African Choir & Drum Circle: Winter 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 every two weeks on Sunday evenings, with a once-a-month option available for those with busy schedules or who prefer to study on their own using the digital audio and sheet music provided. 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.

We have just completed our first-ever season, which showed 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.

🎤 Optional Orientation – January 18

We invite new participants to attend a welcome session on January 18 at Journey Church of God (West Edmonton). If you're unsure whether you sing Soprano, Alto, Tenor, or Bass, this is a great opportunity to find your range and meet the team.

The full season officially begins on Sunday, February 1.

🎟 Participation Options

Full Choir Season – $150: All 8 sessions + concert. General public admission.

Flexible Choir Season – $80: Attend any 4 sessions + concert. For those with limited time and the ability to rehearse independently.

🪘Drum Circle Season – $60.00: Attend 3 drum circle sessions only (no concert).

The Full and Flex Choir season passes include Drum Circle Sessions.

There are two discount codes available:

• Members of the African Music Academy receive 25% off total fees. Membership is free to join at www.AfricanSong.ca. Use code AcademyMember at checkout.
• Members of the Cosmopolitan Music Society receive 50% off total fees. May be subject to verification. Use code CosmoMember at checkout.
  

Volunteer Exchange Option - Free: Contribute your time instead of payment at a value of $20/hour. Must be an African Music Academy member (free to join). We will follow up to confirm your volunteer role.

📆 Session Dates & Locations

• January 18, 2026 – 6:30 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton)

• February 1, 2026 – 5:30 PM @ Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre🪘 Drum Circle to follow at 6:30 PM

• February 15, 2026 – 6:30 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton)

• March 1, 2026 – 5:30 PM @ Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre🪘 Drum Circle to follow at 6:30 PM

• March 15, 2026 – 6:30 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton)

• April 12, 2026 – 5:30 PM @ Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre🪘 Drum Circle to follow at 6:30 PM

• April 26, 2026 – 5:30 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton) (earlier choir start time at 5:30 PM, followed by a Potluck Community Social at 6:30 PM)

• May 10, 2026 – 6:30 PM @ Journey Church of God (West Edmonton)
  

🎶 Spring Concert: Sunday, May 24, 2:30PM at the Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre in collaboration with The Cosmopolitan Music Society, and The Soul Song Circle Singers with special guest The Mbira Renaissance Band.

🥁 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 $20, payable onsite by cash or Square. Space is limited. Arrive early. You may upgrade to a season pass later.