Gloria Dei Chorale was founded in 1954. From 1954 to 1966 they were a part of the Christian Reformed Church of New Westminster, British Columbia, primarily performing there on special occasions.
When the late Mr. William Bourns was appointed as the Director their repertoire expanded with oratorios, masses, Gilbert & Sullivan stage musicals as well as “Fiddler on the Roof”. Major works complete with orchestra and full-scale musicals were featured several times a year. Gloria Dei Chorale choir has performed throughout the Netherlands on five tours (1988, 1991, 1995, 2000 and 2003). Membership grew from members of neighbourhood churches throughout the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.
After 25 years of service Mr. Bourns retired in 1992. Mr. Gerald van Wyck directed the choir from 1992 to 1995. Dr. Allan Cline was the Director from 1995 to 2008. This included the 2000 and 2003 tours throughout the Netherlands. Dr. David W. Rushton directed the choir from 2008 – 2013 when he retired. Betty-Ann Vroom joined the choir as director from 2013 – 2016. In 2016, Alex McCune led the choir from 2016 – 2021, and took on the challenge of teaching us through Zoom sessions during the pandemic.
The choir is currently led by talented and energetic director, Rob Workman, and Ewa Telega will be joining us as our accompanist this year.
Our current board of directors:
President – Marilyn Heinen
Secretary – Nel van der Meij
Fundraising/Promotion – Tina Vandyk-Potma
Treasurer – Corry Van Dop
Choir Outfits – Gerald Cupido
Advertising/Promotion – Elaine Smit
Public Relations – Cori Aalhuizen
Board Member – Betty Adema
