Just Announced: Monster Concert in Support of SickKids

Mary Kenedi and the North Toronto Institute of Music present

Monster Concert in Support of

SickKids Foundation
Massey Hall, Saturday, October 31, 2009, at 3 p.m.

Tickets $45.00 to $25.00 – Call 416-872-4255 or visit the Roy Thomson Hall Box Office

Mary Kenedi is seeing monsters! The respected Canadian pianist, educator and founder of the North Toronto Institute of Music will present a Monster Concert at Massey Hall at 3:00pm on Halloween, Saturday, October 31^st, 2009. This not-to-be missed concert extravaganza features popular works by Gottschalk, Rossini, Liszt, Saint-Saens and Bizet performed simultaneously on 10 Steinway grand pianos by 20 professional pianists alongside 30 North Toronto Institute of Music students ranging in age from 8 to 16. The always entertaining Luba Goy, star of the much-loved CBC comedy series Royal Canadian Air Farce is slated to host the Halloween themed fundraiser. Tickets for the family-friendly event are now on sale with all proceeds going to support SickKids Foundation.

The North Toronto Institute of Music’s Monster Concert continues the long-standing fundraising tradition begun in the 1830s by the composer Czerny and features multiple pianists performing solos, duets and ensemble works. The first known Monster Concert held in Toronto took place in 1931 and was orchestrated by influential pianist and teacher Mona Bates to raise funds for the underprivileged. The ensemble was comprised of the best-known Bates pupils and was conducted by Bates herself. Mary Kenedi, a noted student of Mona Bates’ famed Jarvis Street music school, is dedicating the concert to the memory of her mentor. The October 31^st tribute also marks the 120^th Anniversary of Bates’ birth in Burlington, Ontario.

“I’ve always been impressed by what Mona Bates accomplished during her lifetime,” explains Mary Kenedi. “As a musician and teacher I understand the unique privilege we are given as educators to not only inspire passion in our students, but also to instill a lasting sense of discipline that will help them to achieve their goals, musical or otherwise”.

Mary Kenedi founded the North Toronto Institute of Music in 1995 as a welcoming environment for students of all ages to explore their creativity and develop an outlet for self-expression. Based on the understanding that an enhanced musical literacy provides an elevated appreciation of the art form, Mary strives to impart to her students the same passion for music that has fuelled her own compelling musical journey.

As a refugee of the Hungarian Revolution, Mary Kenedi credits her own mother’s strength and resilience for inspiring her to surmount obstacles in both her performance and teaching careers. Whether launching her own teaching academy or embarking on remarkable projects, such as single-handedly staging the upcoming Monster Concert at Massey Hall, Mary Kenedi does so with a survivor’s instinct. This extraordinary talent and drive has earned Mary a renowned reputation as an interpreter of the music of fellow Hungarians, Béla Bartók and Zoltan Kodály, as well as a respected interpreter of contemporary Canadian music. She last appeared at Massey Hall as an ensemble performer during the Royal Conservatory of Music’s 1990 Monster Concert and made her Carnegie Hall debut in 1983. She holds a Licentiate Diploma, Bachelor of Music in Performance and Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Toronto, and a Diploma from the Liszt Academy in Budapest, Hungary. In addition to her 30+ years experience teaching at such noted establishments as the Royal Conservatory and McMaster University, Kenedi maintains a busy international performance and recording schedule in solo and concerto appearances.

North Toronto Institute of Music’s Monster Concert is sponsored in-part by Remenyi House of Music with media sponsorship provided by Classical FM. For more information about Mary Kenedi and the North Toronto Institute of Music or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities please visit www.ntimusic.com or call 416-488-2588.

Tickets for the North Toronto Institute of Music’s Monster Concert are $45.00 to $25.00 and are available in person at the Roy Thomson Hall box office, 60 Simcoe St., by calling 416.872.4255 or online at www.masseyhall.com.

Monster Concert in Support of SickKids

Mary Kenedi and the North Toronto Institute of Music present

Monster Concert in Support of

SickKids Foundation
Massey Hall, Saturday, October 31, 2009, at 3 p.m.

Tickets $45.00 to $25.00 – Call 416-872-4255 or visit the Roy Thomson Hall Box Office

Mary Kenedi is seeing monsters! The respected Canadian pianist, educator and founder of the North Toronto Institute of Music will present a Monster Concert at Massey Hall at 3:00pm on Halloween, Saturday, October 31^st, 2009. This not-to-be missed concert extravaganza features popular works by Gottschalk, Rossini, Liszt, Saint-Saens and Bizet performed simultaneously on 10 Steinway grand pianos by 20 professional pianists alongside 30 North Toronto Institute of Music students ranging in age from 8 to 16. The always entertaining Luba Goy, star of the much-loved CBC comedy series Royal Canadian Air Farce is slated to host the Halloween themed fundraiser. Tickets for the family-friendly event are now on sale with all proceeds going to support SickKids Foundation.

The North Toronto Institute of Music’s Monster Concert continues the long-standing fundraising tradition begun in the 1830s by the composer Czerny and features multiple pianists performing solos, duets and ensemble works. The first known Monster Concert held in Toronto took place in 1931 and was orchestrated by influential pianist and teacher Mona Bates to raise funds for the underprivileged. The ensemble was comprised of the best-known Bates pupils and was conducted by Bates herself. Mary Kenedi, a noted student of Mona Bates’ famed Jarvis Street music school, is dedicating the concert to the memory of her mentor. The October 31^st tribute also marks the 120^th Anniversary of Bates’ birth in Burlington, Ontario.

“I’ve always been impressed by what Mona Bates accomplished during her lifetime,” explains Mary Kenedi. “As a musician and teacher I understand the unique privilege we are given as educators to not only inspire passion in our students, but also to instill a lasting sense of discipline that will help them to achieve their goals, musical or otherwise”.

