Symphony offers backstage peek before concert

If you ever wondered what it’s like to be a professional musician, the Vancouver Island Symphony has a day planned for you.

A behind the scenes look at the symphony is offered Feb. 19 with an open rehearsal in advance of that evening’s concert.

The Musical Instrument Zoo opens at 11 a.m. and symphony musicians will demonstrate how to play their instruments, from Bassoon, to flute and percussion.

Cellist and Noteworthy Kids artistic director Joel Stobbe will introduce the program’s activities. Special guest for that presentation, which begins at 11:30 a.m., is violinist and concert master Calvin Dyck.

The open rehearsal begins at 12:30 p.m. with conductor Pierre Simard directing the orchestra, accompanied by guest soprano Nadya Blanchette. Simard works with the musicians, changing a phrase here, adding an expression there, to make the music perfect.

Tickets for the event are free but must be reserved through the Port Theatre ticket centre. Please call 250-754-8550 or visit www.porttheatre.com.

Nanaimo News Bulletin