At their June Board meeting, the arts council awarded Contracted Service Agreements in varying amounts to four local arts groups. Financial aid is granted to successful applicants presenting a public seminar, workshop, performance, exhibit or other event with an arts focus that upholds the mandates of the arts council. As such, these events now become an extension of the work of the arts council.
The Desert Sage Spinners and Weavers received funding for an eco-dyeing workshop with Coby VanDerGaast at the Quail’s Nest Arts Centre this summer. VanderGaast is an instuctor in the fibre program at Kootenay School of the Arts at Selkirk College in Nelson, B. C. She is also an organic farmer and is currently growing dye plants for Earthues, a natural colour company based in Seattle. Desert Sage regularly seeks arts council funding, enabling them to hire professional instructors in the fibre arts.
The Oliver Handbell Ringers were awarded financial aid to purchase sheet music for two public performances in the 2011 – 2012 season. This is the first year the Handbell Ringers have been members of the arts council and applied for funding. The arts council was especially pleased to see a new group apply — and apply successfully.
Another first-time applicant, although long-time member of the arts council, was the Oliver Sagebrushers. The painting club received funding for a public demonstration and exhibit entitled “En Plein Air Painting at Rustico Winery” on the weekend of September 10 – 11. The public can watch artists at their easels at scenic locations around the vineyard and winery. Arts council funding will cover publicity and live music at the event.
The South Okanagan Concert Society, which has relied on arts council support for many years, has been awarded $500 towards expenses for their 2011-2012 season. The season is a promising one, including
Fri. October 28: Alexander Sevastian, solo accordionFri. Nov 25: Kallisto Trio, a capella female trioFri. Jan 27: Daniel Bolshoy, solo guitaristFri. Feb 24 : Penderecki String Quartet
$60 regular flex pass and $20 single ticket. Tickets at Beyond Bliss, Oliver and Imperial Office Pro, Osoyoos. All performances at Oliver Alliance Church.
Congratulations to the successful applicants! Please attend these fine artistic events over the next year of programming!
Photo Credits: Gail Erickson, Val Freisen (file photos)
Here’s something that will warm your heart and make you smile! Support our young local performers by attending the Showcase of talent concert Wednesday May 4 at 7 p.m. at the Quail’s Nest Arts Centre.
It’s been ten years already, since Alice Deroche started waving her arms (and sometimes stamping her feet ) in front of a motley crew of local yokels who grew into their name: The Sage Valley Voices! Her dream of a thriving community choir singing and smiling their way through the seasons, sometimes with a bit of musical theatre thrown in, making happy and pleasing sounds, continues to be fulfilled as evidenced by the growth of our audiences. The choir’s performances at the Oliver United Church are most often sold out, and the choir has grown too, numbering almost 50 now, doubling in size since the beginning and challenging Alice to keep us all in line.
We’ll be singing in style for the tenth spring in a row. Come help us celebrate Alice for her years of dedication creating these programs and offering them to you. Come join our party as we dream of yesteryear, presenting many of the favourites we’ve performed in the past. (Photo at left is from the 2010 concert “Sixties with a Twist”) We’ve prepared love songs, sad songs, a bit of country, certainly spiritual and gospel. Rumours of guest appearances the likes of Elvis, Marilyn, Manhattan Transfer, and perhaps even “Mama”, shouldn’t be exaggerated – but guaranteed each performance will be full of surprises. Of course there’ll be swinging and swooning, boogying and jiving as we present “Those Fabulous Fifties”. Count on some foot stomping (or at least tapping) of your own during “Shades of Country” and just see if you can sit still during “The Sixties With a Twist.”
Alice has led the choir through many additions and changes. We’re fortunate this year to get a sampling of memorable moments from the last ten years. Is fashion your thing? Even just to laugh at, or to remember that you used to be able to fit into some of them? Do you like coffee and goodies afterwards? Well, it’s a party, so you can be sure something will be arranged! Do you enjoy silent auctions? You’re bound to find something you’d like to bid on, so break open that piggy bank and bring your loonie and toonie collection. Got a special anniversary coming up? We do! Let’s get together and celebrate! Bring your honey, your Mom or your favourite aunt, bring the kids and grandkids or a special neighbour and share with them our gift of song.
See you
Down Memory Lane Sat. April 16 7:00 pm Sun. April 17 2:30 pm Oliver United ChurchTickets: $10.00 available at the door
Price includes coffee and cake, fashion show
Come up to 45 minutes early to place bids on the silent auction. Bring your loonies and twoonies and chequebook to take advantage of these great items!
