Sarah Tradewell will perform during the candlelight hour of reflection and music during the Celtic Vespers at St. John’s in North Saanich.

Sarah Tradewell will perform during the candlelight hour of reflection and music during the Celtic Vespers at St. John’s in North Saanich.

BC Champion fiddles in church

Busker brings music to St. John’s United

Sarah Tradewell is bringing her fiddle to church. The Victoria fiddler and singer, formerly of Saskatchewan, combines the traditional folk styles of the prairies with the Celtic influences of the West Coast.

She’ll bring her charm, warmth and energy to the Celtic vespers at St. John’s United Church this weekend.

The speed, facility, and clarity of her technical ability create excitement and give her performances a dramatic flair.

The young performer brings skill and maturity that belies her years.

Tradewell’s passion for entertaining and a variety of musical influences results in performing styles ranging from old time, bluegrass, jazz, to classical. Her innate ability to combine elements of styles creates a smooth homogeneous concert with wide audience appeal.

Tradewell performed at BC Place during the 2010 Olympics, at the Sydney Opera House with the 2011 YouTube Symphony Orchestra, and in Hank Williams: The Show He Never Gave with the Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre at the McPherson Playhouse in Victoria.

Tradewell began her professional career at 14 with three performances at the Northern Lights Casino, Prince Albert and a showcase in the Saskatchewan Country Music Association Awards. At age 15, she released her first album, Traditions. Tradewell moved to Victoria from Saskatchewan in 2007 to continue her musical studies in a center with incredible opportunities for young musicians. She also enjoys busking at the Inner Harbour and is the current BC Old Time Fiddling champion.

Tradewell is the featured performer at Celtic Vespers on Sunday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. in St. John’s United Church, 10990 West Saanich Rd. An offering will be received.

For more information call 250-656-5273.

Peninsula News Review