Choeur en jazz, 20th anniversary

The CEJ in concert (May 2025, at the Montreal Conservatory of Music)

In Montreal, Coeur en jazz has been bringing together adults passionate about music for two decades, who share a common pleasure: singing jazz together. Composed of about thirty amateur singers, the ensemble thrives in a structured environment where vocal training, musical learning, and collective enjoyment come together. Accompanied by some of the most prominent professional musicians on the Montreal jazz scene, the ensemble cultivates a balance between artistic excellence and a friendly atmosphere.

Since 2008, pianist and arranger Sylvain Bertrand has directed the Choir, distinguishing himself through the originality of his arrangements—often written for four to eight voices—and the richness of his jazz repertoire. Over the years, he has forged a unique sonic identity, driven by the musical rigor and commitment of its members.

The CEJ with Vincent Morel and Sylvain Bertrand, during the inter-choir workshop (March 2026)

Coeur en jazz wishes to express its deep gratitude to Sylvain Bertrand, the heart and soul of the ensemble, for his dedication, vision, and the wealth of contributions he has made over the years. Thanks to his presence and hard work, the Jazz Choir has found its unique character, momentum, and musical identity. Its own distinct sound.

A tribute to its musical director, Sylvain Bertrand

To mark its 20th anniversary, the Coeur en jazz wishes to pay tribute to its musical director, Sylvain Bertrand, and his sustained commitment to developing vocal jazz and choral work over many years. A pianist and accompanist, he has participated over the years in numerous productions, concerts, and stage projects in a variety of contexts, ranging from musical theatre to symphonic performances, as well as cabaret and recordings. This diverse experience has led him to develop recognized expertise in accompanying singers and working with the voice.

However, it was in jazz choral singing that he gradually developed a more specific focus. Interested in jazz, vocal harmony, and the French language, he has, over time, built up a significant body of work arranging French-language songs in a jazz style. While not limiting himself to this repertoire, he has nevertheless made it a significant area of ​​focus in his various ensembles, including Coeur e jazz and the Montreal Vocal Jazz Workshop.

His work as an arranger has also led him to participate in large-scale productions. In 2007, at a tribute concert to Sylvain Lelièvre with the Longueuil Symphony Orchestra, he created the arrangements for orchestra, jazz, and choir, and directed the jazz section. He also integrated the Vocal Jazz Workshop, which participated in the performance of several works. This concert featured among others, Daniel Lavoie, Ginette Reno, and Claude Gauthier.

In parallel, he was responsible for the jazz choral singing workshop at Domaine Forget, renowned for the quality of its high-level summer programs, where he participated as a pianist, section leader, and

collaborator with various guest artists.

Throughout his career, he founded and directed several vocal ensembles, including Les Voix Publiques and the Montreal Vocal Jazz Workshop, in addition to collaborating with numerous choirs. His work is rooted in a approach that is both musical and pedagogical, focused on developing listening skills, stylistic accuracy, and the autonomy of singers.

Since 2008, he has served as the musical director of Coeur en jazz, with which he continues to explore the vocal jazz repertoire, both English and French, through arrangements adapted to the ensemble.

Visit website : https://www.choeurenjazz.com/