The Canadian Children’s Opera Company (CCOC) has announced the appointment of Teri Dunn as Artistic Director. For the first time, the CCOC will be led by a leadership team, consisting of Dunn and Executive Director Katherine Semcesen.
As part of the co-leadership model, Teri will be responsible for artistic and educational programming, while Katherine will continue to oversee the organization’s operations, including financial management, and community partnerships.
“We are thrilled to welcome Teri into this leadership role,” says Cecilia Luko, Chair of the CCOC Board. “Her creative vision and dedication to education will carry forward the CCOC’s proud tradition of artistic excellence while opening doors to new possibilities.”
Singer (soprano), conductor, and educator Teri Dunn has served as the Music Director of the Canadian Children’s Opera Company since 2015. The Ottawa native is also Dean of Choral Studies and Music Director at the St. Michael’s Choir School, and conducts their renowned Soprano-Alto choir. She has conducted performances at the Vatican, the Toronto International Choral Festival, and at New York’s Carnegie Hall.
Teri has previous led several CCOC productions, including the world premiere of Alice Ho’s The Monkiest King (which was recorded for the Canadian Music Centre), and a European tour of Hans Krasa’s Brundibar, and has prepared the Children’s Chorus for their involvement in many Canadian Opera Company productions as well, including Carmen, The Magic Flute, and La Bohème, among others.
Among her accolades is a first prize at the National Competition of Canadian Amateur Choirs, and the Leslie Bell Prize in Choral Conducting.
“As co-leaders, we are energized by the chance to deepen our collaboration and guide the Canadian Children’s Opera Company into a vibrant future,” say Katherine Semcesen, Executive Director, and Teri Dunn, Artistic Director.
“Together, we look forward to shaping a dynamic artistic journey — one that inspires young people, strengthens our community, and opens doors to bold new artistic opportunities.”
CCOC was founded nearly 57 years ago, and today includes six ensembles, among them a new Young Art Studio for young singers ages 16+ that was just developed during the 2024-25 season.
The Canadian Children’s Opera Company provides accessible training in music and drama, performances in professionally produced operas, and other opportunities to hundreds of young singers and their families each year.
The CCOC has commissioned more than 15 new works, including full-length operas, for young voices, curates concerts, and collaborations with leading artists and arts organizations, including Art of Time Ensemble, Soundstreams, and Tapestry Opera.
Auditions for the upcoming 2025/26 season will be held on September 6, 2025 and November 10, 2025.
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