The OOTB TEAM
Tyler Fitzgerald,
Artistic Director
An operatic baritone, multi-instrumentalist, arranger, and conductor, Tyler has a passion for music education and uniting people through the power of group singing. Whether performing in an opera, musical, or with his four-piece country/jazz/rock band, Tyler believes singing is not for a select few and that all those with a desire to explore their creativity through singing in harmony with others can experience connection and joy.
“OOTB Chorus was born from a desire to build an inclusive musical community committed to creating an atmosphere where those with a desire to sing and expand their musical horizons could find a place to express themselves without fear. We are a choir who believe we have can have a positive impact the communities around us by spreading joy through our love of singing!”
Tyler works with both opera companies and symphony orchestras throughout Canada and Europe. Some roles include Masetto in Don Giovanni at Edmonton Opera, Tarquinius in The Rape of Lucretia with Calgary Opera, as well as Carmina Burana with the Peterborough Symphony, and Kitchener Waterloo Symphony. In 2017, Tyler made two European debuts - Count Ceprano (Rigoletto) at the Statstheatre in Mainz Germany, and Baron Scarpia (Tosca) with Oper Rheinsberg. He toured China on a recital tour with pianist Carol Wong and soprano Sasha Djihanian performing a program of duets and classical arias.
Roles in music theatre roles include the title role in The Phantom of the Opera, Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, and a Western Canadian tour as Rolf in The Sound of Music.
Visit Tyler’s website: www.tylerfitzgerald.ca
Eileen Kosasih, Pianist
Eileen Kosasih is a pianist, violinist, artist, and general presenter of things that she finds inspired and inspiring. She holds a M. A. in Fine and Decorative Arts and Design, piano diploma, B. A. Music (violin), and M. Music (orchestral conducting). Eileen is principal 2nd violin of the Symphony of the Kootenays and freelance performs and educates all over southern Alberta and BC. She founded and conducted the Calgary Arts Orchestra. Accompaniment residencies have included Calgary Multicultural Choir, Suzuki Talent Education Society, and Calgary Girls Choir. Eileen workshops for the Youth Orchestra Symposium at the Banff Centre, Alberta Clinic Line, and the Calgary Instrumental Society. One of her favourite gigs is teaching for the CPO's Phil Kids. Some of her favourite things include benchmark Abstract Expressionist paintings, her critters, and orchestral works by Bartok.
Eileen is excited to make music with the members of Out of the Blue Chorus this season!
Kyla Hamm, Support
Kyla is partner in crime to OOTB Artistic Director, Tyler Fitzgerald. You will see her at rehearsal every now and then, posting in our online Facebook community, and running a muck at social events. Kyla’s heart for people and her positive energy is the perfect cherry on top of our fabulous team. When you see her around, be sure to say hello, she would love to meet you.
“I have always loved music and singing! They both the amazing ability to cultivate energy inside people. Whether I need a good cry, or a full on dance party in my living room, music is always playing in our house and I am almost always singing along. On nights when I am able to attend OOTB Chorus Rehearsal I always leave with a smile and a full cup. We all share the same love of music and it’s completely contagious when we signing and laughing together.”- KH
Outside of the OOTB Chorus Community, Kyla is a Health & Safety Professional, has a passion for volleyball, all things food and cycling in Calgary.
Our Story
How We Found Our Voice…
Out of the Blue Chorus was born from a desire to build an inclusive and vibrant musical community committed to creating an atmosphere where those with a desire to SING and expand their musical horizons would find a place to freely express themselves creatively without fear or judgment.
Whatever your musical background or singing experience Join Us.
Our
Mission
To enable and empower our members to explore creativity through singing unique arrangements of our favourite rock, pop, and folk songs in harmony together.
There are NO AUDITIONS to join and no need to have prior experience singing or reading music. Our members are from all walks of life and backgrounds with a wide array of experience.
OOTB aims to make singing and learning about music fun for our members. Our weekly rehearsals are a place of joy and community where members often leave on a musical high.
We have a passion for sharing our love singing with the diverse musical communities of Calgary.
Our
Passions
Collaboration
We believe all voices regardless of ability or experience deserve to be heard and celebrated. Our collaborative process starts in our weekly rehearsals where ALL members share a vital role in the sound and makeup of our musical community.
We are always looking for ways to partner musically with other choral organizations, local musicians and performers who share our passion for helping contribute to the rich and diverse musical communities of Calgary.
For information on how Out of the Blue Chorus could add an exciting musical feature to your community fundraiser, festival, or other event, please contact: Tyler for more information.
Education
“OOTB places a large emphasis on helping to expand the musical language of our members.”
A wealth of research suggests singing can help relieve tension and stress, boost self-confidence, and improve overall health.
OOTB Chorus gives our members the tools to learn about their voices and broaden their scope of musical knowledge.
As a non-auditioned choir, we provide listening and learning materials to enhance our members singing experience and demystify the fear of interacting with sheet music.
A pivotal component of our mission is to emphasize the value of musical education and the impact that journey can have on our daily lives and overall well-being.
Singing is good for you!