Coming Up On Royal City Rag… Celebrate the Season

Royal City Rag on December 4 will have a distinctly seasonal theme and lots of guests.

John Huston As Charles Dickens

Charlie Cares from Ground Floor Music will be joining us during the first hour to chat about “A Christmas Carol”,  a dramatic tour de force featuring John Huston portraying Charles Dickens as he tells his classic yuletide tale. The show takes place at St. James The Apostle Anglican Church in Guelph on December 7.

A Christmas Carol… As Told By Charles Dickens
St. James The Apostle Anglican Church, 86 Glasgow St. N., Guelph, ON
Tuesday, December 7 at 8.00 p.m. (doors open at 7.30 p.m.)
Tickets: $20 at the door/$18 in advance from Ground Floor Music, 13 Quebec St., Guelph, ON, 519-827-1444 info@groundfloormusic.ca

Later in the hour we’ll be touching base with Marie Zimmerman, Exectutive Director of the Hillside Festival as the first tickets for Hillside Inside go on sale. Hillside Inside takes place February 4-5 2011 at a variety of downtown venues. Artists announced so far include summer 2010 favourites Sarah Harmer, Matt Andersen and Shane Koyczan. Tickets go on sale this coming Saturday, December 4, 2010 at 9.00 a.m. from Hillside ticket outlets Ground Floor Music in Guelph, Encore Records in Kitchener and Soundscapes in Toronto as well as online via TicketPro.

In the second hour of the show Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra will be joining us to chat about the GSO’s seasonal concerts. “Christmas Choral Fantasy” with the Grand River Chorus, takes place on Sunday December 12 2010 at 3 p.m. at River Run Centre with conductor David Bourque. The Christmas offering is a blend of classics and festive seasonal music. Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy, with the Grand River Chorus and Amy Wark (piano) is the major work, together with the dazzling opening chorus from Bach’s “Christmas Oratorio”, and Brahms’ “Christmas Day”. There will be lots of carols and opportunities for audience sing-along and the King George School choir will add to the festivities. Delightful music for the season, with something for everyone!

The GSO complete their seasonal offerings with “Dreams of Vienna” on New Year’s Day, Saturday January 1, 2011 at 3 p.m. at River Run Centre with conductor candidate Michael Newnham.  This annual GSO Viennese-style musical feast is now a popular Guelph New Year’s Day tradition. Two terrific soloists give double the pleasure! – Guelph’s own soprano Donna Ellen Trifunovich, now resident in Vienna with the State Opera, and mezzo Julie Nesrallah, of CBC fame. These duelling divas will be a lot of fun! And the orchestra plays waltzes, marches and polkas, complete with elegant dancers gliding over the stage.

Wassail!

To wrap up the show Rick and Judy Avery from local acoustic group Relative Harmony will join us to play live in the studio. Relative Harmony will be taking part in “Wassail!”- a celebration of old-fashioned Christmas and solstice traditions taking place at Harcourt Memorial United Church on December 4 at 7.30 p.m. Wassail! has been charming audiences in London Ontario for over twenty years. The show features traditional songs and carols sung, elegant English dances and rollicking Morris dancing accompanied by live music, a mummers’ play as well as seasonal readings from Jane Austen and Thomas Hardy.  Advance tickets can be purchased from Ground Floor Music on Quebec Street for $18.00, Students and seniors $13.00.

And wrapping up that seasonal theme, don’t forget that the Guelph Youth Singers annual concert, This Frosty Tide, takes place at St. George’s Anglican Church on December 4 at 7.30 p.m. Traditional carols in beautiful choral arrangements will mix with songs of frosty winter. Guest soprano soloists, Marion Samuel-Stevens and Sandra Tucker, will add to the concert with solos including Mozart’s “Exultate Jubilate,” Adolph Adams’ classic, “O Holy Night” and Pietro Yon’s “Gesu Bambino”–the last two accompanied by beautiful children’s voices.

This Frosty Tide
St. George’s Anglican Church
Saturday, December 4 at 7.30 p.m.
Tickets: River Run Centre box office, 519-763-3000.
Adults $25 / Students & Seniors $19/eyeGO.org

Remember if you don’t catch Royal City Rag live, you can always pick it up later that day via the CFRU archive or on this website a day or so later.

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GSO Christmas Choral Fantasy – December 12, 2010

David Bourque

Guelph Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 10th Anniversary season, featuring five concerts and five guest conductors . One of these will be selected as the new resident conductor of the GSO, starting in the 2011-12 season. Audience members are invited to contribute to the selection process, through a survey available after each concert!

“Christmas Choral Fantasy” with the Grand River Chorus, will be performed on Sunday December 12 2010 at 3 p.m. at River Run Centre with conductor David Bourque. The Christmas offering is a blend of classics and festive seasonal music. Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy, with the Grand River Chorus and Amy Wark (piano) is the major work, together with the dazzling opening chorus from Bach’s “Christmas Oratorio”, and Brahms’ “Christmas Day”. There will be lots of carols and opportunities for audience sing-along and the King George School choir will add to the festivities. Delightful music for the season, with something for everyone!

For more information, visit the Guelph Symphony Orchestra website, www.guelphorchestra.ca

Guelph Symphony Orchestra
Christmas Choral Fantasy
Sunday December 12, 2010 at 3 p.m.
River Run Centre, Guelph
Tickets: River Run Centre box office, 519-763-3000.

Simon Irving, Artistic Director with the Guelph Symphony Orchestra will be one of our guests during the second hour of Royal City Rag (9-10 a.m.) on Saturday December 4 on CFRU93.3fm.

Remember if you don’t catch Royal City Rag live, you can always pick it up later that day via the CFRU archive or on this website a day or so later.

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GSO, The Marriage Of Figaro – October 23 2010

Guelph Symphony Orchestra

Guelph Symphony Orchestra kick off their10th Anniversary season on October 23 with Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro. In their 10th season they will be offering five concerts by five guest conductors. One of whom will be selected as the new resident conductor of the GSO, starting in the 2011-12 season.

Mozart’s MARRIAGE OF FIGARO launches the new season on Saturday October 23, 2010 at 7.30 p.m. at Guelph’s River Run Centre. Conducted by Kristian Alexander, this will be a concert performance of Mozart’s comic masterpiece, featuring a strong cast including such Guelph favourites as Andrew Tees as Figaro, Michael York as the Count and Marion Samuel-Stevens as the Countess. Brian Otto will narrate this trimmed-down performance which will include all your favourite music, sung in English. Book early to avoid disappointment!

