For 19 years, the Lila Community Choir has been a vital part of our community, providing singing, performance, voice work, and fostering cross-cultural connections. Our choir has welcomed over 500 singers, contributing to a spirit of inclusivity and diversity through collaborations, vigils, nonprofit events, fundraisers, and local environmental projects. The choir continues to offer a platform for new immigrants, building bridges and promoting well-being through artistic pursuits and community engagement.

Mandate
Lila Music Community Choir exists to bring people together through the universal power of music, fostering inclusivity, cultural exchange, and community engagement. Our choir celebrates diversity by providing a platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to collaborate, create, and share their craft. We aim to create a sense of belonging for all, regardless of age, background, or ability, while uplifting marginalized voices and promoting reconciliation. Through our performances, workshops, and community-driven initiatives, we strive to enrich the Cowichan Valley through music that connects, heals, and unites.

Mission Statement
Lila Music Community Choir’s mission is to create a vibrant, inclusive space where diverse voices come together in harmony to celebrate culture, unity, and the arts. We are committed to providing opportunities for artistic expression, while supporting local talent and fostering positive community engagement. Through our performances, collaborations, and educational initiatives, we aim to raise awareness of social issues, honor Indigenous heritage, and encourage healing through music. With a focus on accessibility and outreach, Lila Music strives to make the transformative power of music available to all, bringing joy, belonging, and connection to the Cowichan Valley and beyond

How Our Programming Meets Lila Music Community Choir’s Mandate

Inclusivity and Community Engagement: Our choir is open to individuals from all walks of life, offering a space for people of different ages, cultural backgrounds, and abilities to sing and perform together, fostering a sense of belonging and social connection.

Cultural Exchange and Reconciliation: By incorporating Indigenous languages (e.g., Hul’ qumi’ num) in our workshops and performances, and collaborating with Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists, we promote reconciliation and respect for diverse cultures.

Support for Local Artists: We actively hire and collaborate with local musicians, composers, and arrangers to create new works, showcasing regional talent and providing them with opportunities for exposure and employment.

Accessible Music for All: Our programming includes free concerts, by-donation performances, and low-cost workshops, ensuring that music is accessible to individuals from all economic backgrounds, including marginalized groups.

Social Impact and Healing: Through community-focused performances in senior care homes, public spaces, and festivals, we provide an opportunity for individuals facing isolation or social exclusion to experience the joy and healing power of music.

Educational Outreach: Our workshops, including those with Elder Mena Padaguan, learning the local language of Hul’quminum and creating a new bilingal song togther, also with visiting artists like Sarina Partridge, are designed to engage community members in skill development, offering learning opportunities for both aspiring and experienced musicians.

Overall, Lila Music Community Choir’ s programming brings our mandate to life by building a stronger, more connected community, creating meaningful cultural exchanges, and promoting social inclusion and artistic growth.