The Ruth Watson Henderson Choral Composition Competition was established in 1992 to encourage more composers to write Canadian choral literature.
The Elmer Iseler Singers, a twenty-voice professional chamber choir based in Toronto, has built an international reputation since its 1979 debut.
Ruth Watson Henderson, primarily known as a choral music composer, began her musical journey as a pianist, winning a competition at age four.
Lydia Adams, one of Canada's most distinguished conductors, was appointed Artistic Director and Conductor of the Elmer Iseler Singers in 1998.
Ruth Watson Henderson's father, a mechanical engineer, built a pipe organ in their family home simply because he enjoyed hearing his wife play Bach.
Ruth Watson Henderson places great importance on music for children, aiming to stimulate their interest in choral music to become a lifelong pursuit.
