Phot via peterboroughsingers.com
The search for the next artistic director and conductor of the Peterborough Singers has landed on a Belleville native with an extremely impressive choral music background.
Shawn Grenke officially takes the helm of the 35-year-old choir on July 1st, filling the void that resulted when Syd Birrell retired back in December. Grenke is currently the director of music at Toronto’s Eglinton St. George’s United Church and the instructor of conducting at Brock University.
Grenke is thrilled to be named to the position, noting the performance of choral music provides a needed and welcome respite during uncertain times.
Grenke has some idea of what the Singers’ 2026-27 season will feature, noting the beloved Handel’s Messiah will return. That said, he’s hoping to foster a new choir focus on Canadian pieces.
Grenke says his goal is to build on the “wonderful” legacy that Birrell built.
Founded in 1990 by Birrell, the Peterborough Singers have performed more than 100 concerts to date.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
