City Soul Choir and Music Director, Brian Tate

The idea to launch the choir was officially hatched by Brian and his wife, Patricia, and a group of friends in January 2010. One month later, the choir had 120 auditioned singers.

The City Soul Choir is renowned for its joyful, energetic performances. It draws from the soulful songs of many traditions - R&B, spirituals, gospel, pop, world, folk, and more - music that uplifts, inspires, and transforms. The choir produces several concerts per year, and also sings at community outreach events. See upcoming concert information on the home page.
About the music director

An award-winning composer, as well as an accomplished and versatile musician, choir director, and educator, Brian attributes the success of his multifaceted career to a love of working with people and a passion for the arts.

Brian received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of British Columbia, and went on to further music studies in London, England, and Toronto. His love for music of many kinds has led to a diverse career that includes orchestral and choral conducting and performing, musical theatre, and composing music for film, television, stage, and the concert hall. Brian has twice received Vancouver's Jessie Richardson Award for original theatre music, and his choral music is performed worldwide.

As a vocalist, Brian performs with a jazz quartet (BTQ), and with Dawn Pemberton and Karla Mundy in the vocal a cappella trio, TriVo.

Brian is known for his lively choir workshops, precise conducting skills and ability to bring out the best in choirs, and for his exhilarating and inspiring choral compositions and arrangements. He is on the faculty of Studio 58, Langara College's professional theatre school. Brian is also a learning leader for the Next Institute, where he uses music, theatre, and cartooning as tools for organizational training.

Michael Creber, one of Vancouver's top pianists and an all-around swell guy, is the choir's resident accompanist.

Patti Powell, a well-loved CSC singer and great soloist, is an apprentice conductor with Brian and assists him in various ways. Patti also leads several of her own community choirs in Vancouver.
More info