The Canadian Opera Company has released a new video on its YouTube page featuring its first ever virtual choir singing the “Anvil Chorus” from Verdi’s “Il Trovatore.”

After putting out an open invitation in May, the choir features over 215 singers from 22 countries across six continents.

The project was led by COC’s Chorus Master Sandra Horst, with help from soprano Anna-Sophie Neher, bass-baritone Joel Allison, and pianist Rachael Kerr, who provides accompaniment in the finished video. The idea for the virtual choir came from the organization’s annual “Opera Chorus Sing-Along” which had to be cancelled due to the spread of COVID-19.

The distinctive sound of the “Anvil Chorus” will be achieved as participants utilize kitchenware as percussive instruments, a gesture meant to also pay homage to the health workers on the frontline of the pandemic.

You can watch the video on the company’s official YouTube channel.