The Ottawa Celtic Choir is a non-auditioned women’s community choir in the city of Ottawa that sings songs from the seven Celtic nations, as well as from strongly Celtic-influenced areas in Canada (such as the Atlantic provinces, Quebec, and Ontario). It has acquired a reputation in the Ottawa Valley and abroad for singing in the six Celtic languages as well as English, French, and various other languages. The choir participates in various Celtic festivals and collaborates regularly with other choirs to bring a wide diversity of Celtic music to Ottawa audiences.
The group is good fun and has a strong sense of community. We encourage laughter in rehearsals, as the same muscles you use to laugh are the ones you use to sing!
The Ottawa Celtic Choir has sometimes been described as a "teaching choir"; each song has a story behind it, and our performances include information about each song we sing. We also try to mix the well known and familiar with songs that you have probably never heard of before. Among the familiar songs in our repertoire are songs like Loch Lomond, The Log Driver's Waltz, Auld Lang Syne, Wild Mountain Thyme, and others. The less well-known include: Na Kirree Fo Niaghtey, Suo Gan, Dulaman, Mo Ghile Mhear, Cariad, Shliabh Gheal gCua, Si do Mhaimeo i, and others. Each season we try new songs and bring back some old favourites. You don't need to be able to speak a Celtic language to sing with us!
Wondering about joining, singing, or attending? Explore our most common questions and see how you can share in the joy of Celtic music with us.
We welcome women from all walks of life, no matter your musical background. Whether you’re new to singing or a lifelong music lover, you’ll find encouragement and friendship here.
Not at all! We sing in several Celtic languages, but you don’t need prior experience. We’ll guide you every step of the way so everyone can enjoy the music together.
We meet weekly on Tuesday evenings at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, on the corner of Somerset and Elgin Streets, just south of City Hall.
Our songs range from traditional to modern pieces from Celtic countries and the Celtic diaspora, performed in Celtic languages, English, and French. Every season brings something new.
Absolutely! We invite you to visit a rehearsal, meet our members, and see if our choir feels like home for you.
We perform at local venues and community events throughout the year. Check out our events page above or follow us online for the latest concert dates and ticket info.
Interested in singing, sharing, or learning more? Don't hesitate to reach out!