A unique newcomer choir in Halifax has become a vibrant bridge for immigrants to practice English and build meaningful connections through music. Founded in November 2021 by Rachel Manko Lutz, a choir director with a background in teaching English and researching choral methods, this innovative group quickly flourished from its modest start. Canadian Visa Expert applauds this creative approach to language learning, which goes beyond conventional classroom walls.
A Welcoming Space for Growth
Every Tuesday evening, around three dozen people from countries like Brazil, Kenya, Japan, Chile, and China gather in the basement of St. Andrew’s United Church. Ages range from children to retirees, and many have found this choir to be “the best classroom in Canada,” a relaxed and supportive environment where English flows naturally. Manko Lutz describes the choir as rooted in “radical hospitality” and kindness, fostering a genuine sense of belonging. Canadian Visa Expert sees a parallel here: combining supportive language practice with community helps newcomers thrive in Canada.
Members like Sylvia Ng’eno from Kenya and Marcio Silva from Brazil speak of the choir as a “spark” that ignited friendships and eased their transitions. Silva, now based in Moncton, says that learning English through melody and rhythm, especially with songs like “Call of the Ocean,” made unfamiliar vocabulary such as “barnacle” feel intuitively accessible.
Music as a Gateway to Culture and Connection
Song choices carry cultural depth. Choir director Manko Lutz selects tunes from Canadian artists such as The Tragically Hip, Gordon Lightfoot, and Joni Mitchell so that singers not only practice English, but also ground themselves in Canadian storytelling and identity. Learning lyrics in melodic flow makes language learning memorable and meaningful.
For many newcomers, the choir is more than language practice; it is a sanctuary. Jaime Espinoza, an attendee from Chile, values the shared empathy and mutual support that emerge in this space. As debates over immigration intensify nationwide, the choir’s positive visibility and ability to foster integration become even more critical.
Why Community Matters
Experts like Dalhousie anthropologist Martha Radice highlight the choir’s contribution to social cohesion, calling it “cheer mongering,” a small but powerful act of raising spirits and weaving inclusive community fabric. Canadian Visa Expert echoes this sentiment, noting that helping newcomers connect socially is as vital as guiding them through settlement procedures.
In celebrating such local initiatives, Canadian Visa Expert reinforces its commitment to holistic support because when people feel welcomed, integrated, and encouraged to learn, everyone benefits.
