How to join a Ukrainian choir or dance group?

Calgary is one of the most active Ukrainian cultural centers in Canada, offering ample opportunities to participate in choirs and dance groups. There are over thirty Ukrainian organizations in the city offering a variety of programs ranging from children's groups to professional ensembles for adults. This article provides a detailed overview of all available options, registration procedures, costs, and features of each organization.

Ukrainian dance groups: From beginners to professionals

Tryzub Ukrainian Dance Society: The Gold Standard

Tryzub is Calgary's first and most influential Ukrainian dance group, founded 50 years ago. In 2024, the organization celebrated its golden anniversary, demonstrating its consistency and quality of instruction over the decades.

Tryzub offers programs for all age groups. The dance school accepts students from 3 years old to adulthood, using a professional training program developed by artistic director Shane Gibson. The school's core values include excellence, teamwork, community, and pride.

The dance season runs from September to early June. Classes are held at the cultural center of St. Vladimir's Ukrainian Orthodox Church at 404 Meredith Road NE. For adult dancers, recreational classes for beginners and intermediate levels are offered, as well as advanced classes with ballet barre and technique.

For the most dedicated dancers, Tryzub offers the opportunity to join the ensemble through an audition. Candidates must be at least 18 years old or in 10th grade with parental permission. Participation in the ensemble involves eight hours of rehearsals per week, plus performances, festivals, and fundraising.

Barvinok Ukrainian Dance Society: The Heart of Calgary Dance

Barvinok has been operating since 1990 and is considered the “heart and soul of Ukrainian dance in Calgary.” The organization is led by Trevor Shular, artistic director and co-founder.

Barvinok's program structure includes levels from pre-beginner (ages 3-5) to advanced adult. The 2025-2026 dance season begins on September 4 for all dancers except the youngest, who begin on September 11. Registration opens in September with the option of pre-registration.

A unique feature of Barvinok is its tuition discount system. Students can receive discounts based on various criteria, details of which are available from the registrar. Placement in classes is determined through an assessment on the first day of classes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.

Vykrutas Ukrainian Dance Society: Unique Ukrainian spirit

Vykrutas is led by artistic director Vasyl Kanavets, who emphasizes a unique style that highlights the Ukrainian spirit. The school accepts students from 3 years old to adults and focuses on traditional folk dances that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Vykrutas is known for organizing the annual “BRAVO!” event, which brings together over 100 dancers from various ensembles in Alberta. Since 2022, it has also been a charity event. The school offers free trial classes for new students.

Other dance groups

Yalenka Ukrainian Dancers Society offers classes for ages 3 to adult, including boys' classes, advanced performance classes, and technical classes.

The Calgary Hopak Ensemble is part of the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians and has been active since the late 1920s. They offer a children's dance school for ages 4-13, including a separate “boys only” group and mixed dance groups.

Suzirya Ukrainian Dance Theatre was founded in 2004 and is dedicated to showcasing an elegant blend of ballet and traditional folk dance.

Ukrainian Choirs: Preserving a Musical Tradition

Calgary Pereveslo Ukrainian Choir: A New Voice for the Community

The Calgary Pereveslo Ukrainian Choir was created by Kateryna Saxon and a group of like-minded individuals at the beginning of the tragic events in Ukraine. The idea of bringing Ukrainian culture to Canadian society and promoting Ukrainian songs through charity concerts was in the minds of the choir members and all the organizers.

From the very beginning, the choir has been actively involved in social events and helping to raise awareness about the brutality of war and the needs of people who have fled their homeland. The choir created a large-scale project called “Stefania” as a result of a large, inspiring movement in the community in March-May 2022, when Ukraine won the Eurovision Song Contest.

Korinnya Ukrainian Folk Ensemble: Thirty Years of Tradition

Korinnya Ukrainian Folk Ensemble is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The group was formed in Calgary in 1993 and has performed throughout Alberta and British Columbia, in the United States, and in Ukraine. Korinnya's repertoire consists mainly of folk songs, but the choir also enjoys singing the Divine Liturgy when the opportunity arises.

Korinnya is always open to performing at public and private events and welcomes interested new choir members. The choir does not require auditions and accepts singers of all experience levels.

Church choirs

St. Vladimir's Ukrainian Orthodox Church Choir has a long history and is actively seeking new members. The choir participates in all church services and special events throughout the year.