Guelph Symphony Orchestra
Concert: Marriage of Figaro
Date: Saturday October 23, 2010 at 7.30 p.m.
Venue: River Run Centre, Guelph
For more information visit www.guelphorchestra.ca

Royal City Rag has two tickets to giveaway for the Guelph Symphony Orchestra performance of the Marriage of Figaro. If you would like them, please e-mail us at info@royalcityrag.ca. First person to e-mail us, gets them!

UPDATE, October 16, 2010: The two tickets for the Marriage of Figaro have gone to Stephanie Tucker. Congratulations, Stephanie!

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Royal City Rag, September 11 – Rockin’ With The GSO II

Euphoric Flight

On  September 11 , Royal City Rag was pleased to welcome Ed Malison (Bass, Sarah Garrett back to the show with Tony Hastings to talk about “Rockin’ with the GSO II” taking place at the River Run Centre on Saturday September 25, 2010 at 8 p.m.

Malison, the show’s producer, will again move from his GSO trumpet to bass guitar and vocals. Returning with the band are John Tonin (guitar and vocals), Dominic Dinino (drums), Tony Hastings (lead vocals), Jessica Cano and Anita Smith (vocals) and Steve Malison (guitars, keyboards, sax, vocals). Amy Wark, also with the GSO, has joined Euphoric Flight and will play keyboards and provide backing vocals. Chris Cigolea will again be Music Director and Carol Sammut returns as Concert Master.

The concert will feature covers of classic pop and rock songs. “35 musicians will share the stage to perform the biggest pop and rock songs, those that have already made a lasting impression on music lovers, for teens to seniors – from Beatles to Heart to Bon Jovi. We’ve done our homework and replaced many of the songs with new ones that are even more powerful.”

To enhance this year’s show, Guelph­-born vocalist and composer Lynzie Kent will be featured vocalist on several of the rock classics. Lynzie will also sing one of her own original compositions, ‘New Red Shoes’.

Malison again hired Dawn Selby from South Africa to arrange all of the pieces for the 2010 concert, and like last year, she will travel to Canada to share in the experience. Glen Keleher will also return as MC. A portion of the proceeds will go to support Addictions Ontario.

For more details on the concert and artists, visit www.rockinwiththegso.com. For more information on Lynzie Kent visit www.lynziekent.com. For more information on the Guelph Symphony Orchestra visit www.guelphorchestra.ca.

Tickets for this event can be purchased from River Run Centre Box Office at 519-­763-­3000.

Listen to the show:

Royal City Rag, Saturdays 8-10 a.m. on CFRU93.3fm in Guelph. Remember if you don’t catch Royal City Rag live, you can always pick it up later that day via the CFRU archive or here, on the blog, a day or so later.

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Rockin With The GSO II – September 25 2010

Euphoric Flight

Last September, Guelph Symphony Orchestra stalwart Ed Malison achieved a lifelong dream when his rock band Euphoric Flight teamed up with the GSO to play classic rock at the E.L. Fox Auditorium.

This year, “Rockin’ with the GSO” moves to a bigger venue with a show on the River Run Centre main stage on Saturday September 25, 2010 at 8 p.m.

To enhance this year’s show, Guelph­-born vocalist and composer Lynzie Kent will be featured vocalist on several of the rock classics. Lynzie will also sing one of her own original compositions, ‘New Red Shoes’.

Malison, the show’s producer, will again move from his GSO trumpet to bass guitar and vocals. Returning with the band are John Tonin (guitar and vocals), Dominic Dinino (drums), Tony Hastings (lead vocals), Jessica Cano and Anita Smith (vocals) and Steve Malison (guitars, keyboards, sax, vocals). Amy Wark, also with the GSO, has joined Euphoric Flight and will play keyboards and provide backing vocals. Chris Cigolea will again be Music Director and Carol Sammut returns as Concert Master.

The concert will feature covers of classic pop and rock songs. “35 musicians will share the stage to perform the biggest pop and rock songs, those that have already made a lasting impression on music lovers, for teens to seniors – from Beattles to Heart to Bon Jovi. We’ve done our homework and replaced many of the songs with new ones that are even more powerful.”

Malison again hired Dawn Selby from South Africa to arrange all of the pieces for the 2010 concert, and like last year, she will travel to Canada to share in the experience. Glen Keleher will also return as MC. A portion of the proceeds will go to support Addictions Ontario.

For more details on the concert and artists, visit www.rockinwiththegso.com. For more information on Lynzie Kent visit  www.lynziekent.com.  For  more  information  on  the  Guelph Symphony Orchestra visit  www.guelphorchestra.ca.

Tickets for this event can be purchased from River Run Centre Box Office at 519-­763-­3000.

Catch Ed Malison (Bass guitar/Producer) with Tony Hastings (Lead Vocals) and Sarah Garrett (from the GSO) on CFRU 93.3fm’s Royal City Rag this Saturday, September 11 between 8-9 a.m.

Royal City Rag, Saturdays 8-10 a.m. on CFRU93.3fm in Guelph. Remember if you don’t catch Royal City Rag live, you can always pick it up later that day via the CFRU archive or here, on the blog, a day or so later.

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Royal City Rag, June 19 – Guelph Symphony Orchestra And The Culture Vultures

CFRU’s Royal City Rag on June 19 was dedicated to the great Guelph arts and culture scene.

In the first hour, Simon Irving, artistic director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra joining us to discuss the orchestra’s upcoming 10th season, 2010 – 2011. Tickets can be purchased from the River Run box office, 519-763-3000.

The orchestra is also presenting its 7th Music in the Park outdoor concert on Sunday, June 27 at the Riverside Park Bandshell, beginning at 3 p.m.

The concert, featuring a selection of light classics for the entire family, is entitled “An Afternoon at the Proms”. Expect to hear a varied selection of  the English music you might hear at a Prom concert in London. That means, everything from Elgar to the Beatles. Don’t forget to bring your own lawn chair and rug. Feel free to bring flags, costumes and funny hats!

This is the GSO’s “thank you” to the community for its continuing support. Sounds like a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. You won’t want to miss it!

Guelph Symphony Orchestra’s Music in the Park
When: Sunday June 27, 2010 at 3 p.m.
Where: Riverside Park Bandshell

Visit the Guelph Symphony Orchestra website, www.guelphorchestra.ca for more information about upcoming performances.

