John Barron

John was born in Trail in 1939.  Following graduation from the Crowe, he attended the University of Toronto studying music education.  There, he fell in love with choirs and obtained his Masters in music.  In 1970, he moved to London, Ontario where he taught in the local school board's music program, retiring in 1996.

In 1985, John founded the Anabile Youth Singers.  The choir won the CBC's bi-annual competition consecutively from its inception until 2000, when it stopped entering the competition.  It has also won numerous competitions in Europe and recorded several CDs.

Throughout his 45 year career, John has been sought after as a clinician and adjudicator with music organizations and institutions throughout Canada and the US and has been recognized with numerous awards for his contribution to music education and performance both nationally and internationally.

In 2008, John was awarded the Order of Canada by Governor General Michaelle Jean, our Country's highest civilian honour.  He passed away in April 2014 in Toronto, ON.