Koerner Hall Opens!

Kicks off Inaugural Season with Star-Studded Grand Opening Festival

Tonight is the night! The long-awaited Grand Opening of The Royal Conservatory’s spectacular new Koerner Hall takes place on Friday, September 25, 2009 at 8:30 pm. The jewel in the crown of Toronto’s Cultural Renaissance, Koerner Hall also represents the final phase in the transformation of The Royal Conservatory’s national headquarters, the TELUS Centre for Performance and Learning.

“Koerner Hall and the TELUS Centre are critical components in inspiring audiences and connecting the world’s greatest artists to our students.” remarked Dr. Peter Simon, President of The Royal Conservatory.

The Grand Opening of Koerner Hall includes Spirits of the House, a world premiere by R. Murray Schafer, especially commissioned by Michael and Sonja Koerner for the opening, and a video commemorating Glenn Gould’s 77th birthday. The all-Canadian roster of artists includes the Royal Conservatory Orchestra under the baton of rising star conductor Jean-Philippe Tremblay, Grammy-nominated ARC (Artists of The Royal Conservatory), Anton Kuerti, the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, and vocal soloists Erin Wall (soprano), Wallis Giunta (mezzo-soprano), Colin Ainsworth (tenor), and Robert Pomakov (bass), all of whom have a special connection to The Royal Conservatory.


The Grand Opening of Koerner Hall is just the beginning of an exciting and wide-ranging season of music at The Royal Conservatory – nine more concerts complete the Grand Opening Festival of Koerner Hall, which runs until October 17. “These first concerts will reveal Koerner Hall’s exceptional acoustics while also reflecting our commitment to bring you some of the best classical, jazz, pop, and world music artists from around the globe”, noted Mervon Mehta, The Royal Conservatory’s Executive Director of Performing Arts.

On September 26, jazz giant Chick Corea takes the stage with bassist Stanley Clarke and jazz funk drummer Lenny White in a special concert that will also feature Juno Award-winning Toronto vocalist Sophie Milman.

On September 29, virtuosos Béla Fleck (banjo), Zakir Hussain (tabla), and Edgar Meyer (double bass) will present a concert blending classical, bluegrass, and world music, presented in association with Small World Music.

On October 1, the Emerson String Quartet, dubbed “America’s best quartet” by TIME Magazine, will be joined by Menahem Pressler, who wowed audiences during his recent appearance at the Toronto Summer Music Festival. He will join the Quartet in Dvořák’s Piano Quintet in A, which they recorded together to great critical acclaim.

The Royal Conservatory will participate in the Scotiabank Nuit Blanche for the first time ever on October 3. Brian Current, Artistic Director of The Glenn Gould School’s New Music Ensemble, will fill the entire TELUS Centre building with sound and light, as he leads musicians from The Glenn Gould School, the Univox Chorale, and the Penthalia singers in a 12-hour installation of James Tenney’s In a large open space.

The Royal Conservatory Orchestra returns to Koerner Hall on October 9, this time under Toronto Symphony Orchestra Music Director Peter Oundjian, who will lead the orchestra in Respighi’s Pines of Rome and Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2, with Glenn Gould School 2009 Concerto Competition winner Sam Deason.

This Thanksgiving weekend, Torontonians will be thanking mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade for stopping at Koerner Hall on her farewell recital tour. Canadian singing superstar and RCM alumnus, Isabel Bayrakdarian, will be making a special guest appearance at the performance, on October 10.

Two more singing sensations will appear on October 15 - Hong Kong superstar Frances Yip (perhaps best known for her song Shanghai Beach from TVB movie The Bund) and Cantopop star Anthony Lun, a classically trained pianist who has composed no less than 42 number one hits.

Keb’ Mo’ will bring the RCM down to the Delta on October 16, with his soulful blend of blues, rock, folk, and jazz. He will be joined by Hamilton-based blues man Harrison Kennedy.

The Royal Conservatory celebrates Diwali on October 17 with legendary sitarist Ravi Shankar and his daughter, Anoushka Shankar. These world music luminaries will be the perfect complement to the annual festival of lights.

Certain to become one of the world's great concert spaces, Koerner Hall represents a long-awaited addition to Toronto’s cultural landscape – a world-class concert hall in the heart of the city. It will be used by many of the city’s finest artists and performing arts organizations and will provide a performance venue for many students and faculty of The Royal Conservatory. The opening of Koerner Hall also completes the physical transformation of the RCM’s national headquarters and culminates the vision of President Dr. Peter Simon to provide facilities befitting an internationally-renowned organization dedicated to developing the human potential of Canadians through excellence in performance and learning.

The Royal Conservatory acknowledges all of its donors and recognizes the remarkable generosity of:
TELUS Communications Inc.
The governments of Canada and Ontario
Michael & Sonja Koerner
Ian Ihnatowycz & Marta Witer
Leslie & Anna Dan
Wilmot & Judy Matthews

The Royal Conservatory’s 2009-2010 Koerner Hall Inaugural Concert Season is made possible through the generous support of:

TELUS – official season sponsor of the 2009-10 Koerner Hall Concert Season
The Globe and Mail – Season media sponsor
Classical 96.3 FM – Classical Series sponsor (Chamber Series, Vocal Series & String Series)
Jazz FM – Jazz Series sponsor

GRAND OPENING FESTIVAL
Grand Opening of Koerner Hall: Friday, September 25, 2009, 8:30pm
Corea, Clarke & White: Saturday, September 26, 2009, 8pm
Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain & Edgar Meyer: Tuesday, September 29, 2009, 8pm
Emerson String Quartet with Menahem Pressler: Thursday, October 1, 2009, 8pm
Nuit Blanche: Music Inside/Out: Saturday, October 3, 2009, 7pm - 7am
Peter Oundjian conducts the Royal Conservatory Orchestra: Friday, October 9, 2009, 8pm
Frederica von Stade with special guest appearance by Isabel Bayrakdarian:
Saturday, October 10, 2009, 8pm
Frances Yip & Anthony Lun: Thursday, October 15, 2009, 8pm
Keb’ Mo’ with special guest Harrison Kennedy: Friday, October 16, 2009, 8pm
Ravi Shankar & Anoushka Shankar: Saturday, October 17, 2009, 8pm

All concerts take place at The Royal Conservatory, 273 Bloor St West
Tickets are available online at www.rcmusic.ca, by calling 416.408.0208
or in person at The Royal Conservatory Box Office

Tickets for the Grand Opening of Koerner Hall range from $20-$250
Select any 4+ concerts and save 10%
Select any 7+ concerts and save 15%
or in person at The RCM Box Office, 273 Bloor Street West, Toronto

More information about the 2009-2010 Concert Season is available on The Royal Conservatory website at www.rcmusic.ca.

NACO, Oct. 8-9: 40th birthday features first-ever performance of Mahler's "Titan" Symphony

Ottawa, Canada – The National Arts Centre Orchestra is turning 40 years old, and to celebrate the occasion, Music Director Pinchas Zukerman will lead the musicians in their first-ever performance Mahler’s mighty “Titan” Symphony No. 1 in Bostonian Bravo Series concerts on Thursday, October 8 and Friday, October 9 at 8 p.m. in Southam Hall.

The special occasion will also be marked by two works from the NAC Orchestra’s four-decade history. Pinchas Zukerman, also one of the world’s most celebrated violinists, will perform Bach’s Violin Concerto in A minor, a piece first performed by the Orchestra in 1971 with Szymon Goldberg as both conductor and violin soloist. Maestro Zukerman will also lead stellar Canadian baritone Russell Braun (who has been a guest artist with the NAC Orchestra since 1994) in Songs for an Acrobat, a work commissioned from Canadian Linda Bouchard in 1995 during the period when she was the Orchestra’s Composer-in-Residence. The music is set to poems by Quebec writer Maurice Tourigny, a close friend of Bouchard. The NAC Orchestra’s Marquis Classics recording of the work was nominated for a Juno Award. The NAC Orchestra will also perform Songs for an Acrobat at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto later this season on January 16, 2010.

There will be Musically Speaking pre-concert chats both nights at 7 p.m. with music critic Jean-Jacques Van Vlasselaer. On Thursday, October 8 he will present the talk in English titled “The Beginning and Ending of a World”, and on Friday, October 9 he will present it in French titled “Début et fin d’un monde”.

Mahler’s First Symphony is one of the most original and innovative in music history. With the sole exception of Brahms, and possibly Sibelius, there is probably no other composer than Gustav Mahler whose First Symphony represents such a towering achievement. Among the innovations one can point to are the largest assemblage of orchestral musicians hitherto required in a symphony, and the incorporation of café, pop and gypsy music. And nowhere else are the sounds of nature so pervasively and integrally bound up with the symphonic thought than in the first movement of this symphony. Other things to listen for are the unusual rendition of “Frère Jacques” played by the double bass, and a finale in which seven horns – their bells turned up – proclaim the heroic ending.

The expanded NAC Orchestra for Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 “Titan” is made possible by the Friends of the NAC Orchestra Kilpatrick Fund. The late William Kilpatrick was a longtime NAC subscriber who bequeathed funds to NACOA (now called Friends of the NAC Orchestra), the revenue from which is given to the Orchestra each year to help present a work that requires larger instrumental forces. The Friends of the NAC Orchestra are also celebrating their 40th birthday at this time.

The orchestral forces are also supplemented for this concert by the apprentices of the Institute for Orchestral Studies – five young string players chosen by audition to join the NAC Orchestra in rehearsal and concert, and to receive mentorship from NAC Orchestra musicians, on five different occasions throughout the season.

The concerts are being recorded by CBC Radio 2 for future broadcast on In Concert with host Bill Richardson, on Tempo with host Julie Nesrallah, and for Radio-Canada Espace Musique on Soirée classiques hosted by Michel Keable. Bill Richardson will also host an intermission interview with composer Linda Bouchard and baritone Russell Braun in the Main Foyer.

After the opening concert on Thursday, October 8, the audience is invited to join the musicians in the Foyer for birthday cake and coffee courtesy of Bostonian Executive Suites and Mark Motors Audi.

These concerts also mark the first of this season’s “Exploration of the Symphony” podcast series. You can go online to the NAC’s website at www.nac-cna.ca/podcast to hear assistant principal double bass Marjolaine Fournier interview music critic Jean-Jacques Van Vlasselaer about Mahler’s “Titan” Symphony in separate English and French versions.

Tickets for the NAC Orchestra’s 40th birthday concerts on October 8 and 9 in the NAC’s Southam Hall at 8 p.m. are on sale now at $19, $29, $39.50, $50, $60, $70 and $87.50 at the newly renovated NAC Box Office (Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and through Ticketmaster (with surcharges) at 613-755-1111. Ticketmaster may also be accessed through the NAC’s website at www.nac-cna.ca.

Half-price tickets for students in all sections of the hall are on sale in person at the NAC Box Office upon presentation of a valid student ID card. Live Rush tickets (subject to availability) for full-time students (aged 13 to 29) are $11 at the NAC Box Office from 2 p.m. the day before the concert to 6 p.m. the day of, upon presentation of a valid Live Rush card.

Groups of 10 and more save 15% to 20% off the regular price of tickets to NAC Music, Theatre and Dance performances. To reserve your seats call 613-947-7000 ext. 384 or email grp@nac-cna.ca.

Listen to more than 150 NAC Orchestra performances - FREE! - visit
 www.NACMusicbox.ca

The Met: Live in HD Kicks Off on Saturday, October 10 at Empire Theatre

A New Production of Puccini's Tosca
- Tickets for 2009-10 Season On Sale Now

HALIFAX, Sept. 25 /CNW/ - Tickets for the fourth season of The Met: Live in HD, the Metropolitan Opera's popular, award-winning series of live transmissions in movie theaters around the world, are now on sale at select Empire Theatres locations in Atlantic Canada. The 2009-10 season, featuring nine live opera transmissions, kicks off on Saturday, October 10 at 2:00 p.m. AT with a new production of Puccini's Tosca starring Karita Mattila. The production, directed by Luc Bondy in his house debut and conducted by Met Music Director James Levine, features Marcelo alvarez and George Gagnidze in the other leading roles.

More than 900 theaters in 42 countries around the world are participating in The Met: Live in HD this season. A record number of more than 1.8 million Live in HD tickets were sold last season.

Four other new productions are featured in the series, including Offenbach's Les Contes d'Hoffmann starring Joseph Calleja in the title role, with Anna Netrebko and Alan Held; Bizet's Carmen starring Elina Garanca and Roberto Alagna; Natalie Dessay and Simon Keenlyside in Thomas's Hamlet; and Rossini's Armida starring Renée Fleming. The HD season also includes Verdi's Aida with Violeta Urmana, Dolora Zajick, and Johan Botha; Maria Guleghina and Marcello Giordani in Puccini's Turandot; Richard Strauss's Der Rosenkavalier with Fleming and Susan Graham; and Verdi's Simon Boccanegra starring Placido Domingo, singing the title role for the first time at the Met. James Levine leads four of the HD transmissions. Complete casting and details of the season's Live in HD performances follows below.

All nine high-definition productions will be shown live worldwide on Saturdays through May 1 with an additional Saturday Encore presentation for each. Tickets are available online and at participating theatre box offices. For complete details visit www.empiretheatres.com/met.
The Met: Live in HD series is made possible by a generous grant from the Neubauer Family Foundation. Bloomberg L.P. is the global corporate sponsor of The Met: Live in HD. The HD broadcasts are supported by Toll Brothers, America's luxury home builder(R).

The Met: Live in HD has expanded its distribution in the 2009-10 season to include 42 countries. New countries joining the Live in HD network this season include Bulgaria, Chile, Lithuania, Malta, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, and Uruguay. The Met: Live in HD returns in the following locations: Argentina (Fundacion Beethoven), Australia (presented by Sharmill Films), Austria (presented by ClasArt), Belgium (Kinepolis), Brazil (Movie MBZ), Colombia (Cine Colombia), Costa Rica (Centro Cultural), Croatia (presented by Aero Films), the Czech Republic (presented by Aero Films), Denmark (Nordisk Film Biografer); Estonia (Forum Cinemas), Finland (Finnkino), France (presented by CielEcran), Germany (presented by ClasArt), Hungary (presented by Aero Films), Iceland (Sam Films), Ireland (presented by Opera Ireland), Japan (Shochiku), Latvia (Forum Cinemas), Luxembourg (Utopia), Mexico (Auditorio Nacional), the Netherlands (Pathé, CineMec Ede, and Foroxity Film Arena), New Zealand (Rialto Distribution), Norway (Bergen Kino, Oslo Kino and Tromso Film Festival), Peru (Radio Filharmonia), Poland (Arthur Rubenstein Philharmonic and Aero Films), Romania (presented by Aero Films), Sweden (FHP Sweden), Switzerland (CielEcran), South Africa (Ster Kinekor Theatres), the United Kingdom (City Screen/Picturehouse), and several UK independent movie theaters and performing arts organizations.

The Met: Live in HD 2009-10 Season

Saturday, October 10, 2009
TOSCA
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore October 31 -

A new production of Puccini's Tosca by Luc Bondy in his house debut, starring Karita Mattila in her first performance of the title role outside her native Finland, and Marcelo alvarez as Cavaradossi. George Gagnidze sings the role of Scarpia. James Levine conducts.
HD host: Susan Graham
NEW PRODUCTION

Saturday, October 24, 2009
AIDA
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore November 31 -

Daniele Gatti returns for the first time in 14 years to conduct a cast of powerful voices in Verdi's Aida. Violeta Urmana sings the title role, while Dolora Zajick returns in one of her most acclaimed portrayals as the Egyptian princess Amneris. Johan Botha is Radamès and Carlo Guelfi sings Amonasro.
HD host: Renee Fleming

Saturday, November 7, 2009
TURANDOT
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore December 5 -

Franco Zeffirelli's classic production of Puccini's Turandot features the Met role debuts of Maria Guleghina in the title role, Marcello Giordani as Calàf, Samuel Ramey as Timur, and Marina Poplavskaya as Liù. Conductor Andris Nelsons makes his Met debut.

Saturday, December 19, 2009
LES CONTES D'HOFFMANN
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore January 23 -

Bartlett Sher, whose staging of Rossini's Il Barbiere di Siviglia was a hit two seasons ago, returns to direct his second Met production: Offenbach's Les Contes d'Hoffmann, conducted by James Levine. Joseph Calleja stars as Hoffmann, with Anna Netrebko as Antonia, Ekaterina Gubanova as Giulietta, Kate Lindsey as Nicklausse, Kathleen Kim as Olympia, and Alan Held as the four villains.
NEW PRODUCTION

Saturday, January 9, 2010
DER ROSENKAVALIER
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore March 6 -

James Levine conducts a stellar cast led by Renée Fleming as the Marschallin and Susan Graham as Octavian. Eric Cutler is the Italian Singer, Kristinn Sigmundsson sings the role of Baron Ochs, and Christine Schäfer is Sophie.
HD host: Placido Domingo

Saturday, January 16, 2010
CARMEN
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore March 13 -

The new Carmen, starring Elina Garanca, who sang the title role of La Cenerentola at the Met last spring to great acclaim, will also feature the debuts of director Richard Eyre and conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Roberto Alagna is the soldier Don José, Barbara Frittoli is Micaëla, and Mariusz Kwiecien is the bullfighter Escamillo.
HD host: Renée Fleming
NEW PRODUCTION

Saturday, February 6, 2010
SIMON BOCCANEGRA
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore March 20 -

Four decades into a legendary Met career, Placido Domingo makes history by singing the baritone title role of Verdi's Simon Boccanegra, conducted by James Levine. Adrianne Pieczonka, Marcello Giordani, and James Morris co-star.
HD host: Renée Fleming

Saturday, March 27, 2010
HAMLET
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore April 24 -

Last performed at the Met in 1897, Ambroise Thomas's Hamlet will be seen in a new production by Patrice Caurier and Moshe Leiser, conducted by Louis Langrée and starring Simon Keenlyside in the title role and Natalie Dessay as Ophélie. With Jennifer Larmore as Gertrude, Toby Spence as Laërtes and James Morris as Claudius.
HD host: Renée Fleming
NEW PRODUCTION

Saturday, May 1, 2010
ARMIDA
(2:00 p.m. AT / 2:30 p.m. NL)
Encore May 22 -

The season's final new production features Renée Fleming in Rossini's bel canto tour de force Armida, directed by Mary Zimmerman and conducted by Riccardo Frizza. Also starring Lawrence Brownlee, Bruce Ford, José Manuel Zapata, Barry Banks, and Kobie van Rensburg. HD host: Deborah Voigt
NEW PRODUCTION

The Live in HD series was recently honored with a prestigious 2008 Peabody Award for its "vividly designed, smartly annotated productions of Hansel and Gretel, Doctor Atomic, Peter Grimes and other operas. The Met used state-of-the-art digital technology to reinvent presentation of a classic art form."

The Met won a special Emmy Award in January 2009 for "advancing technology through ongoing, live, global transmission of high-definition programming to movie theaters."

About Empire Theatres Limited

Empire Theatres Limited with its corporate headquarters in Stellarton, NS and regional offices in Halifax, NS, Toronto, ON and Calgary, AB, is a 100% owned subsidiary of Empire Company Limited. Empire Theatres owns and operates 50 theatres, with 374 screens across Canada (including one IMAX Theatre in Halifax) from Newfoundland to British Columbia.
Empire Theatres is Canada's second largest and fastest growing film exhibition company providing an exciting out-of-home entertainment experience including traditional film exhibition as well as other content using its digital and satellite capabilities.
With approximately 2,500 employees, Empire Theatres provides excellent employment opportunities for the youth of Canada in an exciting and energetic industry.

De l'île à la mer / Le quatuor Saint-Germain à l'honneur!

De l'île à la mer – rencontres culturelles entre Montréal et le Québec maritime – est une vitrine sur le talent des artistes en arts visuels et en arts de la scène en provenance de la Gaspésie, des Îles-de-la-Madeleine et du Bas-Saint-Laurent, présenté dans 17 arrondissements du réseau Accès culture de la Ville de Montréal.

Le Quatuor Saint-Germain : Projet Joseph Petric

Vous êtes invités à goûter au mariage inusité et magique de l'accordéon de concert et du quatuor à cordes dans un concert tout en élégance, en découverte et en passion. D'abord le céleste Adagio et Rondo de Mozart qui cède la place au quintette rythmé et angulaire du québécois Andrew MacDonald. Suit une deuxième partie toute latine qui vogue entre Villa-Lobos et la romance du tango dans l'écriture en?ammée d'Astor Piazzolla. Un menu musical mettant en évidence la virtuosité de Joseph Petric, la sensibilité du Quatuor Saint-Germain et la rencontre exceptionnelle de ces deux mondes.

Le Quatuor Saint-Germain existe depuis 2004 et est formé des musiciens rimouskois Élise Lavoie et Hugues Laforte-Bouchard, violonistes, Steeve St-Pierre, altiste, et James Darling, violoncelliste.

Joseph Petric est reconnu comme l'un des plus éminents accordéonistes de concert au monde. Son vœu de faire de l'accordéon un instrument soliste d'importance s'est concrétisé, entre autres en 1997 lorsqu'il donna trente prestations en Europe et en Amérique du Nord, jouant des concertos commandés à Peter Koprowski, Omar Daniel, Howard Skempton et Gunnar Valkare. Il a participé à de longues tournées de concertos avec le Toronto Symphony Orchestra, l'Orchestre Symphonique de Québec, l'orchestre de chambre de Radio-Canada de Vancouver, le Nouvel Ensemble Moderne de Montréal, et le Concertante di Chicago. Collaborateur et commissaire prolifique de plus de 200 œuvres, Joseph Petric a été honoré et intronisé par ses pairs en 2005 à titre d'Ami de la musique canadienne. www.josephpetric.com

Maison de la culture Villeray/Saint-Michel – 9 octobre 2009
Chapelle historique du Bon Pasteur – 11 octobre 2009
Maison de la culture Notre-Dame-de-Grâce – 14 octobre 2009
Maison de la culture Rivière-des-Prairies – 16 octobre 2009
Centre Henri-Lemieux – arrondissement Lasalle – 17 octobre 2009
Salle Saputo – arrondissement Saint-Léonard – 18 octobre 2009

Visitez le site internet De l'Île à la mer pour obtenir plus d'informations sur les artistes et spectacles et pour consulter la programmation complète.

Ce projet bénéficie du soutien financier de l'Entente sur le développement culturel entre le ministère de la Culture, des Communications et de la Condition féminine du Québec et la ville de Montréal.

Pacific Arbour Tea and Trumpets Series

Light Classics in the Afternoon, with tea, cookies, and host Christopher Gaze

VANCOUVER, BC – The Pacific Arbour Tea & Trumpets series begins on the afternoon of Thursday, October 1st. Hosted by Christopher Gaze of Bard on the Beach fame, with most concerts conducted by VSO Assistant Conductor Evan Mitchell, Tea & Trumpets is a 6-concert series of light and popular classics on Thursday afternoons at 2pm, at the Orpheum Theatre.

The Tea & Trumpets series began in 1989 as the brainchild of Otto Lowy, the host of CBC Radio’s long-running musical series The Transcontinental. His vision was to bring the idea of his radio show – a blend of European music and personal recollection – into a concert format. Lowy, who passed away in 2002, had passed on the torch to Bard on the Beach founder, Christopher Gaze. Lowy was inducted into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame for his 50+ years of work in theatre and fittingly awarded a star at the Orpheum Theatre’s Walk of Fame.

Since 1989, the series has grown from four concerts per season to six and is one of the VSO’s most successful subscription series. Tea & Trumpets is truly a social experience, with tea and cookies presented in the lobby one hour before each concert begins; in fact, it acts as a communal gathering place and special event for concert goers from all over Greater Vancouver.

Behind the scenes of a Pacific Arbour Tea & Trumpets series concert is a complex event involving over 50 volunteers per concert responsible for front of house duties, tea and cookie service, clean up, and special assistance to patrons. The VSO is thankful to its many dedicated volunteers who help make this concert series possible.

The VSO is grateful to Pacific Arbour for their generous ongoing support of the Tea & Trumpets series. Pacific Arbour Group builds ideal communities for seniors – they create quality residences that provide safe, comfortable places for seniors to enjoy first rate services and amenities, within convenient neighbourhoods. Please visit them at: www.pacificarbourgroup.ca.

The VSO also thanks Tetley Tea and Peek Freans for the tea and cookies served at Tea & Trumpets.

CONCERT INFO

Pacific Arbour Tea & Trumpets

Thursday, October 1, 2pm, Orpheum Theatre
Mendelssohn & Friends: An Anniversary Celebration

Bramwell Tovey, conductor
Christopher Gaze, host
Mary Sokol Brown, violin
Andrew Brown, viola

Fanny Mendelssohn Overture in C Major
Bruch Concerto for Violin & Viola
Mendelssohn Symphony No. 4, Italian: IV
Mendelssohn The Hebrides, Fingal’s Cave
Berlioz Roman Carnival

Celebrating Felix Mendelssohn’s 200th Birthday! This concert features beautiful Classics, including Mendelssohn’s Hebrides (Fingal’s Cave), Bruch’s Concerto for Violin and Viola, and more Classical favourites.

Series Sponsor: Pacific Arbour

Tickets: $36 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)
Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434


Thursday, November 26, 2pm, Orpheum Theatre
Great Russian Classics

Evan Mitchell, conductor
Christopher Gaze, host
Kinza Tyrrell, piano

Shostakovich Festive Overture, Op. 96
Mussorgsky Khovantchina: Introduction (Dawn on the Moskva River)
Rachmaninoff Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43
Tchaikovsky Swan Lake: Waltz
Stravinsky Firebird: Infernal Dance, Berceuse, Finale

Thrill to a program of full-blooded passionate Russian Classics. This concert features some of the very best in exciting Russian music, including Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake: Waltz, excerpts from Stravinsky’s Firebird, and Shostakovich’s Festive Overture.

Series Sponsor: Pacific Arbour

Tickets: $36 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)
Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434


Thursday, March 18, 2pm, Orpheum Theatre
Lehar’s Land of Smiles

Evan Mitchell, conductor
Christopher Gaze, host
UBC Opera Ensemble

Lehar The Land of Smiles

Franz Lehar was the King of Operetta. The Land of Smiles is one of his later works and tells the story of Lisa, a Countess in Vienna who meets a Prince from China, falls in love, and travels with his to his home in Beijing. What eventually happens? Come to the concert to find out!

Visit the UBC Opera Ensemble at: www2.music.ubc.ca/opera

Series Sponsor: Pacific Arbour

Tickets: $36 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)
Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434


Thursday, April 15, 2pm, Orpheum Theatre
An English Country Garden

Evan Mitchell, conductor
Christopher Gaze, host
Melanie Krueger, soprano

Grainger Country Gardens
Vaughan Williams English Folk Song Suite
Gilbert & Sullivan Pirates of Penzance: Poor Wandering One
Delius Irmelin: Prelude
Gilbert & Sullivan Ruddigore: If Somebody There Chanced to Be (The Etiquette Song)
Elgar Chanson de Matin
Elgar Enigma Variations: Nimrod
Gilbert & Sullivan The Mikado: The Sun Whose Rays
Elgar Pomp & Circumstance March No. 1

An afternoon of beautiful, sentimental English music, including some of the best-loved Classics of any kind: the breathtaking beauty of Nimrod from Elgar’s Enigma Variations, excerpts from Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Mikado and Pirates of Penzance, and much more.

Series Sponsor: Pacific Arbour

Tickets: $36 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)
Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434


Thursday, May 6, 2pm, Orpheum Theatre
Bach to Beethoven

Evan Mitchell, conductor
Christopher Gaze, host
Alicia Venables, violin
Colleen Venables, violin

Handel Solomon: Overture & Entrance of the Queen of Sheba
Bach Concerto for Two Violins
Mozart The Marriage of Figaro,K.492: Overture
Mozart Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K.550: first movement
Mozart Don Giovanni, K.527: Overture
Beethoven Fidelio: Overture, Op. 72a
Beethoven Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67: I. allegro con brio
Beethoven The Ruins of Athens: Turkish March

A beautiful concert that focuses on the most important era in music’s development. You will hear selections from some of the greatest music ever written, such as Bach’s Concerto for Two Violins, Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro: Overture, the famous first movement of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, and much more.

Series Sponsor: Pacific Arbour

Tickets: $36 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)
Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434


Thursday, June 10, 2pm, Orpheum Theatre
Invitation to the Dance

Bramwell Tovey, conductor
Christopher Gaze, host

Weber Invitation to the Dance
Rossini William Tell: Pas de six
Saint-Saëns Danse Macabre
Satie Gymnopedie No. 3
Strauss Wine, Women & Song
Delibes Sylvia Suite: No. 3 Pizzicati
Berlioz Symphonie fantastique: Un Ball
Ravel Bolero

Maestro Tovey presents great Classical dance music from Rossini, Weber, Berlioz, Strauss’s Wine, Women and Song, and a performance of Ravel’s famous Boléro.

Series Sponsor: Pacific Arbour

Tickets: $36 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)
Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434

City Lights starring Charlie Chaplin screened with live performance of original score

Victoria, BC – On October 9 at UVic Centre Farquhar Auditorium, the comedic adventures of Charlie Chaplin’s 1931 silent film, City Lights, will be shown with live orchestral accompaniment by the Victoria Symphony. The presentation also features a special introduction by actor and artist Duncan Regehr and a Chaplin Look-a-like contest.

The Victoria Symphony makes it a movie night like no other when City Lights starring Charlie Chaplin is screened with the score performed live by the Victoria Symphony. With precise synchronization to the film Conductor in Residence Giuseppe Pietraroia will conduct the original score written by Chaplin himself.

The Chaplin Look-a-Like Contest will be held between 7:30pm -7:50pm leading up to the concert looking for the best Tramp character and Chaplin impersonator. Winners will be announced at the start of the performance and prizes will be awarded at the end of the film.

City Lights will also be the official launch date of the new vsSOUNDCHECK program, which connects 15 to 29 year olds to a Victoria Symphony concert for only $12. vsSOUNDCHECK allows members to purchase tickets online during the week preceding the concert, offering great value and access to extraordinary live music. Membership is free on www.victoriasymphony.ca .

The Victoria Symphony is Vancouver Island’s largest and most active arts organization performing for more than 125,000 people each year, including 10,000 schoolchildren. Showcasing the outstanding talents of its musicians and guest artists, the Victoria Symphony’s 2009-2010 season offers a diverse and exciting line-up of over 50 concerts led by its vibrant Music Director Tania Miller.

Duncan Regehr, actor and artist, was born in Alberta and raised in Victoria, BC. He distinguished himself as an Olympic boxing contender, champion figure skater, and classical Shakespearean-trained actor. In 2000, he was granted the lifetime appellation, 'Royal Canadian Artist' with honours by the Royal Canadian Academy of Art and the Queen's Governor General for his outstanding artistic achievements and in 2008 Regehr received the honourary degree of Doctor of Fine Arts from the University of Victoria.

The Victoria Symphony wishes to acknowledge the generous support of Concert Sponsor the Bay Centre.

City Lights starring Charlie Chaplin
October 9, 2009 at 8pm
UVic Centre Farquhar Auditorium
Tickets: $26 for adults, $21 for students, $12 for vsSOUNDCHECK members
250.385.6515 or 250.721.8480
www.victoriasymphony.ca.

Concours au Conservatoire ou la terrible é preuve des pièces imposées

Le quintette à vent Pentaèdre / Louise Lessard, piano

M Traiteur – Jean-François Vachon, chef


Jeudi 15 octobre, 17 h

Salle Tudor, Ogilvy

1307, Ste-Catherine Ouest, 5e étage


30 $ (buffet inclus)

Billets : 514-790-1245 http://www.admission.com; 

Réservations par Pentaèdre: 514-270-2558 
www.pentaedre.com


Montréal, 25 septembre 2009 - Pour ouvrir sa saison 2009-2010, Pentaèdre vous invite à un concert qui fera renaître auprès de certaines personnes les sueurs froides vécues alors qu’ils ont dû affronter la terrible épreuve des pièces imposées, le jeudi 15 octobre prochain, 17 h, à la Salle Tudor du Magasin Ogilvy.



« Lors de ma fin de 3ème cycle au Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, le nom de la pièce imposée en basson, La Fileuse de Jacques Castérède, m'était complètement inconnue. Inconnue à moi ! Moi, le rat de bibliothèque par excellence qui, du haut de ses 19 pommes, pensait connaître la presque entièreté du répertoire français ! Non seulement la pièce m'était inconnue (tout comme à mon professeur et à tous les bassonistes que je connaissais), mais c'était l'oeuvre la plus difficile que j'avais vue. En ouvrant la partition vierge, mais tellement vieille qu'elle se détruisait presque au toucher, je me suis exclamé en soupirant: "Mais... je ne serai jamais capable de jouer ça !". Et la bibliothécaire, presque aussi vieille et jaunie que la partition, de me répondre sans aucune compassion: "Vous êtes supposé, vous êtes en fin de 3ème cycle..." J'ai, à ce moment et pour un instant seulement, sérieusement pensé abandonner le conservatoire et recommencer l'année suivante… Après les deux mois alloués pour l'apprentissage de cette pièce, malgré tous mes vaillants et vains efforts, la montagne était encore bien haute... Mon vieux professeur, dans sa grande sagesse, a dit à ma pianiste: " Claude ! Joue fort pis met ben d'là pédale !!!". Les juges n'y ont vu que du feu... »

- Mathieu Lussier, bassoniste de Pentaèdre


Chaque année depuis 1824, les étudiants finissants du Conservatoire national supérieur de Paris doivent interpréter une œuvre imposée en vue d’obtenir le prestigieux diplôme de cette institution réputée. Depuis 185 ans, des compositeurs célèbres ou complètement oubliés se sont prêtés au jeu de fournir des « pièces de concours ». Pentaèdre présentera cinq de ces pièces, écrites il y a un siècle pour les aspirants diplômés de 1909 et 1910 en plus de deux quintettes à vent rarement entendus.

Vins et bouchées à la française accompagneront le concert.




