Meet the 2027 Adjudicators!

Christopher Ducasse

Christopher, a native of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, is a highly accomplished musician and conductor known for his exceptional talent and dedication to the world of choral music. Currently appointed as the Artistic Director of Hypatia's Voice and one of the conductors at the Ottawa Children's Choir, His journey began at the Holy Trinity Music School, where he immersed himself in the study of voice, violin, and piano, laying the foundation for his future career.

In 2007, Christopher's remarkable musical abilities earned him a coveted position as a member of the esteemed Philharmonic Orchestra of Holy Trinity. His passion for conducting soon emerged, and in 2011, he assumed the role of conductor for their main choir, "Les Petits Chanteurs," a position he held with great distinction for four years.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and artistic growth, Christopher seized the opportunity to participate in the BLUME HAITI Scholar program, joining Lawrence University in 2015. He immersed himself in the vibrant exchange of ideas and cultures there, further refining his musical expertise.

Continuing his pursuit of excellence, Christopher embarked on a new chapter in 2017, enrolling at Silver Lake College of the Holy Family, where he completed his Bachelor's degree in Choral Music Education. Recognizing the importance of advanced education, he went on to obtain a master's degree in Choral Conducting from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, in 2023.

Throughout his illustrious career, Christopher has demonstrated his versatility and proficiency by collaborating with numerous choirs in both permanent and freelancing capacities. From leading the young talents of "Les Petits Chanteurs de Sainte Trinité" in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to co-conducting the Adleisia Choir in Montreal and with college students as he has shared his passion and expertise as a Course Instructor and Conductor of the McGill Concert Choir, imparting his knowledge and passion to aspiring vocalists and shaping the next generation of musicians. Christopher has showcased his ability to connect with singers of all ages and backgrounds. Christopher presently holds the position of Artistic Director at Hypatia's Voice, a Treble Voice Choir based in Ottawa. Additionally, he is an esteemed conductor on the Artistic team of the Ottawa Children's Choir and Music Director of Le Petit Choeur de Rosemère.

Christopher's remarkable talent extends beyond conducting. In 2018, he was awarded the first prize at the prestigious WCDA Conducting Competition, a testament to his exceptional musical prowess. He has also composed both vocal and instrumental pieces, captivating audiences with his creativity and artistry. Notable performances include works performed by renowned ensembles such as the Philharmonic Orchestra of Holy Trinity Music School, the Lawrence University Cello Ensemble, the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra, and the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir.

While Christopher's primary focus lies in choral conducting, he possesses a diverse range of interests and talents. In addition to his baritone vocal abilities, he is an accomplished pianist and violinist. Furthermore, photography is a beloved hobby, allowing him to capture and express his unique world perspective.

Christopher's artistic endeavors have garnered significant recognition and praise. His latest work, a composition commissioned by the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra in Appleton, Wisconsin, premiered in April 2022, captivating audiences with its symphonic grandeur. Additionally, his choral compositions, including "Agnus Dei" and "Sanctus - Benedictus," were published by Cypress Choral Music in the spring of 2022, further solidifying his reputation as a gifted composer. 

As Christopher continues to inspire audiences and musicians alike with his extraordinary talent, his unwavering commitment to musical excellence and his passion for the transformative power of choral music remain the driving forces behind his remarkable career.

Jackie Hawley

Jackie Hawley is the founding Artistic Director of the Cantiamo Choirs of Ottawa. She has conducted and toured internationally with adult, youth and children’s choirs and has been a clinician for choirs and schools throughout Canada for nearly 40 years.  She has presented at numerous events including Festival 500, Podium and the International Symposium of Singing and Song II. 

Ms. Hawley was on the ACCC Podium committee (Ottawa), wrote the children’s choir column for Anacrusis from 2013 to 2016 and was a Choir’s Ontario Board member from 2014 to 2021. Ms. Hawley has adjudicated for the Alberta Choral Federation Choralfest South and was recently a jury member for the National Competition for Canadian Amateur Choirs. Ms. Hawley was also the Artistic Director of the Ottawa Children’s Choir and Music Director of its Chamber Choir from 2008 to 2015.

Ms. Hawley works frequently with the Education Department of the National Arts Centre and was the Music Director of the NAC’s 500 voice annual Music Monday Choir. Ms. Hawley is the Founder of the Nipiit-Katittut- Voices United (NKVU) educational engagement project which connects choristers with youth in Iqaluit to build community and promote leadership skills, musical artistry and cultural enlightenment.

Ms. Hawley is committed to the creation, performance and promotion of Canadian choral music and has premiered over 50 works by Canadian composers. The Cantiamo Choirs of Ottawa has commissioned and continues to commission one or more Canadian compositions every year. 

Ms. Hawley was also a teacher with the Ottawa Carleton District School Board and is dedicated to the mission of having all children singing in schools every day. Ms. Hawley continues to give music leadership workshops to Board staff and facilitate workshops for school choirs. Ms. Hawley graduated from University of Toronto with an honours degree in Music Education and from University of Ottawa with a Bachelor of Education.