The Haldimand Choralairs Choir, Caledonia

"If you are too busy to sing, you are too busy!"
In 1963, a group of 18 women were brought together by Margaret Van Loon, and Agnes Small under musical direction of Mr. In January 1964 more women joined and they became known as The Choralairs. In 1967 these ladies joined with the Caledonia Men’s Glee Club, also directed by Mr. George Shippey, to become a four part community choir with 35 members c

alling themselves The Choralairs. At the later date this choir became known officially as The Haldimand Choralairs. In 1994 George Shippey’s untimely death left a vacancy within the group. As an interim director Clyde Cope filled in until a new full time director was found. Geoffrey Bullivant filled this position. Bullivant continued to direct the Choralairs until 2010. Once again a search ensued to fill the position of musical director ultimately choosing Dr. Stillman Matheson who continued to direct the Choralairs. Also, at this time an assistant director by name of Svetlana Kopeleva was chosen. Throughout the years, the Choralairs have attracted many members who have enjoyed the opportunity to participate in this community choir, and last year in 2014 they celebrated their 50th Anniversary. Past history saw the Choralairs perform on CHCH TV (now CH TV) in Hamilton, across Canada during Expo’67 in Montreal, Expo’86 in Vancouver, and proudly opened the Canada Day Millennium celebration on Parliament Hill in Ottawa singing “ O Canada”. Further afield the choir sang in San Antonio, Texas and competed and placed proudly in a chorus competition in Llangollen, Wales. They have made several recordings, tapes and a CD as well. The Choralairs hold their own spring and Christmas concerts in addition to pairing with local churches and organizations to fundraise. In addition to these concerts, performances have been held at local nursing homes, and community clubs such as the Lions and Kinsmen. The Choralairs motto is “ if you are too busy to sing, you’re too busy.”
The choir continues to meet every Tuesday evening at the George Shippey Music Centre in Haldimand. Members are proud to be “ambassadors” of Haldimand promoting goodwill and fellowship through music, and affordable entertainment for all ages. If you are interested in booking the choir to perform at a fundraising event or any special occasion, please call Pamela at 905-776-5762.