In conversation with Zimfira Poloz: Toronto Children’s Chorus prepares for its first tour to Asia
June 24, 2026
Chorally
For Zimfira Poloz and the Toronto Children’s Chorus, the 2026 World Choir Festival – Hong Kong represents more than another international appearance. It is the choir’s 34th international tour, but also its first-ever tour to Asia – a milestone moment for one of Canada’s leading children’s choirs.
‘We are deeply honoured to participate in the 2026 World Choir Festival as a Resident Children’s Choir,’ says Poloz. ‘The World Choir Festival is a highly respected international choral event, and we are especially grateful for the vision of Artistic Director Professor Leon Tong and his lifelong dedication to choral music education.’
The invitation places the Toronto Children’s Chorus within a global community of young singers, educators and choral leaders. For Poloz, that exchange is central to the value of the experience. ‘We look forward to connecting with outstanding choirs from around the world, sharing music and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Hong Kong,’ she says. ‘For our singers, this is a meaningful opportunity to grow as musicians and as global citizens through artistic exchange, friendship and shared performance experiences.’
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This first Asian tour is especially significant because it offers the choir new encounters with repertoire, sound, movement traditions and youth choirs from across the world. Poloz hopes the singers will return changed by the experience.
‘Musically, I hope they return inspired by the artistry they encounter and motivated to continue growing as performers,’ she says. ‘Culturally, I hope they gain a deeper understanding of different traditions and perspectives. Personally, I hope they develop confidence, independence, resilience and friendships that extend beyond borders.’
Ultimately, she adds, she wants them to come home with ‘a stronger sense of identity and a broader understanding of the world’.
Read the full interview here: Chorally