Programme :


Albert Perilhou Ballade en sol mineur

Émile Paladilhe Solo

Claude Debussy Première rhapsodie

Florent Schmitt Lied et Scherzo

Henri Büsser Récit et thème varié

André Souris Rengaines

Adrien Barthe Passacaille 



***
Depuis ses débuts en 1985, PENTAÈDRE se consacre à la découverte d'un répertoire de musique de chambre varié, original et souvent moins connu. Composé de cinq musiciens talentueux, dont la technique et la précision de jeu sont unanimement reconnues, Pentaèdre effectue des tournées au Québec, au Canada, aux États-Unis et en Europe. Pentaèdre collabore avec des artistes de renom et participe à des créations audacieuses, dont récemment l’opéra comique A Chair in Love ou L’amour est un opéra muet avec les mimes Omnibus. Pentaèdre a reçu deux Prix OPUS : Meilleur disque 2008, musique classique, romantique, postromantique, impressionniste pour son Winterreise avec le ténor Christoph Prégardien, qui s’est attiré de nombreux éloges internationalement, et Meilleur concert de l’année 2002, musiques actuelle, contemporaine, électroacoustique.

soirée eXceptionnelle à eXcentris

Montréal, le 24 septembre 2009 – Chloé Sainte-Marie y a lancé son nouvel album à 18 h. Deux heures plus tard, le groupe Numéro # y faisait résonner ses accords electro-pop avant de céder la place à un invité très attendu, Jay-Jay Johanson. Pas de doute, c'est sur les chapeaux de roue que le complexe eXcentris a entamé hier soir sa nouvelle carrière multidisciplinaire. Salle comble et émotion comprises.

En plus des fans venus nombreux applaudir le chanteur suédois, le tout Montréal s'était donné rendez-vous sur la Main pour découvrir l'aménagement intérieur réinventé d'eXcentris et célébrer sa nouvelle vocation : des journalistes bien entendu, mais aussi des artistes, des producteurs, des diffuseurs, des promoteurs culturels et même des politiciens.

Ouvert à toutes les musiques et à presque toutes les formes d'expression artistique, eXcentris accueillera dans les prochains jours Pol Pelletier (les 24 et 30 septembre), Irving Fields (les 25 et 26), Leon Fleisher (les 25 et 26), Gonzales (le 26) et Sayari (le 30). Une trentaine de concerts et d'événements sont aussi à l'affiche pour octobre et novembre. Détails et billetterie à www.eXcentris.com.

Till We Meet Again, Oct. 16-18 & Nov. 21, 22, at the Oscar Peterson Concert Hall

Exclusive & Limited Run! A Must-see Musical!

To see an inspired clip from Till We Meet Again please go to: Till We Meet Again

"Ladies and Gentlemen, you are listening to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation coming to you from the Normandy Roof in Montreal this Tuesday, June 4, 1940. Welcome to 'Music of the Stars', a programme of music, news and light entertainment brought to you by Lucky Strike."

MONTREAL, September 2009 - No onstage sex or violence, but lots of love, hope and connections! The wartime musical production Till We Meet Again offers a true account of how a live CBC-based radio show connected a nation during the uncertainty and emotion of World War II. Based on playwright David Langlois' months of careful research, dozens of interviews with veterans, and analysing old radio recordings and letters, Till We Meet Again authentically recreates life in Canada in the 1940's; much of the dialogue doesn't just ring true, it is true. This musical brings audiences back to an era of live radio entertainment typical of what was presented at the Mount Royal Hotel, starting every night at 8:00 o'clock, Bulova time….

Directed by Heather Markgraf Lowe and presented in the beautiful Oscar Peterson Concert Hall on Concordia University's Loyola Campus, the outstanding cast includes Pierre Lenoir, Amanda LeBlanc and Marian Siminski, who have been part of the show since it's first incarnation in 2003, Stephanie McNamara, Jane Hackett, Michael Daniel Murphy and Dan Jeannotte.

Split into three acts based in 1940, 1942 and 1944, Till We Meet Again is an historical journey. In each segment the audience experiences an entertaining and honest portrayal of the era through lively songs, dance, and ad jingles, contrasted with live news of the day, reports from the front and actual letters to and from the soldiers.

This timeless production is as relevant today as it was more than 60 years ago. For audience members who have experienced the early 1940's first hand, the story conjures up familiar refrains and heart-warming nostalgia. For those who haven't, Till We Meet Again provides a time capsule that gives insight to what it was like to live in this unique wartime era and spend an exquisite hour lost in radioland.

More than nostalgia however, for David Langlois the currency is palpable in our present day-to-day lives, "We've had young women and men going off to war in Afghanistan for the past 6 years. They have felt the thrill of the voyage there, the fear of the unknown, the terror of combat, the grief of losing a comrade in arms, and the angst, anger and ennui which comes once they return to Canada." He continues, "They too have dealt with families and friends who no longer know them or who don't understand why they jump at the slightest sound."

Heather Markgraf Lowe concurs, "The Canadian people hear of death and injury on the news almost every day and the toll it takes on our military is heartbreaking." Hope, however, is what ties the two eras together. Markgraf Lowe adds another angle connecting the show to today's audiences, "Till We Meet Again is set in the 1940's when thrift was important. I think we have come full circle and our throwaway society has realized that there are serious repercussions to consumerism. We are finally taking a page from their book and again reduce, reuse and recycle."

This production also brings families together as witnessed in the excitement of kids putting their grandparents into a context while watching them sing along to the songs. Till We Meet Again includes performances of nearly 30 of the most popular hits of the 1940's. Each one beautifully evokes the sounds and emotions of the World War II era. Songs like Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and Lilli Marlene instantly bring back the struggle of Canadians trying to make sense out of a world in turmoil. The list also includes: White Cliffs of Dover, A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square, Bei Mir Bist Du Schön, There'll Always be an England and It's a Long Way to Tipperary; made famous by popular artists including Vera Lynn (whose We'll Meet Again is on Britain's Top 20 again!) and The Andrews Sisters. Filled with songs of romance, comedy, army life and hope, this musical leaves audience members feeling proud and inspired.

The Montreal Gazette named the musical one of the "10 Best Productions in 2005." Theatre Panache's Artistic Director Heather Markgraf Lowe (also founder of Hudson Village Theatre) is thrilled to restage Till We Meet Again, with a 36-performance tour beginning October 16th in Montreal, including a run in Mississauga, Ottawa, Markham and Oakville, before returning to Montreal to close out the tour on November 21st he performances in Ottawa will mark a memorable return to the Canadian War Museum. The all-Canadian cast and creative team will proudly perform there again this year following Remembrance Day. The talented team behind the show includes lighting designer Eric Mongerson, set designer Chris Brown, choreographer Lorna Wayne and costume designer Karen Pearce. Theatre Panache's entire company is excited to travel their home country with the largest tour to date for this professional production.

"The play provides an important message of hope and understanding at a time when despair is again on the rise." - Director Heather Markgraf Lowe

For background info on the play please visit www.tillwemeetagain.ca

Till We Meet Again – 8 shows only
Theatre Panache
At Oscar Peterson Concert Hall on Concordia University's Loyola Campus
7141 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
(514) 848-4848 oscar.concordia.ca
Tickets available at the box office and from Admission - 514 790-1245 www.admission.com

Showtimes: Oct. 16, 17, Nov. 21 at 8:00 pm
Matinees: Oct. 16, 17, 18, Nov. 21, 22 at 2:00 pm
Regular price: $35-$65, taxes included
Seniors/students: $31.50-$58.50, taxes included
Veterans/military: $26.25-$48.75, taxes included
Group discounts available
(Service charges applicable- save money by purchasing tickets directly at the box office.

Directions (by public transportation or car) as well as the parking map to the Oscar Peterson Concert Hall: http://oscar.concordia.ca/en/index.htm

Disney's Sonnenschein Express brings Oktoberfest celebrations to the Winspear - Oct. 6

Symphony Special
A family evening of Gemütlichkeit with Sonnenschein Express

Oktoberfest!
Tuesday, October 6th – 7:30 pm

Edmonton, AB … The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (ESO) is proud to present the Canadian debut of Sonnenschein Express. A mainstay at Disney’s EPCOT Theme Park, this Alpine / Oktoberfest show band joins the orchestra and conductor Bob Bernhardt at the Francis Winspear Centre for Music for one entertaining evening of folk songs, polkas, yodeling, and Schuhplattler dancing!

Whoop and whistle with these six lederhosen-wearing happy wanderers and celebrate the lively tradition of Bavarian alpine music. With the sounds of the Steirische harmonica (button accordion), singing carpenter saws, 20-foot long alphorns and more, concertgoers will be taken on a delightful trip across Germany and through the Austrian and Swiss Alps. Fueled by audience participation, Sonnenschein Express will round out the Alpine folk fair with a yodeling tutorial, foot stomping quicksteps, and clap dancing polkas that will get families singing and dancing out of their seats.

With a program that includes The Happy Wanderer, Hoi! Hoi! Hoi!, and the Ho La Di Medley, the band will also slip south of the Bavarian border by performing a selection of Viennese waltzes and marches.

Arrive early to meet Mr. Oktoberfest from the German Canadian Cultural Centre, and see a performance of The Bavarian Schuhplattlers of Edmonton in the lobby! Oom-pah your way down to the Winspear Centre Box Office for tickets. Ticket prices range from $20 – $69 (agency fees apply). All tickets for children 12 and under are $15. Purchase by phone at (780) 428-1414 or 1-800-563-5081, or online at www.edmontonsymphony.com.

The next ESO Special will take place on November 11th, 2009. Beloved Canadian singer John McDermott offers a heartfelt salute to those who have bravely served their country in Lest We Forget.

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, marking its 58th season in 2009-2010, has taken its place as one of Canada's foremost orchestral ensemble. Its current roster includes 56 musicians from Canada and around the world, performing a wide-ranging repertoire from the great classical masterworks to pops and children's concerts. The presence of the orchestra and its enrichment of the community's quality of life are key elements in the stature and profile of Edmonton on the national and international scene.

The Plain Sense of Things

Toronto, September 24, 2009: Toronto’s inventive Talisker Players launch their tenth anniversary season at Trinity St. Paul’s Centre with The Plain Sense of Things, a program that explores the revolutionary cadences of American poets from the last century. Soprano Marion Samuel-Stevens, mezzo soprano Jennifer Enns Modolo, baritone Doug MacNaughton and actor Stewart Arnott join the Talisker Players for two evenings of words and music: Tuesday, October 27 and Wednesday, October 28, at 8PM.

American poets like Toni Morrison, Carl Sandburg and Emily Dickinson, despite the great diversity of their styles, share an idiom grounded in the language of common speech and the realistic depiction of the world. They also made it their mission to redefine the place of the individual in the world, free from the comforts and the restrictions of Old-World thinking. The rhythms and imagery of their poetry have proved irresistible to many composers.

The concert title is taken from a poem by Wallace Stevens, whose most famous poem Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird is featured on the programme, in a magical setting by the great American composer Lukas Foss, for voice with flute, piano and percussion.

Fittingly, The Plain Sense of Things features music by several other American composers. The iconoclastic Morton Feldman is represented with O'Hara Songs (poetry by Frank O'Hara) for voice with string trio, piano and chimes. André Previn is included with Four Songs of Toni Morrison for voice with cello and piano. And Libby Larson, a young composer renowned for her vocal music, appears with Saints Without Tears (poetry by Phyllis McGinley) for voice with flute and bassoon.

The programme also features How Slow the Wind, a setting of Emily Dickinson by the acclaimed Argentinian-American composer Osvaldo Golijov, and is rounded out with a long-overdue revival of Chicago Portraits by Toronto composer Alexander Rapoport. Commissioned by Talisker Players in 2001, this is a wonderfully idiomatic setting of Carl Sandburg poems for voice with strings and percussion.

Talisker Players’ concerts always include words as well as music. Readings for The Plain Sense of Things will be from First Loves, a collection of essays by contemporary poets about the poems that first inspired them. Many of them write movingly about the poets on the programme, and refer in various ways to the revelation of poetry in “plain English”, with a deeply humane spirit.

An adventurous proponent of new music, soprano Marion Samuel-Stevens was a finalist in the 2008 Eckhardt-Gramatté Competition. With her sweet, clear voice and committed performances, this young soprano is developing a growing reputation in opera, oratorio and recital. This marks her debut with Talisker Players. Mezzo-soprano Jennifer Enns Modolo is also debuting with Talisker Player. She has delighted audiences across the country with her clear, unaffected voice and expressive singing. Acclaimed as "a great singing actor", Doug MacNaughton is equally at home in standard repertoire and contemporary music, in opera, oratorio, chamber music and musical theatre. He has appeared with Talisker Players on several occasions.

Talisker Players welcome back actor Stewart Arnott, a much respected theatre artist for almost 30 years, who has acted and directed across the country.

The Plain Sense of Things
The revolutionary rhythms and imagery of American poetry
Featuring Marion Samuel-Stevens, soprano, Jennifer Enns Modolo, mezzo soprano,
Doug MacNaughton, baritone and Stewart Arnott, actor/reader
Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 8 PM and Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 8 PM
Trinity St. Paul’s Centre: 427 Bloor Street West

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets: $30 / $20 (seniors) / $10 (students)
Box office: 416-978-8849
Email: words.music@taliskerplayers.ca
Information: 416-466-1800
www.taliskerplayers.ca

Talisker Players Chamber Music offers one of the most imaginative and exciting concert series in Toronto. In collaboration with some of Canada’s finest young singers, Talisker Players present the rarely-heard repertoire for voice and chamber ensemble. Their unique programming includes readings that illuminate the music and delight audiences with a stimulating, theatrical concert experience. The music, engaging and varied, includes both celebrated works and unknown gems from all styles and periods, with a strong presence of Canadian compositions.

“Talisker gathers a sterling corps of musicians, composers, and writers into an intelligent space, full of invention, and is willing to risk experimenting with their resources.” The Live Music Report, November 2005

Talisker Players Upcoming Events at Trinity St. Paul’s Centre: 427 Bloor Street West:

To the Sea in Ships: Tuesday, February 9, 2010 & Wednesday, February 10, 2010 – 8 pm
Tales of sailors, adventurers and fishers the world over
Featuring Vicki St. Pierre, mezzo soprano; Keith Klassen, tenor; Alexander Dobson, baritone

Illuminations: Tuesday, May 11, 2010 & Wednesday, May 12, 2010 – 8 pm
A window on the world of mystics, visionaries and seers
Featuring Meredith Hall, soprano; Lawrence Wiliford, tenor

Chris Botti - Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 8 PM/ Massey Hall

Toronto, ON. Thursday, September 24, 2009 - The fastest selling American jazz instrumental artist, Grammy-winning trumpeter Chris Botti first drew international attention with the release of his 2004 critically acclaimed CD, When I Fall In Love. Though best-known as a contemporary jazz performer, Botti’s lavish pop-infused sound and charismatic performances have earned him countless fans and recording credits that include collaborations with such notable artists as Frank Sinatra, Clark Terry, Sting and Andrea Bocelli. Chris Botti brings his remarkable virtuosic trumpet dexterity to the illustrious Massey Hall stage for a return engagement on Thursday, October 22nd at 8:00 pm.

A gifted instrumentalist and composer, Chris Botti has created a series of recordings which draw from the worlds of pop, jazz, classical and other genres. His instantly recognizable signature sound has garnered praise for the warmth and complexity of his tone and musical ideas, which combine a soulful ambience with naturally flowing improvisation. He has earned both critical acclaim and mainstream appreciation for a succession of best-selling albums including When I Fall In Love (2004, #1 Top Jazz Album, #37 Billboard Top 200), To Love Again: The Duets (2005, #1 Top Jazz Album, #18 Billboard Top 200), and Chris Botti Live with Orchestra & Special Guests (2006, #2 Top Jazz Album). In addition to receiving an RIAA gold-certification for When I Fall in Love and To Love Again, both produced by Bobby Colomby, "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?" (with vocals by Sting) earned Botti a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals.

Botti’s association with Sting dates back to 1999, when Botti joined the music legend's band as featured soloist on the "Brand New Day" tour, which lasted two years. In the studio and on stage, Chris Botti has also worked with such leading singer-songwriter/composers as Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell as well as renowned film composer John Barry, among others; as a sideman, he has appeared on dozens of albums, compilations and soundtracks.

Chris Botti’s latest project is Chris Botti in Boston, a visionary expansion of his first PBS pledge drive special “Chris Botti Live with Orchestra & Special Guests”. Originally aired on PBS during March Pledge Week 2006, Botti’s first television special became a perennial pledge drive favourite in the US, while a DVD of that show achieved platinum status. It became a huge event on September 18 & 19, 2008, when Chris invited some of the most well-known and esteemed artists to perform with himself and the Boston Pops Orchestra under the direction of Keith Lockhart: Sting, Josh Groban, Steven Tyler, Yo-Yo Ma, John Mayer, Katharine McPhee, Lucia Micarelli, and Sy Smith. This concert was recorded and is available on the Columbia Records label in CD, DVD, and Blu-ray formats.

One of the world's most popular concert attractions, Chris Botti maintains one of the busiest touring schedules monitored by the industry. Performing more than 250 concerts this past year, Chris’s 2008 concert itinerary included concerts at the Hollywood Bowl and New York’s Carnegie Hall.

CHRIS BOTTI
Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 8 pm / Massey Hall
178 Victoria Street, Toronto
Tickets $69.50 - $49.50 - Call 416-872-4255 or visit the Roy Thomson Hall Box Office
www.masseyhall.com

Le Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau et l’Université du Québec en Outaouais, partenaires dans l’enseignement supérieur de la musique

Gatineau, le 24 septembre 2009 — Le directeur du Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau, monsieur Marc Landry, et le vice-recteur à l’enseignement et à la recherche de l’Université du Québec en Outaouais (UQO), monsieur Denis Dubé, ont annoncé aujourd’hui les termes d’une entente de partenariat entre les deux institutions d’enseignement supérieur.

Le Conservatoire annonçait en août dernier que la ministre de l’Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport, Mme Michelle Courchesne, l’autorisait à offrir les programmes de Baccalauréat et de Maîtrise en musique, profil interprétation. Le Conservatoire devait cependant souscrire à certaines conditions, dont notamment, l’ajout de cours de culture générale à ses programmes existants. L’entente avec l’UQO est le résultat des démarches entreprises dans cette perspective.

« Le partenariat entre le Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau et l’UQO s’est concrétisé en septembre 2009 par l’ouverture du programme de baccalauréat en musique, profil interprétation. Sept élèves du Conservatoire y sont déjà inscrits, mentionne Marc Landry, et nous sommes impatients de remettre nos premiers diplômes. ».

Ces échanges font en sorte que le Conservatoire vient enrichir de son expertise et de son approche pédagogique particulière, l'offre de formation supérieure en musique. « Sans compter que pour l’UQO, qui n'offre pas de formation en musique, cette collaboration élargit en quelque sorte notre champ d'enseignement », ajoute Denis Dubé. Cette entente permet l’échange d’expertise et la circulation des savoirs.

Le Directeur du Conservatoire en a profité pour présenter quelques éléments de sa programmation 2009-2010, dont le Salon de la clarinette, en janvier, qui mettra à l’honneur cet instrument sous toutes ses formes; le Festival de musique de chambre en mai; et une toute nouvelle série, Même instrument même passion, qui mettra en vedette les élèves d’une même classe d’instrument. Parmi les grands concerts, il a également souligné la soirée Hommage à Pierrette Froment-Savoie, où la chorale du Conservatoire sera accompagnée par l’Orchestre symphonique de Gatineau; la Soirée concertos et orchestre mettant en vedette la pianiste Ruth Kwan, ainsi que la visite exceptionnelle de l’Orchestre du réseau du Conservatoire, sous la direction de Raffi Armenian qui mettra à l’honneur le grand compositeur québécois Gilles Tremblay.

Vancouver Opera Announces Honorary Chairs for Golden Anniversary Concert & Gala

Grade 5 student joins legendary mezzo-soprano and founding father of opera in Western Canada to celebrate 50 years of Vancouver Opera

Vancouver, BC ~ Vancouver Opera announced today the appointment of three Honorary Chairs for an important event in its Golden Anniversary Season. Joining Founding Artistic Director Dr. Irving Guttman, CM and Canadian opera legend Judith Forst, OBC will be 10-year-old Justin Woolfrey, a Grade 5 student at Glenview Elementary School in Prince George.

Reflecting the past, present and future of VO, these Honorary Chairs will oversee the milestone Golden Anniversary Concert & Gala, a celebration of 50 years of opera in Vancouver, featuring international soloists and the VO Orchestra and Chorus in concert at the Orpheum Theatre, under the baton of Jonathan Darlington.

International stage director Dr. Irving Guttman, CM was the artistic founder of Vancouver Opera and indeed of professional opera in British Columbia and western Canada. Dr. Guttman mounted productions for VO that featured some of the greatest singers of our time, such as Plácido Domingo, Dame Joan Sutherland, James Morris and Marilyn Horne. His production of Norma, in 1963, starring Ms. Sutherland and Ms. Horne in their role débuts, is the stuff of legend. The conductor of that production, Richard Bonynge, returns to VO in November to conduct this season’s mainstage opening production of Norma, starring Hasmik Papian.

Having directed the very first VO performance in 1960, Dr. Guttman will be on hand to celebrate the Golden Anniversary of the company he helped create.

Internationally acclaimed singer and Port Moody resident Judith Forst, OBC, graduated from Vancouver Opera’s Young Singer training program and went on to become one of the world’s greatest coloratura mezzo-sopranos. Ms. Forst most recently appeared on the VO stage as Herodias in Salome. In 2010, she will create the role of Irene in the world premiere of VO’s commissioned opera Lillian Alling, by John Estacio and John Murrell.

Ten year old Justin Woolfrey is in Grade Five at Glenview Elementary School in Prince George. Having attended a recent Vancouver Opera In Schools performance of Jack Pine, a new opera by Veda Hille on an environmental theme, he appreciates the importance of arts education and is excited and proud to be an Honorary Chair for the Golden Anniversary Season.

“Children need a chance to learn about all kinds of things, especially the things they have not heard of – and to enjoy the good things that learning can bring,” comments Justin. “You never know what is inside a person until they have an opportunity and this is an opportunity for me to share who I am with others and encourage other kids to always give it your best shot, no matter what.”

The Golden Anniversary Concert & Gala takes place on Friday, November 6, 2009 at 7:00pm. beginning with a concert at the Orpheum Theatre. Concert tickets are available online at www.vancouveropera.ca or from the VO Ticket Centre at 604-683-0222. Gala Packages, which include the Concert as well as an exclusive Reception and Gala Dinner at the historic Commodore Ballroom, are available through the VO Ticket Centre.

Full details of the Golden Anniversary Concert & Gala will follow shortly.

Janine Jansen releases new Britten/Beethoven CD and will perform with Orpheus Chamber Orchestra on US tour from October 2nd-8th

Kammerphilharmonie Bremen
London Symphony Orchestra
Paavo Järvi

NEW YORK, NY – On September 29th, Decca will release a new recording in which violinist Janine Jansen fulfills a long-held ambition to record Benjamin Britten's Violin Concerto alongside the most monumental of all violin works, the Beethoven Violin Concerto. Janine Jansen regularly thrills audiences with both her startlingly fresh interpretations of repertoire staples and remarkable takes on lesser-known works. The Times of London recently put it succinctly that "Whenever a violin repertory piece needs revitalizing, there’s one simple solution. Hire Janine Jansen to play it." Janine records these concerti with two different orchestras to fully explore two very different sound worlds: the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen for the Beethoven and the London Symphony Orchestra for Britten. Paavo Järvi conducts both performances.

“To make a recording of the Beethoven and Britten Violin Concertos has been a dream of mine for years,” Janine Jansen enthuses. “They are two of the greatest concertos ever written — so different yet both so real.”

“The Beethoven is the purest and in many ways the most beautiful concerto in the violin repertoire. The giant!” Janine explains. “I felt so intimidated by it at first, perhaps because the general perception is that one can only play and understand this piece when one is older and highly experienced. I first played it at a very young age — I was so over-awed it felt like the longest forty-five minutes of my life — but with time and greater maturity, I have discovered so much depth in this remarkable music.”

Playing the concerto with Paavo Järvi and the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen in March 2009 was one of the highlights of Janine’s career to date. “At first I was concerned that my approach was too Romantic,” she recalls, “and that I wouldn’t blend with the orchestra’s style of playing with little vibrato and its wonderfully pure sound. When we played it together for the first time my doubts simply disappeared.”

If the Beethoven concerto occupies a hallowed place in every concert violinist’s repertoire, the Britten is still a comparative rarity. Yet for Janine it is one of the greatest works in its genre and one she has loved and championed since she first played it nearly ten years ago. “I have fallen completely in love with this extraordinary piece and I try to program it wherever and whenever I can,” she beams. “The Britten is technically very challenging for both soloist and orchestra, but the musical language is as intense and expressive as can be — such underlying tension! For me the most impressive part of the concerto is the very end. The coda starts like a prayer and becomes a cry of pain and despair. You can feel how influenced Britten was by the tensions in the world at the time of the Spanish Civil War. After playing the last notes I feel emotionally finished and empty, yet at the same time nourished and filled with wonder.”

Janine Jansen’s passion for the Britten Concerto is evident to all who experience her performing it. Following a performance with Neeme Järvi and the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra in 2005, Bradley Bambarger of the Star-Ledger raved, “Jansen played Benjamin Britten's Violin Concerto with bravura abandon, her hair whipping around and the strands flying off her bow. Just hitting the myriad notes of Britten's challenging score in tune and in time wasn't enough for this risk-taking soloist. She maximized the expressivity of every one, making those notes whisper and sing, caress and sear.”

Central to the success of this particular recording is the special musical relationship Janine enjoys with conductor Paavo Järvi and both orchestras: “What I love about our collaborations is the amazing flexibility and sense of communication, in which we get inspired by each other’s ideas. We make music in, for me, the only possible way. Listening to each other, reacting to each other, being open to new ideas and being passionate about it!”

Janine Jansen will perform the Beethoven Concerto with the renowned Orpheus Chamber Orchestra on a national tour from October 2nd through the 8th making stops in Purchase, Costa Mesa, Seattle, Lafayette, PA and finally New York’s Carnegie Hall.

For more information and to hear Janine Jansen share thoughts about Beethoven and Britten: www.janinejansen.com/beethoven_britten.

Janine Jansen on tour with Orpheus Chamber Orchestra October 2nd-8th, 2009

October 2, 2009 Purchase SUNY Purchase College
October 4, 2009 Costa Mesa Orange County Performing Arts Center
October 5, 2009 Seattle Benaroya Hall
October 7, 2009 Lafayette, PA Williams Center for the Arts
October 8, 2009 New York Carnegie Hall

Dévoilement des quatre Grands Montréalais 2009 : L. Jacques Ménard, Lise Bissonnette, Dr Balfour M. Mount et soeur Nicole Fournier

English to follow

Montréal, le 24 septembre 2009 - La Chambre de commerce du Montréal métropolitain dévoile les noms des quatre nouveaux Grands Montréalais, qui seront honorés lors d'une réception, le 4 novembre prochain, au Complexe des sciences Pierre-Dansereau de l'UQAM.

Cette année, les Grands Montréalais sont : dans le secteur économique, L. Jacques Ménard, président du conseil, BMO Nesbitt Burns, et président, BMO Groupe financier, Québec; dans le secteur culturel, Lise Bissonnette, écrivaine, journaliste, éditrice et gestionnaire; dans le secteur scientifique, Dr Balfour M. Mount, professeur émérite de médecine palliative; dans le secteur social, soeur Nicole Fournier, secrétaire de congrégation, Les Soeurs Grises de Montréal et ex-directrice générale de l'Accueil Bonneau.

« La Chambre salue la contribution exceptionnelle de ces quatre personnalités qui se sont illustrées dans leur sphère d'activité respective tout en participant au développement de la métropole. Grâce à leurs actions et à leurs ambitions, c'est Montréal et le Québec tout entier qui en sortent gagnants. Nous sommes privilégiés de pouvoir compter sur des modèles aussi remarquables et inspirants. Tous, à leur manière, ont su faire une réelle différence dans l'avancement de notre société », a déclaré Michel Leblanc, président et chef de la direction de la Chambre de commerce du Montréal métropolitain.

Depuis 1978, 110 personnalités ont été honorées, incluant les quatre de cette année, et forment aujourd'hui l'Académie des Grands Montréalais, créée par la Chambre de commerce du Montréal métropolitain en 1988. Vous trouverez sur le site Web de la Chambre les notes biographiques et les photos des lauréats ainsi que le formulaire d'inscription pour participer à cet événement qui est présenté par Hydro-Québec, en partenariat avec Développement économique Canada.

La Chambre de commerce du Montréal métropolitain compte quelque 7 000 membres. Sa mission est de représenter les intérêts de la communauté des affaires de l'agglomération urbaine de Montréal et d'offrir une gamme intégrée de services spécialisés aux individus, aux commerçants et aux entreprises de toutes tailles de façon à les appuyer dans la réalisation de leur plein potentiel en matière d'innovation, de productivité et de compétitivité. La Chambre est le plus important organisme privé au Québec voué au développement économique.
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Announcement of the four Great Montrealers 2009:

L. Jacques Ménard, Lise Bissonnette, Dr. Balfour M. Mount, and Sister Nicole Fournier

Montréal, September 24, 2009 - The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal has announced the names of the four new Great Montrealers who will be honoured at a reception held this coming November 4, at UQAM's Complexe des sciences Pierre-Dansereau.

This year, the Great Montrealers are: in the economic sector, L. Jacques Ménard, Chairman of the Board, BMO Nesbitt Burns, and President, BMO Financial Group, Quebec; in the cultural sector, Lise Bissonnette, writer, journalist, editor, and administrator; in the scientific sector, Dr. Balfour M. Mount, Emeritus Professor of Palliative Medicine; in the social sector, Sister Nicole Fournier, Congregation Secretary, Les Soeurs Grises de Montréal, and former General Director of Accueil Bonneau.

"The Board of Trade hails the exceptional contribution of these four individuals who have distinguished themselves in their respective spheres of activity and have contributed to the city's development. Through their actions and ambitions, Montréal and Quebec as a whole have benefited. We are privileged to be able to count on such remarkable and inspiring role models. Each, in his or her own way, has made a real difference in our society's progress," stated Michel Leblanc, President and CEO of the Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal.

Since 1978, 110 personalities have been honoured-including the four this year-and today make up the Academy of Great Montrealers, created by the Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal in 1988. Biographies and photos of the laureates can be found on the Board of Trade's Website, along with a registration form to take part in this event, which is presented by Hydro-Québec, in a partnership with Canada Economic Development.

The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal has some 7,000 members. Its primary mission is to represent the interests of the business community of Greater Montréal and to provide individuals, merchants, and local businesses of all sizes with a variety of specialized services to help them achieve their full potential in terms of innovation, productivity and competitiveness. The Board of Trade is Quebec's leading private economic development organization.

The Canada Council for the Arts Musical Instrument Bank loans three‑hundred‑year­‑old instruments to exceptional young musicians

Toronto, September 24, 2009 – The Canada Council for the Arts is pleased to announce the winners of the Musical Instrument Bank competition (MIB). The 14 instruments loaned to gifted young Canadian musicians are worth more than $28 million.

Please find below the list of instruments and the winners of the 2009 competition.

The 1689 Baumgartner Stradivari violin, valued at $4.3 million, is awarded to Judy Kang. In 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2006, she won the loan of an instrument from the MIB. Born in Edmonton, she currently lives in New York.

The ca. 1696 Bonjour Stradivari cello, valued at $8 million, is awarded to Rachel Mercer. In 2006, she won the loan of an instrument from the MIB. Born in Edmonton, she currently lives in Toronto.

The ca. 1700 Bell Giovanni Tononi violin, valued at $188,000, is awarded to Marie-Ève Poupart. Originally from St-Jean-sur-Richelieu (QC), she currently lives in Baltimore, Maryland.

The ca. 1700 Taft Stradivari violin, valued at an estimated $4.3 million, is awarded to Renée‑Paule Gauthier. Originally from Jonquière (QC), she currently lives in Calgary.

The 1715 Dominicus Montagnana violin, valued at $858,000, is awarded to Véronique Mathieu. Also a winner in 2006, Ms. Mathieu has selected this violin for the second time. Born in Montreal and raised in Quebec City, she now lives in Bloomington, Indiana.

The 1717 Windsor-Weinstein Stradivari violin, valued at $4.3 million, is awarded to Caroline Chéhadé of Montreal. In 2006, she won the loan of an instrument from the MIB.

The 1729 Guarneri del Gesù violin, valued at $4.3 million, is awarded to Nikki Chooi. A native of Victoria (BC), he currently studies in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The 1747 Palmason Januarius Gagliano violin, valued at $322,000, is awarded to Andréa Tyniec. Originally from St-Jean-sur-Richelieu (QC), she currently lives Munich, Germany.

The ca. 1767 Joannes Baptista Guadagnini, valued at $536,000, is awarded to Min-Jeong Koh. Born in Seoul, South Korea, and raised in Toronto, she currently lives in Montreal.

The 1820 Joannes Franciscus Pressenda violin, valued at $375,000, is awarded to Kerry DuWors. In 2003 and 2006, she won the loan of an instrument from the MIB. Originally from Saskatoon, she currently lives in Brandon (MB).

The 1824 McConnell Nicolaus Gagliano cello, valued at $375,000, is awarded to Chloé Dominguez, of Montreal.

The ca. 1830 Shaw Adam cello bow, valued at $43,000, is awarded to Emmanuelle Beaulieu Bergeron. Also a MIB winner in 2006, Ms. Beaulieu Bergeron has selected this cello bow for the second time. She was born in Roberval (QC), and currently lives in Toronto.

1869 Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume violin with its Vuillaume model bow, valued at $172,000, is awarded to Jessica Linnebach. In 2003 and 2006, she won the loan of an instrument from the MIB. Born in Edmonton, she currently lives in Ottawa.

1902 Enrico Rocca violin, valued at $214,000, is awarded to Jing Wang. Born in China and raised in Sainte-Foy (QC), he currently lives in Texas.

