TORONTO, ON — July 17, 2026 The Toronto Mendelssohn Choir (TMChoir) is pleased to announce the appointment of Elise Naccarato as its new Managing Director, effective July 13, 2026. Naccarato will work in close partnership with Jean-Sébastien Vallée, TMChoir’s Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, as the organization enters an exciting new chapter. Jean- Sébastien’s contract was recently renewed for an additional five years through the 2030-31 season.
Naccarato brings a distinctive blend of artistic and executive leadership to the role, with a career dedicated to building ambitious, sustainable choral organizations, advancing artistic excellence, and strengthening choral communities. She is the founder and Artistic & Executive Director of Myriad Ensemble, which she has grown from its inception into an internationally recognized upper-voice choir of more than 80 singers. Prior to joining TMChoir, Naccarato served as Managing Director and Associate Conductor of Chorus Niagara, contributing to the organization’s artistic and organizational growth over nearly a decade. She holds a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from the University of Toronto and an MBA in Innovation Leadership from the University of Fredericton, alongside a Bachelor of Music from McMaster University.
“Elise’s rare combination of financial discipline, organizational growth expertise and genuine choral artistry make her exactly the right partner for this next chapter,” said David Raju, Board Chair of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. “Her appointment follows a thoughtful search process and an organizational design review undertaken over the past year, and we are confident she will help TMChoir build on its momentum.”
“It is an incredible honour to join the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir at such a significant moment in its history,” said Naccarato. “I have always believed that artistic excellence and strong, forward-thinking leadership go hand in hand, and that organizations thrive through meaningful collaboration. TMChoir has an extraordinary legacy, but what excites me most is the opportunity to work with the remarkable people who will shape its future. I look forward to working alongside Jean-Sébastien, the Board, staff, singers and wider community to build on that legacy, explore new possibilities and imagine together what comes next.”
The Board also extends its sincere thanks to Kathleen Stevenson, Jean-Sébastien Vallée, and TMChoir’s staff for their leadership and stability throughout the organization’s recent transition.
Find more information at www.tmchoir.org