It’s been ten years already, since Alice Deroche started waving her arms (and sometimes stamping her feet ) in front of a motley crew of local yokels who grew into their name: The Sage Valley Voices! Her dream of a thriving community choir singing and smiling their way through the seasons, sometimes with a bit of musical theatre thrown in, making happy and pleasing sounds, continues to be fulfilled as evidenced by the growth of our audiences. The choir’s performances at the Oliver United Church are most often sold out, and the choir has grown too, numbering almost 50 now, doubling in size since the beginning and challenging Alice to keep us all in line.
We’ll be singing in style for the tenth spring in a row. Come help us celebrate Alice for her years of dedication creating these programs and offering them to you. Come join our party as we dream of yesteryear, presenting many of the favourites we’ve performed in the past. (Photo at left is from the 2010 concert “Sixties with a Twist”) We’ve prepared love songs, sad songs, a bit of country, certainly spiritual and gospel. Rumours of guest appearances the likes of Elvis, Marilyn, Manhattan Transfer, and perhaps even “Mama”, shouldn’t be exaggerated – but guaranteed each performance will be full of surprises. Of course there’ll be swinging and swooning, boogying and jiving as we present “Those Fabulous Fifties”. Count on some foot stomping (or at least tapping) of your own during “Shades of Country” and just see if you can sit still during “The Sixties With a Twist.”
Alice has led the choir through many additions and changes. We’re fortunate this year to get a sampling of memorable moments from the last ten years. Is fashion your thing? Even just to laugh at, or to remember that you used to be able to fit into some of them? Do you like coffee and goodies afterwards? Well, it’s a party, so you can be sure something will be arranged! Do you enjoy silent auctions? You’re bound to find something you’d like to bid on, so break open that piggy bank and bring your loonie and toonie collection. Got a special anniversary coming up? We do! Let’s get together and celebrate! Bring your honey, your Mom or your favourite aunt, bring the kids and grandkids or a special neighbour and share with them our gift of song.
See you
Down Memory Lane Sat. April 16 7:00 pm Sun. April 17 2:30 pm Oliver United ChurchTickets: $10.00 available at the door
Price includes coffee and cake, fashion show
Come up to 45 minutes early to place bids on the silent auction. Bring your loonies and twoonies and chequebook to take advantage of these great items!
Are you an OCAC member planning a public arts event? A musical performance? A seminar or other instructional arts program? Need funding? As a registered charity, the OCAC offers Contracted Service Agreements every year to help fund activities that reflect the arts council’s constitutional mandate. The application is available to all members of the arts council, not just member groups but also individuals and businesses who want to programme an event under the OCAC mandate and who require a funding boost.
There are two parts to the application. The first is submitted before your event to seek funding approval. The second, in the event your event is approved, is submitted after the event showing the event took place. The application deadline is June 1, 2011 for arts events, performances and seminars occurring September 1, 2011 to August 31, 2012. Last year, we received some applications for summer events taking place before September 1. While these applications were outside the funding period, we did grant funds to two events. If you are planning an event for this summer, please be aware that while we may fund you, you will not get confirmation of funding until mid-June, giving you little time for planning or preparation.
Unless otherwise requested, all funding will be received after the event has taken place, to help with billable expenses or to replace funds spent. Up to 50% of the funds can be made available up-front on a need basis. Please explain in your application if this is your case.
The Board will evaluate all applications at their June meeting and inform all applicants of the result by the end of June. There is approximately $1500 available and the maximum fee-for-service is $500 per application. Please consider your event budget carefully to judge what amount you need. The OCAC budget may not accommodate all applicants’ funding requests so the best applications will be selected on merit, reflection of the OCAC mandate, and demonstration of need. If you need assistance in writing a strong application, please contact the OCAC Board.
Want a copy of the CSA application or more information? Contact olivercac@gmail.com
Aimee Grice is wiping the tears from her eyes. “Sorry, I just can’t go on,” she splutters. “Let me … just … catch my breath.” She’s not crying: Grice is doubled over in a fit of giggles.
Grice is in rehearsal for SOAP’s upcoming production of Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple. In the female version of the famous comedy, the eponymous “Oscar” and “Felix” become the slobby divorcee Olive Madison (played by Grice) and her irritatingly neat roomate Florence Unger (played by Leslee Hatherly). The comedy follows two newly single ladies as they navigate the rules of sharing an apartment and returning to the dating scene.