Instrument descriptions, biographical notes and downloadable photographs of the winners and instruments are available on the Canada Council's website at www.canadacouncil.ca.

Competition
Since last Sunday, talented Canadian musicians have competed for a three-year loan of one of the thirteen fine stringed instruments and the one cello bow created between 1689 and 1902. The winners had the opportunity to choose the instrument they would like to have on loan in order of their placement in the competition.

The peer assessment committee evaluated all applications – which included recordings of the applicants' playing – and selected finalists. Finalists were then invited to come to Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto for auditions and interviews. The winners were selected by a committee consisting of Peter Gardner, violinist and director of Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra (St. John's, NL); Uri Mayer, violist and conductor (Toronto); and Sophie Rolland, cellist (London, England).

Musical Instrument Bank
Created in 1985, the Musical Instrument Bank acquires through donations and loans fine stringed instruments to be loaned to gifted young Canadian musicians to help further their international solo or chamber music careers. Luthier Ric Heinl and his team at Geo. Heinl & Co. Limited are responsible for the restoration and maintenance of the instruments.

Free concert
Tonight at 8 p.m., the 14 winners will perform in a free concert before a full house at the Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto.

The musicians' performances will be recorded for broadcast on CBC Radio 2's In Concert with Bill Richardson on Sunday, October 4th and on Tempo with Julie Nesrallah at a later date. They will also be broadcast on Espace musique, Radio-Canada's music network, on Tuesday, October 27th at 8 p.m. on Soirées classiques, hosted by Michel Keable.

General information
In addition to its principal role of promoting and fostering the arts, the Canada Council for the Arts administers and awards many prizes and fellowships in the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural and health sciences, engineering, and arts management. These prizes and fellowships recognize the achievements of outstanding Canadian artists, scholars, and administrators. The Canada Council for the Arts is committed to raising public awareness and celebration of these exceptional people and organizations on both a national and international level.

Please visit our website (www.canadacouncil.ca) for a complete listing of these awards.

Lecture / Mark Kingwell on Glenn Gould 1 October 7 PM Studio Theatre

MARK KINGWELL ON GLENN GOULD


Thursday, 1 October | 7 PM

Author of fifteen books about philosophy, design and architecture, Mark Kingwell is a philosophy professor at the University of Toronto and a contributing editor for Harper’s Magazine. His new book, Glenn Gould (Penguin, 2009), focuses on Canada’s most renowned classical musician of the twentieth century, a figure whose technical virtuosity and interpretive brilliance were matched by an eccentric lifestyle. A recording artist, broadcaster, writer, and proponent of electronic media, Gould stopped performing live in 1964 to focus exclusively on recorded performances. Discussing Gould as a philosopher who lived according to his own contradictory, mischievous and provocative ideas about music, Kingwell adopts a kaleidoscopic approach to writing his life, offering twenty-one “takes” – a reference to Gould’s famous twenty-one “takes” on Bach’s Goldberg Variations in 1955. Kingwell’s lecture links to the Candice Breitz exhibition at The Power Plant, which also examines connections between live and recorded performance, repetition and improvisation.

This event is dedicated to the Toronto Arts Council in honour of their 35th Anniversary.

$4 Members, $6 Non-Members
Studio Theatre, Harbourfront Centre
Call the Harbourfront Centre Box Office at 416.973.4000 to purchase tickets.

www.thepowerplant.org

Allied Works Architecture and BKDI selected to design Cantos' National...

CALGARY, Sept. 23 /CNW/ - Cantos Music Foundation made the announcement today that Allied Works Architecture and local partner BKDI have been selected to design Cantos' new national music centre at the King Eddy site in Calgary's East Village. After an extensive worldwide search and impressive public presentations from five international architects, this highly anticipated announcement is a milestone event in the creation of Canada's only National Music Centre.

"The concept from Allied Works truly captured the heart and soul of this project," said Andrew Mosker, executive director of the Cantos Music Foundation. "Brad and his team will give us an innovative building that fits with Calgary, Alberta, the West and is symbolic of something that is truly uniquely Canadian. This is an exciting day for Calgarians."

Brad Cloepflil founded Allied Works Architecture in his native Portland, Oregon. In recent years, Allied Works has focused on several significant cultural and educational buildings throughout North America and can now add Cantos' National Music Centre to their roster of impressive projects. Considered an emerging master in architectural circles, Cloepfil and his team have beat out some of the world's biggest names in architecture in numerous international competitions over the last few years.

Allied Works' recently completed projects include the Museum of Arts and Design in Manhattan, the Contemporary Art Museum in St. Louis, a major addition to the Seattle Art Museum, the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas and the recently completed expansion of the University of Michigan Museum of Art.

"The national music centre is an extraordinary instrument, silent and powerful, brought to life by its programs, collections and performances. The new building forms rise as sentinels around the re-born King Eddy, marking the entry to the East Village and new Music District," commented Brad Cloepfil, Allied Works Architecture.

In the last two years, the firm's work has been featured in: Architectural Record/Record Houses, Architectural Review, Space Magazine, Wallpaper, The New Yorker, Blueprint, Metropolis.

On July 23rd, five world renowned architects were asked to develop and present a bold vision for the future of the Cantos Music Foundation and the national music centre. The request included the public presentation of concepts honouring the iconic King Eddy Hotel while creating over 80,000 square-feet of space for programs and exhibitions. The centre was required to house an education research centre, museum, collection of instruments and memorabilia, recording studios, a radio station, a seven-days-a-week live music venue and a suite of innovative and creative programs for people of all ages.

The four other competing architects were:
Studio Pali Fekete Architects: Los Angeles, California
Diller Scofidio and Renfro: New York, NY
Jean Nouvel Workshop: Paris, France
Saucier + Perrotte: Montreal, Quebec

The submissions were reviewed by a selection advisory committee comprised of musicians, architects, business experts, museum experts and others.

To download images from Allied Works' architectural presentation and to learn more about the selection advisory committee please visit www.cantos.ca/kingeddy

Cantos Music Foundation is a registered charitable organization whose vision it is to be a national catalyst for discovery, innovation and renewal through music. Cantos serves nearly 30,000 people per year - a number that's expected to more than triple in the new facility.

Exposition d’oeuvres récentes d’Angèle Verret au Laboratoire de l’Agora de la danse du 6 au 31 octobre

… j ’ a i t o u t v o u l u e f fa c e r … e n c o r e …

L’oeuvre d’Angèle Verret exerce sur celui qui la regarde une fascination, un pouvoir hypnotique, un envoûtement tel qu’il faut parfois se « secouer » physiquement pour s’en détacher. L’artiste ne s’en cache pas, sa démarche est faite de doute et d’incertitude. En cela, elle rejoint la fragilité du philosophe, sa quête d’équilibre et l’éternel questionnement qui lui est propre.

« Soupçon, suspicion, perplexité, irrésolution, scepticisme, tergiversation, indécision, controverse ou négation, c’est avec insistance que j’utilise ces termes, presque synonymes, mais qui, néanmoins, présentent tous une modulation de sens, un état d’insatisfaction et d’incomplétude. Il devient, dès lors, difficile de recevoir une réponse rassurante ou raisonnable de ce qui se donne à voir dans ma peinture, même si elle joue d’une certaine séduction. »

Angèle Verret procède par touches successives dans la « déconstruction » d’un tableau, chacune des couches aériennes et diaphanes qui le composent efface la couche précédente sans toutefois nier son rôle de substrat. Ses toiles s’offrent à nous, étonnamment lumineuses et nuancées. Sous une apparente monochromie, la diversité des tons et la subtile palette de l’artiste nous renvoient à nos propres incertitudes, à ces moments d’inconfort qui parsèment l’existence. L’utilisation de l’aérographe et de l’encre légère et translucide qui est propre à cet instrument n’est pas fortuite. Le « brouillard » qui en résulte répond parfaitement au non lieu et au non être voulu par la
peintre.

En 2007, Angèle Verret a obtenu le prix de la création artistique du Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec (Montérégie). On trouve ses oeuvres dans les collections du Musée national des Beaux-arts du Québec, de Loto-Québec, du Centre d’exposition de Saint-Hyacinthe, de Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec, de la Bibliothèque nationale du Canada ainsi que dans de nombreuses collections particulières au Québec, au Canada et en France.

Interrogation, lieu d’errance « où le corps se sent concerné mais décontenancé », l’oeuvre d’Angèle Verret demande à être revisitée. Une exposition à voir et… à revoir!

L’Agora de la danse offre gratuitement cette exposition à tous ceux que l’art contemporain québécois intéresse. On pourra profiter de l’occasion qui nous est offerte par cette exposition d’Angèle Verret au Laboratoire pour assister à un spectacle au Studio.

Le Laboratoire, salle d’exposition de l’Agora de la danse, est situé au premier étage du 840 de la rue Cherrier et ouvre ses portes de 19 h 30 à 22 h les soirs de représentation au Studio.

The 2009 NAC Gala offers a Magical Evening with Yo-Yo Ma and the NAC Orchestra led by Pinchas Zukerman on Oct. 3

“Yo-Yo Ma is the greatest cellist today. Everything he touches he turns to gold...gorgeous, almost voluptuous playing.” Boston Herald

Ottawa, Canada – The upcoming National Arts Centre Gala featuring superstar cellist Yo-Yo Ma, “the most popular artist in classical music today,” on Saturday, October 3 is sold out. Those lucky enough to have tickets will hear Yo-Yo Ma together with the National Arts Centre Orchestra led by Music Director Pinchas Zukerman. This “Magical Evening with Yo-Yo Ma” is presented by TELUS. The Gala benefits the National Youth and Education Trust which provides funds for the NAC’s wide array of performing arts programming for young artists, young audiences and schools.

Yo-Yo Ma has been a cultural beacon for decades. Young and old flock to his sold-out concerts, coming away moved, thrilled, and inspired. This astonishing artist has performed at the Oscars, the Grammys, the Olympics, and before a live audience of over a million at the inauguration of President Barack Obama. He returns to the NAC Orchestra to perform Dvorák’s beloved Cello Concerto with the NAC’s own luminary Pinchas Zukerman leading the National Arts Centre Orchestra.

The concert will also feature rising star pianist AvanYu, a former participant in the NAC Summer Music Institute, performing Chopin’s Andante spianato and Grand Polonaise brillante in E-flat major. Pinchas Zukerman will open the concert with “Blumine” from Mahler’s Symphony No. 1. Additional programming will remain a surprise!

There will be a pre-concert reception for all patrons at 5:30 p.m., followed by the concert at 6:30 p.m. Those who have purchased Encore Seating will join Gala sponsors at a post-concert reception, followed by dinner on the Southam Hall stage.

The NAC is honoured once again to have TELUS, Founding Partner of the National Youth and Education Trust, as the Presenting Sponsor of the Gala – a commitment that reflects TELUS’s continuing support of this primary resource for supporting the artistic development of young Canadians through educational materials, professional training, mentoring programs and young audience performances. The Trust is also supported by Michael Potter, supporters and patrons of the National Arts Centre Gala, and members of the NAC Foundation’s Donors’ Circle.

In addition to TELUS as the Presenting Sponsor, the Gala is supported by A&E, University of Ottawa and TD Bank Financial Group. Media partners are the Ottawa Citizen, Ottawa Business Journal, Le Droit, Embassy Newspaper and The Hill Times.

Janet Yale, TELUS’ executive vice president, Corporate Affairs, is the Chair of the Gala Committee for the fourth year. Mrs. Laureen Harper is the Honourary Gala Chair.

Yo-Yo Ma was born in 1955 to Chinese parents living in Paris. He began to study the cello with his father at age four and soon came with his family to New York, where he spent most of his formative years. Later, his principal teacher was Leonard Rose at the Juilliard School. He sought out a traditional liberal arts education to expand upon his conservatory training, graduating from Harvard University in 1976. He has received numerous awards, including 15 Grammy® Awards from his discography of over 75 albums, the Avery Fisher Prize (1978), the Glenn Gould Prize (1999), the National Medal of the Arts (2001), and the World Economic Forum’s Crystal Award (2008). Appointed a CultureConnect Ambassador by the United States Department of State in 2002, Yo-Yo Ma has met with, trained and mentored thousands of students worldwide. In 2006, Secretary General Kofi Annan named him a U.N. Messenger of Peace and in 2007 Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon extended his appointment.

Pinchas Zukerman has been Music Director of the National Arts Centre Orchestra since 1998, and his genius and prodigious technique have been a marvel to critics and audiences for over four decades. He is equally respected as a violinist, violist, conductor, and chamber musician while his dedication to teaching has been a major catalyst for many of the education initiatives supported by the National Youth and Education Trust. Pinchas Zukerman’s discography contains over 100 titles, and has earned him 21 Grammy nominations and two Grammy awards. He was named first-prize winner of the 1969 Leventritt Competition, and, in 1983, President Reagan awarded him a Medal of Arts for his leadership in the musical world. In October 2002, he became the first recipient of the Isaac Stern Award for Artistic Excellence at the National Arts Awards Gala in New York City.

Avan Yu has already, at the age of 21, performed in recital and with orchestras on four continents, consistently captivating audiences with his extraordinary musicianship and prodigious ability. He is the only pianist to win First Prize in both the Junior and Senior Divisions of the Missouri Southern International Piano Competition. Avan Yu won first prize at the Canadian Chopin Competition at the age of seventeen. In August 2008 he captured the Silver Medal and the Audience Award at the Paloma O’Shea Santander International Piano Competition in Spain.

He says: “I was 16 years old when I first tackled the Andante spianato and Grande Polonaise brillante in preparation for the Canadian Chopin Competition. My love for it has only grown with time - it’s a wonderful piece that combines elegance, youthful exuberance, and lyricism in a perfect balance. It is astonishing to realize that Chopin completed the work when he was only in his early twenties.”

Pinchas Zukerman and the National Arts Centre Orchestra donate their services for the NAC’s annual Gala.

Opera Shorts at Carnegie Hall/October 1st

Thursday, October 1st the Remarkable Theater Brigade will present 10-minute operas at Weill-Carnegie Hall. Some of the composers writing for RTB include Seymour Barab, Tom Cipullo, Patrick Soluri, Rob Voisey, Anne Phillips, George Brunner, Ben Bierman and of course, Christian McLeer.



Dedicated to creating and presenting new works for theatrical performances in New York City, RTB exists as a not for profit company founded in 2002, and its team has created and produced exciting and impressive new musical productions including orchestral works, operas, ballets, musicals and electro-acoustic works as well as taking children’s versions of its productions to special-needs and at risk children for free.

Tickets start at $30. Go to carnegiehall.org, call CarnegieCharge at 212.247.7800 or visit the Box Office at 57th Street and 7th Avenue.

Time Warp returns to York U Oct 6 with Jazz Orchestra

Time Warp Jazz Orchestra brings it home to York University

Toronto, September 23, 2009: Time Warp, one of Canada’s best known and longest-running jazz ensembles, takes centre stage in a celebratory performance at York University October 6.
The Time Warp quartet was founded in 1980 by drummer Barry Elmes and bassist Al Henderson, who both studied in York’s groundbreaking jazz program. Going on to forge stellar individual careers as performers and composers, they also continued their collaboration as co-leaders of the quartet.

Today, Elmes and Henderson are leading lights of the Canadian jazz scene and Time Warp has achieved international renown. With nine CDs under its belt, extensive tours and numerous accolades (including winning the Jazz Report Award for Acoustic Jazz Group of the Year four times), the band has inspired a generation of fans.

Time Warp’s unique style and highly original repertoire reflects musical influences spanning the entire history of jazz and beyond. Known particularly for its own compositions and its fresh interpretations of the works of Duke Ellington, the ensemble has always pushed the boundaries of the genre. Long before the term "world music" was widely known, Time Warp was drawing on musical and cultural influences from around the globe, including the rhythms and harmonic structures of West African music, Japanese koto music, Hungarian folk songs, North American urban funk rhythms and New Orleans parade music, to create its distinctive sound.

All four members of Time Warp are currently on faculty in York University’s Department of Music. Professor Elmes chairs the department, Professor Henderson directs the York University Jazz Orchestra, and Kevin Turcotte (trumpet) and Kelly Jefferson (saxes) teach in the jazz program.

The quartet will be joined by 11 other leading artists to form the Time Warp Jazz Orchestra for its one-night-only performance.

Two of the guests are Time Warp alumni: saxmen Bob Brough, a charter member who played with the group throughout the ‘80s, and Mike Murley, a 15-year veteran of Time Warp and a graduate of York’s music department, where he now heads the jazz studies area.
All the other guest artists in the big band are currently teaching and/or studying in York’s music program. Saxophonists David Mott and Sundar Viswanathan, vocalist Karen Burke, trumpeter Bill Thomas, cellist Mark Chambers and trombonist Ron Westray, the newly-appointed Oscar Peterson Chair in Jazz Performance, are all full-time faculty. Cellist Matt Brubeck, guitarist Lorne Lofsky and pianist Mark Eisenman teach in the jazz program.

The orchestra’s October 6 concert will feature the world premiere performance of new arrangements for large ensemble of several favourites from the Time Warp repertoire, including “Theme for Coleman Hawkins”, “Nima na Kombo”, “Gridlock”, “Reincarnation of Rat Boy” and Henderson’s ”Ellingtonia” suite. The concert will be recorded for a future CD release.

The Time Warp Jazz Orchestra performance is a YU50 event, celebrating York University’s 50th anniversary.


What: Time Warp Jazz Orchestra

When: Tuesday, October 6 at 7:30pm

Where: Tribute Communities Recital Hall, Accolade East Building, York University, 4700 Keele St.

Admission: $15 | students & seniors $5 
Box Office: 416.736.5888 | www.yorku.ca/perform/boxoffice 


Vincent Gagnon lance Bleu Cendre

VINCENT GAGNON

JAZZ


L'ABOUTISSEMENT DU PROJET

- BLEU CENDRE -

DISQUES EFFENDI

Québec, le 23 septembre 2009 – Vincent Gagnon mène à terme un projet personnel qu'il chérit depuis deux ans : celui d'un album avec ses meilleures compositions,enregistrées selon ses standards et caprices. Le résultat est intéressant, tellement quele projet fait déjà tourner les têtes : Bleu cendre attire bourses, prix prestigieux et reconnaissance médiatique.




Sur l'album, des compositions spontanées du pianiste et de deux autres musiciens du quintette :Guillaume Bouchard et Alain Boies. Les mélodies sont interprétées avec une justesse et un swing des plus précis; ces puristes du jazz recherchent un son parfait, unique.




Présentant un judicieux choix de musiciens aux réputations solides (voir plus bas), le projet est fait sur mesure pour l'improvisation, art que le groupe maîtrise indéniablement. « L'improvisation, c'est un mode d'expression instantané, ce qui est probablement le plus proche d'un échange dans un langage universel, permettant de canaliser les émotions. » (VG) Ni plus ni moins qu'un baume pour garder la musique vivante.




Vincent est un pianiste très présent sur la scène musicale de Québec. Il est particulièrement apprécié pour ses talents d'accompagnateur sur de nombreux projets de création, notamment avec le saxophoniste André Larue. On qualifie son jeu de sensible et son style de personnel. Inspiré par plusieurs écoles, il démontre un côté impressionniste et romantique auquel s'insère une note torturée sous-jacente.




Vincent aime aussi accompagner les chanteuses. Sa plus grande inspiration est l'illustre Billie Holiday. Il lui rend hommage en soutenant ces voix féminines de Québec qu'il chérit : Lily Thibodeault, Danya Ortmann et Virginie Hamel. Parmi ses principales collaborations, nous retrouvons la vibrante Annie Poulain, amie et complice de longue date avec qui il apprécie la symbiose entre la voix, les textes et la musique.




Fasciné autant par la justesse d'une interprétation que par des textes colorés, Vincent
se plonge depuis peu dans l'univers des mots. D'abord dans des projets associant musique et littérature : Satori à Québec, Volskwagen Jazz - avec Jacques Leblanc - et Urbanitudes et autres dérives country - poésie contemporaine. Ensuite dans le projet rock de Keith Kouna, brillant compositeur et parolier atypique de la Capitale, qui fait dans les textes purement masculins. Les textes ainsi posés sur la musique l'inspirent, l'alimentent. 



Bleu cendre est moderne sans être à la mode. N'y sont préservés que les éléments les plus essentiels de la tradition du jazz. Bleu cendre met la musique devant la performance. Bleu cendre est raffiné, intelligent, accessible, original. 



Bleu cendre de Vincent Gagnon 


Vincent Gagnon (piano), 

Guillaume Bouchard (contrebasse),

François Côté (batterie),

Alain Boies (saxophones)

Invité spécial : Michel Côté (saxophone, clarinette basse, Maïkotron).



Lauréat du Prix Étoiles Galaxie de Radio-Canada au Festival International de Jazz de
Montréal 2009, pour la pièce Après l'une. Ce prix récompense la meilleure composition d'un groupe canadien.



Lancement à Québec le 22 septembre 2009, à Montréal le 24 septembre.

La Place des Arts présente Nebbia

Montréal — Du vendredi 25 au dimanche 27 septembre prochain, le Théâtre Maisonneuve de la Place des Arts sera plongé dans la brume... Un brouillard lumineux enveloppera les talentueux artistes du Cirque Éloize et du Teatro Sunil, de retour à Montréal pour quatre représentations exceptionnelles de leur coproduction Nebbia.

Quatre représentations exceptionnelles d’un
spectacle qui l’est tout autant !
Vendredi 25 à 20h,
samedi 26 à 14h et 20h,
et dimanche 27 à 14h !

Créé à Genève en 2007, Nebbia — brouillard, en italien — est le troisième et dernier volet de la magnifique Trilogie du Ciel de l’auteur et metteur en scène Daniele Finzi Pasca. Dans cette oeuvre empreinte de poésie, les artisans des deux compagnies marient habilement musique et théâtre aux acrobaties propres à leur art. Le résultat est éblouissant ! De spectaculaires numéros de trapèze, de trampoline, de sangles, de main à main ou de contorsion se déroulent sur une trame sonore en parfaite symbiose avec l’action.

« Cette production [ … ] plonge au plus près du sublime, forge un grand tout d’une ampleur mirobolante et propose rien de moins qu’un divertissement jouissif et envoûtant. Un must, quoi. » - Le Devoir, Montréal.

Présenté en septembre 2008 au TNM pour une série de 37 représentations, Nebbia a été vu par 24 000 personnes à Montréal. La troupe a ensuite pris la route, ravissant le public du Mexique, d’Italie, d'Allemagne, de Suisse et d’une vingtaine de villes des États-Unis. Tout récemment, c’est en Russie, à l’invitation du Festival Tchekhov de Moscou, que la tournée s’est poursuivie à guichet fermé. Partout, c’est avec enthousiasme que Nebbia a été accueilli, tant par le public que les critiques.

« Jamais un jeu n’aura été aussi professionnel. [...] la simplicité et la liberté de l’homo ludens s’est révélée dans toute sa splendeur dans Nebbia » — Reforma, Mexico

« [...] le metteur en scène italo-suisse exalte le pouvoir apaisant du geste, l’humanité d’un Amarcord de province, l’ironie du corps hyper-articulé d’un fakir [...] Un petit monde antique d’une habileté extraordinaire » — Corriere della sera, Milan

« [...] ce brouillard-là (a) de la gueule, des tripes, de la poésie et du coeur. » — Tribune de Genève

« Quand le brouillard arrive, beaucoup de choses deviennent possibles », raconte Daniele Finzi Pasca. Le ciel se fait très bas, on voit alors des choses que l'on ne verrait pas normalement. Et l’on voyage à l'intérieur d'un monde fait de souvenirs et d'images inventées que l'on appelle des rêves.

Encore une fois, le Cirque Éloize et le Teatro Sunil portent l’imagination au pouvoir. Avant que toute la troupe ne reparte vers le Mexique, elle invite les Montréalais à plonger dans l’univers onirique, poétique et sensible de Nebbia, présenté du vendredi 25 au dimanche 27 septembre sur la scène du Théâtre Maisonneuve de la Place des Arts.

Renseignements et réservations :
Billetterie de la Place des Arts l 514 842-2112 ou 1 866 842-2112
laplacedesarts.com
nebbia.com

Toutes les filles

Josianne Paradis • Emilie Clepper
Sylvie Paquette • Émilie Proulx

AU CABARET DE LA RELÈVE DE LA SALLE PAULINE-JULIEN

Vendredi 25 septembre, 20 h

ADMISSION GÉNÉRALE

Ouverture des portes à 19 h

Info : 514 626-1616
www.pauline-julien.com
www.touslesgarcons.com

L'ambiance unique d'Irving Fields à eXcentris

Montréal — eXcentris vous invite dans l'environnement chaleureux de son tout nouveau Hall en compagnie de l'éclectique pianiste américain Irving Fields. Personnage original, Irving Fields nous propose des concerts engageants aux sonorités de toutes les provenances.

Irving Fields s'est démarqué dans les années 40 et 50 par ses enregistrements de style fusion, un genre peu exploité à l'époque. Ses albums de jazz latin juif, Bagels and Bongos et More Bagels and Bongos ont connu un véritable succès, suscitant un enthousiasme pour la musique latine et une ouverture pour les airs d'ailleurs.

Au fil des ans, il a su combiner la musique latine à différentes sauces : italienne avec Pizzas and Bongos; française avec Champagne et Bongos; et hawaïenne avec Bikinis and Bongos. Son style, amalgame de rythmes Catskills et de Manhattan, Miami et La Havane, a attiré l'attention de grandes stars latines dont Tito Puente, Machito et Xavier Cugat.

À 93 ans, Irving Fields est toujours très actif et se produit six soirs par semaine dans un restaurant italien de Manhattan. Il nous fait le privilège d'inaugurer de belle et joyeuse façon le Hall nouveau d'eXcentris.

Les 25 et 26 septembre à 17 h. Événements gratuits.

The Collegiate Chorale Announces 2009/2010 Season


Season Opens with THE LORD OF THE RINGS on October 9 & 10, 2009 at Radio City Music Hall
 
Gala Concert, A JUBILANT SONG, on December 1, 2009 at 7pm at Carnegie Hall
 
World Premiere Two Act Concert Version of THE GRAPES OF WRATH on March 22, 2010 at Carnegie Hall
 
Handel's ISRAEL IN EGYPT on May 12, 2010 at The Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, New York University

The Collegiate Chorale, led by new music director James Bagwell, announces its 68th season, including The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, a concert performed live to the film on October 9 and 10, 2009 at 7:30pm at Radio City Music Hall; a Gala Evening, A Jubilant Song, on December 1, 2009 at 7pm at Carnegie Hall; the World Premiere Two Act Concert Version of Ricky Ian Gordon and Michael Korie's rendering of The Grapes of Wrath on March 22, 2010 at 8pm at Carnegie Hall; and George Frideric Handel's Israel in Egypt, conducted by James Bagwell, on May 12, 2010 at 8pm at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, New York University.

"To be a part of one of the nation's leading arts groups is an honor. I am thrilled to begin to work with such a dynamic organization. This season is about journeys - of The Chorale, my own journey, and of the characters whose stories unfold in our programming. First, we will be part of a hobbit's journey as we perform the soundtrack to The Fellowship of the Ring, the first of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, while the film is shown in high definition at Radio City Music Hall. At our gala, I will begin my conducting journey with The Chorale as we celebrate this exceptional organization's journey from its beginning until now and as we move forward together. In December, we will present a world premiere rendering of the epic American journey, The Grapes of Wrath. We will conclude the season in May with the biblical journey of the Exodus, singing Handel's Israel in Egypt. This performance will take our Chorale journey to a beautiful new venue, the Skirball Center Theater. This season promises to be an exciting one and I look forward to leading The Chorale forward," said James Bagwell, music director of The Collegiate Chorale.

This fall, a once-in-a-lifetime experience comes to New York as Howard Shore's Grammy® and Academy Award®-winning score for The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring comes to life at the world-famous Radio City Music Hall on Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10, 2009. Beneath an immense 60-foot screen, Mr. Shore's complete original score will be performed live to Peter Jackson's award-winning epic. The music of Middle-earth will be brought to life by more than 300 musicians: Switzerland's 21st Century Symphony Orchestra, the internationally-acclaimed The Collegiate Chorale, the Grammy Award®-winning Brooklyn Youth Chorus and renowned soprano Kaitlyn Lusk, all under the direction of celebrated Maestro Ludwig Wicki. Tickets are $54-$150 and are available by calling Ticketmaster at (212) 307-4111 or (800) 745-3000 or online at www.radiocity.com/events/lord-of-the-rings-1009.html. This event is presented by CAMI Music and New York Comic Con in association with The New York Renaissance Faire, The One Ring.Net and The Angel Orensanz Foundation. Swiss International Air Lines is the official sponsor.

On December 1, 2009 at 7 pm at Carnegie Hall, join James Bagwell, Roger Rees and many well-known friends as they lead A Jubilant Song, a celebration of The Collegiate Chorale's remarkable history of exceptional conductors, noteworthy commissions and premieres, and multi-faceted choral programming. As the new Music Director, Mr. Bagwell gives tribute to his predecessors and ushers in a new era of The Collegiate Chorale. Works to be performed include the Beethoven Choral Fantasy, Verdi arias, A Jubilant Song by Dello Joio, and excerpts from Bernstein's A White House Cantata. Featuring Salvatore Licitra, tenor; Emily Pulley, soprano; Anita Johnson, soprano; Robert Mack, tenor; Erin Morley, soprano; Jenny Lin, piano; and Roger Rees, emcee. A benefit dinner with Mr. Bagwell and guest artists at Carnegie Hall's Rohatyn Room will follow the concert. Tickets are $25-$125 and will be available at 646-202-9623 or www.collegiatechorale.org.

An all-star cast from opera and Broadway comes together to present the World Premiere Two Act Concert Version of Ricky Ian Gordon and Michael Korie's beautiful rendering of Nobel Prize-winner John Steinbeck's epic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Grapes of Wrath, on March 22, 2010 at Carnegie Hall, conducted by Ted Sperling. Called by Musical America "The great American opera," Gordon's opera incorporates American popular musical styles of the 20s and 30s: song-and-dance, sweet and rousing love songs, ballads with banjos, jazz choruses, and a barbershop quartet. Just like the novel itself, the work is both heart-wrenching and uplifting. Gordon (music) and Korie (libretto) have collaborated with The Chorale to shorten the length of the original opera, while composing new material for the chorus. And if that starry cast - Victoria Clark, Christine Ebersole, Jane Fonda, Elizabeth Futral, Anthony Dean Griffey, Nathan Gunn, Peter Halverson, Steven Pasquale, Stephen Powell, Andrew Wilkowske and Matthew Worth - isn't enough inspiration to see the show, the role of Tom Joad's young daughter, Ruthie, will be sung by Nathan Gunn's daughter, Madeline Gunn. Directed by Eric Simonson with lighting design by Frances Aronson. Tickets are $25-$160 and will be available at 646-202-9623 or www.collegiatechorale.org.

James Bagwell will conduct George F. Handel's Israel in Egypt, featuring Brian Asawa, alto; Sari Gruber, soprano; and Rufus Müller, tenor on May 12, 2010 at 8pm at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, New York University. Darkness over the earth, water turning to blood, plagues of jumping frogs, buzzing insects, and hailstones, an oncoming mighty storm, and the parting of the Red Sea while hordes of horsemen and chariots are engulfed - such imagery calls for the masterful hand of George F. Handel. In this choral tour de force, some of the most vivid images of the Exodus story are recounted during the first segment, which is then followed by the beautiful and exultant second part, The Song of Moses. At times tender, simple, stately, crashing, complex and colossal, Israel in Egypt is one of Handel's monumental achievements, featuring the chorus in an unprecedented way with lovely and descriptive solos and duets accentuating their story throughout. Tickets are $25-$85 and will be available online at www.skirballcenter.nyu.edu, by phone at 212-352-3101, or in person at the Skirball Center Shagan Box Office 566 LaGuardia Place, Tuesday-Saturday 12-6pm.

Subscription packages are available by phone at 646-202-9623 or online at www.collegiatechorale.org.

The Collegiate Chorale, among New York's foremost vocal ensembles, has added to the richness of the city's cultural fabric for more than 65 years. Founded in 1941 by the legendary conductor Robert Shaw, The Chorale achieved national and international prominence under the leadership of Robert Bass. The Chorale has established a preeminent reputation for its interpretations of the traditional choral repertoire, vocal works by American composers, and rarely heard operas-in-concert, as well as commissions and premieres of new works by today's most exciting creative artists. In the Summer of 2009, The Chorale performed for the fourth season at Switzerland's Verbier Music Festival. In July 2008, The Chorale toured with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra under Zubin Mehta in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem.

The mission of The Collegiate Chorale is to enrich its audiences through innovative programming and exceptional performances of a broad range of vocal music featuring a premier choral ensemble. Inherent in its mission is The Chorale's belief that choral music is a compelling collaboration that creates a powerful, shared experience unifying listeners and musicians of all backgrounds, beliefs and ages.

James Bagwell maintains an active schedule throughout the United States as a conductor of choral, operatic, and orchestral music. He has recently been named Principal Guest Conductor of the American Symphony Orchestra in New York. Since 2003 he has been Director of Choruses for the Bard Music Festival, conducting and preparing choral works during the summer festival at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Bard College. He has also prepared The Concert Chorale of New York for performances with the American Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the Mostly Mozart Festival (broadcast nationally in 2006 on Live from Lincoln Center) all in Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center. In 2005 he was named Music Director of The Dessoff Choirs in New York, who under his leadership have made numerous appearances at Carnegie Hall in addition to their regular season. In 2009 the Dessoff Symphonic Choir appeared with the New York Philharmonic performing both Mahler's Eighth Symphony and Britten's War Requiem for Lorin Maazel's final concerts as Music Director.

James Bagwell has trained choruses for a number of major American and International orchestras, including the San Francisco Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, NHK Symphony (Japan), St. Petersburg Symphony, The American Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. He has worked with noted conductors such as Lorin Maazel, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Michael Tilson Thomas, Louis Langrée, Leon Botstein, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Raymond Leppard, James Conlon, Jesús López-Cobos, Erich Kunzel, Leon Fleischer, and Robert Shaw.

