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 Forte was founded in 1996/97, born out of the gay choral movement of the 80's and 90's. Almost every major city in the U.S., Britain, Europe, and Australia developed it's own LGBT choir: Dallas, New York, San Francisco, Sydney, London, Paris, Hamburg, and Vancouver, among them. Their mission: to provide an important community outreach, education, goodwill and a positive GLBT image. Yes, there was a Toronto Gay Men's Chorus which melded into the LGBT Singing Out. After seeing other male choirs at a GALA U.S. Festival, Forte - The Toronto Men's Chorus was formed.
Who We Are
Under the direction of Edward Connell since 2002, Forte has developed into an amazing male choral ensemble of thirty voices. Their repertoire ranges from Broadway, pop and doowop, to classical and contemporary. Their unique sound is due, in large part, to the special arrangements created by Connell and other Forte members. Forte is, perhaps, the best kept secret in the Toronto Arts Community.
You saw us where?
Forte has performed at virtually every gay community event in town, though not in the same year: Pride Flag Raising, TICOT Coronation, MLT Competition, Pride Day, Aids Vigil, Aids Run, PLUS singing anthems for a Blue Jays game, Sounds of Toronto. We've also performed in Hamilton, St. Catharines, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver; on Breakfast TV and radio. And don't forget our annual Christmas and Spring concerts and shows.
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Edward Connell
Mr. Connell has been the Music Director of Forte—The Toronto Men’s Chorus, since 2002. During his tenure, he has led Forte through several wildly successful concerts, tours as far afield as Vancouver, and into the realms of classical music. Anyone listening to the chorus will immediately recognize the artistry and personality of his extraordinary musical leadership, which has led Forte to become Canada’s finest gay men’s chorus.
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Forte is a 24-voice men’s chamber choir under the leadership of Edward Connell, one of Canada’s finest choral directors. Its membership is drawn from Toronto’s talented and diverse gay community. Forte tries to have something to say about the gay world, either through its unique repertoire, or through the events it performs at. Although not exclusively gay in its membership, its repertoire or its outlook, some of what Forte does is noticeably gay.
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Our chorus members come from all walks of life and include accountants, bankers, teachers, programmers, a doctor, at least 2 retired chaps, and a PR specialist. We have one or two professional musicians and song writers/composers. We range in age from late 20's to late 60's. We are not paid, but rather pay annual dues to cover music and rehearsal space. We sing for the pure joy of it !
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