Peter and Audrey Switzer Trophy Room

Donated By: The Alpha Juvenile Choristers
First Presented: 1963
Criteria: Best or Most Promising Vocalist - Primary/Elementary Level

As a member of the Perth County Music Teachers' Federation, F. P. Polley was a teacher of vocal music, both choral and solo. He supported the music festival from 1935 through 1962 by serving on a variety of committees. Francis Patrick "Paddy" Polley was a musical phenomenon in Stratford for many years. He emigrated to Canada in 1911 from Newry, England. He worked by day as a machinist for the CNR and spent many hours each week as a bass soloist and choir director at St. James Anglican Church.

F. P. Polley also founded the Alpha Juvenile Choristers in 1931. He entered this group in the Music Festival from 1932 - 1959. On several occasions, this group won the Kalbfleish Challenge Shields and the H. S. Robertson Trophy. He also founded and conducted the Jubilee Girls' Choir.