For eleven seasons, he has been Music Director for the May Festival Youth Choir in Cincinnati, which was recently featured on the radio program From the Top. He has conducted some 25 productions as Music Director of Light Opera Oklahoma, including Candide, Sweeney Todd, and The Merry Widow, among others. At Bard SummerScape he has lead numerous theatrical works, most notably The Tender Land, which received unanimous praise from The New York Times, The New Yorker, and Opera News. He frequently appears as guest conductor for orchestras around the country and abroad, including the Jerusalem Symphony, Tulsa Symphony, and the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. For three seasons he was Artistic Director of The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir. He holds degrees from Birmingham-Southern College, Florida State University, and Indiana University. He has taught since 2000 at Bard College, where he is Director of the Music Program.

For more information, visit www.collegiatechorale.org.

L'Héritage de Renée Martel à eXcentris

Montréal — Renée Martel lançait l'année dernière un magnifique album intitulé L'Héritage sur lequel figurent quatorze chansons résultant de précieuses rencontres artistiques tant avec de vieux complices comme Robert Charlebois et Richard Desjardins qu'avec de jeunes compositeurs émergents, dont Éric Goulet ou Catherine Durand. Il s'agit du premier album de l'artiste composé entièrement de titres originaux depuis 1992.

Tant sur album que sur scène, Renée Martel désire plus que jamais transmettre son héritage en s'appuyant sur celui qu'elle a reçu et qui lui a permis de construire une carrière exceptionnelle. C'est ce qu'elle nous propose à eXcentris, dans la chaleureuse salle Cassavetes, pour un concert intimiste, près du public, aux places limitées.

Renée Martel, artiste authentique, offre sur scène une performance sensible et vibrante, où ses premiers succès côtoient ses nouvelles chansons, pour le plus grand bonheur de ses fans.

Incontournable icône depuis le milieu des années soixante, Renée Martel est une véritable ambassadrice de la musique country au Québec. De Liverpool à Nous on aime la musique country, plusieurs de ses chansons ont été élevées au statut de classiques et continuent de gagner les cœurs.

Samedi 3 octobre à 20h, salle Cassavetes

Chantal Lamirande présente Projet X

ProJet X
Lamirand Danse
La danse est aussi un art visuel

Du 6 au 9 octobre 2009 : 20h

Pour son premier passage sur les planches de l’Agora de la danse du 6 au 9 octobre, la chorégraphe Chantal Lamirande présente ProJet X, sa toute nouvelle création.

Né de la recherche d’instantanéité, ProJet X est la poursuite d’une féconde réinvention de la relation entre la danse et la lumière. La chorégraphe crée une complicité avec celle-ci, comme si elle était une partenaire. L’oeuvre s’inspire de l’univers du groupe de musique contemporaine et électronique Samarkande, dont les deux musiciens interprèteront en direct chaque soir la musique du spectacle. Leur musique, à la fois sombre et orageuse, lumineuse et sensible, ponctue la danse, s’y colle ou s’y oppose.

Interprète, chorégraphe et enseignante, Chantal Lamirande possède un langage chorégraphique particulier, faisant fi des modes et des tendances. Ayant récemment fondé sa compagnie LamirandDanse, elle s’intéresse à l’interdisciplinarité, même si la danse demeure le véhicule premier de sa création. « Sa grande qualité d’improvisatrice, alliée à une maîtrise technique impeccable et à une réflexion intelligente et sensible sur le mouvement, fait d’elle une figure à surveiller au cours des prochaines années » (Normand Marcy, Voir 2004).

ProJet X, malicieux clin d’oeil à la génération de sa créatrice, ouvre sur tous les possibles, explore l’inconnu, rencontre l’indéterminé. Les éclairages de Lee Anholt multiplient les lieux, créent une atmosphère texturée, jouent avec les quatre danseurs. C’est avec une maitrise hors du commun que Chantal Lamirande réussit son pari d’amalgamer, telle une artiste visuelle, la matière et la forme, le mouvement et la perspective, le tout, animé par une intériorité désarmante. Une oeuvre accessible qui propose une expérience visuelle et sonore des plus surprenantes.

Les trois dernières créations présentées par Chantal Lamirande à Montréal avaient largement été saluées par la critique : « La seule façon de ne pas se sentir interpelé par Vision serait de fermer les yeux. Et encore. » (Stéphanie Brody, La Presse 2006)

La rencontre Parole de chorégraphe aura lieu le 8 octobre.

Le prix des billets est de 20 $ (15 $ pour les aînés, 14 $ pour les étudiants et les membres du RQD et de l’UDA).

Renseignements et réservations \ Billetterie du Studio de l’Agora de la danse

840, rue Cherrier, métro Sherbrooke \ 514 525.1500

Chorégraphe : Chantal Lamirande
Interprètes : Chantal Lamirande, Ami Shulman, Magali Stoll, Dominique Thomas
Éclairages : Lee Anholt
Musique : Samarkande
Costumes : Geneviève Beauchamp
Conseillère artistique : Fernande Girard
Régie d’éclairage : Marc Parent
Directrice technique : Molie Salman
Source : Bianka Bernier
T \ 514. 525. 7575 poste 249 :: C \ 514. 799. 2304
bianka@agoradanse.com \ www.agoradanse.com

Pour voir un extrait vidéo du spectacle, cliquez ici

L'Opéra de Québec présente Aida de Verdi

Plus de 150 artistes! Décors imposants!

Un spectacle inoubliable!

Québec – L'Opéra de Québec est heureux d'ouvrir sa saison avec l'œuvre magistrale qu'est Aida de Verdi, dont la dernière représentation à Québec remonte à mai 1994. Pour l'occasion, cette production sera placée sous la direction de John Keenan, jeune chef au Metropolitan Opera de New York, qui a assuré un Otello magnifique, ici même à Québec, en 2007. Aida prendra l'affiche les 17 (19 h), 20, 22 et 24 (20 h) octobre 2009, au Grand Théâtre de Québec.

C'est avec fierté que l'Opéra de Québec vous présente une Aida toute spéciale, qui met en vedette le « coup de cœur » du public du Concours international Operalia 2008 / Plácido Domingo. En effet, la stupéfiante Oksana Kramaryeva revient à Québec en octobre pour reprendre le rôle d'Aida qu'elle a déjà interprété à plusieurs reprises en Europe, au Japon, en Ukraine et en Espagne.

Clin d'œil
Aida est un ouvrage tellement populaire, si souvent joué et si accessible que l'œuvre est devenue pour beaucoup le synonyme d'opéra italien. La Scala de Milan en a fait une quarantaine de productions différentes depuis sa création et le Metropolitan Opera de New York a dépassé les mille cent représentations. C'est un spectacle inoubliable qui frappe le spectateur à première vue.

Billets : 418 529.0688 / 877 643.8131
Il reste des billets pour toutes les représentations

La distribution
John KEENAN, chef
Plus jeune chef à avoir dirigé au METROPOLITAN
A dirigé Otello, ici à Québec, en 2007

Brian DEEDRICK, metteur en scène
Sixième visite à Québec
A assuré la mise en scène d'Aida plus de 5 fois

Oksana KRAMARYEVA, Aida
Coup de cœur du public de Québec : Prix du public du Concours Operalia Québec 2008
2e prix féminin du Concours Operalia Québec 2008
Aida : Ukraine, Russie, Japon, Espagne

Oleg KULKO, Radamès
Premier ténor au Bolshoi
Débuts au METROPOLITAN en 2003 – puis réinvité
Débuts à Carnegie Hall en 2006
Radamès est son rôle de prédilection

Alina GURINA, Amneris
Diplômée du Conservatoire de Moscou
Attachée à l'Opéra de Brno de la République Tchèque
Chante en Europe, au Canada et aux États-Unis

John AVEY, Amonasro
Débuts au METROPOLITAN en 1999
Chante régulièrement au Canada
Répertoire : plus de 30 rôles

Alexander SAVTCHENKO, Ramfis
Gagnant du Concours international Luciano Pavarotti (1992)
Débuts à Carnegie Hall en 1997
Chante aux États-Unis et au Canada principalement
4e présence à l'Opéra de Québec

Joseph ROULEAU, le Roi d'Égypte
Légende vivante
Plus de 1 000 représentations à Covent Garden
A chanté avec Pavarotti, Domingo, Callas, Crespin, Schwarzkoff
A chanté sous la direction de metteurs en scène tels que Stravinski et Zeffirelli

Le Chœur de l'Opéra de Québec / L'Orchestre symphonique de Québec
Version originale italienne avec surtitres

L'œuvre
Dès sa création en 1871, Aida déchaîna un enthousiasme qui se poursuit depuis 138 ans. Cette œuvre magistrale, avec son célèbre « triomphe » et ses non moins célèbres « trompettes », est encore et toujours la plus appréciée des amateurs d'opéra du monde entier.

L'Égypte ancienne.
L'Éthiopie entre en guerre contre l'Égypte. Aida, princesse éthiopienne, est tenue en captivité par les Égyptiens. Le chef des armées égyptiennes, Radamès, lutte entre son amour pour elle et sa loyauté au Pharaon. Pour compliquer l'histoire, Radamès éveille malgré lui les sentiments de la fille du Pharaon, Amneris…

www.operadequebec.qc.ca

Saison 2009-2010

Aida
17 (19 h), 20, 22 et 24 octobre (20 h) 2009

Gala
jeudi 26 novembre (19 h 30) 2009

Lucia di Lammermoor
15 (19 h), 18, 20 et 22 mai (20 h) 2010

Sting and Trudie Styler star in Twin Spirits

The poignant and tragic love story of Robert and Clara Schumann told in words and music to be released on Opus Arte September 29th

DVD sales to support the vital work of the Royal Opera House Education Program

On September 29th, Opus Arte presents Twin Spirits, the story of the passionate romance and subsequent marriage between composer Robert Schumann and piano prodigy Clara Wieck, available on DVD and Blu-Ray disc. This production from the Royal Opera House brings together nine diverse performers of the highest caliber: Sting, an artist who defies simple classification, joins his wife, actress and producer Trudie Styler to read from the letters between Robert and Clara. Their story, narrated by Sir Derek Jacobi, is illustrated and interwoven with music composed by Robert – whose spirit is embodied by pianist Iain Burnside, baritone Simon Keenlyside and violinist Sergej Krylov – and by Clara, who is evoked by pianist Natasha Paremski, soprano Rebecca Evans, and cellist Natalie Clein.

This subtle and moving piece, a fusion of recital and drama, was devised by the stage director and writer John Caird. His credits include Hamlet and Candide at the National Theatre, Les Misérables and Nicholas Nickleby with Trevor Nunn, and Don Carlos for Welsh National Opera.

“A performance like this is a personal journey,” Sting explains. “You’re forced to share very private thoughts and make them public, and that creates a tension. This love story – the relationship and the tragedy – provides a great introduction for people who don’t normally listen to classical music. Hearing the Schumanns’ music at the same time as telling their story is a very intimate, engaging and emotional experience.”

“When we started on this adventure with Twin Spirits,” adds Trudie Styler, “I was profoundly moved by the richness and power of the narrative. The passion of Robert and Clara’s love transcends the ages. It is a wonderful and moving story which I believe remains fascinating and relevant to today's world.”

Love began to blossom between Robert Schumann (1810-56) and Clara Wieck (1819-90) when she was a teenager and he was the student of her father, Friedrich Wieck, who made every effort to impede the relationship. She was one of the 19th century’s greatest pianists and herself a composer of note. After a legal battle with her father the couple finally married in 1840. In the 1850s their happiness became compromised by Robert’s increasing mental instability, which resulted in a suicide attempt in 1854; he died in an asylum in 1856. Clara, who lived for another 40 years, devoted her considerable energies to propagating her husband’s music, which is at its greatest in his intimate works for piano, voice and chamber ensemble.

“Twin Spirits tells a great human drama, irrespective of the fact that it’s about two great musicians,” says director John Caird. “It makes us think about love, marriage, relationships, pain, illness and how they influence art and life. Robert and Clara's chamber music was almost like a diary and listening to it you feel you are looking into the pages of something deeply personal.”

Twin Spirits was recorded before a small audience in a studio space at London’s Royal Opera House shortly before Christmas 2007. All the artists involved donated their talent and time so that everyone buying a copy will be supporting the important work of the Royal Opera House Education Program which provides opportunities for some 90,000 people annually to engage with opera, music and dance. These projects reach people of all ages and backgrounds, including the isolated and elderly, the socially deprived, disabled adults and children, young offenders and for these people they have a very significant and positive impact. The Royal Opera House’s work helps them to become enthusiastic and motivated, learn self-respect, discover the potential within themselves and develop a team spirit. For every performance on the world-famous stage, at least twice as many educational activities are taking place and this work is a vital part of the Royal Opera House’s mission.

The original performance of Twin Sprits took place in June 2005, also at the Royal Opera House. Other charity performances took place at Salisbury Cathedral (to benefit the Salisbury Cathedral Girl Choristers), the New Victory Theatre in New York (to benefit Broadway Cares – Equity Fights Aids) and, at the Prince of Wales’ invitation, Windsor Castle (to benefit the Royal Opera House Foundation, and Soil Association). Among other performers who have participated alongside Sting and Trudie are actors Sir Ian McKellen, Charles Dance, and Jonathan Pryce and violinists Vasko Vassilev and Joshua Bell.

Twin Spirits will be released by Opus Arte on DVD (OA 0994 D) and Blu-Ray (OA BD7043 D) in the US on September 29th, 2009. Preview the DVD and access further information about the Twin Spirits project, Robert and Clara Schumann and the Royal Opera House Education Program at www.twin-spirits.com

Miami City Ballet announces its 2009-2010 Season from October 2009 through April 2010

MCB Dancers in Symphony in Three Movements, Choreography by George Balanchine © The George Balanchine Trust. Photo © Joe Gato

Miami City Ballet’s (MCB) 2009-2010 season of dance in South Florida begins in October 2009 and runs through April 2010. The Company performs at Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade, at Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale; and at Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach.

Program I features modern choreographer Paul Taylor’s Company B. This work, last seen in South Florida almost a decade ago, is performed to carefree World War II hits by the Andrews Sisters (“Rum and Coca Cola,” Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Oh, Johnny, Oh!”) contrasted with the melancholy realities of soldiers at war. Also on this program are George Balanchine’s Allegro Brillante, Symphony in Three Movements and Tschaikovsky Pas de Deux.

Program II will show for the first time on MCB’s main stages, Twyla Tharp’s “The Golden Section” a thrilling segment from her famous work The Catherine Wheel. The piece is set to music by David Byrne (of the Talking Heads) and it is pure energy as thirteen dancers in gold costumes sail, soar, and tear through the air of the stage’s glowing light. Also featured are Balanchine’s Divertimento No. 15, Valse Fantaisie (1953), and Slaughter on Tenth Avenue.

Program III is Edward Villella’s The Neighborhood Ballroom. Back for its first full encore since its 2003 premiere, this is an evening-length, action-packed, atmosphere-drenched tale of a poet, his muses, and the great ballroom music and dances of the early and mid-20th century. The four sections of this work showcase the seductive waltz, quick-stepping jazz (including the Charleston), the fox-trot where couples dance in the dark to big-band music, and the mambo, which ruled the dance floor in the 1950s.



Program IV will feature Dances at a Gathering, Jerome Robbins’ masterpiece. Ten dancers, live Chopin piano music, endlessly beautiful and original invention - a celebration of dance, dancers…and life. Also on this program is Balanchine’s breezily romantic Who Cares? set to music by Gershwin.

Once again, Miami City Ballet will present George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™. This delightful holiday season family event features a cast of more than 100 professional dancers and talented students from Miami City Ballet School. Performances will take place at The Arsht Center in Miami and at Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale.

New 2009-2010 full subscription renewal packages, to which Nutcracker tickets can be added, will be mailed in February and mini-series renewals will be mailed in March. Reservations for single tickets will be accepted at Miami City Ballet’s Box Office starting in April.

Subscription packages and single-show tickets are on sale now. Four-program subscription series are priced from $635 to $69; two-program “mini-subscriptions” are priced from $330 to $36. Single ticket prices for the repertory are $169 to $19. Nutcracker ticket prices are $65 to $19.75 (discounted to $58-$19 when ordered with a subscription package).

For more information about subscription packages, including group discounts, please call Miami City Ballet Box Office toll-free at (877) 929.7010.

Tickets can be purchased at the theaters' Box Offices and online at Miami City Ballet or Ticketmaster.

Ebullient and mysterious themes permeate Masters evening of music - Oct. 3

Classic Landmarks Masters
Jubilant interplay of harmonies and rhythms in work of significant character

Brahms’ Second Symphony
Saturday, October 3rd – 8:00 pm

Edmonton, AB … Your Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (ESO) continues its Classic Landmarks Masters series with a single evening of eloquent subtleties and ebullient themes at the Francis Winspear Centre for Music. Music Director William Eddins steps onto the conductor’s podium to present a program of pieces that are characteristically deep in emotion.

In the title work of this concert, Symphony No. 2 in D Major bears witness to the apparent delight Brahms experienced in composing this invaluable piece of music. In what can be considered one of his most serene, contented works, an underlying drama gives this music a unique sense of character and lyrical beauty.

Acclaimed American cellist and assured soloist Julie Albers makes her ESO debut in the fiery Cello Concerto No. 2 - Dmitri Kabalevsky’s finest instrumental creation. Recognized for her radiant performing style and her intense musicianship, Ms. Albers brings technical ease and interpretive poise to the ESO premiere of a mysterious and vibrant work.

Once a bass trombonist with the ESO, composer and conductor Malcolm Forsyth’s bright, brilliant, and tuneful ukuZalwa opens the orchestral concert program. The title, a Zulu word meaning “Rebirth”, is an exciting overture that expresses the composer’s vision of joyous reconciliation in his native homeland of South Africa. Dr. Forsyth will join ESO Music Resource D.T. Baker, Saturday evening at 7:15 pm at the Symphony Prelude, to provide personal insight into his piece.

Local cellist Martin J. Kloppers will create a musical commotion as he entertains lobby guests prior to the concert, performing on his red skeleton cello. With its seamless body appears carved out of a single piece of wood, and a hollow and hole-riddled "spine” section in the center from which all ribs flow, the visual and auditory result is unforgettable.

Ticket prices for this performance range from $20 – $69 (agency fees apply). Student and senior $20 rush tickets are on sale, subject to availability, two hours prior to performance time. Tickets are available through the Winspear Centre Box Office at (780) 428-1414 or online at edmontonsymphony.com.

The next performance of the Classic Landmarks Masters series takes place on Saturday, November 14th. Elegant Canadian soprano Laura Whalen brings beautiful control and precision to the Winspear Stage, joining your ESO and guest conductor Giancarlo Guerrero.

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, marking its 58th season in 2009-2010, has taken its place as one of Canada's foremost orchestral ensembles. Its current roster includes 56 musicians from Canada and around the world, performing a wide-ranging repertoire from the great classical masterworks to pops and children's concerts. The presence of the orchestra and its enrichment of the community's quality of life are key elements in the stature and profile of Edmonton on the national and international scene.

Winspear Centre Box Office:
#4 Sir Winston Churchill Square
(780) 428-1414 or 1-800-563-5081
www.edmontonsymphony.com


Biographies

American cellist Julie Albers was born in 1980 to a musical family in Longmont, Colorado. She began violin studies at the age of two with her mother, switching to cello at four. She moved to Cleveland during her junior year of high school to pursue studies through the Young Artist Program at the Cleveland Institute of Music, where she studied with Richard Aaron. Ms. Albers was awarded the Grand Prize at the XIII International Competition for Young Musicians in Douai, France, and as a result toured France as soloist with Orchestre symphonique de Douai.

Julie Albers made her major orchestral debut with the Cleveland Orchestra in 1998, and has since performed in recital and with orchestras in the U.S., Europe, Korea, Taiwan and New Zealand. In 2001, she won Second Prize in Munich’s Internationalen Musikwettbewerbes der ARD, at which time she was also awarded the Wilhelm-Weichsler-Musikpreis der Stadt Osnabruch 2001. In November, 2003, Ms. Albers was named the first Gold Medal Laureate of South Korea’s Gyeongnam International Music Competition.

In North America, Ms. Albers has performed with many important orchestras and ensembles. Her 2009-2010 engagements include performances with the Florida Orchestra, and the Utah, Vancouver, San Diego, Memphis, Syracuse, West Virginia, Santa Rosa, Brevard, and Fairfax Symphony Orchestras. She is currently active with the Albers String Trio and the cello quartet, CELLO. Julie Albers is also on the faculty of Kean University as a member of the Concert Artist program. October, 2005 marked the release of Ms. Albers’ debut album on the Artek label. Julie Albers performs on a N.F. Vuillaume cello made in 1872 and makes her home in New York City.

This is Ms. Albers’ debut with the ESO.


Under Music Director William Eddins’ charismatic and energetic direction, the Edmonton Symphony has attained a level of musicianship and profile in the community it has rarely achieved. He has conducted performances in nearly every subscription series the ESO has presented, as well as a wide variety of special concerts and galas.

Bill’s musical life began at age five when his parents bought a Wurlitzer Grand piano at a garage sale. He attended the Eastman School of Music, graduating at age eighteen, making him the youngest graduate in the history of the institution. He also studied conducting with Daniel Lewis at the University of Southern California. Previous positions include a five-year tenure as Principal Guest Conductor of the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra (Ireland) and as Resident Conductor of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Associate Conductor of the Minnesota Orchestra.

Bill Eddins continues to pursue many varied interests, both personally and professionally. While conducting has been his principal pursuit, he continues to perform on piano in Edmonton and elsewhere. He recently built a state of the art recording studio and has begun work on a series of chamber music recordings. He blogs regularly on insidethearts.com and has done a series of podcasts called Classical Connections available at williameddins.com.

Committed to his leadership of the ESO, Mr. Eddins accepts a limited number of guest appearances elsewhere. He led a highly-acclaimed production of Porgy and Bess for Opéra de Lyon in June 2008, which he will reprise during the summer of 2010, and most recently toured South Africa in August 2009 with the stunning soprano Renée Fleming and KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra. His latest recording, of American music for Cello and Piano, has been released on the Naxos label.

A native of Buffalo, New York, Bill currently resides in Minneapolis with his wife Jen, a clarinetist, and their two boys, Raef and Riley.

Winnipeg Debut of Pianist, Ang Li

WINNIPEG­ - On Saturday, October 3, 2009, Virtuosi Concerts will host the western Canadian debut of classical pianist, Ang Li. CBC radio will also record this Winnipeg concert.

Li has performed on some of the most recognized stages across China, Europe, and North America. 2009 has been busy for the 24-year-old. In February, she made her Hong Kong debut performing Chopin's 2nd Piano Concerto, followed by 3 concerts with the Fort Worth Symphony performing Beethoven's 4th Piano Concerto. This summer, Li performed at the Lanaudiere International Music Festival, returning to Canada for the first time since 2008.

From her earliest public appearance at the Beijing Concert Hall at age six, Li has grown up with the piano. "One of my biggest challenges over the last couple of years was transitioning from being a conservatory student to an independent artist, " says Li. "There was a time when I felt very much on my own with the music I was preparing for concerts, competitions and recordings. It pushed me to bring out a more defined musical character."

Programme: MOZART, Fantasia in C minor, KV 475a ;RACHMANINOFF, Études-Tableaux, Op 33, Nos 2, 8,9; LISZT, Après une Lecture de Dante Fantasia quasi Sonata; SCHUBERT, Piano Sonata in B-flat major, D.960

Concert Information: 8PM, Eckhardt-Grammatté Hall, University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Ave. www.virtuosi.mb.ca . For Tickets call 786-9000: Adults $29 / Full-time post-secondary students $10/ High-School students $5 (subject to availability at door.

Roots of Gypsy

les couleurs de l'Inde avec Sayari
danses & chants traditionnels
en grande première Nord-Américaine parrainée par
Denis Bouchard, metteur en scène &
DJ Stéphane Cocke

Montréal — eXcentris vous invite à une série de spectacles magiques et flamboyants avec la chanteuse indienne Sayari, ses musiciens et ses danseuses.

Sayari – Un destin gitan

Tout comme ses ancêtres gitans l'ont fait il y a mille ans, Sayari Sapera a quitté son village du désert pour un voyage qui lui fit faire le tour du monde. Née sur la route près de Samrau dans le Rajasthan, Sayari commence à chanter à l'âge de 10 ans, donnant de nombreux spectacles, puis elle apprend la danse. Elle gravit les échelons un à un, gagnant la reconnaissance et l'intérêt du public, ce qui la mène dans une tournée mondiale qui dure plus de douze ans. De Paris à Tokyo, en passant par New York et Stockholm, elle s'enrichit des expériences et rencontres sur les routes occidentales. Elle a voulu partager ses connaissances avec les siens et les aider à suivre ses traces en revenant chez elle à Udaipur, pour fonder Sayari — Roots of Gypsy.

Sayari — Roots of Gypsy

Les familles qui vivent à l'école Sayari s'ouvrent au respect de leur art, à sa transmission et à la célébration de leurs origines avec tout le professionnalisme que l'on connaît aux artistes indiens. Ces artistes apprennent à mettre en valeur la tradition, tout en composant de nouvelles pièces qui contribuent à l'évolution de leur culture.

Le groupe de musiciens et les danseuses de Sayari — Roots of Gypsy font fureur partout au Moyen-Orient et en Europe, acclamés par le président Sarkosy, le Cirque du Soleil à Moscou et les palais de Dubaï. Le québécois Philippe Tapp, professionnel du cirque et amoureux du Rajasthan, fait partie de la famille Sayari et nous présente ces artistes et leur art vieux de mille ans en grande première en Amérique du Nord, dans la salle Fellini à eXcentris.

Denis Bouchard, metteur en scène, récemment en Inde lors d'une mission humanitaire, a fait la connaissance de Philippe, de Sayari et de leurs musiciens et danseuses par un heureux hasard : « C'est comme revenir mille ans en arrière, aux racines de la culture gitane, c'est le brut, le vrai, adroitement mêlé au savoir-faire occidental en terme de performance scénique. C'est la survivance d'une culture dans toute sa splendeur, le folklore dans sa version la plus pure, croisé au langage scénique moderne. »

Stéphane Cocke, DJ, mélomane et photographe, a vécu avec Sayari — Roots of Gypsy pendant plusieurs mois. Il en a tiré un magnifique livre de photos, disponible à eXcentris lors des spectacles. « C'est la beauté pure et brute d'un art vieux d'au moins mille ans, qui a survécu par la transmission orale. C'est l'essence même de la musique, du chant et de la danse, c'est un bouleversement qui vous met des larmes dans les yeux. »

3 soirs – 3 spectacles en 1
Les palais du Rajasthan

Musique semi-classique du nord de l'Inde aux textes romantiques révélant l'amour et la dévotion d'une jeune femme pour Krishna. Le style musical est flexible et laisse place à l'improvisation. Il reflète un mixage entre les musiques classique et folklorique.

Les filles du Cobra

Danse de charmeurs de serpents et marchands de venin du désert, l'une des danses les plus sensuelles et les plus féminines du Rajasthan. Les corps des danseuses tournent si rapidement, les mouvements sont si acrobatiques et le tempo si rapide qu'ils laissent les spectateurs à bout de souffle. Vous serez conquis par la beauté de la voix de Sapera et par le charme des robes évoquant l'oeil du cobra, qui transportent au cœur du désert du Rajasthan.

Roots of Gypsy

Le cœur du Rajasthan, de sa culture, de ses traditions, en musique, en chant et en danse. Toute la richesse de l'Inde, les racines de son théâtre de rue et de ses rythmes gipsy, énergisant, haut en couleur et en émotions.

Éblouissement, recueillement, magie, intensité, vérité, dépaysement : tout ça les 30 septembre, 1er et 2 octobre prochains, à 19 h 30.

__________________________________________________

the colours of India with
Sayari
dances & traditional music
in a major North American premiere sponsored by
director Denis Bouchard &
DJ Stéphane Cocke

Montreal — eXcentris invites you to a series of magical and flamboyant concerts starring Indian singer Sayari, with her musicians and dancers.

Sayari – A gypsy destiny

As her gypsy ancestors did a thousand years ago, Sayari Sapera left her desert village for a journey that would take her around the world. Born on the road near Samrau in Rajasthan, Sayari first began singing and performing at the age of 10, and went on to learn dance. Working her way up step by step, she won public recognition that would take her on a world tour lasting over 12 years. From Paris to Tokyo, New York and Stockholm, she absorbed the experiences and encounters of her travels in the west. Determined to share her knowledge with her people and help them follow in her footsteps, she returned to Udaipur to found Sayari — Roots of Gypsy.

Sayari — Roots of Gypsy

The families living in the Sayari school respectfully address their art, communicating it and celebrating their roots with all the professionalism we've come to expect from Indian artists. They learn to showcase their tradition, while also composing new pieces that contribute to the evolution of their culture.

The musicians and dancers of Sayari — Roots of Gypsy have sparked a frenzy throughout the Middle East and Europe, winning acclaim from French president Sarkosy, the Cirque du Soleil in Moscow and in the palaces of Dubai. Quebecer Philippe Tapp, a circus professional in love with Rajasthan, is part of the Sayari family and hereby presents these artists and their ancient thousand-year-old art in a major North American premiere, in the Fellini room in eXcentris.

During a recent humanitarian mission in India, director Denis Bouchard met and got to know Philippe, Sayari and their musicians and dancers through a stroke of luck: "It's like traveling back a thousand years, to the roots of gypsy culture, the raw, real thing, skillfully fused with western know-how in terms of stagecraft. It's the survival of a culture in all its splendour, folklore in its purest incarnation, crossed with the modern techniques and language of the stage."

Stéphane Cocke, DJ, music lover and photographer, lived with Sayari — Roots of Gypsy for several months. He produced a photo book from the experience, which will be available in eXcentris during the performances. "It's the pure, raw beauty of an art that's at least a thousand years old, one that has survived through word of mouth. It is the very essence of music, song and dance, a moving experience that brings tears to your eyes."

3 nights – 3 shows in 1
Les palais du Rajasthan

Semi-classical music from northern India featuring romantic lyrics revealing a young woman's love and devotion for Krishna. The musical style is flexible, leaving room for improvisation, in a mixture of classical and folkloric music.

Les filles du Cobra

The dance of snake-charmers and desert venom merchants, one of the most sensual and feminine dances in all of Rajasthan. The dancers' speedily-turning bodies, acrobatic moves and rapid tempo leave spectators breathless. The beauty of Sapera's voice and her charming cobra-eye dresses will win you over, transporting you to the heart of the Rajasthan desert.
Roots of Gypsy

The heart of Rajasthan – its culture and traditions – in music, song and dance. All the richness of India, the roots of its street theatre and gypsy rhythms, full of energy, colour and passion.

Dazzling, contemplative, magical, intense, genuine, transporting: all this and more, on September 30, October 1 and 2, at 7:30 p.m.

Sarah Palin Opera - Encore Performance

Guerilla Opera adds one performance of Say It Ain't So, Joe as an encore

"Say It Ain't So, Joe" by Curtis Hughes is in such demand that Guerilla Opera will add one encore performance on Sunday, September 27, 2009, 2pm, at The Boston Conservatory's Zack Box Theater. Online ticket sales are open now.

Online sales for the other performances are sold out. A few tickets for these performances are still available to purchase at the door only.

Performances

Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 8pn
Friday, Sept. 25 at 8pm
Saturday, Sept. 26 at 8pm
Sunday, Sept. 27th at 2pm (Encore Performance)
The Boston Conservatory Box Office
617-912-9222
http://bostonconservatory.ticketforce.com
Phone and walk-up sales are 12pm-6pm Monday through Friday.

ABOUT GUERILLA OPERA:
The mission of this company is to foster a new repertoire of progressive and accessible operas written specifically for them and performed in intimate theatrical settings. Guerilla Opera performances are fully-staged, unconducted productions that require the highest level of virtuosity and musicianship from its performers. Guerilla Opera is in their second year as an Ensemble-in-Residence at The Boston Conservatory.

"Guerilla Opera is the future of opera. Brilliant composers and performers committed to their vision of Music Theater which is dynamic, flexible and deeply compelling. I am convinced that they will carry us forward to new operatic heights." - Sanford Sylvan, Internationally renowned Baritone and Board Member, Guerilla Opera

Cleveland Orchestra to share music with more Northeast Ohioans than ever before through Community Music Initiative

Orchestra to perform education concerts in Cleveland public schools for the first time in decades on September 23 and 24

CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Orchestra announces the Community Music Initiative, a new program designed to broaden and deepen the Orchestra’s connections to the community and provide access to great music for more Northeast Ohioans than ever before through a comprehensive group of new and established education and community programs.
“With the launch of the Community Music Initiative, The Cleveland Orchestra renews its commitment to the community whose name it so proudly carries the world over. With the launch of the Community Music Initiative, The Cleveland Orchestra is strengthening its commitment to the community and to music education,” said Cleveland Orchestra Executive Director Gary Hanson. “Beginning this season, we will broaden and diversify our programs to meet the needs of a changing society. We want to make great music and music education available to everyone.”

The Orchestra’s new Community Music Initiative is dedicated to transforming lives through music by:

• Providing increased access to the Orchestra’s music for more citizens of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio;
• Strengthening and deepening The Cleveland Orchestra’s ties with the community through long-term partnerships and programs;
• Nurturing aspiring young musicians in The Cleveland Orchestra’s tradition of artistic excellence, including supporting Cleveland Metropolitan School District academic and music programs; and
• Expanding lifelong learning opportunities by seamlessly integrating education into the fabric of all of the Orchestra’s artistic endeavors.

The Initiative launches in September 2009 with a special week of programs and activities beginning September 23. The week begins with The Cleveland Orchestra and Music Director Franz Welser-Möst performing two concerts in Cleveland Metropolitan School District high schools – John Hay High School on September 23 and James Ford Rhodes High School on September 24. On September 26, The Cleveland Orchestra and Franz Welser-Möst open the Severance Hall season with a special performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony that will serve as a benefit for the Community Music Initiative. And on Sunday, September 27, Mr. Welser-Möst leads the season’s opening Family Concert, titled “Meet the Orchestra.”

