Chamber music is often performed in intimate settings.
The intimate nature of the music is something the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music is trying to capture and share with Nanaimo audiences during its presentation of the Vancouver Island Chamber Music Festival, which runs Thursday to Sunday (April 14-16).
Pippa Williams, festival music director, said the music showcased during the festival would have traditionally been performed in a parlour or salon of a home.
“This is music that doesn’t often get performed,” she said.
This year’s festival has a great lineup, said Williams.
“The level of the music coming in is the best yet. We are super excited about the festival this year,” said Williams. “It’s a great opportunity to hear something new and hear terrific music at the Nanaimo Entertainment Centre.”
Williams said the program has a diverse range of music to appeal to a variety of people.
Musicians from the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music will also perform at schools and seniors homes.
“We really wanted to reach out into the community,” said Williams.
The festival premiers Thursday with a performance by the Borealis String Quartet with David Braid on piano at The Haven on Gabriola. The show is presented by Lulu Performing arts.
Tickets are $20 and available at North Road Sports or are $25 at the door, ages 16 and under are $5.
The Borealis String Quartet was founded in Vancouver in late 2000 and since then has toured in North America, Europe and Asia. The quartet consists of members Patricia Shih, violinist; Yuel Yawney, violinist; Nikita Pogrebnoy, violinist and Sungyong Lim, cellist.
All other shows are being held at the Nanaimo Entertainment Centre.
Friday the Le Bourgeoise Trio and Pinnacle Brass performs at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 2 p.m. the Vancouver Quartet and L’Aube Enchantee perform. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. features Tango Paraguas and the South Island Percussion Unit. Tickets are $20 for each show or $50 for a festival pass, available by calling 250-754-8550 or www.porttheatre.com.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com
