SYJ Co-Directors & Co-Founders
Christine Chepyha and Gordon Miller
Christine started her musical career at a young age, studying piano, mandolin and bandura (a Ukrainian harp with a unique sound and history) and choral accompaniment, all in Edmonton. When not engaged as a busy meetings professional, she served as accompanist for the Ukrainian Male Chorus of Edmonton, various youth choirs, assorted vocalists and instrumentalists, and performed as a core and touring musician for the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers and the Cheremosh Dance Ensemble. Christine teaches and performs music in Victoria, working with various singers and ensembles. Currently Christine is the Communications Chair on the Board of the BC Choral Federation and was honoured in 2017 with the Willan Award for outstanding service to BC’s Choral Community. She has an ongoing passion for working with the members of the SingYourJoy Young Adult Chorus.
Gordon – also a lifelong musician, singer, songwriter – received his formal training with the Canadian Armed Forces School of Music in Victoria. As a trumpet player and pianist for the PPCLI Band in Calgary, he travelled across Canada and on tours of duty in Europe, bringing the joy of music to all ages. As a vocalist Gordon has studied with the Victoria Conservatory of Music and continues his vocal training privately. In 2014, he completed the BC Choral Federation Level Two course in Choral Directorship. His love of pop, rock, folk, r&b and jazz leaves Gordon uniquely qualified to help lead SingYourJoy, as the young adult singers find real satisfaction in the authentic delivery of their eclectic repertoire.
SingYourJoy Children’s Choruses
Sandra Fletcher – Founding Director
Sandra is passionate about community. In 2017 she founded James Bay Children’s Chorus to help local children develop a positive relationship with music, with each other and with the wider community. Watching the young singers blossom as they advance their musical skills and gain confidence is a real joy for Sandra. The children’s natural curiosity allows the groups to explore a variety of song genres and topics.
Sandra retired from chorus leadership in June 2023. We are grateful for her significant contribution to the SingYourJoy Family of Choirs.