Grice and Hatherly (at left) are two strong actors, although relative newcomers to SOAP. This is Aimee’s fourth production, after singing in the nuns chorus in The Sound of Music (2008), then taking the lead in Sand Mountain (2009) and an ensemble part in Rumors (2010). Leslee took a small and serious role in this season’s drama, Twelve Angry Jurors, but her comic talents take centre stage in The Odd Couple.
Director Penelope Johnson is taking the cast through one of the funniest scenes in the play: Olive and Florence on a double date with their attractive Spanish neighbours, the Costazuela brothers. Aimee’s shoulders shake as she struggles to remain in character. Waiting patiently for the rehearsal to continue are Tom Szalay (as Monolo Costazuela) and Paul Everest (as Jesus Costazuela). Szalay and Everest have been practicing the Castilian accents and charming manners required for their roles.
“Monolo and I have brrrrought you frrresh flowers and frrresh candy,” says Everest, rolling his Rs. “Please to accept my deep felicitations. We hope you like them. The candy ees … um ….no good.”
“No good?” responds Grice as Olive, trying unsuccessfully not to smile.
“Si. Very chewy,” says Tom as Manolo.
“Do you mean nougat?” says Olive.
“Ah si! Nou–gat! Not ‘no good’… nougat! So stoopid. We are steeell berry new at Engleesh.”
Aimee splutters again. “Sorry,” she says, holding up her hand to call another halt. “It’s too funny, plus I’m soooo tired.” Grice is a new mother, battling sleep deprivation. Her babe-in-arms occasionally joins her at rehearsals. “That’s the deal,” explains Penelope Johnson. “Aimee can perform if I direct while dandling her baby on my knee.”
Also in the cast are Linda Venables, Lynne Richards, Diane Gludovatz and Jen Jensen as the Trivial Pursuit playing girlfriends of Olive and Florence. In the play, the ladies add some “gal pal” humour to the storyline, give advice, and play referees to Olive and Florence’s squabbles over housekeeping and dating. The foursome also act as surrogate moms to Grice’s baby, passing the little girl from knee to knee as they practice their lines.
Grice and Hatherly find they are growing into their characters during the rehearsal period. “Olive is not a stretch for me,” admits Aimee Grice, who revels in the opportunity to make a mess on stage. On the other hand, Leslee Hatherly, as the house-proud Florence, is dicovering her hidden neat freak. “My kitchen at home has never been SO CLEAN. I’m really immersing myself in this character.”
The lead actors are enjoying their time together at rehearsal. “Olive and Florence get quite a workout on stage,” says director Johnson. “The action can get fast and furious.” Lately they have been choreographing a couple of fight scenes (involving a vacuum cleaner, a ladle, a can of deodorizer, and a plate of linguini) and a chase scene (involving a can of pepper spray and a suitcase of lingerie). Curiously enough, Hatherly and Grice find the hilarity and crazy antics at rehearsals an antidote to their busy lives.
The Odd Couple is slated for production on Friday April 29 and Saturday April 30 at the Osoyoos MiniTheatre (OSS), and on Friday May 6 and Saturday May 7 at the Frank Venables Auditorium (SOSS) in Oliver. Tickets are $15 Adults and $12 Seniors/Students. They go on sale at the end of March, through Your Dollar Store with More (Osoyoos), and Sundance Video (Oliver). Watch for posters to indicate the start of ticket sales. More information can be obtained at SOAP@telus.net
The South Okanagan Concert Society winds up its current season this month with the Foothills Brass on Friday March 11, at the Frank Venables Auditorium at 8:00 p.m. (Scroll down for another article on the concert).
As an added bonus, concert goers will get first dibs on season tickets for the 2011-12 season. Flex passes are regularly $60 for four tickets, but there will be an early bird price of $50 from March 11 until the end of April. Season tickets will be available at the Foothills Brass concert and at Beyond Bliss (Oliver) and Imperial Office Pro (Osoyoos) from March 12 to April 30.
The musical offerings for next season are an appealing mix of voice and instrument, classics and classy.
Friday, Oct 28, 2011: Alexander Sevastian, solo accordionist
Think you know accordion? Probably not like this! Think a whole orchestra in one instrument and dexterity worthy of a concert pianist. This concert will blow you away — guaranteed! Alexander Sevastian has won four International Accordion Competitions including the Oslofjord in Norway (1998), The Cup of the North in Russia (2000), the Anthony Galla-Rini Accordion Competition in the U.S.A. (2001) and The Coupe Mondiale in the U.S.A. (2007).