Mary Kenedi founded the North Toronto Institute of Music in 1995 as a welcoming environment for students of all ages to explore their creativity and develop an outlet for self-expression. Based on the understanding that an enhanced musical literacy provides an elevated appreciation of the art form, Mary strives to impart to her students the same passion for music that has fuelled her own compelling musical journey.

As a refugee of the Hungarian Revolution, Mary Kenedi credits her own mother’s strength and resilience for inspiring her to surmount obstacles in both her performance and teaching careers. Whether launching her own teaching academy or embarking on remarkable projects, such as single-handedly staging the upcoming Monster Concert at Massey Hall, Mary Kenedi does so with a survivor’s instinct. This extraordinary talent and drive has earned Mary a renowned reputation as an interpreter of the music of fellow Hungarians, Béla Bartók and Zoltan Kodály, as well as a respected interpreter of contemporary Canadian music. She last appeared at Massey Hall as an ensemble performer during the Royal Conservatory of Music’s 1990 Monster Concert and made her Carnegie Hall debut in 1983. She holds a Licentiate Diploma, Bachelor of Music in Performance and Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Toronto, and a Diploma from the Liszt Academy in Budapest, Hungary. In addition to her 30+ years experience teaching at such noted establishments as the Royal Conservatory and McMaster University, Kenedi maintains a busy international performance and recording schedule in solo and concerto appearances.

North Toronto Institute of Music’s Monster Concert is sponsored in-part by Remenyi House of Music with media sponsorship provided by Classical FM. For more information about Mary Kenedi and the North Toronto Institute of Music or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities please visit www.ntimusic.com or call 416-488-2588.

Tickets for the North Toronto Institute of Music’s Monster Concert are $45.00 to $25.00 and are available in person at the Roy Thomson Hall box office, 60 Simcoe St., by calling 416.872.4255 or online at www.masseyhall.com.

NAC Orchestra musicians and Bursary winner perform Bursary Benefit Concert

NAC Orchestra musicians and Bursary winner perform chamber music at the NACO Bursary Benefit Concert on April 5

Ottawa, Canada – Ensembles of musicians of the National Arts Centre Orchestra, including six principal musicians plus concertmaster Yosuke Kawasaki, will join together with last year’s winner of the NACO Bursary Competition to perform an afternoon of chamber music favourites in the NAC Salon on Sunday, April 5 at 2 p.m. The Bursary Benefit Concert is organized by the musicians of the NACO Bursary Committee to raise funds towards prizes for future Competition winners, some of whom will go on to pursue careers in professional orchestras.

The Friends of the National Arts Centre Orchestra have offered to match funds raised on the day up to $2,000, so those attending this musical matinee will know that the price of their ticket will go twice as far towards supporting talented local musicians.

PROGRAM:

ROSSINI: Duo for cello and double bass in D major

Carole Sirois, cello

Joel Quarrington, double bass

BOZZA: Image for Solo Flute, Op. 38

Amelia Lyon*, flute

* 2008 NACO Bursary recipient

RAVEL: Mother Goose Suite

Joanna G’froerer, flute

Charles Hamann, oboe

Kimball Sykes, clarinet

Lawrence Vine, French horn

Christopher Millard, bassoon

DVORÁK: String Quintet in G major, Op.77

Yosuke Kawasaki, 1^st violin

Jessica Linnebach, 2^nd violin

Jethro Marks, viola

Carole Sirois, cello

Joel Quarrington, double bass

(subject to change)

The first NACO Bursary Competition was in 1981. The Bursary provides recognition and financial support to help further the development of young Canadian orchestral musicians who have connections to the National Capital Region. The first year, one prize of $1,000 was awarded. Thanks to the generosity of additional organizations and individuals, other prizes have been added for a total in 2009 of $18,750.

Don’t miss this fabulous concert and the special opportunity to contribute to the development of young musicians! Tickets for the Bursary Benefit Concert on April 5 are $15.00 (GST and Facility Fee included) and are on sale now 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 web-site at www.nac-cna.ca. Donations towards the NACO Bursary Competition will also be gratefully accepted at the door.

