Our History — 1989 to 2022
Espiritu is proud of our history as an ensemble and are grateful for the strong roots grown with Pandora’s Vox. We continue to embrace the traditions of our founding ensemble and are excited to continue this musical journey.
Founded in 1989 by Artistic Director, Gillian Hunt, PANDORA’S VOX was applauded as a unique and highly entertaining Canadian women’s vocal ensemble. With an eclectic and creative style, the charismatic VOX sang with a vocal virtuosity that encompassed a surprising range of repertoire. The beautifully staged, often theatrical shows were invariably sold out and received rave reviews.
The VOX performed throughout the Pacific Northwest and in Europe, gaining momentum with each year. A significant part of their success was due to their two talented accompanists, Jennie Westcott (1989-2002) and Anita Comba (2002-2022) who were able to navigate the extremely diverse styles of repertoire.
Based in West Vancouver, the group performed in many of Vancouver’s major venues including Performance Works, the Firehall Theatre, Christ Church Cathedral and the Chan Centre.
PANDORA’S VOX was a two-time national finalist in the CBC Radio Choral Competition and has 5 CD recordings as well as performances and videos on youtube available to watch. (links available below)
The VOX retired with their Artistic Director in 2022 after 33 years of dynamic performances, unwavering dedication and choral excellence.
GILLIAN HUNT’s irrepressible sense of humor coupled with her formidable technical knowledge enabled her to create ensembles that spanned an incredible range of expression and delivered great audience appeal. Beginning her career as a classical soloist and vocal teacher, she had always loved jazz singing, and taught in theatre schools and programs. Her well-rounded knowledge was a perfect fit for the choreographed, theatrical productions she was known to create, although her ensembles were also very at home in acoustic environments.
Gillian created CHANTELOPE, a youth ensemble early on in the society and members of this group went on to sing with both her other ensembles later.
In 2002, Gillian created ESPIRITU VOCAL ENSEMBLE under the society umbrella. As of Gillian’s retirement in 2022, this SATB mixed ensemble is now being directed by ANITA COMBA, who was also the previous accompanist/arranger for both ensembles since 2002. Anita partnered with Gillian on many creative and unusual arrangements that gave both groups their unmistakable flair.
In 2009, Gillian was the recipient of the Amy Ferguson Award presented to her by the BC Choral Federation for her outstanding contribution to the choral community of British Columbia.
a few videos...
Let It Be - Flash Mob for United Girls of the World
Astrid Sherman with dancers and Pandora's Vox
a few photos...
"The costumes were beautiful, the singing was near perfect, the repertoire was unfailingly entertaining. I have rarely been more pleased and content with a choir performance. Bravo!"