In addition to the launch events in September, the Community Music Initiative’s inaugural year will include the start of a new preschool project, “Musical Neighborhoods,” a part of PNC’s Grow Up Great: A Great Early Start in the Arts program, in which musicians and teachers use music to build school readiness skills for preschool-aged children in local Head Start programs. Other new programs beginning this season include a MusicMentors program supporting instrumental music in Cleveland schools, and a MusicMasters series of clinics and masterclasses supporting high-school band and orchestra programs throughout Northeast Ohio. In addition, the Orchestra celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Daniel R. Lewis Young Composer Fellow program with a free retrospective concert in June 2010, featuring new works created by fellows in this program over the past decade.

These new programs complement The Cleveland Orchestra’s already vibrant education and community programs, such as the Learning Through Music school partnership program (now in its 13th year), the annual free Star-Spangled Spectacular Community Concert on Public Square, the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Concert and Community Open House, outstanding youth performance ensembles, Education Concerts and Family Concerts at Severance Hall, and a host of other programs that have introduced children and families to symphonic music for decades.

A History of Educational Excellence

As far back as 1918, Cleveland Orchestra founder Adella Prentiss Hughes recognized that the long-term success of an orchestra depends on the cultivation of audiences through music education and service to the community. Over the past nine decades, following Mrs. Hughes’s lead, the Orchestra has introduced symphonic music to more than 3.5 million school-age children. Today, with the support of many generous individual, foundation, corporate, and governmental funding partners, the Orchestra’s educational programs reach 70,000 young people and adults annually, helping to foster a love of music and a lifetime of involvement with the musical arts.



Community Music Initiative Programs

The Cleveland Orchestra’s Community Music Initiative is a series of artistic initiatives and new programs aimed at diversifying the Orchestra’s offerings and reaching more children, adults, teachers, students, musicians, and families than ever before. These diverse programs offer everyone, from preschool children to adults, the opportunity to experience music in a variety of ways, throughout their lives, and throughout the community.


FOR PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

Grow Up Great in Cleveland (New this year!) is a new partnership with PNC to use music and the arts to prepare preschool children in local Head Start programs for success in school and in life [in collaboration with the Cleveland Museum of Art, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, and PlayhouseSquare]. The Orchestra’s program focuses on reaching preschoolers at local Head Start sites by creating “Musical Neighborhoods,” music-based activities supporting school readiness for children, teachers, and parents; visits by Cleveland Orchestra musicians; and field trips to Severance Hall.

PNC Musical Rainbow Series (for children ages 3-6) are a colorful way to introduce young children to orchestral instruments in the intimate setting of Severance Hall’s Reinberger Chamber Hall. These lively 30-minute programs feature a single instrument or instrument family. Musical Rainbows actively engage kids with the music (parents and grandparents, too!) and are held on selected Friday and Saturday mornings throughout the year. Musical Rainbows “On the Road” take these popular programs to libraries and community centers around the region.



FOR SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN

Cleveland Orchestra Concerts in Public Schools (New this year!) – In September, The Cleveland Orchestra, led by Franz Welser-Möst, will perform concerts in Cleveland high schools – recalling its school performances in the 1920s, before Severance Hall was built. These education concerts will take place at John Hay High School and James Ford Rhodes High School in Cleveland.

Education Concerts for Schools by The Cleveland Orchestra bring nearly 25,000 students annually to historic Severance Hall. These narrated, 60-minute programs, which for many adult observers bring to mind Leonard Bernstein’s Young People’s Concerts, explore basic musical concepts while introducing orchestral repertory through distinct programs for grades 1-3, grades 4-8, and grades 9-12. A variety of preparation and study tools assist teachers in preparing students for their Severance Hall experience, including an award-winning video titled “Get Ready For The Cleveland Orchestra,” produced and broadcast each year by WVIZ PBS/ideastream.

Learning Through Music (LTM), beginning its 13th year, is a collaborative and innovative partnership program with Cleveland-area elementary schools, linking music to the K-5 classroom curriculum to support learning in math, science, language arts, and more. LTM includes arts-integrated lesson plans that address Ohio academic content standards, professional development workshops, and classroom visits by specially trained ‘teaching artists’ of The Cleveland Orchestra.

Cleveland Orchestra Family Concerts (for children aged 7 and older) are presented three times each season and feature live orchestral music in Severance Hall. Each 60-minute concert featuring The Cleveland Orchestra and guest artists (such as gifted young musicians, Magic Circle Mime Co., and Classical Kids) is both entertaining and educational – for the whole family.



FOR YOUTH MUSICIANS

MusicMentors (New this year!) – Beginning in Fall 2009 Cleveland Orchestra musicians will work with selected schools in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District to support school string programs, spearheading a broad effort to strengthen instrumental education in Cleveland public schools as part of the District’s Strategic Plan for Arts Education.

MusicMasters (New this year!) will leverage the expertise of Cleveland Orchestra musicians and a new partnership with Conn-Selmer Inc., a division of Steinway Instruments, to support school music programs throughout the region. The Orchestra will offer middle- and high-school music programs small-group and full-ensemble coachings as well as clinics and masterclasses.

Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra is a full symphonic ensemble founded in 1986 comprised of more than 100 young musicians selected through competitive auditions. Players are drawn from more than 45 communities throughout Ohio. The Youth Orchestra provides serious young music students of middle- and high-school age with a unique pre-professional orchestral training experience. The Youth Orchestra rehearses weekly and presents three concerts annually in Severance Hall and three or more community-engagement performances in Northeast Ohio. Youth Orchestra members also perform in side-by-side concerts with The Cleveland Orchestra.

Cleveland Orchestra Children’s Chorus (grades 5-9) – Founded in 1967, the 60-member Children’s Chorus participates in performances each year with The Cleveland Orchestra and Cleveland Orchestra Chorus at Severance Hall and occasionally during the summer at Blossom Music Center. The Children’s Chorus performs at CircleFest in Cleveland’s University Circle each December and presents an independent concert each spring featuring a diverse repertoire of children’s chorus literature. The Chorus has also performed the National Anthem for Cleveland Indians and Cleveland City Stars home games.

Cleveland Orchestra Children’s Preparatory Chorus – The 45-member Preparatory Chorus is a training chorus for less experienced and younger singers that includes children in grades 5-7. The chorus presents two concerts each season alongside the Cleveland Orchestra Children’s Chorus for their CircleFest and spring concerts.

Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus (grades 9-12) was founded in 1991 to raise awareness of choral music-making in the schools of Northeast Ohio and to encourage more students to continue their choral activities through college and into adulthood. The 120 members of the Youth Chorus represent 40 different communities from across the region. The Youth Chorus presents an average of five concerts each season, and their activities include workshops and masterclasses with highly regarded choral directors and clinicians, and outreach programs across Northeast Ohio. The Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus Chamber Ensemble was formed in 2008 to provide additional performance opportunities for advanced Youth Chorus members and expand awareness of the choral youth programs within the community. The ensemble of 20 has been featured on local television and in special Cleveland Orchestra events.



FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

Case Western Reserve University Course “Inside The Cleveland Orchestra” (New this year!) – A new course for undergraduate students in the joint music program between CWRU and the Cleveland Institute of Music. Scheduled in a way that allows the class to meet at the same time the Orchestra rehearses, the class is structured around the repertoire the Orchestra is performing in a given semester. With music as a central focus, the course will explore relevant literature, philosophy, art history, among other topics. Students will attend rehearsals and have opportunities to interact with Cleveland Orchestra conductors and musicians through lectures and discussion groups.

Student Advantage Program offers high-school and college students discounted tickets to Cleveland Orchestra concerts, free open rehearsals, and free masterclasses led by world-renowned guest artists. Each year, two exceptionally talented college students receive private coachings with The Cleveland Orchestra’s Artist-in-Residence and are featured in a masterclass as part of the Artist-in-Residence Fellow Program.


FOR ADULTS

Cleveland Orchestra Chorus – The Cleveland Orchestra Chorus is one of the few professionally trained, all-volunteer choruses sponsored by an American orchestra. The Chorus performs with the Orchestra in four to six subscription concert weekends each season and in the Orchestra’s annual Christmas concerts at Severance Hall. In addition to touring on its own, the Chorus has performed with The Cleveland Orchestra domestically and abroad, including appearances at Carnegie Hall and throughout Europe. Since it was formed in 1952 under former Music Director George Szell, the ensemble has performed in more than 800 concerts with the Orchestra. Cleveland Orchestra Chorus members hail from all over Northeast Ohio, including nearly 50 area communities.

Blossom Festival Chorus was created in 1968 for the inaugural set of concerts opening Blossom Music Center with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (“Choral”). The Blossom Festival Chorus has often joined the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus in performances at Chautauqua and on Cleveland’s Public Square for the annual Fourth-of-July concerts, in addition to nearly 150 summertime concerts at Blossom Music Center with The Cleveland Orchestra.

Concert Previews – Cleveland Orchestra Concert Previews take place one hour prior to subscription concerts and are designed to enrich the concert-going experience for audience members of all levels of musical knowledge through interviews with conductors, guest artists, and Orchestra staff, and through exploration of the music by local and national experts.

Music Study Groups – Led by Dr. Rose Breckenridge, Music Study Groups follow the Orchestra’s schedule of subscription concerts at Severance Hall. Each class explores selected compositions from the Orchestra’s upcoming concert program through lively presentations, listening activities, and discussion. Participants, ranging from beginners to seasoned listeners, learn about the lives and musical styles of composers in addition to the cultural and historical context of the music, while also developing keen listening skills. Over the course of the season, classes cover a wide range of repertoire, providing participants with a greater understanding of the music being performed by The Cleveland Orchestra that season.

Program Notes – Concert program notes inform listeners about the composers’ lives and the historical background of the works performed at every Cleveland Orchestra subscription concert. They encourage open-minded listening to new works and provide fresh insights for hearing familiar pieces. Concert program notes are provided to every concertgoer in the program booklet. They are also available in advance online at clevelandorchestra.com. To access program notes online, visit clevelandorchestra.com and click on the performance date on the Calendar at the top.

Archives – The Cleveland Orchestra Archives is a working resource center that serves both the institution and the public. Its prime function is to organize, preserve, and promote the historical records of the institution, which includes The Cleveland Orchestra and its parent body the Musical Arts Association, Severance Hall, and Blossom Music Center. The institution’s historical heritage is expressed in a wide variety of media, such as letters, documents, sound recordings, photographic materials, and artifacts. The Archives encourages an appreciation of the Orchestra’s historical heritage by making most of its non-current records open to serious researchers of any age. Researchers are able to consult such materials as correspondence, press releases, programs, photos, recordings, scrapbooks, minutes, and annual reports. Research inquiries may be made by mail, by phone, or by appointment with the Archivist. Call (216) 231-7356 or email archives@clevelandorchestra.com to schedule an appointment or for more information.

“Meet the Artist” Series – These popular interview and luncheon programs connect audiences with artists from The Cleveland Orchestra’s current season. For reservations, or to be placed on the Meet the Artist series mailing list, please call the Women’s Committee Office at (216) 231-7557. This series is presented by the Women’s Committee of The Cleveland Orchestra.



FOR THE COMMUNITY

Daniel R. Lewis Young Composer Fellow 10th Anniversary Concert (New this year!) – This free concert, concluding the Orchestra’s 2009-10 season, offers the community the opportunity to hear works by Susan Botti, Marc-André Dalbavie, Matthias Pintscher, and Johannes Maria Staud that the Orchestra has commissioned over the last decade. Through the Daniel R. Lewis Young Composer Fellow program, the Orchestra supports composers during a two-year term by performing an existing work and commissioning a new piece, and engaging them in outreach such as masterclasses for college music students, and pre-concert lectures.

Public Square Star-Spangled Spectacular Community Concert and Festival – Each summer, The Cleveland Orchestra, with the support of a host of community partners, presents a free concert of patriotic favorites and popular classical repertoire on Public Square in downtown Cleveland in celebration of Independence Day. An annual tradition since 1990, the concert attracts up to 80,000 people to downtown Cleveland and ends with a spectacular display of fireworks set against the Cleveland skyline. Since 2003, the event has included a pre-concert festival featuring performances by Cleveland-based musical groups in the hours leading up to the Orchestra’s concert.

Martin Luther King Jr. Community Concert – Each January, The Cleveland Orchestra commemorates Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday with a free concert. First performed in 1980, this concert features The Cleveland Orchestra, choruses, and guest artists. The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award is presented at this concert to honor an individual, an organization, and a young person who have positively impacted Cleveland in the spirit and example of Dr. King.

MLK Day Community Open House – The celebration continues on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with free musical presentations featuring local performing arts groups throughout Severance Hall honoring the life, leadership, and vision of Dr. King. The Community Open House also features activities for children (“Picture Yourself at Severance Hall” and “I Have a Dream” Wall) and performances by the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus and Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra.

Weekly Radio Broadcasts – The Cleveland Orchestra partners with WCLV 104.9 FM to share Cleveland Orchestra concerts with millions of listeners throughout Northeast Ohio and around the world. WCLV’s program Saturdays From Severance, broadcast each Saturday evening at 8:00 p.m., features live Cleveland Orchestra concerts as well as recorded concerts. On Sundays at 4:00 p.m., Cleveland Orchestra on the Radio features recorded concerts from the current season as well as programs produced from archival tapes. WCLV also features live broadcasts of Cleveland Orchestra concerts in Miami, and the Orchestra’s annual Star-Spangled Spectacular Community Concert on Public Square and Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Concert.

For additional information about these and other programs, visit clevelandorchestra.com, or contact the Education & Community Programs Office at (216) 231-7355.

New Adventures in Sound Art presents the 8th annual SOUNDplay Festival

October 3 to November 7, 2009
Various venues at the Artscape Wychwood Barns (601 Christie Street) including:
The NAISA Space (#252), Loop Studio Centre for Lively Arts (#170),
As well as the Gladstone Hotel

TORONTO, ON - New Adventures in Sound Art is pleased to launch the 8th edition of the SOUNDplay Festival, October 3 to November 7, 2009. A meeting point for experimentation in sound art and new media encouraging new avenues for exploration, SOUNDplay 2009 features interactive installations, performances, screenings and workshops/artist talks.

In a world where technological advancement is seen as being the way to move forward, sound artists are continually challenged to reevaluate their artistic practice in the light of changing technologies. This year's SOUNDplay uses the theme of ecology as a starting point for exploring new approaches to artistic creation as artists play with the possibilities of sound in relation to other artistic media and sensory experiences. – Darren Copeland, Artistic Director, New Adventures in Sound Art.
NAISA’s will launch SOUNDplay with it’s two Nuit Blanche installations (October 3-4) Sound(e)scape, an immersive experience will surround the participant with the sounds of water, air and natural soundscapes and Tree(ipod)installation by Jane Tingley, which evokes the possibility of developing technologies that are nature-centric rather than human-centric in order to breath life back into the idea of an enchanted forest. The installation invites the viewer to walk through an environment, where the location of the body as it moves through the installation space triggers new auditory experiences for both plant and viewer. Tree(ipod)installation will continue weekends only until October 25th.

The SOUNDplay performances create a cinema for the ear as well as the eye as they combine various new media technologies with sound. Included are a Jean Piché (Montreal) Retrospective on October 8th (1999-2009) of works that have been inspirational to the investigation of videomusic; October 16 and 17 (repeat performance) includes a new work by Nancy Tobin (Montreal) and performances by the Contact Contemporary Music Ensemble which integrates sound and image in a performance context; October 23 and 24 (repeat performance) features pioneering Québec animator Pierre Hébert returning to SOUNDplay in a collaborative performance with BC sound artist Stefan Smulovitz using viola, live digital animation and electroacoustics. Also, on the program is Locavore, a survey of recent short animation works created by Toronto artists and curated by Nick Fox-Gieg, presented in partnership with Pleasure Dome.

From October 22nd to 25th, NAISA presents the installation Les Puits by Quebec artists Marie Côté and Olivier Girouard as part of the Gladstone’s UpArt curated show. Intrinsically silent ceramic bowls surprise the viewer in Les Puits simply by the act of making sound. The installation's poetic resonance carries them through a place and time that wouldn't be possible without the intersection of the bowls on display and the sound projected through them. The wonder is in this intersection, when the viewer identifies the source of the sound and suddenly, the ceramic bowls are singing.

NAISA presents its first Halloween event with Sounds Scary from October 29 to 31. Go on a Halloween sound treasure hunt at the Artscape Wychwood Barns and then learn about the secrets behind how sounds are made in the movies.

The final weekend of SOUNDplay features CONCRETE Toronto, bringing together the international music and sound experiences of Yasuhiro Morinaga from Japan and Toronto's Debashis Sinha for an evening of sound, video and improvisation.


New Adventures in Sound Art is a non-profit organization that produces performances and installations spanning the entire spectrum of electroacoustic and experimental sound art. Included in its Toronto productions are: Deep Wireless, Sound Travels, and SOUNDplay.

SOUNDplay 2009
At various venues at the Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie Street including:
The NAISA Space (#252), Loop Studio Centre for Lively Arts (#170),
As well as the Gladstone Hotel
October 3 – November 7, 2009
Performance Pass: $35/$30 / Single Tickets $15/$10
Nuit Blanche events free / Installations are Pay What You Can

www.soundplay.ca

Listings

October 3-4, 7pm - 7am, FREE
Sound(e)scape curated by Darren Copeland
The NAISA Space (#252)
Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St.

Sound(e)scape is an immersive experience that surrounds the participant with the sounds of water, air, and natural soundscapes from around the world curated by NAISA's Artistic Director Darren Copeland. The works will be spatialized live with NAISA's unique realtime spatialization controller and software by Andrew Stewart, Hector Centeno and Darren Copeland and will include performances of works by the angelusnovus.net collective who will use this occasion to launch a six month residency at the NAISA Space.
October 3-4, 7pm - 7am, FREE (continues to October 25)
Tree(ipod)installation by Jane Tingley
The Loop Studio Centre for Lively Arts (#170)
Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St.

Tree(ipod)installation evokes the possibility of developing technologies that are nature-centric rather than human-centric in order to breathe life back into the idea of an enchanted forest. The installation invites the viewer to walk through an environment, where the location of the body as it moves through the installation space triggers new auditory experiences for both plant and viewer.

October 8, 2009 (8 PM) $15/$10
Jean Piché Retrospective (1999-2009)
Videomusic Presentation
@ Loop Studio Centre for Lively Arts, Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie #170, Toronto
+ October 9, 2009 (7-10 PM) FREE during the James Street North Art Crawl
@ The Factory, Hamilton Media Arts Centre,
126 James Street North, Hamilton, 905-577-9191 / www.hamiltonmediaarts.org

NAISA artistic director Darren Copeland has curated a program of videomusic works by Jean Piché that have been inspirational to the investigation of the videomusic genre by NAISA in its SOUNDplay programming since 2003. The works will be presented in Triple Screen HD in a concert format at the Loop Studio in Toronto and in an installation format with an artist Q&A at The Factory Media Arts Centre during the James Street North Art Crawl in Hamilton. The performance in Toronto will be preceded by Freida Abtan's new large scale videomusic work The Hands of the Dancer.

October 16 and 17, 2009, (8 PM) $15/$10
Sound-Image-Sound co-presented with Contact Contemporary Music
with works by Nancy Tobin, Christopher Fox and Brent Lee
The Loop Studio Centre for Lively Arts (#170)
Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St.

The nature of listening, of performance, and of the integration of the visual with the auditory will be the focus of the performances on October 16 and 17 with a Toronto premiere of SUGARscape by Montréal’s Nancy Tobin and performances by Contact Contemporary Music Ensemble of works by Christopher Fox and Brent Lee.

October 23 and 24, 2009, (8 PM) $15/$10
Pierre Hébert & Stefan Smulovitz perform + Locavore co-presented with Pleasure Dome
The Loop Studio Centre for Lively Arts (#170)
Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St.

Pioneering Québec animator Pierre Hébert returns with a collaborative performance with BC electroacoustic musician Stefan Smulovitz using viola, live digital animation and electroacoustics. Also, on the program is Locavore, a survey of recent short animation work from Toronto presented in partnership with Pleasure Dome and curated by Nick Fox-Gieg. The performance is preceded by the videomusic work a sudden change in the consistency of snow by Peter V. Swendson.

October 29 to 31, 2009
Sounds Scary
Oct 29 and 30 for schools please contact naisa@naisa.ca for booking
October 31, 2009, 9am - 5pm, for the public, FREE
Various locations at the Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St.

Go on a Halloween sound treasure hunt at the Artscape Wychwood Barns and then learn about the secrets behind how sounds are made in the movies.
November 7, 2009, (8 PM) $15/$10
CONCRETE Toronto, a performance by Debashis Sinha & Yosuhiro Morinaga,
co-presented with CONCRETE
The NAISA Space (#252)
Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St.

CONCRETE Toronto, presented by New Adventures in Sound Art, will be the first ever collaboration with Yasuhiro Morinaga (Tokyo) and Debashis Sinha (Toronto). Each artist has an extensive practice in sound/radiophonic art. Morinaga and Sinha will draw upon their large archives of field recordings to present a new auditory and visual actualization of musique concrète, filtered through a geographic and artistic experience that is informed by a new global reality of cultural and creative openness. Also included will be videomusic works \harmonium\ by Debashis Sinha and Liquid Amber by Maggie Payne.

Opéra de Montréal - Des blogueurs en direct de la première

Montréal - L’Opéra de Montréal donne le coup d’envoi de sa nouvelle saison de manière cybernétique et inédite : 5 blogueurs EN DIRECT pour saisir sur le vif les premières impressions de la première production de la saison 30e anniversaire, le 26 septembre à 20 h, dans le foyer de la salle Wilfrid-Pelletier de la Place des Arts, à l’occasion de la présentation du doublé Pagliacci / Gianni Schicchi avec les stars du Québec lyrique.

Les blogueurs invités sont :
Françoise Davoine – Espace classique, Radio-Canada
Pierre Cayouette – L’actualité
Alain Brunet – La Presse
Thomas Leblanc – Nightlife Magazine
Christian Saint-Pierre – Voir

Chaque blogueur sera installé à un poste clairement identifié et saisira, à l’entracte et EN DIRECT sur son site respectif, ses impressions sur le spectacle et ce, sans censure. Les spectateurs pourront ainsi obtenir les premières réactions in situ.

A l’occasion de la soirée de première de la première production de la saison, le doublé Pagliacci/Gianni Schicchi, des compositeurs Leoncavallo et Puccini, les stars du Québec lyrique ont été réunis sur une même scène pour lancer en grande pompe la nouvelle saison : Marc Hervieux s’approprie le grand rôle de Paillasse, Marie-Josée Lord est Nedda, Etienne Dupuis Silvio, Marianne Fiset Lauretta, Antoine Bélanger Rinuccio, Marie-Nicole Lemieux Zita et Gregory Dahl, Tonio et Gianni Schicchi.

New Challenges, New Pieces: New Music Concerts 2009-2010

NEW challenges of playing NEW pieces by old friends and NEW composers

NEW MUSIC CONCERTS' 39th Season
New musical inventions that provoke, awaken and inspire

Toronto: "NEW challenges of playing NEW pieces by old friends and composers who are NEW to us. This is NEW MUSIC CONCERTS", proudly declares Robert Aitken, renowned flutist and founding artistic director of NMC. The venerable Toronto organization, entering its 39th season, once again offers a series of varied programs with music from across Canada and around the world. "Every year is different and we are excited to discover what is before us", adds Aitken.

As always, NMC looks forward to a colourful variety of challenges in a quest for outstanding performances. The 2009-2010 season is particularly rich and varied, beginning on October 17 with My 20th Century by Montreal composer & guitar virtuoso Tim Brady. The continuous 80 minute multi-media work pays tribute to iconic figures of the 20th century such as Dmitri Shostakovich and John Lennon. With Bradyworks and videographers Martin Messier and Oana Suteu.

On December 13, New Music Concerts honours Estonian/Canadian composer Udo Kasemets with Happy Birthday, Udo! The evening features the Canadian premiere of fraCtal fibONaCciERTO. This extended work for piano and mixed ensemble demonstrates a number of distinct aspects of Kasemets' approach to composition, and spotlights pianist Stephen Clarke with the NMC Ensemble.

Poland has long enjoyed the reputation of spawning some of the world's most successful and controversial composers. NMC enters 2010 with a four-day Polish festival beginning on January 10 with Zygmunt Krauze and the Polish Perspective. Distinguished pianist/composer Zygmunt Krauze has curated a program of Canadian premieres by challenging young Polish composers and including Pawel Szymanski, who has proved himself one of the most uncompromising composers of our times. On January 11, Zygmunt Krauze gives a special benefit recital for New Music Concerts (non-subscription event) which will include his own improvisations on the music Chopin and Lutoslawski. NMC also offers a Free Public Lecture by Zygmunt Krauze at the Faculty of Music, University of Toronto on January 12. And on January 13, Poland's versatile musician Agata Zubel, who is enjoying a rising double career as composer and soprano, performs music for solo voice with piano and electroacoustic accompaniment.

On February 14, New Music Concerts celebrates Valentine's Day and the Lunar New Year with premieres by Chinese-Canadian husband and wife Chan Ka-Nin and Alice Ping Yee Ho. The evening features Chinese dancer William Lau, and percussionist Beverley Johnston with the New Music Concerts Ensemble and Robert Aitken, flute & direction.

March 12 is dedicated to the music of Jonathan Harvey, one of Britain's most exciting composers today. Bird Concerto with Pianosong, a work involving multiple keyboards, live electronics and large ensemble forms the centrepiece of the concert. Harvey's colleague Geoffrey Palmer has created a new work for solo flute and ensemble especially for this occasion. The concert is presented in conjunction with the University of Toronto Faculty of Music, where Harvey is the Michael and Sonja Koerner Distinguished Visitor in Composition.

This season, organizations across the country are paying tribute to iconic Québec composer Gilles Tremblay. On April 10, NMC welcomes Victoria's Aventa Ensemble (William Linwood, director) to present two of Tremblay's most distinctive works, alongside commissioned works by British Columbia-based composers. The concert also features baritone Vincent Ranallo and contralto Noa Frenkel.

Brian Current's inspiring success as a composer and conductor has put him in touch with many of today's uniquely talented young composers. On May 28, New Music Concerts presents Brian's Picks. For the occasion, the young Canadian composer has created a provocative program of contemporary activity from across Canada, Germany and France. He conducts the New Music Ensemble performing works by Nicole Lizée, Oliver Schneller, Fabien Levy, Enno Poppe, Analia Llugdar and of course, Current!


New Music Concerts
2009-2010

Saturday October 17, 2009
Concert honouring the 35th anniversary of the founding of the Toronto Arts Council
Isabel Bader Theatre, 93 Charles St. West
Tim Brady – My 20th Century
Bradyworks: Tim Brady, guitar; André Leroux, saxophone; Catherine Meunier, percussion;
Pamela Reimer, piano; David Cronkite, sampler
Tim Brady (Canada, 1956) – My 20th Century (2003-2006):
Strumming (Hommage à John Lennon) - guitar + tape
Traces (hommage à Charlie Christian) - guitar, saxophone, percussion, piano, sampler
Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg (Casino Adagio) - guitar, tape, virtual strings
Double Quartet (hommage à Shostakovich) - guitar, saxophone, percussion, piano, sampler

Tim Brady's continuous 80 minute multi-media work pays tribute to iconic figures of the 20th century, with video artists Martin Messier and Oana Suteu.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composer / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594


Sunday December 13, 2009
Betty Oliphant Theatre, 404 Jarvis St.
Happy Birthday Udo!
Stephen Clarke; New Music Concerts Ensemble; Robert Aitken;
Udo Kasemets (Estonia/Canada, 1919) – fraCtal fibONaCciERTO (1997) for piano and mixed ensemble

This extended work demonstrates distinct aspects of Kasemets' approach to composition. Dedicatee Stephen Clarke first performed this work with the S.E.M. Ensemble in New York.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composer / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594

January Polish festival events sponsored by the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Toronto:

Sunday January 10, 2010
Glenn Gould Studio, 250 Front St. West
Zygmunt Krauze and the Polish Perspective
New Music Concerts Ensemble; Zygmunt Krauze, piano and direction; Agata Zubel, soprano
Pawel Mykietyn (Poland, 1971) – 3 for 13 (1994)
Agata Zubel (Poland, 1978) – Cascando (2004) for soprano, flute, clarinet, violin and cello
Zygmunt Krauze (Poland, 1938) – Piano Quintet (1993)
Zygmunt Krauze – Polychromie (1968) for clarinet, trombone, piano and cello
Pawel Szymanski (Poland, 1954) – Concerto à 4 (2004)
Wojtek Blazejczyk (Poland, 1981) – *M.A.D. (2007) for 12 players
*Mutually Assured Destruction

Poland has long enjoyed the reputation of spawning some of the world's most successful and controversial composers. Pianist/composer Zygmunt Krauze has curated a program of Canadian premieres by challenging young Polish composers and including Pawel Szymanski, who has proved himself one of the most uncompromising composers of our times.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composers / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594


Monday January 11, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Special (non-subscription) Fundraising Event
Zygmunt Krauze, piano
Gallery 345, 345 Sorauren Ave.
Frédéric Chopin (Poland, 1810-1849) – Mazurka in A minor op. 67, no. 4 (1846) with improvisations
Witold Lutosławski (Poland, 1913-1994) – Mélodies populaires (1945) with improvisations
Zygmunt Krauze (Poland, 1938) – Six folk melodies (1957); Refrain (1993); Nightmare Tango (1987); Stone Music (1972); Gloves Music (1972)

Zygmunt Krauze gives a special benefit recital for new Music Concerts which will include his own improvisations on the music Chopin and Lutoslawski. The $50 admission includes a wine and cheese reception and a charitable receipt will be issued for the portion allowable under Canada Revenue Agency guidelines. Reservations: (416) 961-9594


Affiliated event:
Tuesday January 12 at 7:00 PM
Faculty of Music, University of Toronto, Edward Johnson Building Room 216
Free Public Lecture by Zygmunt Krauze



Wednesday January 13, 2010
Music Gallery at St. George the Martyr, 197 John St.
Contemporary Vocal Recital with Agata Zubel, soprano
Karol Szymanowski (Poland, 1882-1937) – (3) Kurpian Songs (1929) voice and piano
Alban Berg (Austria, 1885-1935) – (3) Frühe Lieder (1907) voice and piano
Pawel Szymanski (Poland, 1954) – Drei Lieder nach Trakl (2002) voice and piano
Luciano Berio (Italy 1925-2003) – Sequenza III (1966) for solo voice
Cezary Duchnowski (Poland, 1971) – Disheveled Grasses (2002) for voice and soundfiles
Agata Zubel – Parlando (2000) for voice and sound files
Alejandro Viñao (Argentina/UK, 1951) – Chant d'Ailleurs (1991) for voice and sound files

Agata Zubel, who is enjoying a rising double career as composer and soprano, performs music for solo voice with piano and electroacoustic accompaniment.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composers / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594


Chinese New Year/Valentine's Day
Sunday February 14, 2010
Betty Oliphant Theatre, 404 Jarvis St.
William Lau, Chinese dancer; Beverley Johnston, percussion; New Music Concerts Ensemble; Robert Aitken, flute & direction
Christos Hatzis (Greece/Canada, 1953) – In the Fire of Conflict (2009) for marimba and sound files
Chinary Ung (Cambodia, 1942) Cinnabar Heart (2009) for marimba
Chan Ka Nin (Hong Kong/Canada, 1949) – The Consequential Web of Life (2009) for mixed ensemble (world premiere, NMC Canada Council commission)
Alice Ping Yee Ho – Dance Concerto (2008) for flute, strings and percussion and Chinese Dancer (Toronto premiere)

New Music Concerts celebrates Valentine's Day and the Lunar New Year with premieres by Chinese-Canadian husband and wife Chan Ka-Nin and Alice Ping Yee Ho.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composers / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594


Friday March 12, 2010
Betty Oliphant Theatre, 404 Jarvis St.
Jonathan Harvey
Hidéki Nagano, piano; New Music Concerts Ensemble; Robert Aitken, flute and direction;
Jonathan Harvey (England, 1939) – The Riot (1993) for flute/piccolo; bass clarinet; piano
Jonathan Harvey – Varja (1972-2009) for chamber ensemble (World premiere, Michael and Sonja Koerner Distinguished Visiting Composer at the University of Toronto commission)
Geoffrey Palmer (England, 1951) – Flute Concerto - 55 Cancri (2009) for solo flute and chamber ensemble (World premiere NMC commission)
Jonathan Harvey – Bird Concerto with Pianosong (2001) for solo piano/sampling keyboard, chamber ensemble and live electronics

A work involving multiple keyboards, live electronics and large ensemble forms the centrepiece of a concert featuring Jonathan Harvey, one of Britain's most exciting composers today. Harvey's former student Geoffrey Palmer has created a new work for solo flute and ensemble especially for this occasion. The concert is presented in conjunction with the University of Toronto Faculty of Music, where Harvey is the Michael and Sonja Koerner Distinguished Visitor in Composition.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composers / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594


Affiliated Events:
Tuesday March 9, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Faculty of Music, University of Toronto, Edward Johnson Building, Room 330
Composers' Forum with Jonathan Harvey (Free Public Lecture by the Michael and Sonja Koerner Distinguished Visitor in Composition)

Saturday March 13, 2010 at 8:00 PM
St. Anne's Anglican Church, 270 Gladstone Ave.
Soundstreams Canada presents "A Now of Magnificent Sound – e. e. cummings" with choral music by Jonathan Harvey (www.soundstreams.ca)


Saturday April 10, 2010
A Tribute to Gilles Tremblay
Aventa Ensemble; Vincent Ranallo, baritone; Noa Frenkel, contralto; William Linwood, director
Betty Oliphant Theatre, 404 Jarvis St.
Gilles Tremblay (Canada, 1932) – Solstices
Dániel Péter Biró (Hungary/USA, 1969) – Mishpatim Part 3 (2009) for contralto and ensemble
Wolf Edwards (Canada, 1972) – Altus (2009)
Gilles Tremblay – À quelle heure commence le temps? (1999) for baritone and ensemble

This season organizations across the country are paying tribute to iconic Québec composer Gilles Tremblay. Victoria's Aventa Ensemble presents two of his most distinctive works, alongside commissioned works by British Columbia-based composers.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composers / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594


Friday May 28, 2010
Music Gallery at St. George the Martyr, 197 John St.
Brian's Picks
New Music Concerts Ensemble; Brian Current, direction
Nicole Lizée (Canada, b.1973) – Television (2001) for 2 percussion
Oliver Schneller (Germany, b.1969) – Trio (1998-1999) accordion, cello and piano
Brian Current (Canada, b.1972) – Faster Still (2004) violin, piano and string quartet
Fabien Levy (France, b.1968) – I. Querwüchsig (2006, rev 2009) for 11 players
Enno Poppe (Germany, b.1969) – Salz (2005) for 9 players
Analia Llugdar (Canada, b.1972) – Todos los recuerdos presentes envolvían ese sonido y algo me miró (2007) for 15 players

Brian Current's inspiring success as a composer and conductor has put him in touch with many of today's uniquely talented young composers. He has created a provocative program of contemporary activity from across Canada, Germany and France.

