A diverse, close-knit group,
bringing "Singer Love" wherever they go
Since our debut in 1996, we, the Ecco Singers, have been more than just a choir in Winnipeg; we've become a part of its heartbeat. We're thrilled to say that we've grown from a local gem to a celebrated ensemble that resonates with people from all walks of life. Our group isn't just about creating melodies; it's a place where music, community, and a sense of family intertwine.
Our name, Ecco, inspired by the Greek echo and the myth of Echo, is a reflection of our core mission. Like the nymph who repeated the sounds around her, we strive to capture and echo back the diverse voices and stories of our community through our songs. Think of us as the choral version of a warm, welcoming kitchen party, where the music is not only of excellent quality but also accessible and heartening.
But our commitment extends beyond melodies and harmonies. We're deeply invested in making a tangible difference in our community. We take every chance to encourage community engagement and raise awareness for causes close to our hearts. At our concerts, it's common to see us spotlighting local charities and organizing donations for food banks. We're more than a choir; we're advocates for positive change and communal unity in Winnipeg.
As we continue to sing and serve our community, we warmly invite you to join us in this journey. To sustain our support for local charities and initiatives, we lean on the generosity of individuals like you. Your contributions are vital in helping us spread positivity and make a meaningful impact.
If you believe in the transformative power of music and are passionate about community engagement, we encourage you to consider supporting us. Your donation today can help us create a more harmonious and vibrant Winnipeg for everyone. Please visit our website to make your contribution. Let's create beautiful music together, both on stage and in the hearts of our community.
Thank you for believing in us and for your invaluable support!
With gratitude and musical cheer,
Ecco Singers 🎵
Jorrel Camuyong, Co-Director
Roberta Velarde & Jorrel Camuyong, Co-Directors, and Katie Erickson, Accompanist
Music has always been a part of Jorrel’s life. As a child, his grandparents always had music in the home: grandpa would play the drums, and grandma would sing and encourage him to find his own voice. He started taking piano lessons at the age of 10, and continued to develop his voice singing in church and enjoying karaoke with the family. His passion for singing grew through his involvement in many choirs during his youth including Winnipeg School Division Honour choirs, and Provincial Honour choirs. After high school, Jorrel continued to foster his love of choir singing with the University of Winnipeg Downtown Vocal Jazz, SonoLux, and Ecco Singers.
Music has always been a part of Jorrel’s life. As a child, his grandparents always had music in the home: grandpa would play the drums, and grandma would sing and encourage him to find his own voice. He started taking piano lessons at the age of 10, and continued to develop his voice singing in church and enjoying karaoke with the family. His passion for singing grew through his involvement in many choirs during his youth including Winnipeg School Division Honour choirs, and Provincial Honour choirs. After high school, Jorrel continued to foster his love of choir singing with the University of Winnipeg Downtown Vocal Jazz, SonoLux, and Ecco Singers.
A graduate of University of Winnipeg, Jorrel holds a Bachelor of Education with a major in musical theatre. He has done work on musical productions with Winnipeg Studio Theatre and Stage 16, and on multiple school productions. He developed and directed the vocal jazz and choirs at Chief Peguis Middle School while working as a classroom teacher. Currently, Jorrel is also the co-director of the Rhapsody with the Winnipeg Youth Chorus and is the Program Director for the Manitoba Choral Association.
Jorrel has always been empowered by the ability music has to bring people together through collective breath. He is very excited for the opportunity to work with a friend and colleague he met while singing in choir, and is looking forward to making beautiful, meaningful music with Ecco Singers.
Roberta Velarde, Co-Director
Roberta Velarde & Jorrel Camuyong, Co-Directors, and Katie Erickson, Accompanist
Roberta’s love for choir began by singing with her cousins in the dining room at the family farm, and while on road trips when her dad would ask her to teach him to harmonize. She was actively involved in many musical events in the Interlake region including church choirs, music teams, productions, and choir at Stonewall Collegiate. Roberta grew up participating in the Rockwood Festival of Arts, and fondly remembers singing for adjudicators that would one day adjudicate her own choirs.
After singing with Ecco Singers for almost a decade, Roberta is excited to share the role as artistic director, working together with long-time friend and colleague, Jorrel. Currently, Roberta is completing her Master in Music (Choral Conducting) at the University of Manitoba. Roberta graduated with a Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education from Brandon University and holds a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Education from the University of Winnipeg. She has been building the choir family at West Kildonan Collegiate since 2014 teaching choir, vocal jazz, chamber choir, musical production, inclusive music, and piano. She has been invited to be a guest conductor and clinician at various choral events around Manitoba including the Westman Youth Choir (2023), ChoralFest Travelling Adjudicator (2024), Central Manitoba Choral Association’s High School Choir Workshop (2018), Da Capo Conference (2018) and has served on the Manitoba Choral Association board.
Roberta believes that singing is a powerful tool that can connect and strengthen communities. When not working with choirs, Roberta loves spending time with her husband, and son, and is thankful to have their support at many concerts and performances.
Katie Erickson, Accompanist
Roberta Velarde & Jorrel Camuyong, Co-Directors, and Katie Erickson, Accompanist
Katie is a Winnipeg-born pianist with extensive training, including a Bachelor of Music from the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Music, a Grade 10 certificate from the Royal Conservatory of Music (accompanied by a silver medal), and participation in various festivals and masterclasses.
Katie discovered her love for accompanying at age 7 when she was allowed to play ‘O Canada’ at a school assembly. Since then, she has actively pursued every opportunity to play for others. Based in Winnipeg, Katie is an in-demand pianist who has also had the chance to perform across North America and Europe. Always up for a challenge, Katie has accompanied all ages and abilities, including the Winnipeg Youth Chorus (2011–2023), the Royal Winnipeg Ballet (2012–present), and the Winnipeg Male Chorus (2014–2024). Her experience spans soloists, musicals, auditions, festivals, weddings, and more. She finds joy in watching music’s impact on audiences of all ages—from 5 to 95!
When not performing, Katie enjoys time with her husband, Andrew, and daughter, Olivia.