Procrastinators – Don’t be late!

Local classic rock n roll band, The Procrastinators, performs Thursday July 12 at Music in the Park, on the Riverside patio of the historic CPR Station (Oliver’s Visitor Information Centre). The music starts at 6:30 p.m.  Bring a donation , a chair, a picnic, and some extra cash for a dessert vendor on site.  Concerts last until 8:00 p.m.

The Procrastinators, formerly “The Toasted Blokes” (house band for the Toasted Oak restaurant) include bandmates Ed Dukes, John Kwasnica, Jim Ruhland and Dan Atkinson. These guys know how to rock out, so don’t miss some great music!

On Thursday July 19, return to the same place at the same time for CARLI & JULIE KENNEDY (pictured)

It’s like seeing double. Carli and Julie Kennedy are a Canadian powerhouse duo with a musical bond that only identical twins can share. With Carli on vocals and guitar and Julie on vocals and violin, they have developed a sound that is all their own: a fusion of their background in country, folk, jazz, and Celtic music. Originally from Powell River, these sisters are known for their exceptional harmonies, fine musicality, and sincere songwriting style. An undeniably energetic duo, the Kennedys’ performances bring a mix of toe-tapping tunes and intimate, heartfelt songs to the stage.

Carli and Julie have been making music together since they were 5 years old when they started piano lessons, and three years later discovered the guitar and violin. Carli and Julie spent many years honing their skills in a family band, playing country music and fiddle tunes at community events. Taking their musical aspirations to the next level, the sisters entered the School of Music at the University of Victoria and both graduated with their Bachelor’s degrees in music performance in 2008. Julie was named Concertmaster of the 2007 National Youth Orchestra of Canada and Carli’s guitar playing achieved third prize at the Canadian Nationals.

They have released two EPs of original songs and continue to receive airplay on CBC Radio. Carli and Julie have been featured at numerous events and festivals including the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, Merritt Mountain Music Festival, Islands Folk Festival, Sunshine Music Festival, Victoria Jazz Festival International, Vancouver Island Music Business Conference, and the BC Country Music Association’s Songwriters Showcase. They recently returned from an impressive showing in Nashville, Tennessee, performing at songwriter showcases in numerous Nashville venues, including the historic Douglas Corner and The Commodore, as well as a guest spot on Nashville’s Balcony TV.

The Kennedys are nominated for the 2012 Vancouver Island Music Award for Best Live Act. Reviewers, colleagues, and audiences alike describe Carli and Julie as “fine players and truly communicative performers.” This dynamic duo is winning over a wide range of audiences with maturity beyond their years as instrumentalists, vocalists, and songwriters. Don’t miss their Music In The Park concert on Thursday, July 19th at 6:30 pm, on the riverside patio at the Oliver Visitor Centre/CPR Station. Be sure to join us for this special Valley First “Feed The Valley” concert; donations to the Oliver Food Bank will be most welcome.