Listen to Hour 1:

Culture Vulture Marie Zimmerman on Royal City Rag

In the second hour, we were joined by our culture vulture Marie Zimmerman for our regular monthly chat about the Guelph art scene. This month we focused on Toronto’s Artscape and the mentoring program they are setting up for Guelph, the new Guelph Civic Square and the upcoming Art on the Street on July 17. We also included some cool music from artists appearing at this year’s Hillside Festival. Day tickets are still available for the festival and can be purchased by following the links on the festival website.

One event that we didn’t have a chance to mention is the retirement of Sally Wismer from the Guelph Arts Council after 22 years as Executive Director. To celebrate her contribution to the organization as well as the larger community, the Board of Directors is hosting an informal reception on Tuesday, June 29, 2010, at the River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich Street in Guelph.  The public is warmly invited to drop between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to share memories with Sally.  Official remarks will begin at 5.15 p.m.  An RSVP is encouraged.
 
In lieu of gifts, Sally has asked that a fund be created to support Guelph Arts Council in the years ahead.  Anyone wishing to make a contribution towards the fund can visit the Guelph Arts Council website Donations page or contact the office at 519-836-3280 or gac@sentex.net.  Forms will also be available for at the June 29 event.  All contributions are tax receiptable.

Listen to Hour 2:

Music:
Madison Violet, No Fool For Trying from No Fool For Trying
Elisa Randazzo, Can’t Afford My Peace Of Mind from Bruise And Butterflies
James Gordon, Whistlewing from My Stars Your Eyes
Elgar, Pomp and Circumstance March No 1 (Land Of Hope And Glory) London Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Davis Conductor
Elgar, Enigma Variations, No. 9 Nimrod, London Symphony Orchestra, Colin Davis Conductor
Jon Redfern, I Love The Sun from May Be Sometime
Finlay Quaye with William Orbit, Dice from The Epic Years
Grand Analog, Take It Slow (Spaces & Places) from Metropolis Is Burning
Laura Marling, What He Wrote from I Speak Because I Can
Jason Collett, Love Is A Dirty Word from Rat A Tat Tat
Stars, Fixed from The Five Ghosts

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag… Breakfast With The Arts

We’ll be spending CFRU’s Royal City Rag on June 19 with the arts.

In the first hour, Simon Irving, artistic director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra will be joining us to discuss the orchestra’s upcoming season.

The orchestra also presents its 7th Music in the Park outdoor concert on Sunday, June 27 at the Riverside Park Bandshell, beginning at 3 p.m.

The concert, featuring a selection of light classics for the entire family, is entitled “An Afternoon at the Proms”. Expect to hear a varied selection of  the English music you might hear at a Prom concert in London. That means, everything from Elgar to the Beatles.

Visit the Guelph Symphony Orchestra website, www.guelphorchestra.ca for more information about upcoming performances

In the second hour, we’ll be joined by our culture vulture Marie Zimmerman for our regular monthly chat about the Guelph art scene. This month we’ll be focusing on the possibility of Guelph having its own Artscape, the new Guelph Civic Square and the upcoming Art on the Street on July 17.

Should be a great show. As always we’ll wrap the whole thing up with some great music. You won’t want to miss it!

Royal City Rag, Saturdays 8-10 a.m. on CFRU93.3fm in Guelph. Remember if you don’t catch Royal City Rag live , you can always pick it up later that day via the CFRU archive or here, on the blog, a day or so later.

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GSO’s Music In The Park, “An Afternoon At The Proms” – June 27

The Guelph Symphony Orchestra presents its 7th Music in the Park outdoor concert on Sunday, June 27 at Riverside Park Bandshell, beginning at 3 p.m.

The concert  featuring a selection of light classics for the entire family is entitled “An Afternoon at the Proms”. Expect to hear a varied selection of  the English music you might hear at a Prom concert in London. That means, everything from Elgar to the Beatles.

This is the GSO’s “thank you” to the community for its continuing support.

Sounds like a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. You won’t want to miss it!

Guelph Symphony Orchestra’s Music in the Park
When: Sunday June 27, 2010 at 3 p.m.
Where: Riverside Park Bandshell

Visit the Guelph Symphony Orchestra website, www.guelphorchestra.ca for more information about upcoming performances.

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Competition Time – Don’t Miss The Great Ticket Giveaway!

We have tickets to give away for both the Guelph Comedy Festival, April 9-10 and Masterworks and More, The Guelph Symphony Orchestra concert on April 11.

To win the tickests just answer the questions below.

 

Guelph Comedy Festival, April 9-10.

We have two one day passes available for the Guelph Comedy Festival (a $60 value).

To win the tickets, answer the following question:

Question: Tell us who is the main stand up comedian at the Guelph Comedy Festival on Saturday night, April 10?

 

Masterworks and More, Guelph Symphony Orchestra, April 11

We have two tickets for the Guelph Symphony Orchestra concert on April 11 at 3.00 p.m. (a $60 value)

To win the tickets, answer the following question:

Question: Guelph Symphony Orchestra was founded in 2001. It wasn’t called the Guelph Symphony Orchestra at that time. What was it called?

 

Send your answers to info@royalcityrag.ca by Thursday, April 8.

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Royal City Rag, April 3 – Springtime, Guelph Symphony And Comedy

We started the first hour of Royal City Rag on April 3 with a beautiful set celebrating springtime and featuring songs by Noah and the Whale, The Acorn, Gillian Welch and Lucy Wainwright Roche. Probably one of the best sets we’ve put together to start a show. We hope you enjoy it.

In the first hour we talked to Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra about Masterworks and More taking place at the River Run Centre on April 11 at 3.00 p.m. Guest conductor Kerry Stratton will present some of his favourite works including Schumann’s Fourth Symphony in F, plus Canadian composer Lloyd Burritt’s Symphonic Overture. This season’s joint Under-23 Concerto competition winner Brian Yoon will also perform Dvorak’s magnificent Cello Concerto. Tickets are available from the River Run Box Office, 519-763-3000 at $30 Adults ($25, group rate), $15 Students, $10 Kids.

Listen to Hour 1:

We started the second hour with yet more music to celebrate the Spring, but this time also with an April theme, and featuring, appropriately, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong’s gorgeous version of “April in Paris”. We followed that with the Magnetic Fields, and “Love Goes Home To Paris In The Spring”. As there isn’t too much chance of us getting to France at the moment, we’re thinking of Paris, Ontario.