Alex was born in Minsk, Belarus and began his studies on the accordion at the age of seven. In 1991 he attended the Glinka Musical College in Minsk. His advanced studies took him to the Gnessin Academy of Music in Moscow where he received his Masters in Performance degree in 2002, studying with renowned performer and pedagogue, Friedrich Lips.
Alex began his professional career in Moscow in 1996, performing with the Russian Radio Orchestra, which he toured with as a soloist throughout Russia, Ukraine, Germany, Italy, and Japan. Alex also was a very active recitalist and chamber musician. Highlights of his career include appearances in the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall, Glinka Capella Hall (St.Petersburg), Suntory Hall (Tokyo), Roy Thomson Hall (Toronto), and the Metropolitan Museum (New York). Recent solo engagements include recitals in Mexico, Italy, Portugal, Serbia, U.S.A. and Canada as well as appearances with several symphony orchestras.
Alex and his family moved to Canada in April 2001. He joined the renowned Quartetto Gelato in 2002. In May 2003 he completed his advanced performance studies at the University of Toronto. In the fall of 2005 he became a Canadian Citizen.
Friday, Nov 25, 2011: Kallisto Trio, a capella female trio
Their tagline “Classical Mastery with Pop Personality and Latin Spice” describes their technique and repertoire to a T.
Three beautiful women have joined their voices and spirits to create Kallisto – an incomparable a cappella trio experience for listeners everywhere. Meshing the quirky approach of Bobby McFerrin with the stylish jazz harmonies of Manhattan Transfer into classical, Canadiana, folk and even rock ‘n roll, gives them a warm and inviting sound … with an edge. Described by audiences as ‘remarkable’ and ‘angelic, Kallisto draws inspiration from every ear of music history. The trio brings music from the Renaissance, Baroque and Romantic periods to life and then shifts effortlessly to jazz standards, pop hits, world music and gospel.
Fabiana Katz, Karen Mang and Catherine Laub, all highly regarded professional and musicians in their own right, are making waves with their artistry. They combine their knowledge, talent and skills to give their performances a depth and breadth witnessed in few ensembles. On stage their personalities play off one another perfectly – captivating and entertaining – while their flawlessly-tuned voices seem to effortlessly blend into one.
The trio spice up their performances with a variety of instruments, which they play with equal flair – guitar, accordion, electric bass, clarinet, recorders, djembe, claves, drums, shakers, tambourines, and a host of other percussion instruments.
The threesome also shares a common passion for creativity and showmanship. Kallisto’s shows raise the bar: every nuance of language, vocal colour and style seamlessly in place, every change in character brilliantly conveyed.
Give them a listen by clicking on their sample video at http://www.kallistotrio.com/ you’ll hear some jazz, Latin, pop, and Afro-American spiritual rhythms.
Friday, Jan 27, 2012: Daniel Bolshoy, solo guitarist
Daniel Bolshoy has performed in every major centre in Canada, establishing him as the country’s most visible concert guitarist. He is regularly praised for his friendly and informative spoken introductions, and progressive programming of solo and chamber music.
Mr. Bolshoy has performed for many prestigious festivals including the Ottawa and the Vancouver International Chamber Music Festivals, the Guitar-Gems International Guitar Festival in Israel, the Halifax Guitar Festival, the Elora Festival, the Guelph Spring Festival, the Festival des arts Boré-Art, and more.
Mr. Bolshoy’s recitals are frequently broadcast on CBC Radio, and he has also appeared in two documentary films for the Bravo! (TV) series: The Classical Now.
Among recent orchestral appearances are concertos by Rodrigo, Ponce, Kernis, and Castelnuovo-Tedesco with international orchestras: The Mexico City Philharmonic, the Toronto Philharmonia, the Edmonton Symphony, the Calgary Philharmonic, the Vancouver Philharmonic, the Beer Sheva Symphoniette (Israel), the Manitoba and Ottawa Chamber Orchestras. He has been invited to the jury of the Tabula Rasa Guitar Competition as well as concerto soloist in Ponce’s Concierto del Sur in an upcoming tour of Russia.
Daniel Bolshoy has four commercial CD recordings.
