EVENTS
Earth and Aether: the archaeology of soul and sky
What remains when we are gone?
Be the first to hear two world premiere works that explore our human story through remnants we have left in the earth, and signals we have sent into the sky. Funded by the Diane Loomer Commissioning Fund, Chor Leoni commissioned two of the world’s most exciting choral composers, Melissa Dunphy and Grammy-nominated Kile Smith, to take you on a journey through our past and future. In these two works, you’ll examine the legacies we have left behind on our planet, and the sounds – music and words – we have sent out as space-traveling radio waves. All of this will be painted through the sound of Chor Leoni joined by harpist Vivian Chen and saxophonist Julia Nolan, as choral singing transcends both space and time.
(St. Andrew's-Wesley United, 1022 Nelson Street, Vancouver, May. 11, 4:00 p.m)
Melodie Langevin & Hey-Jung Oh
Versatile vocalist Melodie Langevin & accomplished pianist Hey-Jung Oh bring you a thrilling concert of classic & contemporary songs including everything from early music to cabaret & musical theatre. Hold onto your hat and prepare to be swept away on a theatrical and musical journey! This extraordinary concert will be performed at 10:30 am & 1:30 pm. Presented by West Vancouver Community Arts Council.
(Silk Purse Arts Centre, 1570 Argyle Ave, West Vancouver, May. 14)
Bruce Liu - piano recital
Bruce Liu created quite a stir in Vancouver when he made his debut in two sold-out concerts in 2022. Since his sensational triumph at the 18th International Chopin Competition in Warsaw, Bruce has been performing all over the world to rave reviews. A recording artist for the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, his latest CD of music by Rameau, Ravel and Alkan has been enthusiastically received by critics and music lovers alike.
(Orpheum Theatre, 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver, May. 19, 3:00 p.m)
City Opera Vancouver presents The Hafu Project
City Opera Vancouver presents The Hafu Project, an emotional journey of understanding identity, told through music, dialogue and media by Luka Kawabata, on stage May 25 and 26, 2024 at the Russian Hall (600 Campbell Avenue). Combining traditional and adapted song, while drawing on cultural touch points from Japanese, Swedish and Canadian culture, The Hafu Project shares a semi-autobiographical story about the struggle with identity, the search for new meaning in community and delves into how identity manifests as a product of social circumstance. Adapted from the existing digital series of the same name, this live presentation - with performances by Kawabata, baritone, and Perri Lo, piano - will be the first public performance in the next stages of the project. For tickets and information, visit: cityoperavancouver.com
(600 Campbell Street, May 25 + 26)
Music on Main presents Vicky Chow Plays Philip Glass Piano Etudes Book 2, May 28, 2024
Music on Main presents Vicky Chow Plays Philip Glass Piano Etudes Book 2, on stage May 28, 2024, at 7:30pm at Christ Church Cathedral (690 Burrard Street). The anticipated evening follows Chow’s sold-out performance last spring where the Vancouver-raised, New York-based “monster pianist” (Time Out New York) amazed audiences with Philip Glass’ driving, hypnotic creations. Chow’s return will see her complete the renowned composer’s solo piano études by performing Book 2 in its entirety. Praised as “one of the new stars of new music” (Los Angeles Times), this singular presentation will mark the first opportunity for Vancouver audiences to experience Chow performing the music of Book 2 live in concert.
(Christ Church Cathedral, May. 28)
Wayne Weng Trio
Don't miss an exciting concert featuring three extraordinary artists! Critically acclaimed & celebrated by audiences across North America, pianist Wayne Weng, violinist Jae-Won Bang & cellist Jonathan Lo come together to perform an inspired program including Franz Schubert’s Piano Trio No. 2 in E flat major & Argentinian tangos by Astor Piazzola. This extraordinary programme will be performed at 10:30 am & 1:30 pm. Presented by West Vancouver Community Arts Council.
