How We Started
Kintara began in 2008 under the leadership of Signi Murgatroyd. Singers from Connie Le Beau’s earlier choir Inspirata formed the core group. Signi’s background in music and vocal coaching created a unique sound and a learning experience that was joyful and fun. Charlotte Hale, was an experienced and sensitive coach and a collaborative musician, was our wonderful Kintara pianist of the time,
Both Signi Murgatroyd and Charlotte Hale retired in May of 2026. Soon after their retirement, a search team was formed, tasked with finding a replacement for this dynamic duo.
In June of 2026, the team had the very good fortune of completing their task by finding an equally accomplished musical duo in Eva Smith, choral director, and Mark Ahenda, pianist. Kintara Women’s Chorus is thrilled to welcome them both to lead us in song once again starting September 14, 2026.
How We Roll
Kintara Women’s Chorus is a community of singers directed by a leadership team of choir volunteers, with choristers helping keep us organized behind the scenes.
As a community choir, we believe in supporting the greater community. Net proceeds from past concerts have been donated to local and international charitable organizations.
We’re a social group! Annual welcome back socials, monthly pub nights and amazing end-of-season potlucks bring us together to share our lives.
group photos by Christine Henry
Our Leaders in Song
Eva Smith, Conductor and Musical Director
Eva Smith is a singer, choral conductor, composer, and music educator. She holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Victoria, where she specialized in choral music education. She teaches music to young children through Music Together Victoria, as well as working with several voice students in the Southern Vancouver Island area. In addition to Kintara, Eva also directs the treble chamber choir, Sequoia Vocal Ensemble. She has also had the pleasure of working with many other local choirs, including the St. Andrews Presbyterian Church choir, Ensemble Laude, and Linden Singers.
Above all, Eva loves to share the joy of singing with others, and looks forward to making and sharing music with Kintara Women’s Chorus and their audiences.
Mark Ahenda, Pianist
As a grade 8 science teacher, Mark has deep roots and a wide reach within Victoria’s music scene. His commitment to sharing and educating is second to none. Having played musical instruments from a young age, Mark has top level Royal Conservatory of Music qualifications in both piano and trumpet. Along with leading music teams at church he has mentored students in a wide range of instruments. He also plays the acoustic and electric guitars and is a mean drummer! Mark brings a diverse knowledge of many music genres to Kintara.
“Enthusiasm and energy from these two musical professionals will make us truly “raise the roof“!