St. Stephen Protomartyr Ukrainian Catholic Church Choir has over 60 members and encourages all members of the community to join in the singing. The choir does not require singing or musical experience, and there is no expectation to learn music or Ukrainian—these things develop over time. Rehearsals are usually held on Wednesday evenings.

Calgary Hopak Ensemble Choir

The Calgary Hopak Ensemble Choir has a repertoire of Ukrainian and English songs accompanied by an ensemble orchestra. To join the folk choir, call the Ukrainian Cultural Centre at 403-246-1231 and leave your name.

Joining and registration procedure

General steps for joining

Most organizations have a similar process for joining. First, interested individuals should contact the organization directly by phone, email, or website. Many groups offer free trial classes or open houses where potential participants can learn about the program and meet the instructors.

Dance groups

For dance schools such as Barvinok, Tryzub, and Vykrutas, registration usually opens in late summer or early September. New students ages 5-17 participate in placement evaluations on the first day of dance each September. These are not auditions, and instructors ensure a positive and fun experience.

Pre-beginner students (ages 3-5) and adults (18+) do not participate in placement assessments and are automatically placed in appropriate classes based on age alone.

Choirs

Choirs are generally more flexible about when you can join. Many choirs, including Korinnya and church choirs, welcome new members throughout the year without auditions. Potential members can simply show up for a rehearsal or contact the choir director in advance.

Cost and financial considerations

The cost of participation varies significantly between organizations. Dance schools typically charge a monthly or seasonal tuition fee, which can range from hundreds to over a thousand dollars per season, depending on the level and frequency of classes.

Many organizations offer discounts for large families, students, or those facing financial hardship. Barvinok, for example, has a tuition discount system, details of which can be obtained from the registrar.

Church choirs are usually free for participants, as they are part of the community's church services. Some secular choirs may also have minimal or no membership fees.

Social and cultural benefits

Joining a Ukrainian choir or dance group in Calgary offers much more than just an artistic education. These organizations serve as important social hubs for the Ukrainian community, providing places for people to meet, make friends, and share their culture.

Many participants find long-lasting friendships through these groups. Organizations often organize social events, trips, and cultural excursions, creating a sense of community that extends beyond regular rehearsals and performances.

For newly arrived Ukrainians, these groups can be especially valuable for integrating into the local community, maintaining ties to their cultural heritage, and meeting people who share similar experiences.

Special programs for newcomers and children

Many organizations have special programs or initiatives for Ukrainian newcomers. St. Vladimir's Ukrainian Orthodox Sobor has organized a social support network for Ukrainian evacuees that includes free English classes and cultural events.

There are especially many opportunities for children. Most dance schools accept children from age 3, and some have special programs for preschoolers. This can be a great way to introduce children to Ukrainian culture and language in a fun, supportive environment.

Performance and development opportunities

Joining a Ukrainian choir or dance group in Calgary provides numerous opportunities to perform. Groups regularly perform at local festivals, such as the annual Calgary Ukrainian Festival, the Calgary Ukrainian Carol Festival, and various community events throughout the year.

Some organizations also organize trips to other cities or even international tours. Barvinok, for example, has organized four tours to Ukraine over the past 33 years, where dancers participate in professional dance workshops and perform in various cities and villages throughout the country.

Volunteer opportunities and community involvement

Many Ukrainian cultural organizations rely on volunteers for various aspects of their operations. This can include helping with costumes, organizing events, fundraising, or administrative support. Volunteering can be a great way to get involved in the community, even if an individual does not wish to actively participate in performances.

St. Vladimir's Ukrainian Orthodox Sobor, for example, is looking for volunteers for various programs, including helping with the Mykola Vorona Library and Archives, organizing cultural events, and supporting newcomers.

Contact Information and Next Steps

For those interested in joining a Ukrainian choir or dance group in Calgary, the first step is to contact the organizations that interest you most directly. Most groups have websites with detailed information about their programs, schedules, and contact information.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress Calgary Branch can serve as an excellent starting point for those who are unsure where to begin. They can provide information about various groups available and help connect people with the appropriate organizations.

Many groups also have a presence on social media, where they regularly post updates about events, registration opportunities, and community news. This can be a helpful way to learn more about each organization before making a commitment.

Calgary offers an incredibly rich and diverse Ukrainian cultural scene with opportunities for people of all ages, experience levels, and interests. Whether through dance, song, or community involvement, there are numerous ways to connect with Ukrainian heritage and become part of this vibrant, supportive community. The key is to take the first step and reach out to an organization that resonates with your interests and goals.