Created in 2001, Chœur des enfants de Montréal is currently in its 21st season.  An initiative started by a group of parents determined to make choral singing available to all children in greater Montreal, CEM was founded by celebrated conductor, Iwan Edwards. What started modestly as a single choir of 25 has grown to 5 choirs composed of over 170 dedicated young choristers, ranging in age from 5 to 21 and coming from more than 30 schools; including elementary, secondary, and CEGEPs. Throughout the years, united by their passion for singing, the choristers have had the privilege to work under the baton of Iwan Edwards (2001-2009), Andrew Gray (2010-2016), and Léa Moisan-Perrier (2016 - current). 

Since the beginning, CEM has performed regularly with world class musicians in major music venues, including regular performances with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM).  CEM has also recorded with well-known pop stars such as Half Moon Run, Patrick Watson, and Le Cowboy fringants, as well as shared the stage with Roger Waters (The Wall) and Kenny Rogers.  

In its 20th anniversary year, CEM joined forces with Share the Warmth, a community organization serving Pointe-Sainte-Charles, whose mission is to awaken hopes and dreams in the community through excellence in programming that fosters the overall development and success of youth. This collaboration has created two CEM sateillete choirs that rehearse at Share the Warmth as part of their El Sistema inspired programming.  

CEM choristers perform a diverse repertoire, inspired by the multiculturalism of Montréal.  Accompanied by professional musicians, each concert presents a musical adventure with different instruments, languages and styles.  Indeed, although classical music occupies an important place in the choice of repertoire, CEM enjoys exploring other styles, be it jazz, pop, folklore or world music. The choir also enjoys celebrating the works of Canadian composers and the rich musical traditions of Quebec. 

In July of 2023, CEM will travel to France to perform over 5 concerts throughout the country, marking its first international tour. 

CEM has been home to hundreds of young choristers over the past 21 years, and is proud to have built a strong, diverse community within Montréal. Through CEM, the future of choral singing and our community is bright.