Toronto is a city of remarkable talents. It is home to many accomplished and influential figures. Today, we will highlight Elmer Iseler, a distinguished Canadian conductor who significantly contributed to the development of choral and symphonic music not only in Toronto but across Canada. He was the conductor of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir and the founder of the Festival Singers of Canada and the Elmer Iseler Singers. Learn more about his life and accomplishments in this article on toronto-trend.com.
Education and Early Life
Elmer Iseler was born in Port Colborne, Ontario, in 1927, and grew up in a clergy family. His love for music developed at an early age as he learned to play the piano and organ. In 1945, he enrolled at Waterloo College, an affiliate of the Lutheran Seminary of Waterloo, where he studied organ and church music under Ulrich Leupold. Later, Iseler transferred to the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music, graduating in 1950. He also earned a teaching degree from the Ontario College of Education. During his studies, Iseler conducted the University of Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
Additionally, Iseler sang in the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir and trained as an assistant rehearsal conductor.
Career Development
Elmer Iseler began his professional career in 1952 as a teacher of orchestral and choral music in Toronto high schools, a role he held until 1964. He later joined the University of Toronto as a faculty member.
In 1954, Iseler helped establish the Toronto Festival Singers, conducting the festival until 1978. This event was later renamed the Festival Singers of Canada.
One of his notable achievements was founding the Elmer Iseler Singers, a professional chamber choir he led until his passing.
In 1964, Iseler became the conductor of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, a position he held for over 20 years. During this time, he also collaborated extensively with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, conducting numerous performances and tours.
Orchestras and Collaborations
Throughout his career, Elmer Iseler worked with various orchestras and musical ensembles. Below are some of the highlights:
- Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO): Iseler’s passion for symphonic music was evident in his long-standing collaboration with the TSO. Founded in 1922 as the New Symphony Orchestra, it was renamed four years later. Under the leadership of Sir Ernest MacMillan, who conducted the orchestra for 25 years, the TSO became a cultural pillar in Toronto. Iseler conducted over 150 performances of Handel’s Messiah during his collaboration with the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir and the TSO.
- Elmer Iseler Singers: This chamber choir, founded by Iseler, remains one of Canada’s leading choral ensembles. Comprising 20 voices, its repertoire includes both classical and contemporary works. The Elmer Iseler Singers are internationally renowned for their exceptional performances.
- National Arts Centre Orchestra (NACO): Established in 1969 under the guidance of conductor Mario Bernardi and music director Jean-Marie Beaudet, this Ottawa-based orchestra became another significant collaborator of Iseler. Consisting of 46 musicians, the NACO has recorded over 35 albums and commissioned more than 50 works by Canadian composers. The orchestra performs extensively in Canada and internationally.
- Canadian Opera Company (COC): Iseler frequently conducted performances for this prominent opera company. Founded in 1950 as part of the Royal Conservatory of Music’s Opera School, the COC now stages productions at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.
- Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra: Iseler collaborated with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, conducting concerts and various events during his career.
Elmer Iseler’s contributions to Canadian music earned him numerous accolades:
- Order of Canada (1975): In recognition of his outstanding achievements in music.
- Order of Ontario (1995): Honouring his exceptional contributions to the province.
- University of Toronto and Royal Conservatory of Music (1997): He was appointed an honorary fellow and adjunct professor of choral music.
Iseler actively promoted Canadian composers and their works throughout his career. His dedication to elevating Canadian music and nurturing emerging talent left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural landscape.
Elmer Iseler passed away in 1998, but his legacy endures. The Elmer Iseler Singers continue to thrive, remaining a vital part of Toronto’s cultural life.
We hope this article provided valuable insights into the life of a remarkable figure who profoundly influenced the development of music in Toronto.
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