Founded in 1970 by Dr. Stanley L. Osborne, the Summer Institute of Church Music has for over 40 years welcomed students from all denominations and levels of ability, and the foremost figures in Church Music as faculty for a week of study, community, and discernment in church music. It was the first, and remains Canada’s only annual summer program in church music.

“Worlds of Sound, Circles of Song”
Music is, at its most scientific level, sound. Sound and memory are powerful forces in the lives of people and societies - but both we and our communities are becoming noisier, more diverse and sometimes for those who seek to minister in those communities, confusing and frustrating. Why are the words strange? How can anyone like this ‘new’ music? Why don’t my colleague(s) support my work? Does beauty still matter? Why is my congregation’s memory so opposed to discovery - or is it?

As the sounds in our lives and services are increasingly those of a newer, bigger world, we must seek an ancient symbol of fellowship, the circle, to sing our songs. At SICM we seek to draw into a new “Circle of Song” the heritage and exciting future of our choirs, organs, pianos and hymns, the always fascinating and alternately alarming and inspiring realities of Church Music in the 21st century, and a growing community of worship leaders, choristers, organists, choral conductors and others radically committed to both. Are you one of those people? Do you and your congregation embrace this viewpoint, or could you at least dare to engage it? Could you help SICM’s community of faculty and students expand this Circle of Song or could that community help you?

SICM’s 41st Session, as well as the Final Round of the 21st Osborne Organ Competition, will be held July 4th to 9th 2010 at Trafalgar Castle School in Whitby and in the surrounding churches and community. Follow the links at left for general information and past sessions, or visit the 2010 Section for information on the upcoming Session.

In this area of the site you can review information on the History, Governance, Location (including Venues and organs) and Commonly-asked questions about SICM. Use the links on the menu at the left.

You can also take a virtual tour - if you enjoy it you could also check out the Institute Photo Gallery.