7:15 Illuminating Introduction with the composers / 8PM Concert
Tickets: $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)
Box office: (416) 961-9594

TICKET INFORMATION
Full season subscription: $150 regular | $100 senior/arts worker | $40 student
Pick 3 or more (per event): $25 reg | $15 snr/arts | $7.50 studen
Individual Tickets: - $30 (reg)/$20 (seniors/arts workers)/$10 (students)

New Music Concerts
157 Carlton Street, Suite 203 Toronto ON M5A 2K3
416.961.9594 / fax 416.961.9508
nmc@interlog.com / www.NewMusicConcerts.com

Le Trio Hochelaga en résidence au Conservatoire

Montréal — Le directeur du Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, Raffi Armenian, est très heureux d’annoncer une nouvelle collaboration, avec l’arrivée en résidence du Trio Hochelaga. Le Conservatoire, qui désire pousser plus loin son enseignement et son implication dans la promotion de la musique de chambre, est particulièrement heureux de cette collaboration, qui permettra de mettre à contribution son expertise et d’enrichir tant la formation que l’expérience de ses élèves.

Maintenant qu’il a son pied-à-terre dans les nouveaux espaces permanents du Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, au 4750 de la rue Henri-Julien, en plein cœur du Plateau Mont-Royal, le Trio Hochelaga convie le public à un premier concert, dans le cadre de la nouvelle série Les Soirées du vendredi, le 25 septembre à 20 heures, à la salle de concert du Conservatoire de musique de Montréal.

Prix d’entrée : 5 $. Stationnement disponible sur l’avenue Henri-Julien au coût de 5 $.

Au programme :
Haydn : Trio en mi bémol majeur, Hob.XV/30
Mendelssohn : Trio no 2 en do mineur, opus 66
Smetana : Trio en sol mineur, opus 15

Les artistes qui composent le Trio Hochelaga sont la violoniste Anne Robert, professeur au Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, le violoncelliste Paul Marleyn, professeur de violoncelle et coordonnateur du département de musique de chambre à l’Université d’Ottawa, et le pianiste Stéphane Lemelin, professeur titulaire et directeur de l’École de musique à l’Université d’Ottawa.

Fondé en 2000, le Trio Hochelaga s’est très rapidement distingué sur la scène musicale canadienne comme l’un des plus importants ensembles de musique de chambre au pays. Les membres du trio ont choisi de partager leur passion pour un répertoire de musique de chambre, allant de l’époque classique à la musique d’aujourd’hui. Interprètes des grandes œuvres du répertoire, ils accordent une place particulière à la musique française, dont ils se donnent le mandat d’explorer les richesses méconnues.

Nous vous invitons à consulter régulièrement le site Web du Conservatoire à l'adresse suivante : www.conservatoire.gouv.qc.ca

Pour obtenir plus d'information, vous pouvez nous joindre au 514 873-4031.

Orchestre Symphonique de Laval-Anton Kuerti-concert du mercredi 30 septembre

Beethoven, Tchaïkovsky et Anton Kuerti
Pour un concert d'ouverture magistral!
Le mercredi 30 septembre à 20 h

Laval– L'Orchestre symphonique de Laval inaugure avec faste sa 24e saison en présentant le Concerto pour piano et orchestre no 5 en mi bémol majeur, op. 73, de Beethoven et une œuvre choisie par le public, l'imposante Symphonie no 5 en mi mineur, op. 54, de Tchaïkovsky. Cette œuvre a été désignée, au printemps 2009, comme le « Coup de cœur » du public dans le cadre d'un sondage visant à connaître la pièce que l'auditoire aimerait entendre lors du premier concert de la saison 2009-2010. Chose promise, chose due! Le public de l'OSL aura non seulement la chance d'entendre cette œuvre grandiose, mais aussi le privilège d'une rencontre avec Anton Kuerti, celui que le Fanfare Magazine considère comme le plus grand pianiste vivant! Ce grand concert sera présenté le mercredi 30 septembre à 20 h, à la salle André-Mathieu de Laval. Alain Trudel vous donne rendez-vous pour sa conférence d'avant-concert dès 19 h 15.

Anton Kuerti

Le pianiste Anton Kuerti est né en Autriche, a grandi aux États-Unis et a vécu la majeure partie de sa vie adulte au Canada. Jeune surdoué, il n'a que 11 ans lorsqu'il interprète le Concerto de Grieg avec Arthur Fiedler, et il est encore aux études lorsqu'il remporte le prestigieux et convoité Prix Leventritt. Anton Kuerti a joué dans 39 pays, dont le Japon et la Russie, ainsi que dans la plupart des pays européens. Il s'est également produit avec les principaux orchestres et chefs d'orchestre des États-Unis. Son vaste répertoire compte quelque 50 concertos, dont l'une de ses propres compositions, et il est l'un des artistes contemporains ayant réalisé le plus d'enregistrements, dont l'intégrale des concertos et sonates de Beethoven. Au Canada, Anton Kuerti s'est produit avec tous les orchestres professionnels et devant 140 communautés, d'un océan à l'autre. Il a, entre autres, donné 39 concerts avec l'Orchestre symphonique de Toronto. Anton Kuerti a, de plus, participé à de nombreux festivals importants et a démontré, à plusieurs occasions, une endurance remarquable en interprétant les cinq concertos de Beethoven et la Fantaisie chorale, ou les cinq dernières sonates pour piano de Beethoven, en un seul long concert. À titre de chambriste, il a collaboré avec certains des plus influents artistes de la scène internationale, tels Gidon Kremer, Yo-Yo Ma, Janos Starker et avec les quatuors Cleveland, Guarneri, Saint-Laurent et Tokyo.

Officier de l'Ordre du Canada, il a reçu de nombreux doctorats honorifiques et, en 2008, le Prix du Gouverneur général, le plus grand honneur qui puisse être décerné à un artiste canadien des arts de la scène. À noter qu'Anton Kuerti est également professeur, compositeur, organisateur de concerts et directeur artistique.

AU PROGRAMME

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Concerto pour piano et orchestre no 5 en mi bémol majeur, op. 73, « Empereur », 1809
Soliste : Anton Kuerti

C'est en 1792 que Beethoven arrive à Vienne pour y étudier la composition auprès de grands maîtres. Ville de musique, s'il en est une en cette fin du XV111e siècle, Beethoven ne tarde pas à se faire un nom, et l'aristocratie, éprise de musique, se presse à ses concerts. Dès lors, les portes des grandes familles viennoises s'ouvrent devant lui et son avenir de musicien semble assuré. Quelques années plus tard cependant, en 1800, des symptômes inquiétants se manifestent au point qu'ils ne peuvent plus être ignorés : Beethoven devient sourd. Le musicien est dévasté et envisage un moment de se suicider. Il rédige alors le célèbre Testament d'Heiligenstad dans lequel il confie son désespoir. Reprenant ses esprits, il transformera ce méchant coup du sort en destin : il sera compositeur coûte que coûte. Le Concerto no 5 a été composé au cours de l'année 1809, au moment où les troupes de Napoléon assiègent Vienne. Au mois d'octobre, la signature du traité de paix de Vienne permet à Beethoven d'achever l'écriture de la partition délaissée durant les bombardements. L'œuvre est dédiée à l'archiduc Rodolphe, fils de l'empereur Léopold II d'Autriche et protecteur du musicien. Le concerto a été créé le 28 novembre 1810 à Leipzig par l'orchestre du Gewandhaus. La surdité du compositeur étant trop avancée, la partie du soliste est alors interprétée par le pianiste Friedrich Schneider. Partisan des idées de la Révolution française, Beethoven a profondément incarné ces principes dans sa musique. Dans son ultime concerto pour piano, il n'est pas exagéré de dire que le soliste dialogue avec toute la masse sonore de l'orchestre en toute liberté, égalité et fraternité.

ENTRACTE

Piotr Ilyitch Tchaïkovsky (1840-1893)
Symphonie no 5 en mi mineur, op. 54, 1888

Musicien indéniablement russe, Tchaïkovsky n'en est pas moins influencé par la forme et les techniques de composition occidentales. Curieux, éclectique, il touche à tous les genres musicaux avec beaucoup de succès : opéra, concerto, musique de chambre. En 1876, il compose le Lac des cygnes et crée ainsi le ballet symphonique. Tchaïkovsky a écrit six symphonies auxquelles on se doit d'ajouter Manfred, cette autre symphonie, bien qu'elle n'en porte pas le titre. Si les trois premières symphonies s'avèrent de facture plus classique quant à leur inspiration, les trois dernières nous font entrer dans l'univers psychologique du compositeur et renvoient à des idées extramusicales comme l'obsession du destin. Ce thème du fatum, que l'on entend justement ici, et ce, dès le début du premier mouvement, traversera les quatre mouvements de l'œuvre. La Symphonie no 5 fut créée à Saint-Pétersbourg le 5 novembre 1888, sous la direction du compositeur.

Concert : 30 septembre à 20 h, salle André-Mathieu
Le concert est une présentation de Protectron.
Les billets pour ce concert sont disponibles
En ligne : www.salleandremathieu.com
Au guichet de la salle André-Mathieu : 475, boul. de l'Avenir, Laval
Par téléphone, billetterie de la salle André-Mathieu : (450) 667-2040
Via le Réseau admission : (514) 790-1245

Portland Symphony Orchestra and Portland OvationsSpearhead Portland's First "Incubator" for the Performing Arts

PORTLAND, Maine – The Portland Symphony Orchestra (PSO) and Portland Ovations (formerly known as PCA Great Performances/Portland Concert Association) began co-habitating over 10 years ago when they decided to share office space in addition to their already shared venue space and box office systems. The shared space and systems worked so well for Portland's two largest performing arts organizations that they began to think on a grander scale. They hatched the idea of creating an arts "incubator" – a shared space where performing arts organizations can work together, pool resources and collaborate on concepts, projects, and back-office needs.

That concept came to fruition last August when the PSO and Portland Ovations moved to a larger space. The two organizations signed the lease, and invited the Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ (FOKO) to join them. Portland's Choral Art Society and the LARK Society for Chamber Music joined the group at their new home, 50 Monument Square, in the spring of 2009.

"We'd already made the decision that if an appropriate larger space became available, we'd move our offices together and invite other, smaller performing arts organizations to join us," said PSO Executive Director Ari Solotoff. "We know how hard it is for small organizations to afford office space and overhead on their own, and the collaboration seemed like a natural fit."

In the shared space the organizations are able to share conference facilities as well as costs of overhead including office equipment and machinery.

But more than just a fiscally responsible option, the shared space also represents an opportunity for artistic collaboration between groups that often already worked closely together. They now have immediate access to one another – and an easily shared network of volunteers.

"Many of us often worked closely together before, but now everyone is together, sharing space and energy and ideas – and everyone benefits," noted Portland Ovations Executive Director, Aimée Petrin. "There's a terrific amount of vitality and artistic collaboration going on here. It's a great place to be."

The 50 Monument Square building is owned by Youth Alternatives Ingraham, a Portland social services agency that is dedicated to advancing healthier lives, happier families, and stronger communities.

"The fact that our building is owned and managed by a local organization dedicated to strengthening community and serving other local organizations feels good," said Kathleen Grammer, FOKO's executive director. "And the fact that we're all in the arts district together alongside galleries, museums, and right down the street from our home venue is perfect."

Around the corner from their administrative space, Merrill Auditorium is the artistic home of the PSO (and their 82 professional musicians), Portland Ovations and FOKO. A 1,908-seat performing arts facility located in the Arts District of downtown Portland, the Auditorium was originally built in 1912 to replace two former halls both destroyed by fire. In 1997 Merrill Auditorium was completely renovated with improved acoustics, sightlines and stage facilities. Since the restoration, Merrill Auditorium has established itself as one of New England's finest performing arts centers. Merrill is also home to PortTix, Portland's box office and ticketing system for many arts events in Portland.

"Portland has a strong history of collaboration among its arts organizations, and our programming represents that more every year," said PSO Music Director Robert Moody. "We are especially proud to have begun Portland's first 'performing arts incubator', so to speak, and we are already seeing an upsurge in the energy and teamwork taking place between all of these great organizations."

About Portland Symphony Orchestra:
Serving the city of Portland, the state of Maine, and northern New England, the Portland Symphony Orchestra (PSO) is the largest performing arts organization in Maine. With critically acclaimed performances and broad community engagement, the PSO is widely regarded as one of the top symphony orchestras of its size in the country. Established in 1923, 2009-10 marks the organization's 85th anniversary season. For more information about the PSO visit www.portlandsymphony.com.

About Portland Ovations:
For nearly 80 years, Portland Ovations, the non-profit organization formerly known as PCA Great Performances/Portland Concert Association, has brought a dynamic season of exceptional performing artists to Maine including classical music, jazz, opera, world, dance, theater, and Broadway. In addition to their live performances, Portland Ovations brings the exhilaration of the performing arts out into the greater Portland community with season-long educational and outreach programs called Ovations Offstage. For more information about the organization and their programming visit www.portlandovations.org.

About FOKO:
Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ (FOKO) was founded in 1981 as a result of the city of Portland's need to withdraw funding for the municipal organ housed in Merrill Auditorium due to financial limitations. Dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Kotzschmar, FOKO's responsibilities include raising funds, presenting concerts and engaging the services of a Municipal Organist. For more information about the Kotzschmar, the guest organists and the season, visit www.foko.org.

About CAS:
The Choral Art Society (CAS) has more than 150 singers who perform in three distinct ensembles: the symphonic Masterworks Chorus, the mid-sized Choral Art Singers, and the intimate a cappella Camerata. All singers are skilled amateurs, selected by audition. The Society offers an annual concert series and appears regularly as guests of the Portland Symphony Orchestra. Robert Russell, professor of music at the University of Southern Maine, is the conductor and artistic director of the CAS. For more information about the CAS and performances visit www.choralart.org or call (207) 828-0043.

About The LARK Society for Chamber Music:
Taking its name from the initials of the Portland String Quartet (PSQ) members' surnames and from a Haydn quartet, "The Lark", The LARK Society for Chamber Music was formed in 1980 to promote chamber music and music education in Maine. In addition to presenting the Portland Concert Series, LARK supports the PSQ's educational outreach activities throughout the state. For more information visit www.portlandstringquartet.org or call (207) 761-1522.

Lancement d'une école de guitare flamenca à Montréal : Académie de Guitare Flamenca


Cet automne, l'Académie de Guitare Flamenca débutera ses activités. Conçu pour les guitaristes soucieux d'avoir une formation solide en guitare flamenca, cette académie est fondée par les guitaristes Roger Lapierre et Michel Beauchamp, tous deux membres fondateurs de la troupe Tradición Flamenca.

Le concept est celui de cours de groupe où l'enseignement est dispensé tour à tour par les deux professeurs. Roger Lapierre compte plus de 45 ans d'expérience dans le monde flamenco ici, aux États-Unis et en Espagne. Michel Beauchamp est titulaire d'un premier prix de conservatoire en guitare classique et enseigne la guitare depuis plus de 25 ans. Ces deux approches se complètent et enrichissent l'enseignement offert à l'Académie de Guitare Flamenca. Les cours abordent les aspects technique, théorique et pratique en plus de l'accompagnement de la danse et du chant.
La première session de 12 semaines débutera le jeudi 1er octobre 2009 et se terminera le jeudi 17 décembre 2009. La durée des cours est de 2 heures et débuteront à 19 h 30. Les cours ont lieu au 5535b rue Chapleau à Montréal.

Pour informations ou inscriptions, signaler le 514.389.0398 ou rendez-vous à : http://pages.globetrotter.net/salon.tarrega

Banque d’instruments de musique du Conseil des Arts du Canada

Ottawa – Le Conseil des Arts du Canada présentera les 14 lauréats du concours de la Banque d'instruments de musique le jeudi 24 septembre. Lors de la conférence de presse, les lauréats recevront officiellement l'instrument de la Banque qu'ils auront préalablement sélectionné.

La valeur des treize instruments à cordes de qualité et de l'archet de violoncelle totalise plus de 26 millions de dollars (US). Il s'agit du plus important concours jamais organisé par la Banque d'instruments de musique du Conseil des Arts.

Les noms des gagnants, leurs notices biographiques et des photographies téléchargeables seront affichés au www.conseildesarts.ca, dès 11 h, le 24 septembre.

Le jeudi 24 septembre à 20 h, les quatorze lauréats présenteront un concert gratuit au Studio Glenn‑Gould. Pour réserver vos billets communiquez avec prix.dotations@conseildesarts.ca ou 1‑800‑263‑5588, poste 4215. Les représentants des médias sont également invités au concert et à la réception.

Les œuvres interprétées par les musiciens seront enregistrées et diffusées ultérieurement à l'émission Soirées classiques animée par Michel Keable sur les ondes d'Espace musique, la radio musicale de Radio-Canada et à l'émission Tempo animée par Julie Nesrallah sur CBC Radio 2. Elles seront également diffusées le dimanche 4 octobre à l'émission In Concert animée par Bill Richardson sur 
CBC Radio 2.

À propos du concours

De jeunes musiciens talentueux se feront concurrence pour le prêt – pour une période de trois ans – de l'un des treize instruments à cordes de qualité et un archet de violoncelle fabriqués entre 1689 et 1902. Pendant la semaine du 20 septembre, les musiciens se produiront devant un jury de trois experts qui ont une vaste connaissance de la musique choisiront les lauréats de cette année.

Banque d'instruments de musique

Créée en 1985, la Banque d'instruments de musique acquiert des instruments à cordes exceptionnels grâce à des dons et des prêts, et elle les prête ensuite à de jeunes musiciens canadiens talentueux afin de contribuer au développement de leur carrière internationale de solistes ou de chambristes. Les lauréats du concours disposent des instruments pour une période de trois ans.

Renseignements généraux

Outre son rôle premier de promouvoir et de favoriser les arts, le Conseil des Arts du Canada administre plusieurs bourses et prix prestigieux en art, sciences humaines, sciences sociales, sciences naturelles, sciences de la santé, génie et gestion des arts. Ces prix et bourses reconnaissent les réalisations d'artistes, de chercheurs et d'administrateurs canadiens exceptionnels. Le Conseil des Arts du Canada s'est engagé à accroître la sensibilisation du public envers ces personnes et organismes d'exception et à leur rendre hommage à l'échelle nationale comme internationale.

Pour obtenir une liste complète de ces prix et bourses, veuillez consulter notre site web (www.conseildesarts.ca).

En primeur à Montréal La compagnie de danse-théâtre australienne Force Majeure présente The Age I’m In

Cinquième Salle de la Place des Arts
14 au 17 et 20 au 25 octobre 2009

« Drôle et absolument exaltant, […] imprégné d’une beauté constituée de simples et
candides moments de vérité, d’espoir et d’émotion pure. » (Daily Telegraph)

Montréal – La Cinquième Salle de la Place des Arts présente - en primeur à Montréal - Force Majeure, une jeune compagnie de danse-théâtre australienne à découvrir absolument. Tout juste de retour du festival Ulster Bank Theatre Dublin, Force Majeure propose The Age I’m In, un portrait vif et composite de la société australienne contemporaine, magnifiquement rendu par dix danseurs et acteurs âgés de 15 à 80 ans. Appuyée par un usage remarquable d’écrans numériques et du lipsynch, The Age I’m In interpelle toutes les tranches d’âge avec humour, respect et sensibilité. La pièce a été applaudie en Europe et en Australie, où elle recevait en 2009 un Australian Dance Award dans la catégorie « Performance exceptionnelle ». Placée sous la direction artistique de Kate Champion, ex-membre de la troupe londonienne DV8 Physical Theatre, la compagnie Force Majeure sera à la Cinquième Salle de la Place des Arts du 14 au 17 et du 20 au 25 octobre 2009.

« Est-ce vraiment de la danse contemporaine ? Est-ce vraiment du théâtre ? Qu’importe; c’est du Kate Champion, du Force Majeure et c’est brillant. » (Stage Noise)

Créée en 2008, The Age I’m In a pris l’affiche des grands festivals de Sydney et d’Adelaïde en Australie. Réflexion sur l’expérience humaine et l’inévitable passage du temps, l’œuvre a été élaborée à partir d’entrevues avec pas moins de 80 citoyens (extra) ordinaires. Politique, sexualité, solitude, drogue, vieillesse y sont abordés sans détour. Danseurs et acteurs, jeunes et vieux, rendent superbement cette multiplicité de voix grâce à une technologie audiovisuelle ingénieuse, en symbiose unique avec la danse. Étonnante et inventive, la pièce juxtapose les expériences de cinq générations; les destins, les langues et les valeurs s’entrechoquent, se complètent, s’ignorent parfois. Après les représentations montréalaises, The Age I’m In sera présenté à Séoul en Corée du Sud.

Force Majeure est la première de trois compagnies australiennes à être programmée dans la Saison Cinquième Salle 2009-2010, une heureuse initiative de la Place des Arts, soutenue par le Conseil des arts de l’Australie.

Force Majeure

Fondé en 2002 à Newton (en Australie), le collectif Force Majeure rassemble des artistes issus d’horizons multiples – danse, théâtre, arts visuels, littérature –, dédiés à la création d’œuvres basées sur le mouvement. La direction artistique de l’organisme est assurée par Kate Champion, assistée par Roz Hervey et Geoff Cobham. Grâce à ses productions Already Elsewhere, Same Same But Different, Tenebræ 1 + 2, The Sense of It (cinq courts métrages de danse) et The Age I’m In, la compagnie connaît un succès toujours grandissant dans son pays d’origine et sur la scène internationale. Le spectacle Already Elsewhere était, lui aussi, couronné d’un Australian Dance Award dans la catégorie « Performance exceptionnelle » en 2005.

Kate Champion

Née à Sydney, Kate Champion a dansé pour des compagnies de danse contemporaine renommées telles One Extra Company, Dance North et Australian Dance Theatre. Sa carrière est particulièrement influencée par Lloyd Newson, fondateur et directeur de DV8 Physical Theatre, avec qui elle a travaillé en tant qu’interprète et assistante à la production. Elle a incidemment participé à la création d’œuvres comme Enters Achilles, Strange Fish, The Happiest Day of My Life ainsi que The Cost of Living, une pièce commandée par le festival Olympic Arts en 2000 à Sydney. Champion développe son propre langage chorégraphique depuis 1990.

Ne manquez pas la première escale montréalaise de Force Majeure avec The Age I’m In, un spectacle aussi surprenant qu’irrésistible. Réservez vite, les représentations ont lieu du 14 au 17, du 20 au 24 octobre à 20h, le 25 octobre à 16h, à la Cinquième Salle de la Place des Arts.

Ce spectacle de danse-théâtre est présenté en anglais.

http://www.forcemajeure.com.au/ http://cinquiemesalle.com/

Toujours en prise avec les tendances de l’avant-garde artistique, la Cinquième Salle est dédiée à la présentation d’œuvres de création d’ici et d’ailleurs, qu’il s’agisse de théâtre, de danse ou de multi-média. À découvrir cet automne construct (Tanja Liedtke) et Une Maison propre (Théâtre de l’Opsis).

Cinquième Salle de la Place des Arts
175, rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

Renseignements et réservations

Billetterie de la Place des Arts l 514.842.2112 ou 1.866.842.2112 l laplacedesarts.com

Presenting Distant Worlds: Final Fantasy in concert with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra!

Vancouver BC – The VSO presents Distant Worlds: Music from FINAL FANTASY, on Thursday, October 8, 2009, at the newly renovated Orpheum Theatre. The concert will feature Nobuo Uematsu’s award-winning music from Square Enix’s enormously successful FINAL FANTASY video game series, performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Grammy award-winner Arnie Roth. State of the art videos will be projected on screens to showcase the games most memorable and thrilling sequences. This concert will also feature the North American premiere performance of the FINAL FANTASY VII Main Theme.

FINAL FANTASY is a worldwide sensation, and one of the most successful video game franchises in the history of gaming. One of the top-selling video game franchises, FINAL FANTASY has created a lasting legacy in the video game world as one of the most innovative and influential role-playing games ever released. It has received worldwide critical acclaim for its originality, graphics, and of course, its rich, sumptuous, exciting music scores. Tickets are on-sale now and selling very quickly! Some good seats remain, and are available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca, or through VSO Customer Service at 604.876.3434.

Video game music has become increasingly popular in the last decade with the advancement of gaming console technology and has become essential in enhancing a game’s overall experience. In fact, the music of FINAL FANTASY has become just as popular as the ongoing video game franchise due to its epic scores, which incorporate a variety of musical styles. The series veteran composer Nobuo Uematsu was named as one of the “Innovators” in Time Magazine’s “Time 100: The Next Wave – Music” feature.

A classically trained violinist, conductor, composer, producer and Grammy award-winning artist, Arnie Roth performs across a wide array of musical genres. Mr. Roth has performed with a host of artists, including Il Divo, Diana Ross, Jewel, and Josh Groban. He is also a long-time member of the Grammy award-winning group Mannheim Steamroller. Orchestras which Mr. Roth has conducted include the London Symphony Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, BBC Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, and Tokyo Philharmonic. Mr. Roth was the music director and conductor of the “Dear Friends: music from FINAL FANTASY” and “VOICES: music from FINAL FANTASY” concerts. He then became the principal conductor and music director of PLAY! A Video Game Symphony featuring music from blockbuster video games such as FINAL FANTASY®, World of Warcraft®, Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind™ and Battlefield 1942™.

CONCERT INFO

Specials:
Final Fantasy in Concert
Thursday, October 8, 8pm, Orpheum Theatre
Arnie Roth, conductor

Tickets $25 to $65
Tickets available by phone at 604.876.3434 or online at www.vancouversymphony.ca

Music Director Franz Welser-Möst conducts The Cleveland Orchestra in program featuring Liszt's A Faust Symphony at Severance Hall on October 8 and 10

Mitsuko Uchida is soloist in Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4

Thursday, October 8, at 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 10, at 8:00 p.m.

Severance Hall

THE CLEVELAND ORCHESTRA
FRANZ WELSER-MÖST, conductor
MITSUKO UCHIDA, piano

BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 4
LISZT A Faust Symphony

CLEVELAND – Music Director Franz Welser-Möst will conduct The Cleveland Orchestra in a program featuring Liszt's A Faust Symphony at Severance Hall on Thursday, October 8, and Saturday, October 10, at 8:00 p.m. Mitsuko Uchida will be soloist in Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4.

The program begins with Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major, Opus 58. After intermission, the program concludes with Franz Liszt's A Faust Symphony.

TICKET PRICES (Add $5 for Saturday): Orchestra: $71, $47; Dress Circle: $93, $55; Balcony: $71, $55, $31.

FREE CONCERT PREVIEWS:
Concert Previews will be given prior to the October 8 and 10 concerts, beginning at 7:00 p.m., in Reinberger Chamber Hall. The Preview speaker will be Francesca Brittan, assistant professor of music, Case Western Reserve University. Concert Previews are designed to enrich the concert-going experience by providing historical background and critical insight into the music performed at each concert. This series is funded by a generous endowment gift from Dorothy Humel Hovorka and supported by The Reinberger Foundation. The entrance to Reinberger Chamber Hall is located on the ground floor of Severance Hall, off the Smith Lobby. The Smith Lobby is entered via the Rankin Entrance off East Boulevard or the Schey Entrance off Euclid Avenue.

Mitsuko Uchida

Mitsuko Uchida's interpretations of a wide range of repertoire have gained her a formidable reputation as a pianist who brings intellectual acuity and musical insight to her performances. She is particularly noted for her interpretations of Mozart and Schubert, both in the concert hall and on CD, and also has illuminated the music of Berg, Schoenberg, Webern, and Boulez.

Ms. Uchida made her Cleveland Orchestra debut in February 1990, and has since performed with the Orchestra at Severance Hall, at the Blossom Festival, and on tour to Europe and Japan. In October, she will join the Orchestra during its European Tour for performances of Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 in Luxembourg and Vienna. Ms. Uchida made her Cleveland Orchestra conducting debut in March 1998. From 2002 to 2007, she served as artist-in-residence with the Orchestra, and performed a cycle of Mozart's piano concertos, conducting from the keyboard. Her most recent appearances with the Orchestra were in performances of Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 25, under the direction of Colin Davis, at Severance Hall in April 2009. Ms. Uchida's recording with The Cleveland Orchestra, as solo pianist and conductor of the Mozart Piano Concertos Nos. 23 and 24, recorded live in concert at Severance Hall in December 2008, has just been released.

During recent seasons, Mitsuko Uchida has been giving performances of Beethoven's last three piano sonatas, and Opus numbers 101 and 106 ("Hammerklavier"), including a critically acclaimed performance at Royal Festival Hall in London.

Mitsuko Uchida performs throughout the world with many different musical partners. In March 2009, she toured Europe with the Philharmonia Orchestra and Esa-Pekka Salonen, as soloist in the Schoenberg Piano Concerto. In addition to appearing as a regular guest artist at both the Salzburg Mozartwoche and the Salzburg Festival, she gave concerts this year with the Vienna Philharmonic and the Hagen Quartet and performed in recital with soprano Magdalena Kožená. This season, Ms. Uchida continues her focus on Beethoven, performing all five of his piano concertos with Simon Rattle during a month's residency with the Berlin Philharmonic in February 2010. She will also be participating in a European concert tour with the London Philharmonic Orchestra; giving solo recitals in Paris, New York, and Tokyo; returning to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra; and appearing at the Vienna Festival with Pierre Boulez and the Ensemble Intercontemporain performing Berg's Chamber Concerto with violinist Christian Tetzlaff. She will also embark on a recording project of solo piano works by Schumann.

Mitsuko Uchida records exclusively for Decca, and her recordings include the complete Mozart piano sonatas and piano concertos; the complete Schubert piano sonatas; Debussy's Etudes; the five Beethoven piano concertos with Kurt Sanderling; a CD of Mozart Sonatas for Piano and Violin with Mark Steinberg, Schubert's Die schöne Müllerin with Ian Bostridge for EMI; the final five Beethoven piano sonatas; and the 2008 recording of Berg's Chamber Concerto with the Ensemble Intercontemporain, Pierre Boulez, and Christian Tetzlaff. Ms. Uchida's 2001 recording of the Schoenberg Piano Concerto with Pierre Boulez and The Cleveland Orchestra won four awards, including one from Gramophone for "best concerto recording." In April 2008, BBC Music Magazine presented its Instrumentalist of the Year and Disc of the Year awards to Ms. Uchida, for her recording of Beethoven's Sonatas Opus 101 and 106.

Mitsuko Uchida has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to aiding the development of young musicians and is a trustee of the Borletti-Buitoni Trust. She is also co-director, with Richard Goode, of the Marlboro Music Festival. In June 2009, she was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

TICKET SERVICES:
The Severance Hall Ticket Office is located in the Smith Lobby. The entrance and 15-minute Ticket Service parking are along East Boulevard. Single tickets for all concerts in the 2009-10 season are now on sale.

Severance Hall Ticket Office Hours:
M-F 9-6
Sat. 10-6
Closed Sundays and major holidays, except for those days with performances, when the Ticket Office opens three hours prior to the performance start time.

To charge tickets by telephone on American Express, Discover Card, MasterCard, and Visa, call Cleveland Orchestra Ticket Services at (216) 231-1111 (Cleveland) or 800-686-1141 during the regular ticket office hours listed above. Subscriptions and single tickets are also available through The Cleveland Orchestra's website at clevelandorchestra.com. The website offers secure ticket transactions with any major credit card and provides complete concert listings.

PARKING:
For evening subscription concerts at Severance Hall, night-of-concert parking can be purchased for $10 per vehicle, when space permits, in the Campus Center Garage (the underground garage located directly behind Severance Hall). Pre-paid parking for the Campus Center Garage can be purchased in advance through the Ticket Office at the cost of $14 per concert (this includes City of Cleveland parking tax and handling fee). The pre-paid parking ensures patrons a parking space, but availability of these pre-paid parking passes is limited.

For further information, or to order pre-paid parking, patrons should call the Cleveland Orchestra Ticket Office during regular office hours at (216) 231-1111 or 800-686-1141. Pre-paid parking passes are also available through The Cleveland Orchestra's website at clevelandorchestra.com.

Edmonton Opera 09-10 Season

EDMONTON'S 2009-2010 OPERA SEASON
~ SURRENDER YOURSELF ~

The 2009-2010 opera season is brimming with love, lust, murder, betrayal… And pirates!

Edmonton Opera presents Verdi's Rigoletto, Gilbert & Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance and Verdi's Otello, as well as a special collaboration between Edmonton Opera and Alberta Ballet: Mahler's Songs of a Wayfarer and Weill's Seven Deadly Sins at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Single tickets are available now at Ticketmaster, call 780-451-8000 or visit www.ticketmaster.ca.

"To me, Surrender Yourself means escaping life's worries and embracing the struggle, the spectacle and the magic of opera," says Edmonton Opera's Artistic Director Brian Deedrick.

"This season, we'll take you to worlds of passion, love, revenge, adventure, and, of course, the wacky world of a Pirate King!"