Concert-bénéfice avec Michel Rivard

Michel Rivard et L’Orchestre de chambre I Musici de Montréal Mercredi 22 avril 2009 20 h Théâtre Outremont 1248, avenue Bernard Ouest Concert-bénéfice au profit de L’Orchestre de chambre I Musici de Montréal Montréal, le 16 mars 2009 — Michel Rivard, l’un des auteurs-compositeurs-interprètes les plus prolifiques de la scène québécoise, se joindra à maestro Yuli Turovsky et ses Musici, pour célébrer à sa façon le 25e anniversaire de L’Orchestre. Pour un soir seulement, Michel Rivard revisite ses plus belles chansons enjolivées par les riches sonorités de l’orchestre de chambre mondialement reconnu. Des classiques revus et inspirés grâce aux orchestrations originales de Blair Thomson procureront un bonheur certain. Et pour notre plus grand plaisir, ce concert-bénéfice dévoilera un Michel Rivard mélomane et passionné de musique classique. Ses pièces favorites du répertoire de L’Orchestre seront interprétées par I Musici de Montréal. Michel Rivard Photographe: Jean-François Gratton « Les musiciennes et musiciens d' I MUSICI DE MONTRÉAL sont des virtuoses capables de mettre leur talent au service d'un formidable son d'ensemble. Je les ai d'abord connus sur disque et le coup de foudre initial ne s'est jamais estompé. En concert, leur éclectisme est une force palpable. Chanter avec eux est non seulement un honneur, c'est aussi un plaisir que j'ai très hâte de revivre.» Michel Rivard Deux explorateurs qui s’aventurent vers de nouvelles avenues musicales Michel Rivard, auteur-compositeur-interprète, comédien et ex-joueur de la Ligue nationale d’improvisation s’est produit avec divers orchestres québécois. Sur la scène du Théâtre Outremont nous retrouverons des incontournables de ce poète urbain tels que La lune d’automne, L’oubli, Je voudrais voir la mer, Un trou dans les nuages, Le Privé, Rivière et Les chemins de gravelle. Endossant l’habit de maître de cérémonie, Michel Rivard introduira ses coups de cœur du répertoire d’ I Musici de Montréal : Prélude et Scherzo de Chostakovitch, l’Adagio pour cordes de Barber et la Petite musique de nuit de Mozart. Rencontre de deux univers, les chansons de Rivard nichées dans de magnifiques orchestrations et de très belles pages de la musique classique savoureusement interprétées par I Musici de Montréal. Depuis sa fondation, I Musici de Montréal multiplie les collaborations avec des artistes issus de divers horizons. Des aventures musicales inédites où maestro Turovsky et ses Musici ont partagé la scène avec, entre autres, Oliver Jones, Omara Portuondo, Michel Legrand, Nathalie Choquette, l’ensemble Kleztory ou encore avec les comédiens Albert Millaire et Kim Yaroshevskaya. Récemment, L’Orchestre participait aux spectacles de Ma vie avec Mozart de et avec l’écrivain et dramaturge français Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt (Festival Montréal en lumière). Célébrez avec Michel Rivard les 25 ans de L’Orchestre de chambre I Musici de Montréal Le 22 avril, soyez de la fête, soufflez avec nous les 25 chandelles de L’Orchestre! Une soirée festive qui sera mémorable à souhait. Assistez au concert-bénéfice et exprimez votre passion pour I Musici. Au Théâtre Outremont, 1248, avenue Bernard Ouest. Coût des billets : 46.75 $ (régulier), 66,75 $ (donateur) et 101.75 $ (VIP). Renseignements et billetterie : 514 982-6038 ou à info@imusici.com Pour en savoir davantage sur notre 25e saison : www.imusici.com I Musici de Montréal tient à remercier Radio-Classique Montréal CJPX 99, 5 fm et Rock Détente 107, 3 fm les partenaires médias pour cet événement-bénéfice Michel Rivard & L'Orchestre de chambre I Musici de Montréal Wednesday, April 22, 2009 8 PM The Outremont Theatre 1248 Bernard Avenue West Benefit Concert for the L'Orchestre de chambre I Musici de Montréal Montreal, March 16, 2009 — Michel Rivard, one of Quebec's most prolific writer-composer-musician, joins Maestro Yuli Turovsky and his Musici to celebrate the orchestra's 25th anniversary. For one night only, Michel Rivard will revisit his most beautiful songs embellished by the rich sonority of the world-renowned chamber orchestra. His classics, revisited and inspired by the original orchestration of Blair Thomson, will deliver certain happiness. And for our great pleasure, this benefit concert will reveal Michel Rivard as a passionate lover of classical music. His favourite pieces of the orchestra's repertoire will be interpreted by I Musici de Montréal. Michel Rivard Photographe: Jean-François Gratton "The musicians of I Musici de Montreal are virtuosi capable of using their talent in service to a wonderful ensemble sound. I first knew of them on CD and the initial love at first sight has never dimmed. In concert, their eclecticism is a palpable force. Singing with them is not only an honour, but also a pleasure which I am very much looking forward to again." Michel Rivard Two explorers on an adventure towards a new musical destination! Michel Rivard, writer-composer-musician, actor and ex-player on the "Ligue nationale d'improvisation", has performed with various Quebec orchestras. On stage at the Outremont Theatre, we will find the wonderful songs of this urban poet such as La Lune d'automne, L'oubli, Je voudrais voir la mer, Un trou dans les nuages, Le Privé, Rivière and Les chemins de gravelle. Playing the role of master of ceremonies, Michel Rivard will introduce his favourite pieces of I Musici's repertoire: Prelude and Scherzo by Shostakovich, Barber's Adagio, and A Little Night Music by Mozart. A meeting of two universes, Rivard's songs nested in magnificent orchestrations and very beautiful pieces of classical music interpreted deliciously by I Musici de Montréal. Since its beginning, L'Orchestre de chambre I Musici de Montréal has been multiplying its collaborations with artists from various horizons. Musical adventures where Yuli Turovsky and his Musici have shared the stage, amongst others,with Oliver Jones, Omara Portuondo, Michel Legrand, Nathalie Choquette, Kleztory as well as actors Albert Millaire and Kim Yaroshevskaya. Recently, the orchestra participated in the show Ma vie avec Mozart with writer/playwright Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt (Montreal Highlights Festival). Celebrate L'Orchestre de chambre I Musici de Montreal's 25th anniversary with Michel Rivard! On April 22nd, be part of the party! A surely memorable festive evening! Come express your passion for I Musici de Montréal at this Benefit Concert. Ticket prices: $46.75 (regular), $66.75 (donor) and $101.75 (VIP) Information and tickets: 514-982-6038 or at info@imusici.com To know more about our 25th season: www.imusici.com I Musici would like to thank media partners Radio-Classique Montreal CJPX 99, 5 fm and Rock Détente 107, 3 fm for supporting this benefit concert.

PSO Joins Orchestras Feeding America to Benefit Preble Street, April 4 & 5

Portland Symphony Orchestra to join Orchestras Feeding America to Benefit Preble Street, April 4 and 5
National food drive inspired by the upcoming film The Soloist

PORTLAND, Maine – The Portland Symphony Orchestra (PSO) will participate in Orchestras Feeding America, the first national food drive by America's symphony orchestras. Volunteers will collect non-perishable food at the PSO's "Dance! Dance! Dance!" concerts featuring Music Director Robert Moody conducting with Fred Strickler, tap dancer, and Neos Dance Theater on April 4 and 5 in the lobby of Merrill Auditorium. All food collected will be donated to Preble Street. For hours and collection details visit portlandsymphony.com.

