Elise Naccarato

Elise is a conductor, arts executive, and entrepreneur recognized for building people-centred choral organizations where artistic excellence and innovation thrive.

She is the Managing Director of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir and the Founder and Artistic & Executive Director of Myriad Ensemble, an award-winning upper-voice choir based in Burlington, Ontario. Founded by Elise in 2017, Myriad has grown into an internationally recognized ensemble of more than 70 singers, celebrated for its artistic excellence, bold programming, and commitment to championing Canadian composers while amplifying the voices of women and non-binary artists. Under her leadership, the ensemble has earned international recognition, including two category wins at the 2022 World Choir Festival and an invitation to compete in the Champions Competition at the 2026 World Choir Games in Sweden.

Prior to joining the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, Elise served for nearly a decade as Managing Director and Associate Conductor of Chorus Niagara, helping guide the organization’s artistic, operational, and community growth. Her earlier appointments include the Ontario Youth Choir, Orpheus Choir of Toronto, and the Hamilton Estonian Choir, which she led at the 2019 Estonian Song Festival. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of working alongside and learning from respected choral leaders, including Robert Cooper and Zimfira Poloz.

Elise holds a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from the University of Toronto, an MBA in Innovation Leadership from the University of Fredericton, and an Honours Bachelor of Music and Diploma in Voice Performance from McMaster University.

Her leadership has been recognized with the 2026 Key to the City of Burlington, the 2021 St. Catharines Emerging Artist Award, and nominations for both the Halton Women of Distinction Award and the YWCA Women of Distinction Award. She currently serves as President-Elect of Choirs Ontario and is an active guest conductor, clinician, adjudicator, and advocate for the continued growth of choral music in Canada.