In the second hour we were joined by Andrew Seagram and Jeff Berche for a fun chat about the first Guelph Comedy Festival, “Funny Shorts and Big Garters”, a two day event  taking place at the Guelph Youth Music Centre (75 Cardigan Street), on April 9-10.

The festival features stand-up acts, sketch, improv performances and short films. Comic talents include Pat Thornton, punchDrysdale, Ian “eight inch” Lynch, Ghost Jail, Becky Johnson of Iron Cobra, Nemo Dally, Elephant Empire, Falcon Powder, Project: Project, Andrew Seagram and Jeff Bersche.

Tickets are available for single performances at $10 (at the door only, if there is room!), one-night passes $30, or two-night passes $50.

Tickets may be purchased through Ed Video’s office (40 Baker St, 2nd floor), by phone at 519-836-9811, or on Ed Video’s website www.edvideo.org with Paypal.

Listen to Hour 2:

Music:
Noah And The Whale, The First Day Of Spring from The First Day Of Spring
The Acorn, Springtime In Centretown from Outaouais Trilogy
Gillian Welch, Acony Bell from Revival
Lucy Wainright Roche, Wild Mountain Thyme from 8 Songs
Richard N Ahlstrom, Celtic Spring from Celtic Spring
Ian Tyson, Springtime In Alberta from And Stood There Amazed
O’Malley’s Folk Players, The Springtime Polka And Primrose Polka from Irish And Celtic Folk Classics
The Relaxation Specialists, Spring Horizon from The Greatest Yoga, Meditation, Healing And Manifestation Collection Ever Made
Czech Philharmonic/Douglas Bostock, Schumann Symphony No. 4 In D minor, Op. 120, Scherzo     
Yo Yo Ma soloist with the Berlin Philharmonic/Lorin Maazel, Dvorák Cello Concerto In B minor op. 104, Allegro from Great Cello Concertos
Ella Fitzgerald And Louis Armstrong, April In Paris from Paris For Lovers 
Magnetic Fields, Love Goes Home To Paris In The Spring from The House Of Tomorrow
Robin Williams, Spring from One Night At The Met (Live)
The Producers Cast, Springtime for Hitler from The Producers Original Soundtrack 
Rickie Lee Jones, Rainbow Sleeves from Girl At Her Volcano

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag – GSO ‘Masterworks And More’ And Guelph Comedy Festival

We’ll be spending CFRU 93.3fm’s Royal City Rag on April 3 amongst the arts.

In the first hour of the show we’ll be talking to Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra about Masterworks and More taking place at the River Run Centre on April 11 at 3.00 p.m. Guest conductor Kerry Stratton will present some of his favourite works including Schumann’s Fourth Symphony in F, plus Canadian composer Lloyd Burritt’s Symphonic Overture. This season’s joint Under-23 Concerto competition winner Brian Yoon will also perform Dvorak’s magnificent Cello Concerto. 

Tickets are available from the River Run Box Office, 519-763-3000 at $30 Adults ($25, group rate), $15 Students, $10 Kids.

In the second hour we will be joined by Andrew Seagram and Jeff Berche about the first Guelph Comedy Festival, “Funny Shorts and Big Garters”, a two day event  at the Guelph Youth Music Centre (75 Cardigan Street), on April 9-10 featuring stand-up acts, sketch, improv performances and short films. Comic talents include Pat Thornton, punchDrysdale, Ian “eight inch” Lynch, Ghost Jail, Becky Johnson of Iron Cobra, Nemo Dally, Elephant Empire, Falcon Powder, Project: Project, Andrew Seagram and Jeff Bersche.

Tickets are available for single performances at $10 (at the door only, if there is room!), one-night passes $30, or two-night passes $50.

Tickets may be purchased through Ed Video’s office (40 Baker St, 2nd floor), by phone at 519-836-9811, or on Ed Video’s website www.edvideo.org with Paypal.

As usual we’ll wrap up the whole show with some cool music. You won’t want to miss it!

Royal City Rag, Saturdays 7-9 a.m. on CFRU93.3fm, Guelph’s Campus-Community Radio Station.

Remember if you don’t catch Royal City Rag live on CFRU93.3fm, you can pick it up later that day via the CFRU archive or here, on the blog, the next day.

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Royal City Rag, February 13 – The Valentine’s Weekend Edition

We had a very special 3-hour version of Royal City Rag on CFRU93.3fm on February 13 to celebrate St Valentine’s Day.

Garnet Rogers

We started out the show with a new single from Johnny Cash (really), “Ain’t No Grave”, the title song from American Recordings 6 to be released on February 23. I’m not sure how I feel about another posthumous Johnny Cash album. I’m a big fan, but he sounds very frail on this release. It will be interesting to see what the rest of the album sounds like. We followed that with Peter Gabriel and his version of Bon Iver’s Flume from the very interesting “Scratch My Back” covers album featuring songs by Radiohead, Randy Newman and Elbow alongside Bon Iver and others. A soon to be released companion album will have the ‘covered’ artists interpreting Gabriel’s work. You have to admit its a nice idea. The early reviews are very favourable so I guess I’ll be picking up this one too.

And finally, to round out the first set we listened to a gorgeous song by Garnet Rogers, “Summer Lightning” from the  live set, Get A Wtiness. Garnet is in Guelph on February 19 for a show at Dublin St United. Should be a great gig. All the details are here, if you need them.

Later in the hour, we dipped into the Valentine’s theme again, with one of my favourite love songs, Joan Armatrading’s “Willow” and followed that with the beautiful but sad “If love were the cure” from Guelph’s Detour. Detour are 16 year old Elivia Cazzola and her 14 year old sister, Anita. Detour were on last year’s yuletide Royal City Rag playing some traditional songs. We’re hoping to have them back on Royal City Rag fairly shortly, this time focusing on their own material. Stay tuned.

Guelph Symphony Orchestra

To wrap up the first hour Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra joined us to chat about the GSO’s Valentine’s Day concert at the River Run Centre, Music Of Love and Romance. The performance features some of the most romantic music ever written including Mozart’s Elvira Madigan Concerto and the Warsaw Concerto, as well as favourite tunes from South Pacific, and songs by Sigmund Romberg. Interpretive dance to Prokoviev’s Romeo and Juliet featuring Clayton Scott makes this a concert not to be missed. Tickets are selling out fast, so if you still want to go, and, remember, it is Valentine’s… Call the River Run Box Office at 519-763-3000 or go Online to secure a Valentine’s Day to remember.

