national and international radio and television broadcasts. The choir is the recipient of the City of Vienna Award from the Summa Cum Laude Vienna Music Festival, the Elmer Iseler Award from the International Choral Kathaumixw, the Isabel Mills Choral Award, and the National Leslie Bell Award for Choir. They were awarded two second place awards at the prestigious International Eisteddfod in Wales, two gold medal placements at the European Choir Games in Magdeburg, and earned second place and fourth place standings at Musica Eterna Roma.

saskatoonchildrenschoir.org

Kerry Agnew

Artistic Director and Conductor

Kerry Agnew is a dynamic and innovative music educator, whose journey to choral music began at a young age, igniting a lifelong passion that has shaped her career. As the current Artistic Director of the Saskatoon Children’s Choir, Ms. Agnew continues to forge new paths for the SCC, balancing its legacy with rejuvenation as she molds her own way. Working with singers from the piano and the podium, Ms. Agnew has taught school music, conducted youth and adult choirs, coached voice and opera students, and directed musicals and operas. Ms. Agnew holds a Masters of Music, Artist Diploma in Performance, as well as a Bachelor of Education, and a Bachelor of Music. She has studied and performed across North America and Europe. Ms. Agnew has held positions with McGill University, the National Theatre School, École FACE, Marianopolis College, Saskatoon Public Schools, and the University of Saskatchewan. Ms. Agnew is known for her commitment to helping others grow in both musical and non-musical settings. In addition to many musical awards, she is a recipient of the Governor General's Medal for Volunteer Activism. Ms. Agnew’s ability to create musical experiences that are engaging, meaningful, and educational for her students and peers are central to the culture of the SCC. Ms. Agnew is well known for her commitment to excellence, her energy and enthusiasm, and her passion for creating rich artistic experiences.

Naomi Suchan

Conductor

Combining technical proficiency and generous musicality, collaborative pianist Naomi Piggott-Suchan is a sought-after colleague and vocal coach. Ms. Piggott-Suchan is a graduate of McGill University’s Master of Music, and has been an accompanist for McGill’s Voice Department, and a recitalist throughout the Montreal area. She received her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Saskatchewan, graduating with Great Distinction and was awarded the University’s medal in Fine Arts. Ms. Piggott-Suchan’s professional and educational opportunities have allowed her to travel to Italy, Austria and throughout North America. In 2023, Ms. Piggott-Suchan was awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for service in the Arts. In addition to her work with the Saskatoon Children’s Choir, Ms. Piggott-Suchan is also the Music Director at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. She regularly premieres new works, both in recital and as a regular performer at the Strata Festival of New Music. She is a certified pianist for the Royal Academy of Dance, adjudicator for the Saskatchewan Music Festival, and has accompanied at National Music Festival. Ms. Piggott-Suchan maintains a Royal Conservatory of Music studio in Saskatoon, where she lives with her husband, and their two children.

Competition Program

Additional Concerts Program