Verdi's Rigoletto
October 24, 27 and 29, 2009 - 7.30pm
Sung in Italian with English supertitles

A surreal set and provocative costumes by Edmonton's award-winning designer Bretta Gerecke transforms this season opener into a true circus of decadence and depravity. Despite his attempt to save his daughter Gilda from the Duke of Mantua's lecherous grasp, the hunchbacked jester Rigoletto pushers her ever closer to a horrific fate. With Theodore Baerg in the role of Rigoletto for the first time, Conductor Robert Tweten and director David Adams lead an all-star cast including Robert Breault as the Duke of Mantua; Canadian Superstar Tracy Dahl as Gilda; Uwe Dambruch as Monterone and Sparafucile; Norine Burgess as Maddalena; Benjamin Covey as Marullo; and Milton Liska as Borsa, with live accompaniment by the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and featuring the Edmonton Opera Chorus.

Gilbert & Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance
February 6, 9 and 11, 2010 - 7.30pm
Sung in English with English supertitles

Returning by popular demand, the Modern Major-General and a band of merry pirates follows in the footsteps of Edmonton Opera's silly Sterling Award winner HMS Pinafore. After the young pirate apprentice Frederic woos Mabel, Major-General Stanley's comely daughter, the pair wades through a series of ludicrous mishaps and misunderstandings in an attempt at life spent happily ever after. Conducted and directed by comedy super-duo Peter Dala and Robert Herriot, Pirates of Penzance stars Curt Olds as Major-General Stanley; Aaron St. Clair Nicholson as the Pirate King; Lawrence Wiliford as Frederic; Edmonton's own Andrew MacDonald-Smith as the Police Sergeant; Sonya Gosse as Ruth; Nikki Einfeld as Mabel; Kendra O'Connor in her Edmonton Opera debut as Edith; and the beloved Renée Brad as Kate. The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Edmonton Opera Chorus include their high notes on the high seas.

Verdi's Otello
April 24, 27 and 29, 2010 – 7.30pm
Sung in Italian with English supertitles

Edmonton Opera's production of Otello rounds out Verdi's trio of Shakespeare operas. Otello pairs a story faithful to the Bard's tragic tale of jealousy and deceit with beautiful and complex music. Conducted by James Meena and directed by Edmonton Opera's Brian Deedrick, Otello showcases an all-Canadian cast including John MacMaster as the title character; Sally Dibblee as Desdemona; Gregory Dahl as Iago; Colin Ainsworth as Cassio; Elizabeth Turnbull as Emilia; Brian McIntosh as Lodovico; Thomas Macleay as Roderigo; and Gregory Atkinson as Montano, along with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Edmonton Opera Chorus.

Special co-production with Alberta Ballet:
Mahler/Weill's Songs of a Wayfarer/Seven Deadly Sins
April 9 & 10, 2010 – 7.30pm

Edmonton Opera and Alberta Ballet team up once again, this time focusing on the work of two ground-breaking German composers. Though from different eras, both Gustav Mahler and Kurt Weill were visionaries who explored the way music creates worlds of its own. Choreographers Emily Molnar and Yukichi Hattori will each present a new ballet set to these innovative works, and the event will be conducted by Peter Dala, with stage consulting by Edmonton Opera's Brian Deedrick. Vocal soloists include Allyson McHardy, Patricia O'Callaghan, Stuart Howe, Thomas Macleay, John Conlon and Uwe Dambruch, with movement by Alberta Ballet's corps and live accompaniment by the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.


Subscribers to Edmonton Opera's 2009-2010 save up to 25 per cent on ticket prices, sit in the best seats in the house and pay 2008-2009 subscription rates. Subscriptions are available by contacting the Edmonton Opera Box Office at 780-429-1000 or www.edmontonopera.com. For more information about Edmonton Opera's season, signature events and education programs, visit www.edmontonopera.com.

Concert de musique russe à la Faculté de musique de l' UdeM

La Faculté de musique de l’Université de Montréal est heureuse de présenter le concert

BIJOUX RUSSES

Musique russe du XXe siècle

avec Jutta Puchhammer-Sédillot, à l’alto
et Paul Stewart, au piano
dans le cadre de la Série Les Profs de la Faculté de musique.

Samedi 26 septembre 2009, 19 h 30
Salle Claude-Champagne
220, avenue Vincent-d’Indy, Montréal
(métro Édouard-Montpetit)

Entrée libre

Symphony Nova Scotia's Annual General Meeting

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Tuesday, September 29, 5:00 pm
Dalhousie Arts Centre Sculpture Court

Halifax, NS – Symphony Nova Scotia's 2008/09 Annual General Meeting will be held Tuesday, September 29 at 5:00 pm in the Dalhousie Arts Centre's Sculpture Court.

The meeting will review the orchestra's finances and activities during the past season, discuss plans for the upcoming season, and finalize the selection of the Board of Directors and Executive Officers for the 2009/10 season.

Everyone is welcome to attend, though only members of the Symphony Nova Scotia Society are entitled to vote at the meeting. Memberships are open to everyone, and can be purchased for $11.50 at the AGM or at the Symphony Nova Scotia office in Park Lane Mall, Suite 301, 5657 Spring Garden Road.

Sept. 26: Music for a Sunday Afternoon begins with cellist Lynn Harrell

Music for a Sunday Afternoon 09-10 begins on SATURDAY, Sept. 26 with violinist Pinchas Zukerman, cellist Lynn Harrell, pianist Angela Cheng and musicians of the NAC Orchestra

Ottawa, Canada – The first Music for a Sunday Afternoon chamber music concert of the National Arts Centre Orchestra season takes place on SATURDAY, September 26 and features solo cello followed by a chamber quartet. Famed American cellist Lynn Harrell has the first half to himself, performing Bach’s Suite for Cello Solo No. 3 in C major. In the second half a stellar quartet made up of NAC Orchestra Music Director Pinchas Zukerman on violin, principal cello Amanda Forsyth, associate principal viola Jethro Marks and guest pianist Angela Cheng performing Brahms’ Piano Quartet No. 2 in A major. This concert takes place on Saturday, September 26 at 2 p.m. in the Auditorium of the National Gallery of Canada.

Bach’s six Suites for Solo Cello are extraordinary compositions in many ways. Unaccompanied music for this instrument was practically unknown in Bach’s day. They date from about 1720, when he was working for Prince Leopold of Anhalt-Cöthen. They were published as early as 1825, but remained in obscurity until Pablo Casals revived them in the early 20th century. Thanks to Casals, they are now recognized as masterpieces of the genre, and today rank among the pillars of every cellist’s repertoire.

If Schubert’s final, C-major symphony (The Great) justly deserves Robert Schumann’s epithet “the symphony of heavenly length,” then Brahms’s Second Piano Quartet equally deserves the title in the realm of chamber music. Lasting about 45 minutes in performance, it unfolds in a leisurely manner, brimming with hummable themes and ardent lyricism.

Tickets for Music for a Sunday Afternoon on Saturday, September 26 are on sale now at $29.00 (GST and Facility Fee included) at the NAC Box Office (Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.), and through Ticketmaster (with surcharges) at 613-755-1111. Ticketmaster may also be accessed through the NAC’s website at www.nac-cna.ca. They may also be purchased at the National Gallery one hour before the concert

Joshua Bell makes music at home with friends

FEATURES COLLABORATIONS WITH CHRIS BOTTI, STING, JOSH GROBAN, KRISTIN CHENOWETH, REGINA SPEKTOR AND OTHERS

AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 29

On JOSHUA BELL's new album, AT HOME WITH FRIENDS, the Grammy Award-winning violinist fulfills a life-long career dream of recording a CD of instrumental and vocal duets with a diverse roster of musicians including Chris Botti, Sting, Josh Groban, Kristin Chenoweth, Regina Spektor, Anoushka Shankar, Marvin Hamlisch, Tiempo Libre, among others. AT HOME WITH FRIENDS (Sony Classical) will be available on September 29.

The concept of AT HOME WITH FRIENDS was inspired by Bell's long-time practice of holding 'musical soirées' at his New York residence – eclectic gatherings of musicians, actors, comics, literary figures and others who convene for the sheer joy of sharing their art in an informal setting. With this in mind, Bell has spent the past four years designing and building his home in Manhattan to accommodate the ideal 'stay-at-home' venue.

Of his inspiration for the album concept Bell says "Some of my most precious memories of childhood recall the 'family musicales' in my home – my sisters, my parents, my cousins all playing music together and for each other during the holidays. Since then I went on to have many thrilling experiences in concert halls, but I still enjoy the experience of making music with my friends and family in a small, intimate setting. There's nothing like sitting on a pillow by the piano surrounded by passionate artists, not quite sure who's going to get up next to perform. It's my hope that this recording figuratively transports listeners into the room with us."

AT HOME WITH FRIENDS covers a world of music - genres from classical to pop, bluegrass to Broadway, jazz and ethnic World Music of every stripe. The repertoire ranges from a 16th Century love song (performed by Bell and Sting) to pure violin-piano duets – with Marvin Hamlisch (on Richard Rodgers' "I'll Take Manhattan"), with Dave Grusin (on Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Chovendo Na Roseira"), and with Las Vegas musician Frankie Moreno (on the Beatles' "Eleanor Rigby"). It also includes full-scale ensembles with Chris Botti (on the Gershwins' "I Loves You Porgy" from Porgy And Bess) and Josh Groban (introducing his lyrics for film composer Ennio Morricone's title theme from Cinema Paradiso) and unexpected partnerships with the likes of Regina Spektor (in a Spektor penned piece "Left Hand Song"), Anoushka Shankar (in a piece written for her and Joshua by her father, the legendary Ravi Shankar), the Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth (in "My Funny Valentine"), and Rachmaninoff himself on the piano in Grieg's violin sonata (thanks to an astounding new recording technology).

Sting's 2007 album, The Journey and the Labyrinth is the source for "Come Again," one of two tracks on AT HOME WITH FRIENDS that is arranged by Bell and J.A.C. Redford. The other is the title theme of the 1995 film Il Postino, in which Bell joins award-winning tango aficionado Carel Kraayenhof on bandoneon. In turn, Bell, Kraayenhof and the same rhythm section breathe new fire into "Oblivion," composed by all-time revolutionary Argentine nuevo tango master Ástor Piazzolla. Bell continues with the Latin flavor on "Para Tí," composed by Jorge Gomez, founder and pianist of two-time Grammy-nominated Cuban band Tiempo Libre.

Ten years after their 1999 collaboration Short Trip Home (Sony Classical) and their subsequent appearance on the Grammy's telecast, Bell is reunited with his Indiana University school-mate Edgar Meyer on the double-bass, along with buddies Sam Bush on mandolin, and guitarist Mike Marshall in "Maybe So." The concept of Bluegrass/Classical fusion is taken to yet another level on "Look Away," a new work composed by Meyer and mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile. These two join Bell in this first-time collaboration.

In another first-time collaboration, Soviet-born American singer songwriter Regina Spektor joins Bell to record a song that she has often performed in concert, but never recorded. Fans commonly referred to the tune as "The Meatball Song" and "A Lesson In How Fleeing Preservation Is." Its official title is "Left Hand Song," aptly named as Spektor wrote it using her left hand.

In another 'hometown connection' Bell joins Indiana-born Baritone Nathan Gunn and I.U. graduate and long-time recital partner Jeremy Denk in "O, Cease Thy Singing, Maiden Fair", a Russian poem by Alexander Pushkin, set to music by Sergei Rachmaninoff.

AT HOME WITH FRIENDS also celebrates the holidays with Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" presented by Bell and Chris Botti with a full rhythm section as well as Kristin Chenoweth and Bell on "O Holy Night." These songs will be available as retail exclusives.

With more than 30 original albums to his credit, Bell has captured the public's attention like no other classical violinist of his time, enchanting audiences worldwide with his breathtaking playing and tone of rare beauty, as performed on his legendary Stradivarius violin made in 1713. Equally at home as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestra leader, Bell has earned countless awards and honors for his work as a concert stage performer and recording artist. He has won multiple Grammy awards and was awarded the prestigious Avery Fisher Prize. His 2004 album Romance of the Violin was named the "Classical CD of the Year" by Billboard Magazine, with Bell named "Classical Artist of the Year." In the national spotlight since age 14 (when he made his acclaimed orchestral debut with Riccardo Muti and the Philadelphia Orchestra), and a recording artist since age 18, Bell has been an exclusive Sony Music artist for more than a decade. Acclaimed for the wide range of music he has chosen to record, Bell's output ranges from mainstream classical concertos by Sibelius and Beethoven, a live recording with the Berlin Philharmonic (Tchaikovsky concerto), the bluegrass inspired Short Trip Home - from the jazz influenced Gershwin Fantasy, to the Bernstein-inspired West Side Story Suite and many others. His interest in film is particularly notable, having performed all the violin solos in The Red Violin, helping the film win an Oscar for the "Best Original Score" (written by John Corigliano). He has received recognition beyond his awards that are not common to most classical artists, having been the first musician to have a classical music video played on VH1, to appearing as himself on Sesame Street and alongside Meryl Streep in Music of the Heart.

Track Listing

1. I Loves You Porgy – featuring Chris Botti, trumpet

2. Come Again - featuring Sting, vocals

3. Oblivion - featuring Carel Kraayenhof, bandoneon

4. Cinema Paradiso - featuring Josh Groban, vocals

5. Para Tí - featuring Tiempo Libre, various

6. My Funny Valentine - featuring Kristin Chenoweth, vocals

7. Maybe So - featuring Edgar Meyer, Double-bass, Sam Bush, Mandolin and Mike Marshall

Guitar

8. Grieg: Sonata No. 3 – featuring Sergei Rachmaninoff (Zenph re-performance)

9. Eleanor Rigby - featuring Frankie Moreno, piano & vocals

10. O, Cease Thy Maiden Fair - Nathan Gunn, baritone

11. Il Postino - featuring Carel Kraayenhof, bandoneon

12. Left Hand Song – featuring Regina Spektor, piano & vocals

13. Chovendo Na Roseira - featuring Dave Grusin, piano

14. Look Away - featuring Edgar Meyer, bass and Chris Thile, mandolin

15. Variant Moods: Duet for Sitar & Violin (abridged version) - featuring Anoushka Shankar, sitar

16. I'll Take Manhattan - featuring Marvin Hamlisch, piano

RCA Red Seal, Sony Classical, deutsche harmonia mundi, Masterworks Broadway and Masterworks Jazz are labels of Sony Masterworks. For e-mail updates and information regarding RCA Red Seal, Sony Classical, deutsche harmonia mundi, Masterworks Broadway and Masterworks Jazz artists, promotions, tours and repertoire, please visit www.sonymasterworks.com.

www.JoshuaBell.com

L'artiste cubaine Susana Pilar Delahante Matienzo à la Fonderie Darling dans le cadre de la Résidence des Amériques du Conseil des arts de Montréal

Montréal – Le Conseil des arts de Montréal et la Fonderie Darling, Centre d’arts visuels ont le plaisir d’annoncer la sélection de l’artiste cubaine Susana Pilar Delahante Matienzo dans le cadre de la Résidence des Amériques.

Inaugurée à l’automne 2008, cette résidence du Conseil des arts de Montréal (CAM) à la Fonderie Darling accueille en alternance des artistes, critiques et commissaires de tout le continent américain, y compris le Canada et les États-Unis. D’une durée totale de six mois, la résidence permet de recevoir un artiste pour quatre mois, puis un commissaire indépendant ou un critique d’art pour deux mois. La participation de commissaires indépendants et de critiques d’art contribue au rayonnement de la créativité artistique montréalaise ainsi qu’au réseautage entre les villes. Cette résidence vise ainsi à encourager un véritable travail de collaboration internationale tout en favorisant le développement des artistes et des organisations artistiques.

Susana Pilar Delahante Matienzo s’intéresse par le biais de la photographie aux réalités cachées et aux mécanismes qui occultent ces dernières. Son travail s’articule notamment autour de la thématique de la mort. Se mettant elle-même en scène dans plusieurs de ses projets, elle a entre autres abordé la violence faite aux femmes cubaines. Plus récemment, l’artiste n’a pas hésité à céder l’espace d’exposition qui lui était dévolu à un groupe de prévention du sida. Lors de son séjour à la Fonderie Darling cet automne, elle souhaite réaliser une série photographique en collaboration avec une famille multiethnique montréalaise. Susana Pilar Delahante Matienzo habite et travaille à La Havane. Elle a obtenu un diplôme en Beaux-Arts du High Institute of Art (Cuba) en 2008.

Le comité de sélection était composé de Stéphane Aquin, conservateur de l'art contemporain au Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal, Marie-Michèle Cron, conseillère pour les arts visuels au CAM, Jocelyne Alloucherie, artiste visuelle et membre du Conseil d’administration de la Fonderie Darling et Marie Fraser, professeure au département d’histoire de l’art de l’UQAM et commissaire.

La Résidence des Amériques du Conseil des arts de Montréal s'ajoute aux autres résidences internationales de la Fonderie Darling, notamment la Résidence suisse du Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec, la Résidence internationale du Conseil des arts du Canada et la Résidence croisée France-Québec.

On December 19 the Amadeus Choir is joined by True North Brass in "Glorious Choir and Brass"

The acclaimed Amadeus Choir, conducted by Artistic Director Lydia Adams, presents its annual Christmas concert "Glorious Choir and Brass" featuring the Amadeus Choir's 23rd Annual Christmas Carol and Chanukah Song Writing Competition and special guests True North Brass, and the Bach Children's Chorus with its director Linda Beaupré, on Saturday, December 19th, 7:30 p.m. in Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, 1585 Yonge Street, one block north of St. Clair, Toronto.

The Choir and Children’s Chorus will perform winning compositions from composers, known and unknown, who entered The Amadeus Choir's 23rd Annual Christmas Carol and Chanukah Song Writing Competition*. The Competition this year was open to composers in all categories. The winners have been notified, many of whom will be present at this concert to receive their prizes and hear their beautiful compositions in world première performances by The Amadeus Choir and Bach Children's Chorus, accompanied by Eleanor Daley, piano and organ. Lydia Adams and her Amadeus Choir are committed to celebrating and promoting the vibrancy of emerging composers.

The distinctly Canadian flavour of the program features such joyful music as Noël Canadien, a suite of carols arranged by one of Canada’s foremost arrangers and national treasures, Howard Cable. The True North Brass will collaborate with the Amadeus Choir in a special arrangement of Canadian composer Jason Jestadt’s work Aagiuuk, which won the Judges’ Special Award in the 2007 Competition, professional adult category. Aagiuuk – from poetry collected among the Inuit of the Hudson Bay region in Knud Rasmssen’s Report of the Fifth Thule Expedition, 1921-24.

The beautiful young voices of The Bach Children's Chorus conducted by Linda Beaupré will delight the audience singing favourite Christmas carols and songs.

This festive concert includes traditional Christmas carols, and the audience will join the Amadeus Choir, True North Brass and Bach Children's Chorus in heart-felt sing-alongs under the enthusiastic baton of Lydia Adams.

Tickets: General Seating. $35.
Student Rush Seats: $10 (at the door only)
To purchase tickets in advance, call the Amadeus Choir: 416-446-0188.
Visit the Choir's web site: www.amadeuschoir.com

*In 1987, conductor Lydia Adams created this unique Competition which has grown to include submissions from around the world. It serves as an inspiration to composers of all ages and experience to write new carols and songs, thus enriching Canada’s outstanding choral tradition and infusing the Canadian choral repertoire with several new works each year.

The Amadeus Choir gratefully acknowledges the continuing support received from the Toronto Arts Council, Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts as well as BDO Dunwoody, the John McKellar Charitable Foundation and the Julie-Jiggs Foundation.

Anton Kuerti, Gemma Bertagnolli et Stefano Demicheli au Conservatoire de musique de Montréal

Montréal — Le Conservatoire de musique de Montréal reçoit trois grands noms de la scène musicale internationale : le pianiste Anton Kuerti, la soprano Gemma Bertagnolli et le chef et claveciniste Stefano Demicheli, qui viennent donner des cours de maître à la salle de concert du Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, située au 4750, avenue Henri-Julien (métro Mont-Royal).

L’entrée est libre et le public est invité à y assister...

Anton Kuerti, pianiste – 29 septembre, de 10h à 13h

Né en Autriche, Anton Kuerti a grandi aux États-Unis et vit au Canada depuis plus de 35 ans. Il a étudié avec Arthur Loesser, Mieczyslaw Horszowski et Rudolf Serkin. Dès l’âge de 11 ans, il jouait le Concerto de Grieg, sous la direction de Arthur Fiedler et il était toujours aux études lorsqu’il remporta le fameux Leventritt Award. Anton Kuerti a fait des tournées dans plus de 30 pays et joué avec les principaux chefs et orchestres nord-américains. Son vaste répertoire comprend quelque 50 concertos, y compris un de sa propre composition. Au Canada, il s’est fait entendre dans plus de 140 villes. Comme chambriste, il a joué des oeuvres majeures avec des virtuoses comme Gidon Kremer, Yo-Yo Ma, Janos Starker, Barry Tuckwell, et les quatuors à cordes de Cleveland, Guarneri et de Tokyo. Il est aujourd’hui un des artistes qui a le plus enregistré : il a endisqué l’intégrale des concertos et des sonates de Beethoven, des sonates de Schubert, des concertos de Brahms et les œuvres de plusieurs autres compositeurs. Anton Kuerti est Officier de l’Ordre du Canada et a reçu plusieurs doctorats honorifiques.

Stefano Demicheli, chef et claveciniste – 2 octobre de 9 h 30 à 10 h 30
Répertoire pour soliste, basse continue et improvisation, musique de chambre et orchestre

Stefano Demicheli, né à Turin en 1975 et diplômé en orgue et en clavecin, a été soliste pour plusieurs groupes spécialisés en musique baroque. Il se produit régulièrement dans les salles de concert et dans les théâtres les plus importants d’Europe avec des solistes et chefs d’orchestre de renommée internationale. Il a enregistré pour plusieurs maisons de disques et pour les principales stations radiophoniques d’Europe. Depuis 2000, il est professeur du Cours international de musique ancienne d’Urbino et l’assistant d’Ottavio Dantone. Il est aussi professeur de clavecin et basse au Conservatoire de Cesena. Sa passion pour le répertoire vocal et le son naturel des instruments l’ont poussé à devenir l’assistant de René Jacobs en Europe. Depuis 2002, il est directeur musical de Dolce & Tempesta.

Gemma Bertagnolli, soprano – 2 octobre, de 10 h 30 à 12 h
Orfeo en Arcadie – Musique vocale italienne de Monteverdi à Vivaldi

Après avoir remporté coup sur coup les concours As.Li.co de Milan et Vinas de Barcelone, c'est à l'Opéra de Rome que la soprano italienne Gemma Bertagnolli fait ses débuts, dans une production de Ariadne auf Naxos dirigée par Gustav Kuhn. Elle est très vite sollicitée par Roberto Abbado, Semyon Bychkov, Lorin Maazel et Riccardo Muti pour des concerts parmi lesquels la Messe en Ut de Mozart, les symphonies de Mahler et de Schubert. Elle manifeste une certaine prédilection pour les héroïnes mozartiennes et verdiennes, qu’elle incarne avec brio. Gemma Bertagnolli est avant tout reconnue et consacrée comme une grande voix baroque et sollicitée par les plus grandes baguettes comme Christophe Rousset, René Jacobs, Ton Koopman, Trevor Pinnock et Ivor Bolton. Chanteuse aux multiples facettes, sa discographie met à l'honneur un large répertoire, sacré et profane, allant de l'ère baroque aux chefs-d’œuvre du romantisme.

Le Conservatoire de musique et d’art dramatique du Québec organise des cours de maître sur une base régulière. Le dialogue, le transfert des savoirs et la communication entre les artistes de toute provenance sont au cœur de sa mission d’excellence, depuis plus de 65 ans.

Nous vous invitons à consulter le site Internet du Conservatoire à :
www.conservatoire.gouv.qc.ca ou au 514 873-4031, pour obtenir plus d’information.

PACO PEÑA presents A Compás

Saturday, October 17, 2009 at 8 pm / Massey Hall / Toronto
Tickets: $59.50 - $39.50 - Call 416-872-4255 or online at www.roythomson.com
or visit the Roy Thomson Hall Box Office

Toronto, ON - Spain’s master guitarist Paco Peña and his spectacular troupe of three dancers, one singer, three guitarists, and a percussionist, present their show, A Compás (Primal Pulse), a spellbinding exploration of the vitality and intricacy of flamenco rhythms. A Compás is a wanderlust tour through Arabic, Gypsy, and Spanish folk traditions, tracking the roots of flamenco dance and music as they are passed from generation to generation. The audience will witness the compelling nature and range of rhythms, from the almost tribal, trance-inducing quality of the alboreá’ to the razor-sharp complexity of the bulería. At the same time, the show aims to isolate each artist at some moment, to “throw” them into the naked reality of a given rhythmic structure (or compás) and, in their own personal way, immersing themselves deeply into the feeling of the rhythm contributing their own creative input. The artists project an unstoppable pulse that every one can feel and identify with. Or, put in different words, they must try and get everybody “into the rhythm,” induce the feeling of “a compás” into the whole experience. The show’s format allows for unexpected and electrifying improvisation, and brings to the stage a true interpretation of what flamenco represents: a spontaneous collaboration between dancers, singers and musicians.

Over the years, Paco Peña’s shows have dealt with various challenging concepts, from the deceivingly simple notion of highlighting the essential significance of the flamenco song, unrecognized for many years, as was the case with his Flamenco Puro show, to the ground-braking drama Musa Gitana which told the story of the legendary, turn-of-the 20th Century artist from Córdoba, Julio Romero de Torres, with his complex observation of life and society and his personal, traumatic passions. More recently, Paco Peña enjoyed the collaboration of the renowned theatre director Jude Kelly in what proved to be the spectacular show Voces y Ecos, which took the audience on a kind of journey through the history of flamenco and the most significant moments in its development.

In 1981 he founded the Centro Flamenco Paco Peña in Córdoba, later becoming Artistic Director of the Córdoba International Guitar Festival. Another landmark was Misa Flamenca, a 1991 setting of the Mass that juxtaposed Peña’s company with a classical choir. Its premiere at London’s Royal Festival Hall, given with the Choir of the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, was followed by a staging at the 1992 EXPO in Seville. Misa Flamenca was also presented in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and throughout North America, including Toronto’s Massey Hall in 1998. One of Paco Peña’s latest works, Flamenco Requiem, which again combines flamenco with forms of classical music, came about as a result of performing Misa Flamenca over the years at various music festivals.

Paco Peña is based in London, but still spends a significant part of the year in his native Andalucía. In 1997 he was named Oficial de la Cruz de la Orden del Merito Civil, an honour bestowed by King Juan Carlos of Spain.

La carrière du chef d’orchestre québécois Jean-Michaël Lavoie prend son envol !

Plusieurs concerts et tournées confirmés 
pour le jeune chef en 2009 et 2010


Montréal – Installé en France depuis un an seulement, le jeune chef québécois Jean-Michaël Lavoie a rapidement su convaincre le milieu musical européen de son talent. À preuve, le renouvellement de son contrat comme chef assistant de l’Ensemble intercontemporain (www.ensembleinter.com) et une tournée de six concerts à la barre de l’Orchestre de Bretagne en juin 2010 !



Choisi par Pierre Boulez et Susanna Mälkki pour être chef assistant de l’Ensemble intercontemporain (EIC), sélectionné parmi 47 candidats et premier canadien à occuper ce poste, Jean-Michaël Lavoie a rapidement gagné la confiance de la prestigieuse formation parisienne. Il a dirigé son premier concert à la tête de l’Ensemble en janvier 2009, après avoir participé à la plupart des tournées (Cologne, Londres, Lisbonne, Helsinki, Cracovie, Barcelone, Luxembourg, Graz, Bruxelles, etc.).



Quelques mois à peine après son arrivée, l’Orchestre de Paris l’invite à être l’assistant personnel de l’un des plus grands chefs actuels, Esa-Pekka Salonen, pour deux concerts à la Salle Pleyel (Das klagende Lied de Gustav Mahler).

Tout récemment, il était engagé par l’Orchestre de Bretagne comme assistant du réputé chef d’orchestre Krzysztof Penderecki. Il a alors remplacé le maestro pour deux répétitions de son Concerto pour piano « Résurrection » avec le pianiste Kun Woo Paik, directeur artistique du Festival de Dinard en Bretagne, et la Huitième symphonie de Dvorak. Le jeune chef québécois a instantanément séduit les musiciens, et l’Orchestre n’a pas tardé à lui proposer de revenir diriger dans la même saison une tournée de six concerts en juin 2010 !



Maintenant âgé de 27 ans, Maestro Lavoie entame sa deuxième saison en tant qu’assistant de l’Ensemble intercontemporain. Pour l’automne 2009, il est également chef assistant du plus important orchestre de jeunes d’Allemagne, le Junge Deutsche Philharmonie (basé à Francfort), qui reçoit uniquement de grands chefs invités, dont Pierre Boulez, Kent Nagano et Emmanuel Krivine.

Finalement, Jean-Michaël Lavoie vient tout juste d’être nommé chef associé du célèbre Chœur Accentus, dirigé par Laurence Equilbey. 


***

Natif de Saint-Césaire en Montérégie, Jean-Michaël Lavoie complète ses études musicales à Montréal à la Schulich School of Music de l’Université McGill, où il a étudié le piano dans la classe de Richard Raymond en plus de se spécialiser en direction d’orchestre, analyse, orchestration et histoire de la musique. 


Chef d’orchestre actif au Canada, il est d’abord chef assistant du McGill Contemporary Music Ensemble de 2003 à 2007 et chef assistant à Opera McGill en 2005 et 2006. Il fait des débuts très remarqués en 2006 à la SMCQ à l’occasion du concert d’ouverture du 40e anniversaire de la Société. Il est tout de suite réinvité pour diriger deux créations nord-américaines lors du Festival international Montréal/Nouvelles Musiques en mars 2007. D’abord chef assistant du Chœur de Radio-Canada depuis février 2006, il est rapidement nommé directeur artistique adjoint pour la saison musicale 2007/08.

Nouvel album pour Carole Therrien et concerts à Montréal

La chanteuse Carole Therrien présentera son nouveau projet disque et spectacle « Vues du Fleuve »

L’album « Vues du Fleuve » sera disponible dès le mardi 6 octobre.

Proposant à la fois des grands titres du répertoire québécois et français, et des compositions originales, il fera bon de redécouvrir des textes de Sylvain Lelièvre et de Jacques Blanchet.

En concert les 7 et 8 octobre à 20h au Studio Théâtre de la Place des Arts à Montréal.
Et le vendredi 6 novembre à 22h à la Chapelle Historique du bon Pasteur.

Carole Therrien - chant
Yves Léveillé – piano (gauche) 
Alain Bédard – contrebasse (droite)

More concerts added to Symphony Nova Scotia's Symphony Week

Halifax, NS – Symphony Nova Scotia musicians will be performing even more free concerts during the second annual Symphony Week, running Tuesday, September 22 to Sunday, September 27.

The full week of festivities will feature Symphony Nova Scotia musicians giving free, live performances at venues like City Hall, the Spring Garden Road Library, Scotia Square Mall, Citadel High, and the Maritime Museum. Recently added performances include an outdoor solo concert with Symphony Nova Scotia principal cellist Norman Adams in the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia courtyard, as well as four Musical Munchkins sessions across HRM (see below for full schedule).

“We’re delighted to kick off our 26th season with Symphony Week,” says Symphony Nova Scotia CEO Erika Beatty. “It’s a great way to celebrate our upcoming concert season and give audiences a chance to sample some of the music they’ll be hearing. The way Nova Scotians support their musical community is one of the reasons why this is the best place to live in Canada – Symphony Week is also a celebration of the creative spirit of all the artists and residents of our community.”

Symphony Week is generously supported by the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Special Events Grant.

Symphony Week schedule of events:

Tuesday, September 22, 2009, 12:00 pm, Halifax Regional Library, Spring Garden Road
Library Players' Classical Hits: Mozart and Friends
Bring your lunch and join host Max Kasper and his fellow musicians from Symphony Nova Scotia as the orchestra kicks off its Symphony Week! Come hear music and hilarious stories about your favourite composers in a relaxed and informal setting.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009, 10:15 am, Woodlawn Public Library
Musical Munchkins
Introduce your 3- to 5-year-old to music and motion with musical demonstrations, games, activities, and dancing – all directed by two talented Symphony Nova Scotia musicians.
Registration is required. For more Musical Munchkins sessions, visit
www.SymphonyNovaScotia.ca.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009, 3:00 pm, City Hall
Symphony at City Hall
Symphony Nova Scotia’s full orchestra performs live at City Hall! Featuring excerpts from some of the greatest classical works ever written, including Beethoven’s Eighth, Dvorak’s Czech Suite, and Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Thursday, September 24, 2009, 12:00 pm, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia Courtyard
Adams on Cello
Symphony Nova Scotia’s principal cellist Norman Adams performs an innovative outdoor concert in the Art Gallery courtyard.

Thursday, September 24, 2009, 2:00 pm, Citadel High School
School Concert
The full orchestra performs for an audience of young music lovers at Citadel High. For students only, please.

Friday, September 25, 2009, 10:30 am, J.D. Shatford Memorial Public Library, Sackville Public Library, and Sheet Harbour Public Library
Musical Munchkins
Introduce your 3- to 5-year-old to music and motion with musical demonstrations, games, activities, and dancing – all directed by two talented Symphony Nova Scotia musicians. Registration is required. For more Musical Munchkins sessions, visit www.SymphonyNovaScotia.ca.

Friday, September 25, 2009, noon, Scotia Square Mall
Rhapsody While You Shop
Halifax’s Rhapsody Quintet, featuring members of Symphony Nova Scotia, plays your light classics and jazz favourites at Scotia Square.

Friday, September 25, 2009, 1:30 pm, Park Lane Theatre 8
Atlantic Film Festival Emerging Composer Screening
Symphony Nova Scotia teams up with emerging film composers to perform and record original compositions in this innovative workshop screening. Open to registered Film Festival delegates. (For details, contact Alyson Sanders at alysons@atlanticfilm.com or 902.420.4577.)

