This event, put on by RCMA is intended to bring more awareness to musical talent in Quesnel.
“We are helping musicians have a voice in local affairs and we hope to work with the city to put on events and bring bigger shows to the local arena and to help showcase the need for a musician-friendly space in the multicentre,” Laurie Rathier of the RCMA explained.
One of the main focuses of the RCMA is to provide an outlet for local musicians and a place for music enthusiasts to collaborate and share their passion.
“We aim to support musical education of both the player and the audience through workshops, clinics and various instrument circles,’ Rathier said.
The RCMA is looking to build a partnership with the city to bring and promote these musical events while maintaining a low cost.
“By providing low cost entertainment options for the public, while utilizing local halls and venues, we keep money and jobs in Quesnel and also help other worthy non-profit organizations,” Rathier said,
“The main focus of our society is to promote music and musicianship in Quesnel and area and to help promote our city as a music destination.”
To increase the appeal of the event to people who might not have the sharpest musical ability, the RCMA is looking to provide ways to make the experience as positive as possible.
“We are working on having a song and lyric book available to increase the comfort level of some who may hesitate to attend or participate,” Rathier explained.
Getting involved in the group is easy, as there are no requirements.
“In order to participate, all you need to do is show up,” Rathier said.
“There will be a sign-up board and musicians available to play for vocalists who perhaps don’t have a band.”
All levels of musicians and vocalists are invited and welcome to participate in these jam sessions.
“At our last event, people played everything from country to folk to rock, both old and new and we even had the opportunity to hear some original compositions,” Rathier said.
Rathier explained RCMA is working to promote local musical talent and will be working through the summer to bring entertainment.
“Quesnel has a wealth of musical and artistic talent and the RCMA is excited to be a part of its promotion and development,” she said.
“We are working with the city to create and support a series of live music events throughout the summer, thereby fostering social ties with our community.”
In conjunction to their commitment to provide these events at a low cost to the community, there are two ways to get into the event.
You can either purchase a one year membership to the RCMA, which costs $50 for adults, $75 for a family and $25 for seniors and students, or you can pay at the door, $3 for students and seniors and $5 otherwise.
Rathier said all ages are welcome until 9 p.m., at which point there will be a cash bar available for the rest of the evening.
To purchase a membership, contact Grant Deachman, grantdeachman@shaw.ca or through the executive members at the jam sessions.
The next jam session is scheduled for June 2 from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Elks hall.
For more information, call Rathier, 250-992-6233.