To date, almost 200 orchestras have come together to combat hunger in their communities through Orchestras Feeding America, and the number of participants is growing daily. The project will take place in March and April, and is organized by the League of American Orchestras (representing the nation's professional, volunteer and youth orchestras) and Feeding America's network of over 200 food banks and 63,000 agencies. The drive was inspired by the true story characterized in the upcoming film The Soloist starring Jamie Fox and Robert Downey Jr.

Ari Solotoff, PSO's Executive Director, stated, "We all are feeling the effects of this economic crisis, but we cannot let that stop us from helping our neighbors in greater need. Our orchestra's music uplifts people, but with this project we can do more to support the community that has supported us for so long."

One in eight Americans is at risk of hunger. According to the USDA, there are 36 million people at risk of hunger in the U.S.; 12 million of them are children. Maine is one of the two most food-insecure states in the nation, and at Preble Street, the demand for emergency food assistance has increased 30%. The food pantry and soup kitchen have served a record number of meals in the past four months.

The Soloist, directed by Joe Wright, will be released by Paramount Pictures to theaters nationwide on April 24. A Dreamworks Pictures/Universal Pictures presentation in association with Studio Canal and Participant Media, the film is based on the true story of the relationship between Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez and Nathaniel Ayers, a gifted Juilliard-trained string player whose mental illness landed him among the homeless on the streets of Los Angeles. Their relationship expanded to include staff and musicians of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The Soloist, which also features the Los Angeles Philharmonic, is a testament to the redemptive power of music and a reminder of our connections to the most vulnerable among us.

Ticket prices for the "Dance! Dance! Dance!" concerts range from $17 to $62, with special pricing available for students, seniors and groups. All Portland Symphony Orchestra tickets are sold through PortTix at (207) 842-0800 or www.porttix.com. (Phone and internet orders subject to $5 per ticket handling fee.) Tickets may also be purchased in person at the box office at 20 Myrtle St., Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.

Serving the city of Portland, the State of Maine, and Northern New England, the 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. For more information visit portlandsymphony.com.

Preble Street works to make sure that youth, adults, and families who have no home will not go hungry, will not have to be on the street when they are tired or sick or cold, will not have to live in fear and danger, and will have a chance to move beyond homelessness. For more information visit preblestreet.org.

PSO Annual Wine Challenge & Auction, March 30

Portland Symphony Orchestra's Annual Wine Dinner Benefit Features Australian Wines and an Unusual Challenge for Chefs, March 30

FREEPORT, Maine – The Portland Symphony Orchestra (PSO)'s eagerly awaited annual Wine Challenge and Auction turns the traditional standard of pairing wines with a particular menu on its head – instead of matching wines to the food, chefs prepare each course to complement the wine selections. Held March 30 at the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport beginning at 5:00 p.m., this year's benefit will feature Australian wines, world-class Maine chefs and live and silent auctions.

Presented by Acadia Trust, N.A. the Australian Wine Challenge features Peter Lehmann Wines from the Hess Fine Wine Estates. The festive evening begins with wine and hors d'oeuvres during the silent auction at 5:00 p.m. Following the silent auction, guests will begin a carefully-crafted multi-course meal representing Maine finest culinary talents including:

• Jonathan Cartwright: Executive Chef, White Barn Inn, Kennebunkport
• Steve Corry: Proprietor & Executive Chef, Five Fifty-Five, Portland
• Mitchell Kaldrovich: Executive Chef, Inn By the Sea, Cape Elizabeth
• Gallit Sammon: Chef de Cuisine, Harraseeket Inn, Freeport
• Melody Wolfertz: Proprietor & Executive Chef, In Good Company, Rockland

Dinner is followed by the live auction and dessert beginning at 8:30 p.m. The live and silent auctions feature diverse and unusual items donated by Maine artists and businesses in support of the PSO. Items include exciting getaways, event tickets, fine dining, unique gifts, accommodations, services, jewelry and more. A highlight of the live auction offerings is a tour of Australian wine country.

All proceeds from the Australian Wine Challenge & Auction benefit the Portland Symphony Orchestra and its education and community outreach programs.

The Wine Challenge sells out quickly, but reservations can be made now by calling (207) 773-6128 x309 or emailing events@portlandsymphony.com. Tickets to the dinner are $150 each. Tables of ten guests may be hosted for $1,500.

For more information about the Portland Symphony Orchestra, its events and activities, visit www.portlandsymphony.com.

19th Annual Symphony Lovers' Ball - Most Successful Ever!

The 19^th Annual Symphony Lovers’ Ball –

Most Successful Ever!

Vancouver BC – The Vancouver Symphony announces that the 19th Annual Symphony Lovers' Ball held on Thursday, February 12^th, 2009, in the Pacific Ballroom of the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver was the most successful ever, thanks in great part to the critical support of our sponsors in Vancouver’s corporate community! We are thrilled to report that this event netted $620,000 to VSO operations.

Hosted by Master of Ceremonies Christopher Gaze, Vancouver’s very own Bard, more than 400 guests enjoyed an evening inspired by the remarkable achievements of this past year: winning a GRAMMY and a JUNO award, the Raymond James Beethoven Festival (all nine of Beethoven’s symphonies performed chronologically), the Wall Centre Brahms Festival (all four of Brahms symphonies performed chronologically, as well as all of his concertos), and the VSO’s triumphant Asia-Pacific Tour to China, South Korea, and the Special Administrative Region of Macau. Later this season, commencing May 1^st, the VSO will also tour Eastern Canada, making stops in Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, and Ottawa.

“The entire Symphony Lovers’ Ball Committee is so proud to support the VSO,” said Maria Menten, Volunteer Chair of the Lovers’ Ball Committee. “To have raised more than ever before is especially thrilling given today’s economic climate. It really speaks to the understanding of the VSO’s value as a pillar of our community, and a cultural pillar of our society. We couldn’t be happier!”