Listen to Hour 1:

In the second hour, we celebrated Valentine’s weekend in spokenword and music with storytellers Sya Van Geest and Brad Woods and singer-songwriter Sam Turton. We had planned to be on location in Niagara Falls, but after it turned out that, according to the Guelph Mercury, Guelph is the most romantic city in Ontario, we hastily recast our plans and headed down to the Farmers Market. Unfortunately no one told Brad so he ended up in Niagara Falls! Fortunately hs still managed to deliver his story. Good fun was had by all even if it was a bit on the chilly side in the Farmers market car park.

Listen to Hour 2:

And finally, to finish a bumper edition of Royal City Rag, we welcomed Sheila O’Reilly (host of CFRU’s A Dog’s Breakfast) and writer and educator Susan Wheeler into the studio for a Valentine’s Weekend song share. An opportunity to hear some great tunes, we very democratically shared some of our favourite love songs, some sad, some happy and some I’d not thought of playing to celebrate the holiday.

We finished up the hour with the Korgis (Stackridge’s Andy Davis and James Warren) beautiful “Everybody’s Got To Learn Sometime” followed by George Adams and Don Pullen’s “God Has Smiled At Me”.

A gorgeous way to finish the show, and, well worth listening to… just for that! I hope you enjoy it.

Listen to Hour 3:

All in all, a great show… and almost too much to have to tell you about! I’d suggest that you just take a listen yourselves. You’ll not be disappointed.

Music:
Johnny Cash, Ain’t No Grave from American 6: Ain’t No Grave
Peter Gabriel, Flume from Scratch My Back
Garnet Rogers, Summer Lightning from Get A Witness
Joan Armatrading, Willow from Gold
Detour, If Love Were The Cure from Detour E.P. (Demo)
Sam Turton, What’s So Funny About Peace, Love And Understanding (Live)
Sam Turton, I’d Rather Be With You (Live)
Sam Turton, Right Here (Live)
Sam Turton, Without Love (Live)
Sam Turton, I’ve Just Seen a Face (Live)
Sam Turton, Oh Susanna (Live)
Rosanne Cash, Long Black Veil from The List
KD Lang, Hallelujah from Recollection
Tomas McEoin & The Waterboys, Down By The Sally Gardens from Room To Roam (Collectors Edition)
Corries, Peggy Gordon from Traditions
Eddi Reader, The Shepherd’s Song from Peacetime
Ralph McTell, Streets Of London from Streets Of London And Other Stories
Beau Dommage, La complainte du phoque en Alaska from Beau Dommage (30 Anniversary Edition)
Martha Wainright, Dis quand reviendras tu? from I Will Internalize EP
Korgis. Everybody’s Got To Learn Sometime from Don’t Look Back, The Best Of The Korgis
Don Pullen and George Adams, God Has Smiled On Me from Melodic Excursions

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag… A Bumper Valentine’s Weekend Edition!

We have a ‘bumper’ edition of Royal City Rag planned for February 13.

In the first hour (7-8 a.m.) we’ll talk to Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra about their Valentine’s Day concert at the River Run Centre, Music Of Love and Romance, featuring some of the most romantic music ever written – Mozart’s Elvira Madigan Concerto, the Warsaw Concerto, both works featuring their own Amy Wark as piano soloist, as well as favourite tunes from South Pacific, and songs by Sigmund Romberg, performed by soprano Mary DuQuesnay.

The timeless story of Romeo and Juliet will also be presented and interpreted by the magnetic Clayton Scott, with thrilling and emotional music by Prokofiev. Guest conductor for Romeo and Juliet will be Judith Yan of the National Ballet. 

Clayton Scott

The Details:
Concert: Music of Love and Romance
When: Sunday February 14 at 3.00 p.m.
Where: River Run Centre, Guelph

Tickets: Online or at the River Run Box Office, 519-763-3000
Adult/Senior: $30.00
Student: $15.00
Child: $10.00 (12 and under)
eyeGO: $5.00 (High School Student – valid ID required)

In the second hour (8-9 a.m.), we’ll be celebrating Valentine’s weekend in spokenword and music with our good friends, storytellers Sya Van Geest and Brad Woods and singer-songwriter Sam Turton. It promises to be great fun. You won’t want to miss it!

And finally, in this week’s extra hour (9-10 a.m.), while I’m filling in for my good friend Alden Hadwen, I will be joined by Sheila O’Reilly (host of CFRU’s A Dog’s Breakfast) and Susan Wheeler (former Royal City Rag Weather Pixie) for a song share with a distinct Valentine’s focus, but also a few twists. Tune it to hear some of the great songs we’ve chosen and, why!  It should be interesting…

Royal City Rag, Saturdays from 7-9 a.m. on CFRU 93.3 fm, Guelph’s Campus and Community Radio Station. Listen live on CFRU 93.3fm, or, after the fact, via the website. If it happens in Guelph you’ll hear about it on Royal City Rag!

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Music Of Love and Romance, River Run, February 14 – Ticket Giveway!

‘Tis the season when a young man’s fancy, (or a young woman’s, for that matter) turns to love…

Why not spend this Valentine’s Day with the Guelph Symphony Orchestra?

Clayton Scott

This Valentine’s Day, the Guelph Symphony Orchestra will be celebrating some of the most romantic music ever written – Mozart’s Elvira Madigan Concerto, the Warsaw Concerto, both works featuring their own Amy Wark as piano soloist, as well as favourite tunes from South Pacific, and songs by Sigmund Romberg, performed by soprano Mary DuQuesnay.

The timeless story of Romeo and Juliet will also be presented and interpreted by the magnetic Clayton Scott, with thrilling and emotional music by Prokofiev. Guest conductor for Romeo and Juliet will be Judith Yan of the National Ballet. 

The Details:
Concert: Music of Love and Romance
When: Sunday February 14 at 3.00 p.m.
Where: River Run Centre, Guelph

Tickets: Online or at the River Run Box Office, 519-763-3000
Adult/Senior: $30.00
Student: $15.00
Child: $10.00 (12 and under)
eyeGO: $5.00 (High School Student – valid ID required)

Royal City Rag has a pair of tickets to give away to the first person who answers the following question correctly.