Mr. Bolshoy teaches guitar at Concordia University in Montreal and regularly offers masterclasses to guitar societies and educational institutions internationally. Daniel Bolshoy continues to perform solo and chamber music recitals in Canada’s most prestigious venues, including the Glenn Gould Studio, the Toronto Centre for the Performing Arts, the National Art Centre, and Vancouver’s Chan Centre.
and rounding out the season with a grand flourish is…
Friday, Feb 24, 2012: Penderecki String Quartet
The Penderecki String Quartet, approaching the third decade of an extraordinary career, has become one of the most celebrated chamber ensembles of their generation. These four musicians from Poland, Canada, and the USA bring their varied yet collective experience to create performances that demonstrate their “remarkable range of technical excellence and emotional sweep” (Toronto, Globe and Mail).
The Quartet’s performing schedule takes them annually to the great concert stages of North and South America, Europe and the Far East. Recent appearances include New York (Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall), Madrid, Amsterdam (Concertgebouw), Prague, St. Petersburg, Rome, Belgrade, Zagreb, Paris, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Indiana University, Wieczory Arsenale Festival in Poland, Is Arti Festival in Lithuania, Rive-Gauche Concerti in Italy, the Festival Internacional de Musica in Venezuela, Casalmaggiore Festival and Incontri in Terra di Sienna in Italy, Musicarama Festival Hong Kong, and the Shanghai International Arts Festival. The PSQ appears extensively in Canada, giving numerous performances in all the major centres from coast to coast and participating in this country’s foremost concert series such as the Ottawa Chamber Music Festival, Festival of the Sound, Banff Centre’s Music and Sound, Festival Vancouver and Music Toronto.
The Penderecki Quartet was founded in Poland in 1986 at the urging of the pre-eminent Polish composer Krzysztof Penderecki. The To this day the Quartet is a devoted champion of the music of our time, and has performed a wide range of repertoire from Bach to Brahms, Bartók to Ligeti, Frank Zappa to John Oswald, as well as premiering over 100 new works from numerous composers.
Described by Fanfare Magazine as “an ensemble of formidable power and keen musical sensitivity”, the Penderecki Quartet’s large discography includes over 25 recordings. The Penderecki String Quartet saw some sparks fly at the 2010 JUNO Awards. They were involved in three nominations for recordings they made in the previous year.
Pick up your season pass before they disappear — like a song — into thin air!
Unlike the picture, there are no easy pickin’ “money trees” in the arts. That’s why the arts council is thrilled to announce that it has received news from its governing body, the BC Arts Council, that the council has been awarded an annual operating grant of $7000.
The sum includes three parcels:
* $1500 Basic Assistance, from a formula calculated by the BC Arts Council based on population size and distance from the Lower Mainland. All arts councils who apply receive a basic assistance amount.
* $3500 Local Government Matching Grant, determined by the amount of funding received from local government. The OCAC is grateful to Oliver Parks and Recreation Society and the Town of Oliver for their financial support.
* $2000 Annual Performance Award. This is the first time the Oliver Community Arts Council has received this award. The council was required to submit an essay demonstrating artistic acheivement, community engagement (e.g. community partnerships), organizational management, innovation, and sustainability.
The BC Arts Council grant will be applied to operating costs – all the basic necessities that keep the arts council functioning, such as heat and light, office and organizational materials, telephone service, publicity, and so on. While these costs may sound mundane, it is funding that is desperately needed.
Imagine an artist trying to create a new work, but only supplied with colourful acrylic paint, or pottery glaze, or vibrant yarn. It may look pretty but without the proper tools (canvas, clay, or a loom) no art can be created.
So too with grant funds. The vast majority of arts grants available are designated only for programming (concerts, exhibits, educational classes, workshops, etc). That’s the “colour”. Those grants do not cover operating costs. That’s the canvas, clay, or loom – the backbone or armature of the organization. An arts council cannot provide vibrant programmes without being assured it will cover its operational expenditures.
The arts council thanks its many community supporters and partners, whose co-operation has contributed to our receiving this funding package. Check out our member groups, businesses, and blogroll for just a taste of who our supporters are!
Editor: The South Okanagan Concert Society is trumpeting the news that the Foothills Brass is coming to town in March! There are guaranteed to be favourites for fans and first-timers alike. Read more from Marion Boyd:
Friday, March 11th, is the date to mark on your calendar. Foothills Brass Quintet will be back in town! When the Venables Auditorium curtain goes up at 8 pm, prepare for some serious fun!! The South Okanagan Concert Society is proud to present a crowd pleasing musical event as the finale for this years concert series.