Vancouver Symphony Society Chair, Arthur Willms stated, “Thanks to our extraordinary volunteers, dedicated sponsors and generous attendees, this year’s Symphony Lovers’ Ball was a particular triumph. Not only did we raise more money than ever before in benefit our community’s cultural cornerstone, but we did it during incredibly tough economic times. This year, over 50,000 children will experience the wonder of the VSO through various educational initiatives and programs, thanks to such thoughtful generosity.”

The funds raised at the annual Symphony Lovers’ Balls support the VSO's performances each season of more than 140 concerts featuring over 60 celebrated guest artists attended by more than 250,000 people in 12 venues throughout the Lower Mainland. It also contributes to VSO education programs that reach more than 50,000 children each year. Since its inception in 1991, the Symphony Lovers' Ball has netted over $5 million in support of the Vancouver Symphony's many projects and continuing operations.

The Vancouver Symphony gratefully acknowledges the following for their generous support of the Nineteenth Annual Symphony Lovers’ Ball:

SUPER SPONSORS

Blake Cassels & Graydon LLP

Borden Ladner Gervais LLP

Concord Pacific Group Inc.

Deloitte

Ernst & Young LLP

Goldcorp Inc.

HSBC Bank Canada

Pacific Newspaper Group

Wesbild Holdings Ltd.

We would also like to thank the following for their generous support

Chan Foundation of Canada – Rix Family Foundation

EVENT SPONSORS

Anthem Properties

Eminata Group

Peter Kiewit Sons Co.

Larco Investments Ltd.

Polygon Homes Ltd.

Raymond James

Rennie Marketing Systems

TELUS

We would also like to thank the following for their generous support

Arthur H. Willms & Mary Ann Clark

MAESTRO’S CIRCLE

Allied Holdings

CIBC World Markets

Kingwood Capital Corporation

KPMG LLP

Larkspur Foundation

Michael O'Brian Foundation for the Arts

Opus Hotels - Stikeman Elliott

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Spectra Energy

CONCERTMASTER’S CIRCLE

Deans Knight - Haywood Securities

Genus Capital Management

Philips, Hager & North

Stikeman Elliott

The James and Kathleen Winton Foundation

Renee Fleming with the PSO

Renée Fleming Benefit Concert with Robert Moody and Portland Symphony Orchestra Merrill's Highest Grossing Show in History In the wake of financial hardship at the PSO, concert brings record sales PORTLAND, Maine – Some much-needed good news for the Portland Symphony Orchestra (PSO) and the arts community in Maine: last night's once-in-a-lifetime endowment benefit concert featuring superstar soprano Renée Fleming in her Maine debut was the highest grossing show in the history of Merrill Auditorium. The concert sold out a week in advance and will contribute over $50,000 to the PSO's battered Endowment Fund. This is the first time in the almost 85-year history of the PSO that the organization has held an endowment benefit concert. Renée Fleming charmed audiences at Merrill with her performances from both the classical and popular repertoire including: Richard Strauss' Four Last Songs, "I Could Have Danced All Night" from My Fair Lady, "Summertime" from Gershwin's Porgy and Bess, and more. The PSO's endowment provides financial security for the PSO's concert and education activities, and acts as a safety net especially during fluctuations in the economic climate. "This concert was a positive step in the right direction for the PSO during this time of increasing financial hardship," said PSO Executive Director Ari Solotoff.  Solotoff added, "Renée Fleming was a smashing success with the PSO – it was a thrill to have her perform, and a coup for our city, the Symphony, and the community members who had the opportunity to see Ms. Fleming in this unprecedented concert opportunity." Serving the city of Portland, the state of Maine, and northern New England, the PSO is the largest performing arts organization in the state. With new musical leadership, critically acclaimed performances, and broad community engagement, the PSO is among the top symphony orchestras of its size in the country. For complete season information, including artist biographies and program notes, visit www.portlandsymphony.com.

Concert bénéfice pour La Scena Musicale

Concert de la Saint-Valentin par trois grands choeurs montréalais en appui à La Scena Musicale

Montréal, le dimanche 8 février 2009- Le milieu choral de Montréal salue Wah Keung Chan, fondateur et éditeur de la revue de musique classique La Scena Musicale, par un concert bénéfice donné au profit de la publication. L'événement aura lieu le 14 février à 20 h à la salle Pollack de la faculté de musique de l'Université McGill. Il réunira trois des meilleurs chœurs de la métropole: Concerto Della Donna, Musica Orbium et le Studio de Musique ancienne de Montréal, dirigés respectivement par les piliers de la musique chorale à Montréal que sont Iwan Edwards, Patrick Wedd and Christopher Jackson. Au programme, des chants d'amour de toutes les époques, depuis Gabrieli et Palestrina jusqu'à Copland et Gershwin. Ayant exécuté chacun une portion du programme, les trois ensembles uniront leurs voix pour le grand finale.

Iwan Edwards, directeur artistique de la soirée et membre de l'Ordre du Canada (1995), explique: «Patrick Wedd, Christopher Jackson et moi avons réuni nos choeurs deux fois déjà, pour des concerts du matin de Pâques à la radio de CBC. Je suis ravi que mes éminents collègues acceptent de renouveler l'expérience. Ce concert de gala est une occasion pour nous d'exprimer la profonde admiration que nous portons à Wah Keung Chan pour l'incomparable apport à la vie musicale qu'est La Scena Musicale.»

L'aventure de La Scena Musicale commençait en 1996, lorsque Wah Keung Chan publiait un calendrier musical sur deux pages des concerts présentés à Montréal; avec le temps, le petit bulletin s'est transformé en revue nationale des arts de la scène et de la musique avec articles de fond, critiques de disques et guides de l'enseignement de la musique ; plus récemment, La Scena Musicale s'est portée à la défense de la musique et des arts. « En assistant à cette soirée, dit l'éditeur, les amateurs de musique feront plus que s'offrir un magnifique concert, ils participeront avec La Scena Musicale à la promotion de la belle et grande musique partout au pays. »

Billets:

30 $ - réguliers

20 $ - étudiants et aînés (se les procurer à La Scena Musicale, au guichet de la faculté de musique de McGill ou aux points de vente Admission).