Question: When was the Guelph Symphony Orchestra founded?

Please send your answer to info@royalcityrag.ca with “GSO Valentine’s  Giveaway” in the subject line. Good luck!

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Guelph Symphony Orchestra Presents The Snowman – December 13 2009

If you, like me, love The Snowman you’ll not want to miss this holiday show from the Guelph Symphony Orchestra.

This one-hour holiday treat for adults and children alike features Raymond Briggs’ enchanting and internationally-renowned 80s animation “The Snowman,” with the soundtrack played live by the Orchestra. Everyone gets in the Christmas spirit with excerpts from “The Nutcracker” suite, some popular songs from host Dan Kelley, a singalong “Twelve Days of Christmas”, and the Grinch theme and song. Santa Claus might even drop by.

Come experience the joy of live music in a thoroughly entertaining one-hour show!

Guelph Symphony Orchestra Concert: The Snowman
Where: River Run Centre
When: Sunday December 13, 2009
Two Shows: 2 p.m. & 4 p.m.
Tickets: $18.00 (adult/senior), $10.00 (student/child)

www.guelphorchestra.ca

Catch Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra on Royal City Rag, Saturday December 5 between 8.00 – 9.00 a.m. Royal City Rag, Saturdays 7-9 a.m. on CFRU93.3fm.

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Royal City Rag December 5 – Budgeting, Trees and Musical Snowmen

We were back on air with a busy Royal City Rag on December 5. Apologies to all our faithful listeners for being missing in action this past two weeks.

In the first hour of the show, Annie O’Donoghue, President of the Guelph Civic League joined us to chat about the current municipal budgeting process and some suggested improvements that would allow citizens to feel more involved in the decision making process. She also reminded everyone  about their opportunity to hear Mayor Farbridge deliver her State of the City address at 10 Carden Street on December 10 at 5.30 p.m. A question and answer session will follow her presentation.

Listen to Hour 1:

Royal City Park

In the second hour we played some powerful audio from the Friends of the Royal City Park Community Tree Vigil that took place on December 4.

On November 23, Guelph City Council approved an Operations Dept. plan to remove 52 mature trees from Royal City Park. 

The removal of the trees, including some of the heritage veteran silver maples, and the potential for the loss of 5-7 more trees per year for the next 20 years will permanently alter the character and beauty of the park. 

35 people attended the vigil to commemorate the trees and talk about how they will be personally affected by the avoidable loss of yet more of our green heritage.

Guelph Urban Forest Friends have long been advocating for our urban trees, including a stronger protective tree bylaw and a separate urban forestry department with a certified forester to more effectively manage tree maintenance and coordinate public education on the value of our mature trees. For more information on GUFF, visit their website at www.guffguelph.ca.

Listen to the audio from the Royal City Park Community Tree Vigil:

Later in the hour we talked to Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra about their upcoming holiday season performances; The Snowman on December 13 and Dreams of Vienna on January 1. Tickets for both shows are available from the River Run Centre.

Listen to hour 2:

Music:
Lindisfarne, Winter Song from Nicely Out Of Tune
Jennifer Noxon, Other Side Of Winter from Let It Snow (Compliation)
James Gordon, There Is No Silent Night from Mining For Gold
Roxanne Potvin, No Love For The Poisonous from No Love For The Poisonous
Good Lovelies, Maybe This Time from Under The Mistletoe
Katherine Wheatley, 99 Feet Of Snow from Habits and Heroes
James Gordon, Another Silver Maple Comes Down from Nine Green Bottles
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Walking In the Air from The Christmas Album (Compilation)
Kevin Breit, Sunnyside Up from Folkalarm

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag – Back In the Saddle

We’re back on air with a busy Royal City Rag on December 5. Apologies to all our faithful listeners for being missing in action this past two weeks.

It’s budget season at City Hall. After receiving citizen delegations regarding the budget for 2010 on December 8, city council will vote on the final budget for the city on December 15.

In the first hour of the show, Annie O’Donoghue, President of the Guelph Civic League will join us to chat about the current municipal budgetting process and some suggested improvements that would allow citizens to feel more involved in the decision making process.

In the second hour we’ll be talking to Simon Irving, Artistic Director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra about their upcoming holiday season performances. We’ll also be playing some audio from the Friends of the Royal City Park tree vigil that took place on December 4.

Should be a fun show. Join us on Saturday 7-9 a.m. on CFRU93.3fm or after the fact via the website.

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Royal City Rag – October 17

We devoted the whole of a special 3-hour Royal City Rag on October 17 to CFRU 93.3fm’s Raise Your Voice fundraising campaign. Thank you to everyone who helped the station reach our goal of $10,000 to support repairs to our transmitter. Here’s looking forward to being able to return to 250W of community power in the not to distant future!

During the first hour we chatted on the phone to both Annie O’Donoghue (from the Guelph Civic League )about Judy Rebick’s recent visit and Virginia Gilham (from Friends of the Guelph Public Library) about their giant book sale taking place October 24-25. Guelph guitarist extrordinaire Mike Mucci came in to play live during the second hour.

In the third hour, Guelph Storytellers Brad Woods and Sya Van Geest joined us to share a few tales and Norah Chaloner from the Guelph Chapter of the Council of Canadians popped in to remind us about the Say Bye to Buy Local speaking tour featuring Council of Canadians’ Maude Barlow and Sid Ryan from CUPE Ontario, visiting Kitchener on October 19 and Hamilton on November 19. Expect to hear more about this issue on Royal City Rag.

Finally, we squeezed in a phone interview with Simon Irving from the Guelph Symphony Orchestra. Catch their performance of autumn classics at the River Run on October 25.

Not quite a cast of thousands, but lots of fun nevertheless.

Thanks again to all the Royal City Rag listeners who pledged their support to CFRU93.3fm. A special thank you to Sheila O’Reilly and Sarah Mangle for all their help during the show.

