2020 -
2020 Choir EventsSEPTEMBER 18-20: Rehearsal Camp #1 - Camp Assiniboia
OCTOBER 2-4: Rehearsal Weekend #2 - Camp Cedarwood *Tour weekend schedule is subject to change* OCTOBER 15 School Concerts Legislature Visit OCTOBER 16 Southeast Choral Workshop Day OCTOBER 17 Concerts around the Eastman region Travelling to Portage la Prairie for overnight OCTOBER 18 Gala Concert in Portage la Prairie Travelling home for Dessert Concert Finale |
Our Conductor - Philip lapathaPhilip is very excited to make music as artistic director of Ecco Singers! Born and raised in Winnipeg’s West End, Philip has been shaped by inspiring teachers, long-lasting friendships, and loving family ties. He has two Bachelor degrees: Music (piano) and Education (senior years Choral and Math), and a Master's degree (piano and music theory).
Philip has had opportunities to develop as a choral teacher and conductor through his connections with students, singers, choral organizations, and choral director friends. Much has been learned at coffee shops over conversation. Philip is one of two full-time choir teachers at Maples Collegiate, a large high school in northwest Winnipeg with a vibrant performing arts program. While the choirs of Maples Collegiate and Ecco Singers take up most of his present artistic direction, Philip has grown in past conducting and teaching opportunities with Gordon Bell High School, Pembina Trails Voices Men and Singers, Elim Chapel, SonoLux Choir, the 2016 Eastern Manitoba Youth Choir, the 2017 Western Manitoba Youth Choir, and the 2019 Central Manitoba Youth Choir. Adding to Philip’s conducting experience during the 2018-2019 season were opportunities to direct the Manitoba Provincial Honour Choir (high school) and the English Language Program Choir through the University of Winnipeg. He also enjoys writing choral arrangements and his pieces have been performed by Prairie Voices, Camerata Nova, Kokopelli Choir, Those Guys, and various high school and youth choirs throughout Manitoba. Philip is married to Kimberly Lapatha, a talented music teacher and mind-reading accompanist. They enjoy eating at interesting restaurants, connecting with people in different social circles, and traveling when possible. They open their home to international students learning English and have had their lives enriched by sharing Winnipeg life and family time with over 25 overseas students since 2014. Philip is thankful to his parents for the piano lessons in his early years and the continued support through life’s musical journeys. |