Celebrating the Legacy
of
Brenda Zadorsky
In the world of choral music, some voices echo for generations, creating a lasting impact that transcends time. Brenda Zadorsky, the founding co-conductor of Amabile Choirs of London, Canada, is undoubtedly one of those voices. As she embarks on her well-deserved retirement after decades of shaping the musical landscape in London and beyond, the community reflects on her incredible legacy, one that spans local, national, and international accolades and a profound impact on countless young lives.
The Ice Cream Moment:
The Birth of the Amabile Choirs
Brenda's journey with the Amabile Choirs began in 1985, in an unexpected and unforgettable moment. After a day of competing at the London Kiwanis Music Festival, Brenda and fellow local music consultant John Barron took their respective choral groups—27 girls in total—for ice cream at what is now Cherryhill Village Mall in London, Ontario. As they enjoyed their treat, the girls spontaneously climbed onto a set of risers, and without any prior planning, began to sing. The harmony that emerged from their voices was nothing short of magical, a serendipitous moment that would lay the foundation for what would become the Amabile Youth Singers— a choir, a space where young voices could soar beyond the ordinary— and eventually one of the most respected and renowned choral organizations in the country.
That first choir was like the first taste of a new flavor, sweet with possibility. They named it Amabile—“lovable” in Italian—a name that carried the warmth of their vision. One became two. Two became four. Four became nine.
The voices grew, layered like harmonies in a grand crescendo, each choir adding its own unique timbre to the ever-expanding Amabile sound. They sang their way across Canada and beyond, gathering awards, friendships, and unforgettable moments along the way.
And to think—it all started with an idea, a shared dream, and perhaps, just perhaps, an ice cream moment.
A Legacy of Growth and Inclusivity
Brenda’s impact on Amabile Choirs extended far beyond the podium. She was instrumental in shaping the inclusive, welcoming atmosphere that Amabile is known for today. As the organization grew, so did the opportunities for young singers, with the creation of multiple choirs that cater to a wide range of ages and vocal ranges. Inspired by the exceptional music-making of the Amabile Youth Singers, the Amabile Boys Choir was founded, creating a space for young male singers. This choir later evolved into the Amabile Boys and Men’s Choir. As interest in joining the Amabile Youth Singers grew rapidly in its first five years, the demand for more opportunities led to the creation of the Junior Amabile Singers. This new, younger ensemble allowed even more girls to participate in a high-quality choral group, while also providing foundational training to support the remarkable growth of youth choral music that the Amabile Youth Singers had already begun to pioneer. What started as a single choir in 1985 has since expanded to nine different ensembles, covering a range of ages and voice types. This growth reflects Amabile’s strong reputation in choral excellence, both nationally and internationally.
A Journey of Excellence:
National and International Recognition
Under Brenda's (and John’s) leadership, the Amabile Youth Singers flourished, earning accolades at both the local and national levels. The choir’s performances quickly gained attention for their precision, emotional depth, and powerful vocal blend. They captured numerous prestigious awards and accolades in the country, establishing themselves as a pillar of excellence in youth choral music. The choir’s success wasn’t limited to competitions; they became known for their breathtaking concerts, inspiring generations of young singers and music lovers alike.
But it wasn’t just national recognition that the choir received. The Amabile Youth Singers’ reach extended far beyond Canada’s borders. The choir’s commitment to musical excellence earned them invitations to perform at international festivals, where they earned rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. Their performances at renowned festivals across the globe showcased their versatility and exceptional talent, representing not only London but also Canada on the world stage.
Throughout her tenure as co-conductor and eventually sole conductor, Brenda worked tirelessly to ensure that the choir’s musical repertoire was both challenging and inspiring, pushing the boundaries of what young voices could achieve. Her dedication to her singers and her passion for music created an environment where young people could grow not only as musicians but also as individuals.
A Lasting Influence on the London Community
For Brenda, retirement marks the end of one chapter, but the legacy of her work will live on through the thousands of singers whose lives she touched. From the girls and boys who found their voices with Amabile, to the music teachers who followed in her footsteps, Brenda’s influence on London’s musical community cannot be overstated. She has not only cultivated a high standard of excellence but has also fostered a deep sense of community and belonging among her singers, many of whom have gone on to become music educators, professional musicians, and dedicated members of their communities.
The Amabile Choirs’ continued success, both locally and internationally, stands as a tribute to Brenda’s leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to her craft. Under her guidance, the choir has become more than just a musical institution—it has become a family, one that celebrates the beauty of music, the joy of collaboration, and the transformative power of the arts.
A Grateful Farewell
As Brenda steps down from her role as co-conductor, the Amabile Choirs community will undoubtedly miss her guidance, her wisdom, and her passion. However, her legacy is firmly rooted in the music, the memories, and the countless lives she has touched over the years. Brenda Zadorsky’s retirement is not just the end of an era—it is the beginning of a new chapter for the many generations of singers who will continue to carry forward the traditions she helped build.
On behalf of all the singers, past and present, and the broader London community, we thank Brenda for her unwavering commitment, her love of music, and her dedication to creating a space where every voice is valued. The Amabile Choirs of London will forever be a reflection of her vision, passion, and the beautiful voices she helped nurture into being.