African Choir & Drum Circle: Fall 2026 Season

Please read the instructions before choosing your ticket option(s).

Join us for a season of African-inspired community music-making. Rehearsals take place 2-3 times per month on Sunday evenings, with flexibility for those with busy schedules or who prefer to study on their own using the provided digital audio and sheet music. Whether you are an experienced singer, a curious drummer, or trying something new, there is a place for you. We even have a few dedicated drum circle events for those who want to explore rhythm more deeply. Build confidence, meet new people, and experience the power of making music together in community.

This is our third-ever season, which has shown how much a program like this is needed in our city. One story that stands out is Chuka’s. A newcomer to Edmonton from Nigeria, Chuka had been in Canada for less than a year when he joined our sessions. He previously sang with the Lagos City Chorale and saw our sessions as the perfect way to build community and friendships through music.

📍 Locations

Sessions alternate between two consistent venues:

• Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre - 8426 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton
• Journey Church of God (West Edmonton) -10162 152 Street NW, Edmonton

🧒 Age Guidelines

Open to participants aged 16 and up. Youth aged 12–15 may participate if accompanied by a registered parent or guardian.

The full season officially begins on Sunday, 4 October 2026. Please note that all attendees will receive song resources in advance of the first session.

Rates include a $5 OSPAC membership fee for use and maintenance of the building.

Rates do not include GST and Eventbrite fees.

🎟 Participation Options

Full Choir Season – $300: All 7 sessions + 2 concerts. This option reflects the true cost of hosting the season and is for anyone who can afford to subsidize the program by paying full price. 50% discount options are available for Cosmo and AMAKana members, and membership is free here: www.africansong.ca/membership

Full Choir Season – Cosmopolitan Member – $150.00: For members of the Cosmopolitan Music Society. May be subject to verification.

Full Choir Season – AMAKana Member – $150: For members of the African Music Academy of Canada (AMAKana). May be subject to verification. Membership is free at www.africansong.ca/membership.

🪘Choir season includes Drum Circle and Special Guest Sessions.

Volunteer Exchange Option - Free: Contribute your time instead of payment at a value of $25/hour. Or contact us at admin@amakana.ca if you have any barriers to participation, including affordability. As a federally incorporated not-for-profit corporation, we strive to make our programs accessible while ensuring fair pay for artists and instructors.

📆 Session Dates & Locations

• October 4, 2026 – 6:30 to 8:30 PM @ Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre. Includes half an hour registration and voice placements. Please note that all attendees will receive song resources in advance of the first session.

• October 18, 2026 – 6:30 to 8:00 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton)

• October 25, 2026 – 6:30 to 8:00 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton)

• November 1, 2026 – 6:30 to 8:30 PM @ Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre

• November 8, 2026 – 6:30 to 8:00 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton)

• November 22, 2026 – 6:30 to 8:30 PM @ Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre

• December 6, 2026 – 6:30 to 8:30 PM @ Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre

🎶 December 13, 2026: Two Performances. 11 AM at Journey Church (West Edmonton) and 2:30 PM Cosmo Christmas event in collaboration with The Cosmopolitan Music Society.

🥁 What to Expect

• Singing, drumming, movement, and connection
• Music rooted in African traditions
• Supportive and welcoming environment for all skill levels
• Access to online audio and sheet music resources to rehearse on your own
• Ages 16+ or 12+ with participating parent

🔔 Stay Connected

After registering, you’ll be added to our WhatsApp group and receive email reminders before each session.

🎤 Drop-In Option

Not ready to commit? Try a session for $25, payable onsite by cash or Square. Space is limited. Arrive early. You may upgrade to a season pass later.

Questions? E-mail admin@amakana.ca