Music:
Cuff The Duke, Promises from Way Down Here
Hazel Dickens Busted from Hard-hitting Songs For Hard Hit People
Bonnie Raitt & Friends Something To Talk About from Bonnie Raitt And Friends Live
Ocote Soul Sounds, Vendende-Saude-Y-Fe from Coconut Rock
Mike Mucci, Sunnyside Of Guelph from Sunnyside E.P.
John Fahey, On Doing An Evil Deed Blues from The Legend Of Blind Joe Death
Mike Mucci, Nico! from M.Mucci (Live)
Mike Mucci, As Yet Untitled (Live)
Mike Mucci, As Yet Untitled (Live)
Mike Mucci, Eramosa from Under The Tulip Tree (Live)
Nick Lowe, What’s So Funny About Peace Love and Understanding from At Your Age (Bonus Tracks)
Fugitives, Broken Promises from Find Me EP
Flying Lizards, (I Want) Money from Flying Lizards

Listen to the show:
Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

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Guelph Symphony Orchestra Fall Classics – October 25

Guelph Symphony Orchestra Fall Classics
Date: Sunday October 25, 2009 at 3 p.m.
River Run Centre, Guelph

Beethoven’s evocative Sixth Symphony (Pastoral), together with his dramatic overture Coriolanus is the centrepiece of the Fall Classics program launching the new GSO season.

The astounding young violinist Amir Safavi (joint winner of the GSO Concerto Competition) will perform Max Bruch’s popular Violin Concerto No 1. The Guelph Youth Symphony will also be featured for a side-by-side performance of the Coriolanus Overture.

For further information visit www.guelphorchestra.ca.

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Guelph PerFOURmance Pass Takes To The Stage This fall

This is a terrfic idea and a great deal for anyone interested in the performing arts.

The Guelph PerFOURmance Pass brings together four local performing groups and offers four different performances for the price of three.

The Guelph Chamber Choir, Guelph Concert Band, Guelph Symphony Orchestra and Royal City Musical Productions have all come together to create the Pass, which takes the form of a voucher booklet from which one show can be selected from a list of eligible performances by each organization. The voucher can be exchanged for a ticket at River Run Centre where the Pass is on sale and where all eligible performances will take place.

Four high quality performances at the very special price of $79. 

The eligible performance dates stretch from October 25, 2009 to May 2, 2010,  with the full purchase value of the Pass in place until  late February 2010.  

Details of all eligible performances are available at guelphchamberchoir.ca, guelphorchestra.ca, guelpharts .ca/guelphconcertband , rcmpi.com, and at riverrun.ca. To purchase a Pass, call River Run Centre (519) 763-3000 or visit riverrun.ca.

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Rockin’ With The GSO I – September 19 2009

Group: Euphoric Flight Pop-Rock Artists
Concert: Rockin’ with the GSO
Date: Saturday September 19 at 8.00 p.m.
Venue: John F. Ross’s EL Fox Auditorium, Guelph

Euphoric Flight, a pop-rock band formed this year from an outstanding line-up of Guelph musicians including John Tonin, perform their premier concert with members of Guelph Symphony Orchestra at John F. Ross High School’s E.L.Fox Auditorium on September 19 at 8.00 p.m.

The collaboration will unleash 22 pop and rock songs on stage that will appeal to musicians and lovers of all musical genres who seek a first-class musical experience. 35 musicians will share the stage to perform the biggest pop and rock songs, those that have already made a lasting impression on music lovers, from teens to seniors – Beatles to Daughtry.

Tickets can be purchased from riverrun.ca or River Run Centre box office at 519-763-3000.

For more information on the Guelph Symphony Orchestra, visit guelphorchestra.ca.

Catch Ed Malison and Chris Cigolea on CFRU 93.3fm’s Royal City Rag on September 12!

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag… Phew, What A Scorcher!

We’re not talking about the weather here although September has, so far, been wonderful.

We have a packed show lined up for September 12 featuring Healthy Landscapes Karen McKeown from The City of Guelph on Cool Communities, an update on the Hanlon Creek Business Park issue with Bob Gordon and, finally, Guelph Community Singers. And that ‘s just the first hour!

In the second hour, we’ll be talking to Sally Wismer from Guelph Arts Council, Rockin’ with the GSO and, then, catching up with Drew Hayden Taylor on the Eden Mill’s Writers Festival.

Phew, what a scorcher, indeed!

Royal City Rag, Saturday 7-9 a.m. on CFRU 93.3fm. A great way to start your Saturday!

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Guelph Symphony Orchestra, Popera – February 22

Guelph Symphony Orchestra, Popera!
Sunday February 22, 2009
Time: 3 p.m.
River Run Centre, Guelph

Guelph Symphony Orchestra will present Popera! on Sunday February 22, 2009 at 3pm at River Run Centre.

This is the concert Guelph’s opera lovers have been waiting for – featuring Katie Murphy (soprano), Andrew Tees (baritone) and Lenard Whiting (tenor), performing well-loved solos, duets and trios from Carmen, Faust, Tosca, La Traviata, Barber of Seville and more. The orchestra will play dramatic selections, while the Guelph Youth Singers perform some children’s choruses from operas.

On the 50th anniversary of his passing, we celebrate Guelph’s world-famous son, Edward Johnson.
 
*Popera is a trade-mark used by kind permission of Opera Ontario.
 
Visit guelphorchestra.ca for more details.

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GSO Dreams of Vienna New Year’s Concert – January 1

Guelph Symphony Orchestra will perform its 4th annual Dreams of Vienna New Year’s concert on Thursday January 1, 2009, at the River Run Centre, at 3 p.m.

This Viennese-style musical feast is now a popular Guelph New Year’s Day tradition. Tenor and raconteur Mark Dubois returns to delight us with songs and stories, and the Orchestra plays waltzes, marches and polkas, complete with elegant dancers gliding over the stage.

This concert marks the orchestra’s 50th concert since its founding in 2001.

Guelph Symphony Orchestra
Concert: New Year Dreams of Vienna
Date: Thursday January 1, 2009
Time: 3 p.m.
Venue: River Run Centre, Guelph

Visit www.guelphorchestra.ca for more information.

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Guelph Symphony Orchestra Presents The Snowman – December 14

If you, like me, love The Snowman you’ll not want to miss this holiday show from the Guelph Symphony Orchestra.

This one-hour holiday treat for adults and children alike features Raymond Briggs’ enchanting and internationally-renowned 80s animation “The Snowman,” with the soundtrack played live by the Orchestra. Everyone gets in the Christmas spirit with excerpts from “The Nutcracker” suite, some popular songs from host Dan Kelley, a singalong “Twelve Days of Christmas”, not to mention hearing Bugler’s Holiday by Leroy Anderson. Santa Claus might even drop by.

