Shirley Penner is a prominent figure in Canada’s musical landscape. As the CEO of Youth Singers of Calgary, she has made significant contributions to Alberta’s music scene and Canada as a whole. Learn more on edmonton-trend.
A Childhood Steeped in Music
Born in Saskatoon and raised in Saskatchewan, Shirley was the daughter of a church minister and professor father, and a musician and piano teacher mother. Inspired by her mother, Shirley began engaging with the performing arts at a young age, singing on the radio at just seven years old.
Shirley’s mother taught her to sing and play the piano, laying the foundation for her lifelong musical journey. After graduating high school, Shirley moved to Chicago to further her musical education. She earned a Master of Music degree from the University of Chicago and later graduated from the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, where she earned an Associate Diploma specializing in performance and teaching.
A Flourishing Musical Career and the Birth of Her Corporation
In 1963, Shirley founded a women’s choir, Treble Teens, in Steinbach, Manitoba, serving as both its artistic director and business manager. The choir flourished under her leadership, giving numerous successful performances and touring extensively. During this time, Shirley opened her own music studio, teaching voice, piano, and choral singing.
In 1980, she became a cultural development specialist for Manitoba’s Department of Culture while also working as a producer for CBC Television.
By 1984, Shirley joined the Mount Royal College faculty of performing arts in Calgary, where she began teaching music. A year later, she established a choir at Mount Royal, developing a unique singing program for beginners. As the choir grew in popularity and performance opportunities expanded, Shirley made a pivotal decision to leave her position at the college and establish her own organization, the Youth Singers of Calgary.
Today, the Youth Singers of Calgary provides musical education to over 500 students annually, offering a curriculum Shirley designed that emphasizes music and rhythm while balancing theoretical knowledge and vocal training. Performances range from classical choral concerts to musical theater. With an artistic team of more than 50 educators, directors, composers, and playwrights, the organization has produced many accomplished singers who go on to build successful careers.
The Youth Singers of Calgary also tour internationally each year, showcasing their talent on global stages.
Transformational Programs and Lasting Impact
One of Shirley’s most cherished programs is STAR, which allows children with cognitive delays to experience the joys and benefits of musical education in a safe and encouraging environment.
From the start of her career, Shirley understood the importance of organizational support for nurturing artistic talent. Her dedication to this cause has resulted in a flourishing organization that opens doors for young musicians.
Recognitions and Legacy
Throughout her career, Shirley Penner has received numerous awards, including the Paul Harris Fellowship, the Alberta Centennial Medal, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. She remains actively involved in festivals, competitions, and talent development.
For Shirley, the greatest reward is the impact of her work. Her organization has transformed countless lives, helping young individuals with personal challenges and low self-esteem gain confidence through performance. She takes immense pride in watching her students grow and thrive under her mentorship.