130 $ - les meilleurs sièges et réception pré-concert en compagnie des trois chefs de chœur (s'adresser directement à La Scena Musicale)

La Scena Musicale
Tél. : 514-948-2520
Courriel : gala2009@scena.org
(cartes VISA, MasterCard et AMEX)

Guichet de McGill:
Tél. : 514-398-4547.
(cartes VISA et MasterCard)

Points de vente Admission. Frais de service.

514-790-1245 or 1-800-361-4595

Info: Dawna Coleman, 514-948-2520, dawnacoleman@scena.org

Programme :

Le programme

Concerto Della Donna
Directeur: Iwan Edwards
directrice ajointe: Amy Henderson

Minnelied (Op. 4 Heft 1) ………………………….......Johannes Brahms

Embraceable you...……….....Ira and George Gershwin, arr. Arne Dagsvik

Autumn of love (Seasons of love, No. 3) ……………......Eleanor Daley

Dacw 'nghariad I lawr yn y berllan …………............. arr. Grace Williams

Bonjour, mon cœur.....……...........Orlando di Lasso, arr. Norman Greyson

It was a lover and his lass........……..…..………………..........Ward Swingle

Musica Orbium

Patrick Wedd, directeur artistique

Songs and Sonnets from Shakespeare .................................George Shearing

Live with me and be my love
When daffodils begin to peer
It was a lover and his lass
Spring
Who is Sylvia?
Fie on sinful fantasy
Hey, ho, the wind and the rain

----------------------------------------------------- Entracte -----------------------------------------------------------

Studio de musique ancienne de Montréal
Directeur artistique: Christopher Jackson

Cantique des cantiques.......................................Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Introduxit me rex

Vox dilecti mei

Surge, propera, amica mea

Vidi speciosam…………………………………Tomas Luis de Victoria

Trois chœurs

Tous unis en chanson …………………………………......Paul Halley
Lieto godea sedendo ………………………….......Giovanni Gabrieli
Las agachadas ………………………………................Aaron Copland

Community Update Event Submission

La Scena Musicale Valentine's Day Choral Love Songs Benefit Concert

February 14, 2009 at 8 PM, Pollack Hall
555 Sherbrooke West, Montreal

Musicians:

Iwan Edwards, Concerto Della Donna,
Christopher Jackson, Studio de musique ancienne de Montréal,

Patrick Wedd, Musica Orbium

Choral Love Songs by Palestrina, Gabrieli, Copland and Gershwin

Concept:

Montreal's choral community is expressing their support for the classical music magazine La Scena Musicale and its founder Wah Keung Chan by collaborating in a benefit concert supporting the publication. The event, scheduled for 8 p.m. on February 14, 2009, features three of Montreal's top choirs: Concerto Della Donna, Musica Orbium, and the Studio de Musique ancienne de Montréal, conducted by stalwarts of the Montreal choral scene Iwan Edwards, Patrick Wedd and Christopher Jackson, respectively. The ensembles will perform choral love songs from Gabrieli and Palestrina to Copland and Gershwin, with each choir singing their own segment and then joining forces for the finale.

Read the entire press release at http://www.scena.org/blog/newswire/2009/01/three-of-montreals-top-choirs-support.html

VIP Tickets: $130 (including pre-concert reception and a $100 tax receipt)

Concert Tickets:
30 $ (regular);
20 $ (seniors);
20 $ (students)

514-948-2520 * gala2009@scena.org

www.scena.org

Info: Dawna Coleman, 514-948-2520, dawnacoleman@scena.org

----

Concert Program


Concerto Della Donna
Director: Iwan Edwards
Assistant director: Amy Henderson

Minnelied (Op. 4 Heft 1) ŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠ.......Johannes Brahms

Embraceable you...ŠŠŠ.....Ira and George Gershwin, arr. Arne Dagsvik

Autumn of love (Seasons of love, No. 3) ŠŠŠŠŠ......Eleanor Daley

Dacw 'nghariad I lawr yn y berllan ŠŠŠŠ............. arr. Grace Williams

Bonjour, mon c¦ur.....ŠŠ...........Orlando di Lasso, arr. Norman Greyson

It was a lover and his lass........ŠŠ..Š..ŠŠŠŠŠŠ..........Ward Swingle

Musica Orbium
Patrick Wedd, directeur artistique

Songs and Sonnets from Shakespeare .................................George Shearing

Live with me and be my love
When daffodils begin to peer
It was a lover and his lass
Spring
Who is Sylvia?
Fie on sinful fantasy
Hey, ho, the wind and the rain

-----------------------------------------------------Intermission---- -------------------------------------------------------

Studio de musique ancienne de Montréal
Direction artistique: Christopher Jackson

Cantique des cantiques.......................................Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Introduxit me rex
Vox dilecti mei

Surge, propera, amica mea

Vidi speciosamŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠTomas Luis de Victoria

Combined Choirs
Tous unis en chanson ŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠ......Paul Halley
Lieto godea sedendo ŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠ.......Giovanni Gabrieli
Las agachadas ŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠŠ................Aaron Copland

Ottawa Chamber Music Society ~ Beethoven Benefits the Ottawa Chamber Music Society

BEETHOVEN BENEFITS

THE OTTAWA CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ottawa (January 27, 2009) – The Ottawa Chamber Music Society is proud to present the Gryphon Trio and special guest mezzo-soprano Julie Nesrallah in a benefit concert for the Ottawa Chamber Music Society featuring a spectacular all-Beethoven program. The concert will take place Thursday, February 5 at 7:30 PM at Dominion-Chalmers United Church and will include a selection of Beethoven’s charming Op. 108 Scottish Songs, the Trio in G major Op. 1, No. 2, and will conclude with the Trio in B flat Op. 97 Archduke, one of the greatest chamber works of all time.

