May 21 was a busy day for Victoria-based multi-instrumentalist and choral communicator Christine Chepyha. Not only was she helping to organize BCCF Chorfest 2017, but also hosting clinicians, coordinating the box office, and accompanying the Young Adult Choir at the Gala Concert. By the time the event had concluded, she was an award-winner as well.

Just seconds before the Young Adult Choir sang its first notes, Chepyha was presented with the Willan Award in recognition of her outstanding service to the BCCF, particularly for her volunteer role on the Board and Executive Committee as Communications Chair. She joins the likes of Jon Washburn, Don James, Sal Fererras, Joyce Maguire, Diane Loomer and others in this distinction.

This award was gifted to the BCCF by the Willan Choir, and, since its inaugural year in 1981, past recipients have formed the BCCF’s Willan Council, a think-tank of conductors and choral musicians who inspire new ideas and projects.