CISMF 2026 Celebrates Student Talent, Collaboration, and Musical Excellence

The 2026 Conference of Independent Schools Music Festival (CISMF) brought together more than 1,600 student musicians and educators from 39 CIS Ontario member schools for an inspiring celebration of music, collaboration, and community. Under the leadership of Festival Coordinator Sandi Chasson (CIS Ontario), this year’s festival introduced several exciting enhancements, culminating in two memorable performances at Toronto’s historic Roy Thomson Hall.

A major highlight of CISMF 2026 was the successful introduction of a two-concert format, featuring separate Junior/Intermediate and Senior performances. This new structure improved backstage logistics, expanded ticket access for families, and created more focused and engaging concert experiences for audiences and performers alike.

Both concerts featured acclaimed conductor, educator, and vocalist Dr. Jamie Hillman as Guest Finale Conductor. Dr. Hillman led the Junior and Middle School finale performance of Turn the World Around by Harry Belafonte and Robert Freedman, and conducted the Senior School finale performance of The Greatest Show from The Greatest Showman by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. His dynamic leadership and artistry brought an inspiring close to both concerts, highlighting the energy, collaboration, and joy that define CISMF. Dr. Hillman is Director of Choral Studies and Associate Professor at the University of Toronto, where he holds the endowed Elmer Iseler Chair in Conducting, and is internationally recognized for his work as a conductor, clinician, and educator.

This year’s festival also included a heartfelt tribute to Garry Page (1969–2026), a beloved and deeply respected music educator whose impact on CIS Ontario and St. Andrew’s College continues to resonate throughout the community. A longtime jazz coordinator for CISMF, Garry was celebrated for his extraordinary musicianship, mentorship, humour, and unwavering commitment to students and colleagues alike. His legacy of musical excellence and community-building was honoured during the festival, recognizing the profound difference he made in the lives of countless young musicians and educators across CIS Ontario.

The festival showcased the dedication, artistry, and passion of students across a wide range of vocal and instrumental performances, made possible through the collaboration and commitment of music educators from participating schools. Roy Thomson Hall was filled with energy, creativity, and a shared love of music as students came together to perform on one of Canada’s most celebrated stages.

Readers are encouraged to explore the CISMF 2026 digital program for the repertoire and detailed programme notes, a full list of participating schools, student artwork featured in the programme cover contest, and advertisements from the festival’s valued sponsors and partners whose support helped make this year’s event possible.

Bravo to all who participated! We hope you will join us on Saturday, April 3, 2027 for CISMF 2027, our 40th anniversary concert.

Sandi Chasson
CISMF Coordinator
CIS Ontario