The Renanim Youth Singers

The Renanim Youth Singers is a non-profit, Jewish community youth choir that has won numerous awards for excellence over its eight year history. Considered to be 'The Musical Voice of Jewish Youth', the choir represents the full spectrum of Judaic pluralism, yet the choristers speak as one unified voice when they musically represent their peers at functions throughout Toronto. In fact enhancing community programming is an integral part of the choir's mandate and high school students earn community service hours at these functions. Acceptance into this prestigious ensemble is based on a successful audition. Choristers may start as young as grade 4 and continue to the end of grade 12.

Our Philosophy

Associated with excellence, choristers develop a passion for creating music as they learn repertoire, proper vocalization techniques, music vernacular, musical literacy and expression. Through the rigorous demands of practice and rehearsal, choristers develop personal discipline, maturity and focus in other aspects of life. Although scientific studies (McMaster University) have conclusively proven music's ability to enhance the intellect, improving math and English scores, the goals of The Renanim Youth Singers are much loftier.

As the connective channel between emotional and intellectual communication, the choir teaches individuals how to listen while simultaneously interacting in musical dialogue. Public performance builds confidence even as one is humbled by the depth and beauty of the repertoire. Singing builds leadership skills, as it insists on blend and sensitivity for the benefit of the whole. The choir demands discipline and hard work, yet it is a lot of fun as it develops artistry and creativity. In addition, emotional engagement of the music helps bring out the best in people, encouraging life long bonds of friendship and the importance of community service.

Choristers take pride in belonging to The Renanim Youth Singers as they musically tap into their inner soul, (neshama) developing a positive sense of Jewish identity and culture. Indeed, the joy of performing in a Judaic choral ensemble is considered by many to be an emotional bridge to Jewish continuity. Anecdotal evidence suggests there is a connection between the artistic demands of self betterment and the desire to channel that positive spirit (ruach) into making this world a better place (Tikkun Olam).

Our Mandate

  • To develop a positive sense of Jewish identity as choristers gain knowledge and insight into their rich, musical heritage.
  • To develop a pluralistic, Jewish community youth choir, where membership is a source of pride.
  • To develop a love of music as choristers learn proper vocalization, expression, music vernacular, musical literacy and ear training.
  • To give choristers the opportunity to explore and develop their voices in a non-threatening, musical environment.
  • To introduce students to all types of repertoire: Jewish and non-Jewish, Popular, Broadway, Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Classical styles.
  • To give choristers a positive medium for their own personal expression, as the choir blends into one, unified Jewish voice.
  • To give students the opportunity to become involved in community and to learn of its essentiality to Jews everywhere.
  • To give Jewish students the opportunity to socialize with other musically minded choristers.