The ever-popular Kinderconcerts Series – presented by the National Arts Centre Orchestra and Jeunesses Musicales of Canada

– continue with the special presentation of Le grand bal de Noël (presented in French) on December 6 in the Panorama Room

OTTAWA, November 30, 2009 — Le grand bal de Noël is a special Kinderconcert with a wonderful Christmas theme. As in all Kinderconcerts, music, instruments, theatre and storytelling capture youngsters’ imaginations, providing tons of fun and discovery of the endless wonders of music.

Le grand bal de Noël takes place in the Panorama Room (on the floor, so bring a cushion!) on Sunday December 6 at 1:30 and 3 p.m. This magical Kinderconcert – performed in French only -- is perfect for families and children aged 3-8.

From their distant home on an ice floe, three penguin musicians (in full penguin costume) have waddled all the way to the North Pole for a great Christmas party. But what a disappointment -- they’re refused admission! To get in, they have to perform an original Christmas song. For Amatin, Ademain and Atemplein, making up a Christmas song on the spot is a real challenge. Will the three chums find inspiration? Will they be ready in time for the dazzling celebration? Help them out and come along to the party! After all, Christmas is about more than just a song. Le grand bal de Noël features Marc Fortin (trombone), Pierre Blais (banjo), and Jean Sabourin, (sousaphone).

Upcoming Kinderconcerts include:

Skarazula

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Featuring Steve Grenier, percussion, psaltery; François Rainville, cittern, mandore, oud, tromba marina, vielle; François Perron, recorders, flute

Take off on an adventure to medieval Europe with the members of Skarazula! Travel with them along the roads of France, Spain, Italy, Turkey, the countries of Eastern Europe… listen to them sing in different languages and discover some rather odd instruments. A musical voyage that promises to delight both young and old.

Giggle and Stomp

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Featuring Bruno Roy and Louis-Daniel Joly, percussion

This powerful history of percussion starts in Africa, the land of rhythm, where instruments resonate and music resounds. This animated concert takes listeners on a magical journey through percussion history, with stops along the way in the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. From African and Brazilian music to the hip-hop of today, these instruments transcend all culture and time. Discover exotic and colourful percussion instruments like the kalungu, djembe, derbouka, tambourine, cymbals and apito in this rhythmic concert experience!

A Journey to Dixieland

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Featuring Le Dixieband, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, banjo, sousaphone and drums; Marielle Grenier, actress and singer

The ageless, electrifying music of Dixieland recalls the festive atmosphere of the early years of the 20th century when the New Orleans and Dixieland styles emerged. The show focuses on the songs, dances and dreams of this colourful period, as a lively old lady called Miss New Orleans relives her young, carefree years. Like a gramophone that takes us back in time, Miss N.O. introduces the audience, to her marvellous memories, as she recounts the legends of blues, Charleston, shimmy and scat music. A magical, rhythmic show that is educational, exciting, and nostalgic, and that will enchant the whole family!

All Kinderconcert performances are in the NAC’s Panorama Room.

English performances are at 9:30 a.m. (recommended for ages 3 – 6); 11 a.m. – recommended for ages 3 – 6; and 1:30 p.m. – recommended for ages 5 - 8

The French performance is at 3 p.m. – recommended for ages 3 – 8