For three decades Foothills Brass has provided quality musicianship, entertainment, variety and high energy. A rarity in today’s music scene, they are a full time chamber ensemble consisting of five versatile and exceptional musicians. The Calgary founder, Chris Morrison, plays trumpet as does Jay Michalak. Joanna Schulz performs on French horn. Catie Hickey (trombone) and Bob Nicholson (tuba) complete the quintet. Together they are an engaging, friendly bunch who use ‘off key’ humour to draw the audience into the musical experience.
The BrassScapes program for this concert shows off the versatility in musical styles available in the brass repertoire as well as the challenging interplay between solo and ensemble skills. Who can resist enticing musical selections with titles like Baroque Splendor, Latin Fire, the Opera Reinvented, Duelling Trumpets and New Orleans Memories and Hopes?!
Flex tickets (four admissions for $60) are still available at Beyond Bliss in Oliver, Imperial Office Pro in Osoyoos and at the door. Get together a group of four and make a party of it! Single tickets are $20. Young people 17 and under are welcome to attend the concert free. The venue is wheelchair accessible and those requiring transportation in the Oliver/Osoyoos area can call Maureen at 250 495 7978 to make arrangments to be picked up by van.
This is also the concert where you can get flex tickets for the 2011-2012 series at remarkable Early Bird prices. Don’t forget to bring your cheque book. Plan ahead for some exciting concerts to brighten winter nights in the coming year.
The South Okanagan Concert Society is grateful to loyal sponsors who make possible the high quality, live music that so enriches the life of our communities. The B.C. Arts Council, Music Fest Vancouver, Windsor Plywood Spectacular Music B.C. and the Oliver Community Arts Council provide the backbone of our support. In addition, Burrowing Owl Winery, Interior Savings OK Falls, Oliver Kiwanis Club, Fortis BC, and denturist Maria Gonzales-Richer provide faithful support. Dwight and Amy Brown at the Adobe Rose B&B offer Okanagan hospitality to the musicians.
It takes all these dedicated groups to make a concert series and we cannot thank them enough.
Editor: The South Okanagan Concert Society is trumpeting the news that the Foothills Brass is coming to town in March! There are guaranteed to be favourites for fans and first-timers alike. Read more from Marion Boyd:
Friday, March 11th, is the date to mark on your calendar. Foothills Brass Quintet will be back in town! When the Venables Auditorium curtain goes up at 8 pm, prepare for some serious fun!! The South Okanagan Concert Society is proud to present a crowd pleasing musical event as the finale for this years concert series.
For three decades Foothills Brass has provided quality musicianship, entertainment, variety and high energy. A rarity in today’s music scene, they are a full time chamber ensemble consisting of five versatile and exceptional musicians. The Calgary founder, Chris Morrison, plays trumpet as does Jay Michalak. Joanna Schulz performs on French horn. Catie Hickey (trombone) and Bob Nicholson (tuba) complete the quintet. Together they are an engaging, friendly bunch who use ‘off key’ humour to draw the audience into the musical experience.
The BrassScapes program for this concert shows off the versatility in musical styles available in the brass repertoire as well as the challenging interplay between solo and ensemble skills. Who can resist enticing musical selections with titles like Baroque Splendor, Latin Fire, the Opera Reinvented, Duelling Trumpets and New Orleans Memories and Hopes?!
Flex tickets (four admissions for $60) are still available at Beyond Bliss in Oliver, Imperial Office Pro in Osoyoos and at the door. Get together a group of four and make a party of it! Single tickets are $20. Young people 17 and under are welcome to attend the concert free. The venue is wheelchair accessible and those requiring transportation in the Oliver/Osoyoos area can call Maureen at 250 495 7978 to make arrangments to be picked up by van.
This is also the concert where you can get flex tickets for the 2011-2012 series at remarkable Early Bird prices. Don’t forget to bring your cheque book. Plan ahead for some exciting concerts to brighten winter nights in the coming year.
The South Okanagan Concert Society is grateful to loyal sponsors who make possible the high quality, live music that so enriches the life of our communities. The B.C. Arts Council, Music Fest Vancouver, Windsor Plywood Spectacular Music B.C. and the Oliver Community Arts Council provide the backbone of our support. In addition, Burrowing Owl Winery, Interior Savings OK Falls, Oliver Kiwanis Club, Fortis BC, and denturist Maria Gonzales-Richer provide faithful support. Dwight and Amy Brown at the Adobe Rose B&B offer Okanagan hospitality to the musicians.
It takes all these dedicated groups to make a concert series and we cannot thank them enough.
