Iwan Edwards

Iwan Edwards, CM (born October 5, 1937), is a celebrated Canadian choral conductor. Over a forty year span he has founded and conducted several notable choirs and thrilled audiences. For his outstanding work he has been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada.

Early life

Edwards was born in Wales and completed his undergraduate degree in music (violin) at the University of Wales.

Career

In 1965, he left Wales and moved to Montreal, Canada. There he taught high school music at Lachine High School until 1979. He managed his time well and was able to start the St. Lawrence Choir in 1972. Over 35 years, Edwards has led this choir for audiences in Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Saratoga Springs, New York (Carnegie Hall), and Philadelphia.

From 1979 to 1990, he taught high school music at the Fine Arts Core Education School in Montreal. In 1991, Edwards was appointed associate professor at the McGill University Faculty of Music. There he conducted the McGill Chamber Singers, the University Chorus and, on occasion, the McGill Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. He served as Chairman of the Performance Department of the Faculty of Music from 1992-96.