(Silk Purse Arts Centre, 1570 Argyle Ave, West Vancouver, May. 28)
Broadway Goes Gospel: Universal Gospel Choir
Broadway Goes Gospel - Join the Universal Gospel Choir (UGC) to celebrate Broadway! Under the musical leadership of Lonnie Delisle, the powerful 70-voice choir will uplift spirits and inspire as they perform Broadway favourites. From Kinky Boots, to the Greatest Showman and everything in between, UGC will inspire with musical excellence and absolute joy. The youth musical theatre group, The Showstoppers will join UGC for select songs that are sure to raise the roof.
(Vancouver Playhouse Theatre, 600 Hamilton St, Vancouver, Jun. 2, 3:00 p.m – Matinee)
Listening Lounge : Tanika Charles
Experience an electrifying evening with Toronto's very own soul music powerhouse, Tanika Charles. With two Juno Award nominations and critical international acclaim for her third album "Papillon de Nuit: The Night Butterfly," Charles has proven herself to be a master of the genre both at home and abroad.
Charles’ music – a fusion of classic soul influences with modern sensibilities – creates a unique sound that appeals to fans of all ages and musical tastes. Known for her honesty, attitude, and high-energy live performances, she captivates audiences with her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence.
Whether you're a long-time fan or discovering her for the first time, Tanika’s soulful music, honesty, and attitude will capture your heart and soul.
(The ACT Arts Centre, 11944 Haney Place, Maple Ridge)
Listening Lounge : Quartetto Gelato
ABOUT THE SHOW
Sweetening up the Listening Lounge, Quartetto Gelato performs their eclectic, multi-instrumental virtuoso showpieces, romantic ballads, and blazing gypsy tunes that have captivated audiences world-wide. From their beginnings as NPR’s “Debut Artist of the Year,” Quartetto Gelato has gone on to perform in some of the world's most prestigious venues – from New York to Tokyo, London to Hong Kong.
The quartet - Colin Maier (woodwinds, violin, electric bass, musical saw), Kirk Starkey (cello), Konstantin Popovic (violin) Matti Pulkki (accordions) - combine a theatrical stage presence and relaxed humour create to create an energetic rapport with audiences in exotic repertoire that spans the globe, including well-known classical masterworks, energetic tangos, gypsy and klezmer songs.
Be enchanted by musical virtuosity, artistic passion and humour.
ABOUT LISTENING LOUNGE
The Listening Lounge Series is a casual cabaret-style experience that brings a variety of musical genres to hungry, curious ears. Gather around a table to meet new people or connect with old friends, enjoy a small plate of nibbles and your favorite beverage to start the weekend off right.
(11944 Haney Place)
Sunday Chamber Music Series : Sweet Sixteen
ABOUT THE CONCERT
Written when he was just 16 years old, Mendelssohn’s Octet for double string quartet is one of the most astonishing works of art ever produced by anyone so young, and remains an undisputed masterpiece.
A true polymath, Alexander Borodin was a doctor and a chemist who composed music in his spare time. Now known primarily for his musical compositions, his lyrical and tender string quartet opens this sparkling afternoon of great music.
This performance further celebrates the promise of youth by combining the UBC School of Music faculty string quartet with UNBC’s senior quartet in residence.
String Quartet No 2 in D (1881) | Alexander Borodin (1833-1887)
String Octet in E flat major, Op. 20 (1825) | Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)
ABOUT THE SERIES
For newcomers and aficionados alike, the Sunday Chamber Music Series presents casual afternoons of engaging and informative classical masterworks for small ensembles performed by some of the finest classical musicians in Canada and beyond.
This season’ series presents astounding works of genius from the very young, music written by child prodigies and child prodigies who grew into even more astonishing adult composers.
Curated by violinist David Gillham, the series celebrates a rich kaleidoscope of young genius, culminating with one of the most exciting young string quartets on the world stage today.
The Music of Youth is, ultimately, the music of hope.
(The ACT Arts Centre, 11944 Haney Place, Maple Ridge)
