I Cantorini
The Youth Chorus of I Cantori di Carmel
Sing Something Bigger
I Cantorini is the youth chorus of I Cantori di Carmel, created for singers ages 8–16 who are ready to go deeper, to grow their voices, their confidence, and their musicianship in a serious and joyful musical environment.
After a succesful and exciting inaugural season where I Cantorini singers joined I Cantori di Carmel in Carl Orff's Carmina Burana, performing under the stars at the Forest Theater in Carmel and at the Quarry Amphitheater in Santa Cruz alongside I Cantori's full symphonic chorus and orchestra, we look forward to our fall semseter starting at the end of August.
More Than Choir
I Cantorini is not a drop-in activity. It is focused training within a small, auditioned ensemble especially designed for young singers who are curious, motivated, and excited by challenge.
Participants will develop:
• Healthy classical vocal technique
• Strong listening and ensemble skills
• Language and diction in major choral repertoire
• Musical literacy and rhythmic precision
• Confidence and presence on stage
Rehearsals are energetic and collaborative. Singers are expected to focus, but they are also encouraged to explore, ask questions, and discover what their voices can really do.
The atmosphere is disciplined, but never joyless. The music itself is too powerful for that.
Artistic Leadership
I Cantorini is guided by the artistic vision of Daniel Henriks, Music Director of I Cantori di Carmel. Juilliard-trained and with an international career as an opera singer and conductor in Europe, Daniel brings deep musical insight and a passion for mentoring the next generation of singers.
Day-to-day rehearsals are led by professional musicians Riley Brearton and Katie Jones, both experienced vocal teachers and performers. Riley holds a degree in music and teaches voice and theory locally; Katie is an accomplished and seasoned singer with extensive teaching experience. Together, they provide focused instruction, warm-ups, and musical preparation, ensuring that when the full ensemble comes together, the work is vibrant and artistically meaningful.
Riley Brearton
Born and raised in Monterey, CA, Riley Brearton is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, singer, and an active educator in both private and group settings. He began his vocal studies as a sophomore at Marina High School, and continued at university with Pacific Opera Theatre and Pacific Singers. After earning his Bachelor of Music degree from University of the Pacific's Conservatory of Music in 2023, he moved back to the peninsula to continue teaching and working with local organizations, with a goal to inspire the next generation of young artists.
Katie Jones
Katie is a local musician and singer. She grew up in the Marina school system, which began the foundation of her love for classical music and her musical career. She began singing in her middle school and high school choruses, performing as a soloist and chorister. Katie currently sings with I Cantori di Carmel as a chorus member. In 2024, she was a featured soloist in Monterey Peninsula College's choral performance of Haydn's Missa Sancti Nicolai. She studied under Katherine Edison for many years, developing her vocal technique and expanding her vocal repertoire. Katie currently teaches voice and piano at California Flow Music Studio in Gilroy.
Young singers are not simply placed on stage, they are guided, coached, and prepared so they can perform with confidence and pride.
Rehearsals
Thursdays, 5:30–7:00pm
Monterey High School
Rehearsals for the fall semester begin August 27, 2026 and will culminate in performances in early December.
Because this is a small ensemble, each singer's presence matters. Consistent attendance is essential, and part of learning what it means to be a dependable musician.
Full rehearsal and performance details are provided upon registration.
Auditions
Auditions will be held on August 13 and 20, 2026 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM.
Auditions are welcoming and low-pressure. Singers may be asked to sing a short prepared piece and complete simple pitch-matching exercises. We are looking for enthusiasm, musical potential, and a readiness to engage, not perfection.
After submitting the interest form, families will be contacted to schedule a specific audition time.
Tuition & Scholarships
Participation fee: $245
Limited scholarships are available to ensure access for all qualified singers. We are committed to making this opportunity available to talented young musicians across our community.
Join I Cantorini
Submitting the interest form allows us to arrange an audition. It does not commit your child to participation.
If your child loves to sing, and is ready to be challenged, inspired, and part of something powerful, we would love to meet them.
Find out more and schedule an audition.
Questions?
Riley@icantori.org