The Peninsula Singers have enjoyed extraordinary growth over the years since 1980 when a handful of singers got together just for the “joy of singing”. Six years later, they gave their first concert in the Legion Hall on Mills Road in North Saanich, B.C.  Since then, the Peninsula Singers have grown from a small community choir to a mixed voice show chorus.

Our ‘Concerts’ have become ‘Shows’ with a different theme for each of the two annual season series at the Mary Winspear Theatre. We also give a mini concert each show season for the residents of The Saanich Peninsula Hospital Extended Care Unit. 

Since January 2017 we have had the privilege of working with Lena Palermo, our Artistic Director. Lena has extensive education in the performing arts and experience in TV and films, musical production and as a teacher and director of theatre and the performing arts. Mindful of the 40 years of tradition behind the Peninsula Singers, Lena has built a bond with her singers and has shaped the concerts with her own unique vision. 

Essential to each show is our Master of Ceremonies, Jim Kingham and our show band that includes Karel Roessingh, our accompanist on the piano; percussionist Terry Erskine; guitarist Ryan Lainchbury; violinist Jessica Natale Woollard; and bassist Gerry Klassen. Over the years, we have featured many guest musicians.

Supporting young talent is important to the Peninsula Singers. “Spotlight on a Young Artist” features selected young local artists who perform in each show series.  Lena has expanded the spotlight to include performances from local dancers. 

All chorus members are encouraged to contribute their talents and skills in various volunteer roles. The Peninsula Singers are grateful to our sponsors, advertisers, and audiences who have made it possible for us to donate more than $57,000 to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Health Care Foundation’s Music Therapy Program.