The Oliver Handbell Ringers and the Oliver Community Garden Society are two new groups under the umbrella of the Oliver Community Arts Council.
The Oliver Handbell Ringers, under the direction of Sue Gay have been performing for the last few years. Their concerts have been gaining in excitement as the ensemble has been gaining in skill. The ensemble attains a clear warm sound, with music that can both stimulate and relax. Proceeds from their concerts and donations from the community have gone towards purchasing tuned sets of bells and sheet music.
The ensemble is always looking to train new members. It’s an exciting and non-threatening way to learn music, and gives you a gentle workout in the process. What more could you ask for?
The Oliver Community Garden Society has also recently joined. See the article below (“Arts Council growing relationship”) for more information about this community-spirited organization or check out their website (click on the link at right under “Member Organizations”).
The “umbrella” of the arts council is a unique opportunity for groups and businesses to:
* have a forum for co-operating and networking within the local arts community,
* take advantage of advertising and promotional opportunities (like this one!),
* apply for financial aid, and
* to have a greater voice municipally and provincially to increase awareness of and access funding for arts groups.
And what about you? There’s lots of room under the umbrella! Contact olivercac@gmail for more information about becoming a member or fill out the membership form by clicking the link under the banner above.
When concert pianist, Sara Davis Buechner, performs Friday, January 14th at Venables Auditorium in Oliver, the South Okanagan Concert Society audience can expect ironclad technique lauded by reviewers because it “allows her to interpret music with a masterful blend of rigor and authenticity and the seductive lightness of charm”.
Sara is truly a dazzling pianist. She is also a witty speaker with a gregarious personality who connects with her audience on an intimate level. A scholar, writer and compelling lecturer, Sara has a vast piano repertoire ranging from J.S. Bach to her contemporaries. The January 14th programme promises a lovely Haydn sonata, a Cocktail Suite by Dana Suesse, a solo arrangement of Rhapsody in Blue created by composer, George Gershwin, and more.
Tickets are on sale at Beyond Bliss in Oliver and Imperial Office Pro in Osoyoos as well as at the door. A four admission pass costs only $60. The four admissions are entirely flexible and can be used together or in combination. Single tickets are $20. Young people 17 and under are welcome to attend the concert free. All concerts start at 8 pm. The venue is wheelchair accessible and those requiring transportation in the Oliver/Osoyoos area can call Maureen at 250 495 7978 to make arrangements for a ride.
Born in 1959 in Baltimore, Maryland, Sara was off to the Julliard School of Music at age 16 and got her undergraduate degree there. She wanted nothing more than to be the best pianist she could possibly be. Her concert career garnered acclaim on four continents. She performed with many different orchestras and played in all the major cities of the world. Her active repertoire included almost 100 concertos. She remains fascinated with Japanese music and with film scores as well as classical music.
The concert career wasn’t all. Somehow Sarah managed to combine it with an academic career. Her studies eventually led to a doctorate in music. She was a member of the faculties of Manhattan School of Music and New York University. In 2003 she joined the music faculty at UBC as an Assistant Professor of piano and chamber music. She presents lectures and master classes worldwide as well as performing. She is known for her profound knowledge and for her sense of humour too.
The South Okanagan Concert Society is grateful to our sponsors who are continuing their support despite difficult economic times. Music Fest Vancouver, Windsor Plywood Spectacular Music B.C. make this exceptional concert possible. The B.C. Arts Council and Oliver Community Arts Council provide ongoing support as does Burrowing Owl Winery, Interior Savings OK Falls, FortisBC, the Kiwanis Club of Oliver and Maria Gonzales-Richer, denturist. These sponsors make it possible for world class music to come to our community. We cannot thank them enough.
When concert pianist, Sara Davis Buechner, performs Friday, January 14th at Venables Auditorium in Oliver, the South Okanagan Concert Society audience can expect ironclad technique lauded by reviewers because it “allows her to interpret music with a masterful blend of rigor and authenticity and the seductive lightness of charm”.
Sara is truly a dazzling pianist. She is also a witty speaker with a gregarious personality who connects with her audience on an intimate level. A scholar, writer and compelling lecturer, Sara has a vast piano repertoire ranging from J.S. Bach to her contemporaries. The January 14th programme promises a lovely Haydn sonata, a Cocktail Suite by Dana Suesse, a solo arrangement of Rhapsody in Blue created by composer, George Gershwin, and more.
