Stella’s Circle is thrilled to announce Julia Halfyard as the new Director of the Stella’s Circle Inclusion Choir. The Inclusion Choir is a joyful place of acceptance and belonging where people come together for the love of singing. This summer, the organization issued a public call for a new director who shares in our belief that group singing celebrates diversity, transforms identity, and strengthens community.

Stella’s Circle is honoured to have Julia Halfyard as the Inclusion Choir’s new leader, bringing with her a strong commitment to innovative practices and exceptional leadership in fostering community engagement through the arts, along with an expert calibre of vocal pedagogy and performance. A celebrated vocal teacher, adjudicator, solo and choral performer, Julia also has a rich background nurturing inclusion through initiatives at Memorial University, Festival 500 Growing the Voices, Business and Arts NL, and the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra.

“I am excited about the opportunity to bring my extensive experience and passion for choral singing and community building to Stella’s Circle. Choirs celebrate the magical experience of community, singing, and positively contribute to well-being. Joining the Stella’s Circle Inclusion Choir is one of the musical highlights of my career,” shares Julia Halfyard.

Formed as a volunteer project in 2007 under the visionary leadership of Helen Murphy, ONL, the Inclusion Choir comprises Stella’s Circle participants, staff, and volunteers. It was founded in the belief that every voice should be heard and that together, our collective voice is powerful and beautiful. Over its 17-year history, the Inclusion Choir has taken to the stage for more than 150 performances, including collaborations with decorated Newfoundland and Labrador artists Amelia Curran, Kellie Loder, and Rachel Cousins. Stella’s Circle is delighted to add further artistic excellence now with the appointment of Julia Halfyard.

“Julia’s energy and commitment to creating space where all feel safe to discover and share their music exemplifies the transformative power of singing. We’ve already seen firsthand how she uses singing to inspire confidence, foster a sense of achievement, and build stronger connections. Julia’s philosophy on choirs is representative of everything we work towards at Stella’s Circle as singers grow individually and collectively through practice, learning, and performing together with audiences,” says Rob McLennan, Director of Employment Services at Stella’s Circle.