Featuring one of his first published chamber works as well as one of his best known, the program also includes lesser known arrangements of folk music that Beethoven produced “on the side”. All proceeds from this concert will support the year-round musical presentations and the education and outreach initiatives presented by the Ottawa Chamber Music Society.

“This unusual Beethoven concert is guaranteed to delight audiences. One of Beethoven’s earliest published works, the Piano Trio No. 2 in G major, is a sparkling work that features great breadth and brilliance and reveals the promise of even greater works to come,” enthuses Roman Borys, cellist for the Gryphon Trio.

A collection of Beethoven’s lively and lyrical folksongs are beautifully performed in a premiere collaboration with Ottawa artist Julie Nesrallah and the Gryphon Trio. Beethoven arranged over 200 Scottish, Welsh, Irish, English and other folk songs, most of which are virtually unknown today. While some suggest that he arranged these songs to earn extra money, their charm suggests that the great master truly enjoyed this form of composition. The stunning program concludes with the Piano Trio No. 7 in B-flat major, opus 97, Archduke. Composed in honour of his long-time patron and dear friend, Archduke Rudolph, Beethoven’s passionate and touching Archduke Trio continues to stand today as one of the greatest works of chamber music ever written.

Single tickets for the benefit concert can be purchased for the special sale price of $30 - $47 and are available at the Ottawa Chamber Music Society box office (401-200 Isabella Street), by calling 613-234-8008, or at the door.

Concert de la Saint-Valentin par trois grands choeurs montrèalais en appui La Scena

Concert de la Saint-Valentin par trois grands choeurs montréalais en appui à La Scena Musicale

Montréal, 19 janvier 2009- Le milieu choral de Montréal salue Wah Keung Chan, fondateur et éditeur de la revue de musique classique La Scena Musicale, par un concert bénéfice donné au profit de la publication le 14 février à 20 h à la salle Pollack de la faculté de musique de l'Université McGill ?. L'événement réunira trois des meilleurs chœurs de la métropole: Concerto Della Donna, Musica Orbium et le Studio de Musique ancienne de Montréal, dirigés respectivement par les piliers de la musique chorale à Montréal que sont Iwan Edwards, Patrick Wedd and Christopher Jackson. Au programme, des chants d'amour de toutes les époques, depuis Gabrieli et Palestrina jusqu'à Copland et Gershwin. Ayant exécuté chacun une portion du programme, les trois ensembles uniront leurs voix pour le grand finale.

Iwan Edwards, directeur artistique de la soirée et membre de l'Ordre du Canada (1995), explique: «Patrick Wedd, Christopher Jackson et moi avons réuni nos choeurs deux fois déjà, pour des concerts du matin de Pâques à la radio de CBC. Je suis ravi que mes éminents collègues acceptent de renouveler l'expérience. Ce concert de gala est une occasion pour nous d'exprimer la profonde admiration que nous portons à Wah Keung Chan pour l'incomparable apport à la vie musicale qu'est La Scena Musicale.»

L'aventure de La Scena Musicale commençait en 1996, lorsque Wah Keung Chan publiait un calendrier musical sur deux pages des concerts présentés à Montréal; avec le temps, le petit bulletin s'est transformé en revue nationale des arts de la scène et de la musique avec articles de fond, critiques de disques et guides de l'enseignement de la musique ; plus récemment, La Scena Musicale s'est portée à la défense de la musique et des arts. « En assistant à cette soirée, dit l'éditeur, les amateurs de musique feront plus que s'offrir un magnifique concert, ils participeront avec La Scena Musicale à la promotion de la belle et grande musique partout au pays. »

Billets:

30 $ - réguliers

20 $ - étudiants et aînés (se les procurer à La Scena Musicale, au guichet de la faculté de musique de McGill ou aux points de vente Admission).

130 $ - les meilleurs sièges et réception pré-concert en compagnie des trois chefs de chœur (s'adresser directement à La Scena Musicale)

Pour voir le programme.

La Scena Musicale
Tél. : 514-948-2520
Courriel : gala2009@scena.org
(cartes VISA, MasterCard et AMEX)

Guichet de McGill:
Tél. : 514-398-4547.
(cartes VISA et MasterCard)

Points de vente Admission. Frais de service.

Three of Montreal's top choirs support La Scena Musicale in Valentine's Benefit Con

Three of Montreal's top choirs support La Scena Musicale in Valentine's Benefit Concert

Montreal--January 19, 2009-- Montreal's choral community is expressing their support for Wah Keung Chan, founding editor and publisher of the classical music magazine La Scena Musicale, by collaborating in a benefit concert supporting the publication. The event, scheduled for 8 p.m. on February 14, 2009, features three of Montreal's top choirs: Concerto Della Donna, Musica Orbium, and the Studio de Musique ancienne de Montréal, conducted by stalwarts of the Montreal choral scene Iwan Edwards, Patrick Wedd and Christopher Jackson, respectively. The ensembles will perform choral love songs from Gabrieli and Palestrina to Copland and Gershwin, with each choir singing their own segment and then joining forces for the finale.

Edwards, a Member of the Order of Canada since 1995 and the concert's artistic director, says, "Christopher, Patrick and I had worked together on the CBC Radio Easter Morning Sunrise Service from Montreal on two separate occasions, so I was delighted when these outstanding directors and their ensembles agreed to collaborate once again, particularly since it gave us the opportunity to express our admiration for Wah Keung Chan and the tremendous contribution he has made to classical music through La Scena Musicale."

Chan started the publication in 1996, as a 2-page newsletter focusing on Montreal concert listings; it soon grew to a full-fledged magazine covering arts and music nationwide, including articles, CD reviews, music education guides, and recently, it has come to the defense of music and the arts. Chan says, "by attending this concert, music lovers will not only be treated to a great evening of choral love songs, they will be partnering with La Scena Musicale in promoting high quality music-making across the country."