Tickets are on sale at Beyond Bliss in Oliver and Imperial Office Pro in Osoyoos as well as at the door. A four admission pass costs only $60. The four admissions are entirely flexible and can be used together or in combination. Single tickets are $20. Young people 17 and under are welcome to attend the concert free. All concerts start at 8 pm. The venue is wheelchair accessible and those requiring transportation in the Oliver/Osoyoos area can call Maureen at 250 495 7978 to make arrangements for a ride.
Born in 1959 in Baltimore, Maryland, Sara was off to the Julliard School of Music at age 16 and got her undergraduate degree there. She wanted nothing more than to be the best pianist she could possibly be. Her concert career garnered acclaim on four continents. She performed with many different orchestras and played in all the major cities of the world. Her active repertoire included almost 100 concertos. She remains fascinated with Japanese music and with film scores as well as classical music.
The concert career wasn’t all. Somehow Sarah managed to combine it with an academic career. Her studies eventually led to a doctorate in music. She was a member of the faculties of Manhattan School of Music and New York University. In 2003 she joined the music faculty at UBC as an Assistant Professor of piano and chamber music. She presents lectures and master classes worldwide as well as performing. She is known for her profound knowledge and for her sense of humour too.
The South Okanagan Concert Society is grateful to our sponsors who are continuing their support despite difficult economic times. Music Fest Vancouver, Windsor Plywood Spectacular Music B.C. make this exceptional concert possible. The B.C. Arts Council and Oliver Community Arts Council provide ongoing support as does Burrowing Owl Winery, Interior Savings OK Falls, FortisBC, the Kiwanis Club of Oliver and Maria Gonzales-Richer, denturist. These sponsors make it possible for world class music to come to our community. We cannot thank them enough.
An enthusiastic but small audience enjoyed the musical variety show, Sleighbells and Song presented by the Oliver Community Arts Council on December 7th at the Frank Venables Auditorium. A heavy wet snowfall kept many prospective concert goers indoors on Tuesday night, but those in attendance were appreciative.
Choirs from the Oliver Elementary and Seventh Day Adventist Schools, the Desert Airs Men’s Chorus and the Advent/Valley Quartet charmed the crowd in the first set. The children’s bright faces and bright voices were an instant hit and a great opener to the show. Some clever choreography, cheerful lyrics, and good rhythms combined to make for a highly entertaining start to the evening. The Desert Airs impressed with their tuneful a cappella harmonies and crisp musical delivery – and their crisp white shirts. Handsome outfits, gentlemen! This is a very polished men’s choir who need to have their very own concert — soon, we hope! The mixed quartet from the Adventist and Valley Congregational churches served as a good counterpoint with some reflective music. Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming and Rise Up Shepherd were especially moving.
The second set featured seasonal music from the Penticton Concert Band. The band began with an audience sing-along led by soprano Madison Johnson. This young lady has a powerful confident voice that did not need any added amplification. It was a treat to hear a young person sing in full voice from abdomen, lungs, and head. No swooping notes, breathy whispering, or pop diva imitations for her. Brava, Miss Johnson!
The Penticton Concert Band gave an accomplished, rousing performance with good balanced sound from all sections, cohesive playing, and excellent attention to direction. Their repertoire spanned several centuries of Christmas music and showed off styles varying from Gregorian and Baroque to jazz and pop. Although any band’s volume could easily overwhelm listeners in an indoor venue — risking amplifying a wrong note, missed cue, or jangly ending — the Penticton Concert Band proved to be very well-rehearsed and easy to listen to, under the competent direction of conductor Gerald Nadeau.
The Oliver Community Arts Council welcomes suggestions for future community Christmas concerts. Contact olivercac@gmail.com
Have a review of an arts council event or member group performance? Submit it to olivercac@gmail.com
The Desert Sage Spinners and Weavers received funding for an eco-dyeing workshop with Coby VanDerGaast at the Quail’s Nest Arts Centre this summer. VanderGaast is an instuctor in the fibre program at Kootenay School of the Arts at Selkirk College in Nelson, B. C. She is also an organic farmer and is currently growing dye plants for Earthues, a natural colour company based in Seattle. Desert Sage regularly seeks arts council funding, enabling them to hire professional instructors in the fibre arts.
Another first-time applicant, although long-time member of the arts council, was the Oliver Sagebrushers. The painting club received funding for a public demonstration and exhibit entitled “En Plein Air Painting at Rustico Winery” on the weekend of September 10 – 11. The public can watch artists at their easels at scenic locations around the vineyard and winery. Arts council funding will cover publicity and live music at the event. 
