Carolyn Duerksen

Prince George,BC

Summary

Professional Educator and Choral Director with 30t years of experience committed to strong leadership, excellence in choral performance and healthy and safe choral communities.
Engaging, creative and passionate Educator and Choral Director.
Intentional programming for impactful and memorable performances, networking and connecting with other Arts Communities.
Ongoing Professional Development through workshops, conferences, and professional journals.

years of professional experience

Community of Prince George

09.2007 - Current

Responsible for all aspects of the PRINCE GEORGE Tapestry Singers, including:

booking rehearsal and performance spaces for the season
hiring accompanists and special guest musicians
selecting and ordering repertoire for both the JUNIOR Singers and the SENIOR Singers
with volunteer support, publicity and recruitment of singers
scheduling each season: rehearsals, extra rehearsals, retreats, performances, fundraising, and out of town travel for the SENIOR Singers
preparing weekly rehearsal plans for both choirs
writing Grant Applications
communicating with Tapestry families with weekly newsletters for each choir
chooses, communicates, and organizes all components of travel for the SENIOR Singers
coordinates all performances and concerts, with the assistance of volunteers
coordinating volunteers for rehearsals, performances, fundraisers, special events, travel, setting up rehearsal and performance spaces
communicating with our Bookkeeper on a monthly basis to ensure all elements of our finances are in good standing
renewing all choral memberships and insurance plans
filing repertoire

School District #57

09.1991 - Current

Designs engaging lesson plans tailored to various skill levels and age groups within the classroom setting.
Provides individualized instruction and support for students with special needs or learning challenges, ensuring an inclusive learning environment.
Weaves Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Knowledge Systems in lesson plans.
Conducts a school choir for school and community performances.
Creates Winter Concerts and Variety Shows, from initial plans to final product.
SINGFEST Committee Member for 17t years.

Butler University

Indiannapolis, Indianna

University of Toronto

Toronto, ON

11-2002

University of Victoria

Victoria, BC

08-1988

Recipient of a 2023 Cultural Ambassador Award from the City of Prince George and The Office of the Mayor. In recognition of creating a happy and safe space for Prince George citizens and visitors.

Recipient of a 2020 BC Achievement Community Award for Outstanding Community Service in the area of Arts: "Changing lives through music and song,
Carolyn built a community-based chorale ensemble in Prince George, known for its inclusive and safe environment. Tapestry Singers, a top-ranking youth chorus, creates space for its members and thrives under Carolyn’s passion and leadership."