The Valley Festival Singers present a Remembrance concert on Nov. 11 and 12 in Abbotsford.
The concert, titled Eternal Light – Music for Remembrance, takes place at 7 p.m. both days at Bakerview Mennonite Brethren Church, 2285 Clearbook Rd.
In this first concert of its 41st season, the Valley Festival Singers will perform music fitting for Remembrance Day. Interspersed with letters from the battlefield, the songs will acknowledge the high cost of war, and honour those who have fought to preserve peace.
Valley Festival Singers are conducted by Dr. Joel Tranquilla, director of choral activities at Trinity Western University, where he coaches six choirs and teaches courses within the School of Arts, Media and Culture.
“Canadian soldiers have served Canada in numerous wars and peace-keeping missions. As a community choral group, we wanted to do something very special to recognize their service which, for many, required paying the ultimate price in order that we can enjoy the liberties and freedoms that are ours,” Tranquilla said.
He also conducts other community choirs, and is in high demand as an adjudicator and clinician across Canada.
Betty Suderman, accompanist, obtained her doctorate of musical arts from UBC. She is in demand as a solo performer and accompanist in many countries throughout the world, and has accompanied the Valley Festival Singers for 40 seasons.
The Abbotsford branch of the Royal Canadian Legion is a sponsoring partner for the concert.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $5 for students and can be purchased at House of James, online at valleyfestivalsingers.com, from choir members or at the door.