Tickets are $30 (regular price) and $20 (student/senior), available at La Scena Musicale, the McGill Box Office, and local Admission outlets. VIP seating and the chance to meet the conductors at a pre-concert reception are available for $130.

For more info about the concert and the programme, click here.

La Scena Musicale
Tel: (514) 948-2520
E-mail: gala2009@scena.org
(VISA, MasterCard, or AMEX accepted, VIP admission only available directly through LSM)

McGill box office:
514-398-4547.
(VISA or MasterCard accepted)

Admission outlets. Service charges apply.

514-790-1245 or 1-800-361-4595

Info: Dawna Coleman, 514-948-2520, dawnacoleman@scena.org

Concert de la Saint-Valentin par trois grands choeurs montréalais en appui à La Scena Musicale

[English version]

Montréal, 19 janvier 2009- Le milieu choral de Montréal salue Wah Keung Chan, fondateur et éditeur de la revue de musique classique La Scena Musicale, par un concert bénéfice donné au profit de la publication le 14 février à 20 h à la salle Pollack de la faculté de musique de l'Université McGill. L'événement réunira trois des meilleurs chœurs de la métropole: Concerto Della Donna, Musica Orbium et le Studio de Musique ancienne de Montréal, dirigés respectivement par les piliers de la musique chorale à Montréal que sont Iwan Edwards, Patrick Wedd and Christopher Jackson. Au programme, des chants d'amour de toutes les époques, depuis Gabrieli et Palestrina jusqu'à Copland et Gershwin. Ayant exécuté chacun une portion du programme, les trois ensembles uniront leurs voix pour le grand finale.

Iwan Edwards, directeur artistique de la soirée et membre de l'Ordre du Canada (1995), explique: «Patrick Wedd, Christopher Jackson et moi avons réuni nos choeurs deux fois déjà, pour des concerts du matin de Pâques à la radio de CBC. Je suis ravi que mes éminents collègues acceptent de renouveler l'expérience. Ce concert de gala est une occasion pour nous d'exprimer la profonde admiration que nous portons à Wah Keung Chan pour l'incomparable apport à la vie musicale qu'est La Scena Musicale.»

L'aventure de La Scena Musicale commençait en 1996, lorsque Wah Keung Chan publiait un calendrier musical sur deux pages des concerts présentés à Montréal; avec le temps, le petit bulletin s'est transformé en revue nationale des arts de la scène et de la musique avec articles de fond, critiques de disques et guides de l'enseignement de la musique ; plus récemment, La Scena Musicale s'est portée à la défense de la musique et des arts. « En assistant à cette soirée, dit l'éditeur, les amateurs de musique feront plus que s'offrir un magnifique concert, ils participeront avec La Scena Musicale à la promotion de la belle et grande musique partout au pays. »

Billets:

30 $ - réguliers

20 $ - étudiants et aînés (se les procurer à La Scena Musicale, au guichet de la faculté de musique de McGill ou aux points de vente Admission).

130 $ - les meilleurs sièges et réception pré-concert en compagnie des trois chefs de chœur (s'adresser directement à La Scena Musicale)

Pour voir le programme.

La Scena Musicale
Tél. : 514-948-2520
Courriel : gala2009@scena.org
(cartes VISA, MasterCard et AMEX)

Guichet de McGill:
Tél. : 514-398-4547.
(cartes VISA et MasterCard)

Points de vente Admission. Frais de service.

514-790-1245 or 1-800-361-4595

Info: Dawna Coleman, 514-948-2520, dawnacoleman@scena.org

Three of Montreal's top choirs support La Scena Musicale in Valentine's Benefit Concert

[Version française]

Montreal--January 19, 2009-- Montreal's choral community is expressing their support for Wah Keung Chan, founding editor and publisher of the classical music magazine La Scena Musicale, by collaborating in a benefit concert supporting the publication. The event, scheduled for 8 p.m. on February 14, 2009, features three of Montreal's top choirs: Concerto Della Donna, Musica Orbium, and the Studio de Musique ancienne de Montréal, conducted by stalwarts of the Montreal choral scene Iwan Edwards, Patrick Wedd and Christopher Jackson, respectively. The ensembles will perform choral love songs from Gabrieli and Palestrina to Copland and Gershwin, with each choir singing their own segment and then joining forces for the finale.

Edwards, a Member of the Order of Canada since 1995 and the concert's artistic director, says, "Christopher, Patrick and I had worked together on the CBC Radio Easter Morning Sunrise Service from Montreal on two separate occasions, so I was delighted when these outstanding directors and their ensembles agreed to collaborate once again, particularly since it gave us the opportunity to express our admiration for Wah Keung Chan and the tremendous contribution he has made to classical music through La Scena Musicale."

Chan started the publication in 1996, as a 2-page newsletter focusing on Montreal concert listings; it soon grew to a full-fledged magazine covering arts and music nationwide, including articles, CD reviews, music education guides, and recently, it has come to the defense of music and the arts. Chan says, "by attending this concert, music lovers will not only be treated to a great evening of choral love songs, they will be partnering with La Scena Musicale in promoting high quality music-making across the country."

Tickets are $30 (regular price) and $20 (student/senior), available at La Scena Musicale, the McGill Box Office, and local Admission outlets. VIP seating and the chance to meet the conductors at a pre-concert reception are available for $130.

For more info about the concert and the programme, click here.

La Scena Musicale
Tel: (514) 948-2520
E-mail: gala2009@scena.org
(VISA, MasterCard, or AMEX accepted, VIP admission only available directly through LSM)

McGill box office:
514-398-4547.
(VISA or MasterCard accepted)

Admission outlets. Service charges apply.

514-790-1245 or 1-800-361-4595

Info: Dawna Coleman, 514-948-2520, dawnacoleman@scena.org