Saturday, September 26, 2009, 10:30 am, Discovery Centre
Discover the Symphony!
A Symphony Nova Scotia wind quintet plays for all ages at Halifax’s Discovery Centre – featuring an interactive, entertaining program and a musical instrument petting zoo, courtesy of Long & McQuade!

Saturday, September 26, 2009, 2:30 pm, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
26th Season Preview
Hear the full orchestra live on the waterfront at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in this preview of Symphony Nova Scotia’s 26th anniversary season. Featuring special guest bagpiper Alex Marriott, a student at Oxford School in Halifax.

Sunday, September 27, 2009, 11:00 am, Cunard Centre
Words and Music
A Symphony Nova Scotia small group, featuring newly published author and violist Binnie Brennan, brings the joy of music to Word on the Street, Nova Scotia’s largest book festival.

Miami Lyric Opera presents Carmen

Location: Colony Theater. 1040 Lincoln Road. Miami Beach, FL 33139
Dates: September 24th and 26th, 2009
Time: 8:00 p.m. - 10:45 p.m.
Admission: $30 and $25 for Students with ID at Box Office

Miami Lyric Opera is pleased to present Carmen, a Spanish opera in three acts by George Bizet, under the artistic direction of Raffaele Cardone. The cast will include Sondra Kelly, Nelson Martinez, James Charles Taylor, Roseanne Ackerley, Ernesto Trespalacios and other fine artists. Doris Lang Kosloff will conduct the MLO Orchestra and Chorus.

The story is set in Seville, Spain, around 1830, and concerns the eponymous Carmen, a beautiful Gipsy with a fiery temper. Free with her love, she woos the corporal Don José, an inexperienced soldier. Their relationship leads to his rejection of his former love, mutiny against his superior, and joining a gang of smugglers. His jealousy when she turns from him to the bullfighter Escamillo leads him to murder Carmen.

Tickets might be purchased at the Colony Theater Box Office, online at
www.miamilyricopera.org or Ticket Master.

Miami Lyric Opera at Colony Theater

1040 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, FL
33139
305.674.104

www.miamilyricopera.org

The Musicians in Ordinary begin eigth season October 10 in an elegantl melancholy mood

The Musicians In Ordinary sigh, weep and woo in song as soprano Hallie Fishel and lutenist John Edwards open their eighth season with An Anatomy of Melancholy, Saturday, October 10 at 8 p.m. in the Heliconian Hall, 35 Hazelton Ave. (north of Scollard Street in Yorkville; Bay St. subway).

Tickets are $20, $15 seniors and students, and may be purchased at the door. For information, call 416-535-9956, e-mail musinord@sympatico.ca or visit www.musiciansinordinary.ca.

Subscriptions for four concerts of music from the 1500s to the Victorian era of Swedish nightingale Jenny Lind are only $70 adults; $55 students and seniors. The season includes the duo’s popular New Year’s Day Viennese concert with special guests, which will be repeated on January 2. A November 28 concert of 17th century Italian and German instrumental music is an added bonus for subscribers.

Cheques or money orders for subscriptions should be made payable to The Musicians In Ordinary, and sent to The Musicians In Ordinary, 1585 Bloor St. West, Suite 212, Toronto M6P 1A6. As well, there is a bonus instrumental concert on November 28. Details on all of the concerts are below.

OPENING CONCERT: ANATOMY OF MELANCHOLY

Anatomy of Melancholy, the 1621 opus by English scholar and vicar of Oxford Robert Burton, is considered as great a work of literature as it is of medicine and philosophy. David Klausner of the University of Toronto’s Centre for Medieval Studies and Department of English (www.chass.utoronto.ca/~klausner/) reads from the venerable work in The Musicians in Ordinary’s opening concert on October 10. The musicians intertwine the readings with songs by the famed John Dowland (1563-1626), portraying suffers of that disease. With Edwards on Renaissance lute, Fishel sings of crazy lovers who care not about the weather, irrational shepherds ardently wooing nymphs, as well as the sadder sighers.

Copies of MIO’s CD, Sleep, Wayward Thoughts, featuring the music of Dowland and other composers of Elizabethan and Jacobean England, will be available for sale.

The remainder of The Musicians In Ordinary’s 2009-10 season offers plenty of musical cheer:

Friday, Jan. 1, 2010 at 2 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010 at 8 p.m.– A Viennese New Year’s Day Concert: All new repertoire from 18th century Vienna. Don’t like polkas and waltzes but looking for a concert on New Year’s Day? This is the concert for you. MIO performs the Music of Vivaldi, Conti and others, with Fishel singing, Edwards on archlute, and guests Christopher Verrette, violin, and Sara Anne Churchill, harpsichord. The second performance has been added to accommodate the crowds – January 1, 2009 was sold out, with not one seat left!

Feb. 27, 2010 – O Dolce Nocte: Tenors Bud Roach and Kevin Skelton join Fishel and Edwards for a sweet night of Italian madrigals from the 1500’s. It features the music of Verdelot, Cipriano di Rore and others.

Apr. 24, 2010 – Songs of the Americas: MIO ends its season with songs to the guitar from Brazil, Mexico and the antebellum United States of America. Fishel sings and Edwards plays baroque and early romantic guitars in early rumbas and modinhas, as well as opera excerpts from the repertoire of Jenny Lind, the Swedish Nightingale, whose tour was promoted by P.T. Barnum.

Special Bonus Instrumental Concert – Saturday, Nov. 28, at 8 p.m. at Emmanuel College Chapel, 75 Queen’s Park Crescent – Sonata Variata – Violin Music of the 17th Century:

Subscribers to MIO’s 2009-10 season will also receive – at no extra charge – tickets to an instrumental concert featuring Christopher Verrette in a recital of solo violin music of 17th century Italy and Germany. Accompanying him are John Edwards on theorbo and Sara Anne Churchill on organ and harpsichord. Single tickets are $20; seniors and students $15. For information, call 416-535-9956, e-mail musinord@sympatico.ca or visit www.musiciansinordinary.ca.

Classical Archives Presents World Premiere of Cosmic Reflection at the Kennedy Center

THE HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSE IN 40 MINUTES

Composed by Nolan Gasser
World Premiere on November 2, 2009 at the
John F. Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts, Washington D.C.

Washington, DC – Classical Archives (www.classicalarchives.com), the ultimate online destination for classical music, is presenting the world premiere of Nolan Gasser's narrated symphony, Cosmic Reflection. The musical composition portrays the complete history of the Universe, from the Big Bang to the present day. Cosmic Reflection will be premiered at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on November 2 at 8pm in a performance by the Boston University Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro David Hoose, and featuring narration by Carey Harrison, son of Rex Harrison, along with a video presentation by the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center; the concert will also feature the acclaimed American Brass Quintet.

The musical event celebrates the first year in orbit of the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope. Like the telescope, Cosmic Reflection has had a long journey to its launch: In September 2007, Professor Peter F. Michelson (the Principal Investigator of Fermi's main instrument) and Pierre Schwob, CEO of Classical Archives, approached composer Nolan Gasser to create a musical composition to celebrate the launch of Fermi, (then-called the Gamma-ray Large Area Space Telescope -- GLAST.) Having no prior exposure to the science surrounding the mission, Gasser commenced an intensive self-study of particle physics and cosmology – at least enough to allow him to reasonably portray, in musical terms, the nature and objectives of the new space observatory.

Two years later, Gasser has become a self-proclaimed physics "freak", an enthusiasm he has brought to bear on the two compositions now written in association with Fermi and its current symposium – the GLAST Prelude and Cosmic Reflections. The GLAST Prelude, for brass quintet, Op.12 was "premiered" on June 8, 2008 in Cocoa Beach, FL at a pre-launch reception co-sponsored by Stanford University and General Dynamics. Likewise accompanied by a video by NASA-Goddard, the GLAST Prelude (recorded by the American Brass Quintet) has received considerable popular and critical acclaim – including over 150,000 views on YouTube.


Cosmic Reflections, Op.15, is written for full orchestra and narrator, and will feature a video presentation created especially for this concert by Rich Melnick of NASA-Goddard. The "libretto" was co-written by Pierre R. Schwob, Founder of Classical Archives and a gifted amateur cosmologist, and physicist and writer Dr. Lawrence M. Krauss. The work, lasting around 40 minutes, is in three large parts, book-ended by a Prologue and Epilogue, though the work proceeds without interruption.

Finding innovative ways to extend the appeal and audience of classical music is a passion of both Schwob and Gasser, who is the Artistic Director of Classical Archives. Pierre Schwob says, "Cosmic Reflection is an expression of my awe for the heroic efforts of our scientists to understand our Universe, our place in it, and of the extraordinary talent and dedication of all those involved in our cultural heritage. We hope this unique merging of art and science will help inspire even greater love of classical music, and the understanding of the world around us. We are honored to be able to present the story of the universe in such a novel way, just as we are bringing music lovers the universe of classical music on our site every day.

There are a limited number of tickets available to the general public in the 1st Tier and 2nd Tier at $20.00 each. Tickets are available at the Kennedy Center Box Office, by calling (202) 467-4600 or online at www.kennedy-center.org

For additional information and background on Cosmic Reflection, please visit: www.classicalarchives.com/CR/index.html

Paul Merkelo Benefit Concert

MUSIC WINE FALL COLORS

Saturday, September 26, 6:30 pm
West Brome Church (Knowlton)

Benefit Concert with

Paul Merkelo, solo trumpet, OSM
Alain Lefèvre, piano
Marie-Ève Poupart, violin (Prix d'Europe 2009)
Michelle Abraham, violin
Davis Joachim, guitar

Join us to celebrate 10 years of the Fonds Paul Merkelo

Concours OSM Standard Life

This concert raises money for the Paul Merkelo Bursary. This bursary is awarded to a promising young competitor in the OSM Standard Life Competition. The beautiful old church is an ideal setting for such an event. Meet the musicians after the concert.

Price: $100 Concert, wine et taxes - Tax receipt
100 seats only - Seats not reserved
Door prize

R.S.V.P. : Michèle Paré (514-982-6809)

West BromeChurch (old church) : 26, chemin McCurdy, West Brome
West Brome INN : 128, route 139, West Brome

Suggested :
Dinner at the Auberge after the concert
Visit of nearby wineries before the concert

Brilliant pianist brings unique improvisational gifts and visionary interpretations to performances

Gabriela Montero

Wednesday, September 30th – 7:30 pm

Edmonton, AB … The 2009-2010 Edmonton Symphony Orchestra performance season debuts The ESO Presents series with a dazzling pianist of natural spontaneity. Gabriela Montero, for one night only, joins your ESO and William Eddins on stage at the Francis Winspear Centre for Music for an unconventional evening of intense interpretations and astonishing impromptu soliloquies.

Having performed with musical luminaries Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman at the inauguration ceremony for President Obama, Ms. Montero brings her internationally acclaimed stature and artistry to the Winspear Centre where she will open her orchestral performance program with Rachmaninoff’s enduringly popular Piano Concerto No. 2. She will then proceed with a solo program, connecting to her audience in a completely unique and powerful way through improvisational performance.

Often inviting audience members to suggest themes or melodies for elaborate improvisations, Gabriela says, "I connect to my audience in a completely unique way - and they connect with me. Because improvisation is such a huge part of who I am, it is the most natural and spontaneous way I can express myself.”

Concertgoers have a premiere opportunity to experience an imaginative fantasy world of instantaneously constructed musical creations and lush renditions of classical work. Ticket prices range from $20 – $65 (agency fees apply), and are available through the Winspear Centre Box Office at (780) 428-1414, or online at www.edmontonsymphony.com.

The next, and only other performance part of The ESO Presents series this season, will take place on June 1st, 2010. Prodigiously gifted organist Cameron Carpenter will stun concert patrons with his extraordinary musicianship and extreme athleticism not normally associated with the organ.

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, marking its 58th season in 2009-2010, has taken its place as one of Canada's foremost orchestral ensemble. Its current roster includes 56 musicians from Canada and around the world, performing a wide-ranging repertoire from the great classical masterworks to pops and children's concerts. The presence of the orchestra and its enrichment of the community's quality of life are key elements in the stature and profile of Edmonton on the national and international scene.

Les lauréats du concours de la Banque d'instruments de musique du Conseil des Arts du Canada seront présentés et mis en vedette le 24 septembre

Ottawa – Le Conseil des Arts du Canada présentera les 14 lauréats du concours de la Banque d'instruments de musique le jeudi 24 septembre. Lors de la conférence de presse, les lauréats recevront officiellement l'instrument de la Banque qu'ils auront préalablement sélectionné.

La valeur des treize instruments à cordes de qualité et de l'archet de violoncelle totalise plus de 26 millions de dollars (US). Il s'agit du plus important concours jamais organisé par la Banque d'instruments de musique du Conseil des Arts.

Heure : 10 h
Lieu : Studio Glenn-Gould, Centre canadien de radiodiffusion, 250, rue Front Ouest, Toronto.

Veuillez communiquer avec April Yorke au 613‑566‑4414 ou 1-800-263-5588, poste 4133 ou april.yorke@conseildesarts.ca pour confirmer votre présence à la conférence de presse. Certains des finalistes du concours de 2009, dont certains sont des lauréats du concours 2006, seront disponibles pour des entrevues au cours des semaines précédant la conférence de presse.

Les noms des gagnants, leurs notices biographiques et des photographies téléchargeables seront affichés au www.conseildesarts.ca, dès 11 h, le 24 septembre.

Le jeudi 24 septembre à 20 h, les quatorze lauréats présenteront un concert gratuit au Studio Glenn‑Gould. Pour réserver vos billets communiquez avec prix.dotations@conseildesarts.ca ou 1‑800‑263‑5588, poste 4215. Les représentants des médias sont également invités au concert et à la réception.

Les œuvres interprétées par les musiciens seront enregistrées et diffusées ultérieurement à l'émission Soirées classiques animée par Michel Keable sur les ondes d'Espace musique, la radio musicale de Radio-Canada et à l'émission Tempo animée par Julie Nesrallah sur CBC Radio 2. Elles seront également diffusées le dimanche 4 octobre à l'émission In Concert animée par Bill Richardson sur 
CBC Radio 2.

À propos du concours

De jeunes musiciens talentueux se feront concurrence pour le prêt – pour une période de trois ans – de l'un des treize instruments à cordes de qualité et un archet de violoncelle fabriqués entre 1689 et 1902. Pendant la semaine du 20 septembre, les musiciens se produiront devant un jury de trois experts qui ont une vaste connaissance de la musique choisiront les lauréats de cette année.

Banque d'instruments de musique

Créée en 1985, la Banque d'instruments de musique acquiert des instruments à cordes exceptionnels grâce à des dons et des prêts, et elle les prête ensuite à de jeunes musiciens canadiens talentueux afin de contribuer au développement de leur carrière internationale de solistes ou de chambristes. Les lauréats du concours disposent des instruments pour une période de trois ans.

Renseignements généraux

Outre son rôle premier de promouvoir et de favoriser les arts, le Conseil des Arts du Canada administre plusieurs bourses et prix prestigieux en art, sciences humaines, sciences sociales, sciences naturelles, sciences de la santé, génie et gestion des arts. Ces prix et bourses reconnaissent les réalisations d'artistes, de chercheurs et d'administrateurs canadiens exceptionnels. Le Conseil des Arts du Canada s'est engagé à accroître la sensibilisation du public envers ces personnes et organismes d'exception et à leur rendre hommage à l'échelle nationale comme internationale.

Pour obtenir une liste complète de ces prix et bourses, veuillez consulter notre site web (www.conseildesarts.ca).

Classical Archives Showcases Latest Releases

620,000 Tracks and Counting…

-- Largest Classical Online Classical Music Destination Expands Its Catalogue --

Palo Alto, CA -- Classical Archives (www.classicalarchives.com), the ultimate classical music destination, is showcasing some hot new releases that make the fall a classical music lover's dream come true. In addition to new releases featuring artists such as Murray Perahia, Renee Fleming, and Jean-Bernard Pommier, Classical Archive's featured artist is Vladimir Horowitz. The site, which offers more than 620,000 digital tracks, 7,800 composers, and 27,000 artists, is dedicated to being the ultimate online resource and archive for the world's great classical recordings. Recent releases include:

Bach: Partitas Nos. 1,...
Murray Perahia, Sony Classical
CDs: 1 Tracks: 20

Verismo
Giuseppe Verdi Symphony Orchestra of Milan, Renée Fleming
Decca
CDs: 1 Tracks: 17

Debussy: Pour Le Piano...
Jean-Bernard Pommier
CDs: 1 Tracks: 17

Michael Daugherty: Fir...
Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Neeme Järvi

Naxos
CDs: 1 Tracks: 7

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La Traviata opens October 1st

La traviata
THE FALLEN WOMAN
OCTOBER 1, 6, 8 AND 10, 2009, AT 8 PM, AND OCTOBER 3 AT 3 PM
September 15, 2009


Pacific Opera Victoria is thrilled to present a landmark season that has
expanded to include four operas and matinée performances. The season
opens with one of the most popular operas in the world, Verdi's La
traviata, October 1, 3 (matinée), 6, 8 and 10, 2009 at the Royal
Theatre, 805 Broughton Street in Victoria. Evening performances begin
at 8pm with pre-performance lectures at 6:45pm. The matinée performance
on October 3 begins at 3pm, with pre-performance lecture at 2pm.

La traviata ("the fallen woman") is the story of a courtesan who finds
true love, generously renounces it, then regains it, only to die far too
young. The only one of his operas set in his own time, La traviata is
Verdi's most personal opera, the one into which he poured all his
compassion and tenderness; in fact his original title for the work was
 Amore e Morte - Love and Death.

Of the music, much of it familiar, all of it glorious, Conductor Timothy
Vernon says, "This astonishing score … is one long stream of amazing
lyrical inspiration - the work of a great genius writing at the height
of his power."

La traviata was inspired by the play La Dame aux camélias, adapted by
Alexandre Dumas the Younger from his novel of the same name - a
shocking, semi-autobiographical best seller about Dumas' affair with a
notorious Paris courtesan who died of consumption at the age of 20. The
story is also well known through the 1936 movie Camille, which featured
Greta Garbo in her finest screen performance.

With his compassionate portrayal of a contemporary prostitute, Verdi ran
afoul of the censors, who insisted he move the opera 150 years into the
past. Verdi was further dismayed by what he saw as the fiasco of the
opera's 1853 premiere - caused in part by a soprano who was too plump to
be wasting away from consumption. However La traviata has now soared to
the top of the repertoire; Opera America lists it as the third most 
frequently performed opera in North America.

The beautiful, notoriously challenging role of Violetta is the most
coveted - and feared - of soprano roles, and an important debut for any
singer. For POV's three previous productions of the opera, Artistic
Director Timothy Vernon has offered this role debut to Sally Wolf,
Liping Zhang and Sally Dibblee - each to critical acclaim. This
production presents Sookhyung Park in her debut as Violetta. Ms. Park's
breathtaking portrayal of the title character in POV's Daphne (2007) was
hailed as a "heartfelt, psychologically concentrated Daphne, riding the
swirling euphoric orchestra lines with never a crease in the pearly
sheen of her lovely sound".

Timothy Vernon's inspired casting includes Vale Rideout who makes his
company and role debut as Alfredo Germont, along with returning artists
Bruce Kelly (Madama Butterfly and The Magic Flute) as Giorgio Germont
and Andrew Greenwood (Idomeneo) as Douphol. Participants in the POV
Resident Artist Program make their POV mainstage debuts: Giles Tomkins
as Dr. Grenvil, Cory Knight as Gaston, Heather Jewson as Flora, Betty
Waynne Allison as Annina and Pierre-Etienne Bergeron as Marchese
d'Obigny.

Pacific Opera Victoria has chosen to honour Verdi's desire to keep La
traviata contemporary by setting it in 1949 Paris - an era that retains
the glamour of Violetta's world, but is close enough to the present to
convey the immediacy of the composer's vision. POV's wholly original
production is directed by Dennis Garnhum, a UVic theatre grad and
currently Artistic Director of Theatre Calgary. Twenty years ago
Garnhum interned with the late Colin Graham, one of the world's most
noted opera directors. With this production Dennis makes his POV - and
professional opera - directing debut. Garnhum is joined by designer
David Boechler, who has worked with the Shaw and Stratford Festivals.

La traviata is conducted by Timothy Vernon, and features the Victoria
Symphony. Lighting design is by Kevin Lamotte and choreography by
Jacques Lemay. The opera is sung in Italian with English surtitles.
Running time is approximately two hours and thirty minutes with one
intermission.

Pacific Opera Victoria presents only five performances of La traviata,
and anticipates a sold-out run. 
Priced between $25 and $115, tickets are available from the Royal and
McPherson Box Office at 250-386-6121, or on-line at www.rmts.bc.ca.
Student RUSH tickets for those presenting valid student identification
are available at the door of the theatre, 45 minutes prior to each
performance, subject to availability. RUSH tickets are $15, inclusive
of all box office charges.

For more information, please contact Pacific Opera Victoria at (250)
385-0222 or visit www.pov.bc.ca.

Special contemporary African dance program at the MAI / Programme spéciale en danse africaine contemporaine au MAI

Ce mois de septembre au MAI : 3 compagnies de danse africaine contemporaine

Dans le cadre d’un mois de septembre qu’il consacre à la danse africaine contemporaine, le MAI ouvre sa saison 2009-2010 avec une soirée exceptionnelle et accueille deux compagnies pionnières au Canada! Réunies pour la première fois sur une même scène, les compagnies Nyata Nyata (Montréal) et NAfro Dance (Winnipeg) présentent du 17 au 20 septembre quatre pièces en premières montréalaises et une en première mondiale. Ce programme double sera ensuite suivi de la nouvelle création de l’interprète-chorégraphe Gibson Muriva (Zimbabwe), du 23 au 27 septembre. Ces performances présentées au MAI sont co-diffusées par Transatlantique Montréal 2010.

On peut se procurer les billets pour ces spectacles en visitant le site http://ticket.boxxo.info/, en se présentant à la billetterie du MAI, située au 3680, rue Jeanne-Mance ou en composant le (514) 982-3386.

Offre spéciale !
Achetez en même temps vos billets pour les 2 spectacles de NAfro Dance+ Nyata Nyata
et Gibson Muriva et obtenez 30% de rabais.


www.nyata-nyata.org www.nafrodance.com http://www.vimeo.com/6461838



This September at the MAI: 3 contemporary African dance compagnies

This month, the MAI is celebrating contemporary African dance in Canada. In this spirit, the 2009-2010 program opens with an outstanding evening highlighted by two groundbreaking canadian dance compagnies! United on the same stage for the very first time, Nyata Nyata (Montreal) and NAfro Dance (Winnipeg) present from September 17 to 20, five performances - four of which are Montreal premieres and one, a world premiere. This double bill will also be followed by a new creation by dancer-choreographer Gibson Muriva (Zimbabwe), from September 23 to 27. Theses performances are all presented in association with Transatlantique Montréal 2010.

Tickets for theses shows can be purchase online at http://ticket.boxxo.info/, at the MAI’s Box office on 3680, Jeanne-Mance St. or by calling (514) 982-3386.

Special Offer!
 Buy tickets for both shows (NAfro dance + Nyata Nyata and Gibson Muriva)
and benefit from a 30% discount.

www.nyata-nyata.org www.nafrodance.com http://www.vimeo.com/6461838

Gonzales : Le recordman spectaculaire et son piano à eXcentris / Gonzales: The record-holder and his piano at eXcentris

Montréal - À peine plus de trois mois après avoir battu le record du plus long spectacle pour piano et voix de l'histoire, Gonzales revient à Montréal avec Piano Talk Show, un spectacle interactif avec piano, surprises, bavardages et humour.

Un spectacle de Gonzales, c'est une expérience unique dans une ambiance de folie ! Grâce à sa formation classique, l'auteur-compositeur-interprète démontre une maîtrise exceptionnelle pour son instrument et c'est en faisant de l'électro qu'il s'est taillé une place de choix dans le cœur du public. Avec six albums à son actif, l'artiste nous entraîne dans toutes sortes de textures musicales, des plus épurées et classiques (Piano Solo, 2004) aux plus éclectiques (Soft Power, 2008).

Gonzales, alias Jason Beck, est un pianiste montréalais installé à Paris. Producteur, arrangeur et auteur pour de nombreux artistes, il compte des collaborations avec Feist, Peaches, DJ Tiga, Julien Doré, Jane Birkin, Arielle Dombasle et Philippe Katerine.

Le 18 mai dernier, il établissait un record Guiness en présentant à Paris un concert de 27 heures, 3 minutes et 44 secondes. Pour l'occasion, Gonzales avait interprété tant du Gershwin, du Beethoven, ses propres compositions que des chansons de Britney Spears ou la chanson-titre du film Rocky III.

Le répertoire vaste et le personnage spectaculaire de Gonzales promettent une soirée certainement inattendue!



Samedi, le 26 septembre à 22h

_____________________________________________

Montréal – Barely three months after becoming the world record holder for the longest piano and vocals show, Gonzales has returned to Montreal with his new concert, Piano Talk Show, an interactive event with lots of surprises, stories, and humor.

An evening with Gonzales has always proven to be a unique experience, enveloped by a seamlessly invigorating ambiance! Thanks to his classical education, the singer-songwriter has demonstrated exceptional talent on his instrument of choice, the piano; however, it was when he went "electro" that he really found his niche. Throughout the essence of his six albums, this artist has introduced us to a variety of musical genres, from his most wholesome and classical music (Piano solo, 2004) to his most eclectic (Soft Power, 2008).

Gonzales, a pseudonym for Jason Beck, is a Montreal pianist now living in Paris. A producer, as well as an arranger and author for a multitude of artists, he has collaborated with Feist, Peaches, DJ Tiga, Julien Doré, Jane Birkin, Arielle Dombasle and Philippe Katerine on a variety of projects.

On the 18th of May last year, he became the Guinness record holder for his concert in Paris, a show that lasted 27 hours, 3 minutes, and 44 seconds. For the occasion, Gonzales had chosen to interpret pieces by Gershwin, Beethoven, his own compositions, as well as songs by Britney Spears and the theme song from Rocky III.

The musically talented and undoubtedly entertaining Gonzales always proves to be a inimitable experience!

Saturday, the 26th of September at 10 o'clock.

Leon Fleisher Un pianiste légendaire / Leon Fleisher A legendary pianist

Montréal, le 15 septembre 2009 — C'est au légendaire pianiste américain Leon Fleisher que eXcentris a demandé d'inaugurer le volet classique avec ce premier Grand Concert Steinway. Accompagné de ses amis, les musiciens Michael Tree, Matt Haimovitz, Katherine Jacobson, Andy Simionescu, John Zirbel, Pam Frank, Dominic Painchaud et Young Hi Moon, Fleisher nous a orchestré deux soirées mémorables de musique de chambre, en solo sur son célèbre piano Chavy Chase, et à quatre mains. Des œuvres de Schumann, Bach, Dvorak et une interprétation du Quintette pour piano en F mineur de Brahms sont au programme.

Né en 1928, Leon Fleisher commence le piano à 4 ans, et devient un des plus jeunes virtuoses à bénéficier de l'enseignement d'Arthur Schnabel. Rapidement, il gagne une renommée internationale. À 37 ans, un accident neurologique le prive de la mobilité de deux doigts de sa main droite. Il entreprend alors les carrières de chef d'orchestre et d'enseignant, tout en développant un répertoire pour main gauche. En 2004, un traitement expérimental lui permet de recouvrer l'usage de ses doigts et d'enregistrer Two Hands, un album hautement acclamé qui fera l'objet d'un film documentaire nommé aux Oscar en 2006. En 2007, il reçoit le prix Kennedy Center Honors, qui confirme une carrière des plus grandioses, et ce, malgré l'adversité. Son programme pour 2009-2010 est particulièrement chargé; il sera entendu aux quatre coins de la planète en plus de poursuivre des engagements à titre d'enseignant, la transmission de son savoir étant chère à ses yeux.

Les 25 et 26 septembre 2009, à 19 h, dans notre toute nouvelle salle Cassavetes.

Le 26 septembre 2009, à midi, projection du documentaire Two Hands : The Leon Fleisher Story, en présence de l'artiste. Une conversation avec Leon Fleisher suivra la projection du film.

____________________________________________

Montreal — eXcentris has invited legendary American pianist to inaugurate its classical program with this first Grand Concert Steinway. Accompanied by his friends, musicians Michael Tree, Matt Haimovitz, Katherine Jacobson, Andy Simionescu, John Zirbel, Pam Frank, Dominic Painchaud and Young Hi Moon, Fleisher has arranged two memorable evenings of chamber music for us, solo on his famed Chavy Chase piano, and for four hands. The program will feature works by Schumann, Bach, Dvorak and an interpretation of Brahms' Piano Quintet in F Minor.

Born in 1928, Leon Fleisher started piano at the age of 4, becoming one of the youngest virtuosos to benefit from Arthur Schnabel's teaching. He would quickly establish an international reputation. At 37, a neurological disorder robbed him of the mobility of two fingers on his right hand. He then took to conducting and teaching, all the while developing a repertoire for the left hand. In 2004, an experimental treatment allowed him to recover the use of his fingers and to record Two Hands, a highly acclaimed album that became the subject of a documentary film nominated for an Oscar in 2006. In 2007, he received the Kennedy Center Honors Award, confirmation of a landmark career, even in the face of adversity. His 2009-2010 schedule is particularly jam-packed; he'll travel to the four corners of the globe to perform, all the while keeping up his teaching engagements, given the importance he places on passing on his wisdom.

September 25 and 26, 2009, at 7 p.m., in our brand new Cassavetes Room.

September 26, 2009, at noon: a screening of the documentary Two Hands: The Leon Fleisher Story, with the artist in attendance. The film will be followed by a conversation with Leon Fleisher.

Renée Fleming's "Verismo"

Renée Fleming

Verismo

Orchestra e Coro Sinfonica di
Milano Giuseppe Verdi
Marco Armiliato
Renée Fleming sings arias by Puccini
and his contemporaries

In Stores: September 15th, 2009
Available Digitally: August 25th, 2009

"This music is the highest expression of drama and passion." Renée Fleming

NEW YORK, NY – With well over thirty recording projects on the Decca label to date, iconic American soprano Renée Fleming is easily one of the most recorded opera singers of her generation. Today, Decca proudly releases Verismo, the 15th solo album in as many years by Fleming, featuring opera arias by Puccini and his contemporaries – composers of the Verismo style who set the lives and loves of their heroines to music of extraordinary beauty and intensity.

Along with great Puccini favorites from La Bohème, Turandot, La Rondine, Il Trittico and Manon Lescaut, the album also includes rarely heard arias by Verismo composers Mascagni, Catalani, Leoncavallo, Giordano, Cilea, and Zandonai. From the tragedy of the nun Angelica, singing of the son who never knew his mother, to the rapturous young lovers of La Rondine, this is deeply emotional music of love and loss, of triumph and pain. Of the roles she portrays on this album, Mimì from Puccini's La Bohème is the only one that Renée Fleming has sung on stage. This album offers a world-premiere recording of the original manuscript version of the aria ‘Sola, perduta, abandonata!’ from the tragic final scene of Puccini’s Manon Lescaut. Star tenor Jonas Kaufmann joins Renée Fleming for an irresistible melody from Act II of Puccini’s La Rondine.

‘Verismo’ (literally ‘realism’) was an artistic movement of the late 19th-Century, which sought to bring the ‘naturalism’ of writers such as Zola and Ibsen to other art forms, including opera. Known as the ‘giovane scuola’ (‘the young school’), the Verismo composers wrote operas that were very different to those that came before them, setting stories about ‘real’ people and their real life struggles. The heroines Renée Fleming portrays include noblewomen (Fedora, Gloria, Angelica), courtesans (Stephana, Magda), Asian waifs (Iris, Liù), a Tyrolean village girl (Wally), the avaricious Manon, and three working women: music-hall performer Zazà, seamstress Mimì and factory-worker Conchita. The disc covers a concentrated period of Italian opera from the premiere of La Wally in 1892 to that of Turandot in 1926. This rich period saw the creation of more new works than almost any other era in operatic history.

Renée Fleming describes the process of choosing the repertoire for Verismo as “a revelation.” “I was surprised by the sheer volume and variety of the Italian operas from this period,” she explains, “and the intense emotionality of the music has given voice to some of the most beautiful interpretations I have ever heard.” “Listening to singers of past generations gives me a real sense of individual style, taste and imagination,” Fleming remarks, “each voice harbors a singular personality and moment in time.” Researching the arias for this collection, Fleming studied recordings by Leontyne Price, Maria Callas and Mirella Freni, the fabulous drama and lyricism of Rosa Ponselle and Zinka Milanov and finally the theatrically committed and searing performances of Magda Olivero, Mafalda Favero, Lynne Strow Piccolo, Rosanna Carteri – the singers from the earliest days of recordings who embodied these roles for the first time. “It completely stokes my imagination to think that all of these great interpreters were ‘new music’ specialists,” she adds, “that generation of singers was the last to devote the majority of its time to creating roles with living composers.”

“Above all,” Fleming remarks, “my goal with this recording is to share a broader selection from an especially rich tradition of Italian opera, so that these Verismo heroines can be heard again in all their beauty and complexity.”

Following the release of Verismo, Decca presents a DVD of Renée Fleming in one of her greatest stage roles – as the Marschallin in Richard Strauss’s Der Rosenkavalier, conducted by Christian Thielemann available October 6th. The dream cast, filmed live at the Baden-Baden Opera Festival, also includes Diana Damrau, Sophie Koch, and Franz Hawlata. This re-staging of a celebrated Herbert Wernicke production is released in time for Renée Fleming’s appearances at the Metropolitan Opera in Der Rosenkavalier from October 13th through the 22nd.

Renée Fleming Verismo Tracklisting

Puccini Suor Angelica “Senza mamma”
Mascagni Iris “Un dì (ero piccina)”
Puccini La rondine “Denaro nient’altro che denaro! ... Ore dolci e divine”
Mascagni Lodoletta “Ah! il suo nome! … Flammen, perdonami!”
Catalani La Wally “Né mai dunque avrò pace? … Ohimè! solo una celia io fui per lui”