Come experience the joy of live music in a thoroughly entertaining one-hour show!

Guelph Symphony Orchestra Concert: The Snowman
Where: River Run Centre
When: Sun Dec 14, 2008
Two Shows: 2pm & 4pm
Tickets: $15.00 (adult/senior), $9.00 (child), $5.00 (under 12/Eye Go)

www.guelphguelphorchestra.ca

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Guelph’s Own Orchestra, Classically Yours – November 9

Guelph Symphony Orchestra will perform “Classically Yours” at 3 p.m. on Sunday November 9, at the River Run Centre.

This exciting concert opens with Grieg’s Holberg Suite, written as his tribute to the classical era, and Dvorak’s Serenade in D minor, arguably the finest piece ever written for a wind ensemble. Cristi Cigolea, the GSO’s Romanian-born principal trumpet, plays Albinoni’s Concerto No 9 for Oboe, transcribed for piccolo trumpet, and we close with one of Mozart’s most delicate and beautiful symphonies, No 29 in A.

“This concert will have a different feel to it, as two of the pieces are performed chamber-style, without a conductor” says Simon Irving, Artistic Director. “This gives the players the challenge of making music as a true ensemble, relying on their musical empathy.”

The Friends of Guelph Symphony, launched in the spring of 2007, continues to expand, so far attracting 90 members. FOGS membership is $25 a year for one person or $35 a couple, and yields several benefits including an attractive lapel pin, invitation to an annual pre-concert reception, and attendance at open rehearsals. Any donation over $25 will automatically entitle the donor to “Friends of the Guelph Symphony” membership and benefits. Friends can assist the orchestra in many ways such as volunteering and raising awareness of Guelph’s Own Orchestra. Guelph resident Catherine Downer was the winner of the annual FOGS prize draw for season tickets. FOGS brochures are available on request.

The Orchestra gratefully announces the receipt of a grant from the Musagetes Fund at the Guelph Community Foundation in support of the 2008-2009 season. Later season highlights include a repeat of Raymond Briggs’ well-loved animated feature, The Snowman, accompanied live by the orchestra, a family treat for children and grandchildren aged 3 to 103 during the Christmas season. The annual Dreams of Vienna New Years’ Concert will mark the return of Tenor and raconteur Mark Dubois. In February 2009, Popera! celebrates Guelph’s world-famous son, Edward Johnson on the 50th anniversary of his passing.

The GSO is a semi-professional classical orchestra, based in Guelph and using primarily Guelph-area players. The ensemble consists of 35 to 50+ players, depending on the repertoire requirements. Founded in 2001 with Simon Irving as its Artistic Director, it has given 48 concerts to date, covering a broad repertoire of classical music. The orchestra also provides opportunities for young emerging professional performers.

For details about Guelph’s Own Orchestra and becoming a Friend, please visit http://www.guelphorchestra.ca. Tickets for all concerts are available at River Run Centre, (519) 763-3000.

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Guelph’s Own Orchestra Launches First Six-Concert Season

Launching its 8th season, and its first of six concerts, Guelph Symphony Orchestra will perform Great Romantics on Sunday October 19, 2008, at 3 p.m. at the River Run Centre, the Orchestra’s home venue. Dvorak’s sparkling 8th Symphony is the centrepiece of this concert, in which the Orchestra also highlights the stars of tomorrow with the winner of its seventh annual Under-23 Concerto Competition, pianist Ben Chapman, playing Saint-Saens’ sparkling Piano Concerto No 2. Wagner’s melodious and rich Prelude to Die Meistersinger provides a lush, romantic start to this arresting opening concert.

“This program presents rich and exciting music.” says Simon Irving, Artistic Director. “We hope we can share our passion for it with the audience, who will find it uplifting and enriching.”

The Friends of Guelph Symphony, launched in the spring of 2007, continues to expand, so far attracting 90 members. F.O.G.S. membership is $25 a year for one person or $35 a couple, and yields several benefits including an attractive lapel pin, invitation to an annual pre-concert reception, and attendance at open rehearsals. Any donation over $25 will automatically entitle the donor to  “Friends of the Guelph Symphony” membership and benefits. Friends can assist the orchestra in many ways such as volunteering and raising awareness of Guelph’s Own Orchestra. Guelph resident Catherine Downer was the winner of the annual F.O.G.S. prize draw for season tickets. F.O.G.S. brochures are available on request.

The Orchestra gratefully announces the receipt of a grant from the Musagetes Fund at the Guelph Community Foundation in support of the 2008-2009 season. Later season highlights include a repeat of Raymond Briggs’ well-loved animated feature, The Snowman, accompanied live by the orchestra, a family treat for children and grandchildren aged 3 to 103 during the Christmas season. The annual Dreams of Vienna New Years’ Concert will mark the return of Tenor and raconteur Mark Dubois. In February 2009, Popera! celebrates Guelph’s world-famous son, Edward Johnson on the 50th anniversary of his passing.

 The GSO is a semi-professional classical orchestra, based in Guelph and using primarily Guelph-area players. The ensemble consists of 35 to 50 players, depending on the repertoire requirements. Founded in 2001 with Simon Irving as its Artistic Director, it has given 47 concerts to date, covering a broad repertoire of classical music. The orchestra also provides opportunities for young emerging professional performers from the community.

For details about Guelph’s Own Orchestra and becoming a Friend, please visit www.guelphorchestra.ca. Tickets for all concerts are available at River Run Centre (519) 763-3000.

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GSO Music in the Park – June 29

The annual outdoor summer concert by the Guelph Symphony Orchestra, now in its sixth year, is always a highlight of summer in Guelph. This bonus concert is the GSO’s thank you to the Guelph community for support.

This year, Music in the Park will be held on Sunday June 29th at the Riverside Park Bandshell, beginning at 3 p.m.

Enjoy a fun selection of light classics with music for the entire family. The concert will feature light summer music – Rossini, Strauss, Sullivan, Puccini, Mozart, Elgar, along with a Dixieland band, conducted by Simon Irving. The MC will be Geoff Howe, a founder of the Friends of Guelph Symphony.

The GSO is a semi-professional classical orchestra, based in Guelph and using primarily Guelph-area  musicians. The ensemble consists of 35 to 50 players, depending on the repertoire requirements.

Founded in 2001 with Simon Irving as its Artistic Director, it has given 46 concerts to date, covering a broad repertoire of classical music. The orchestra also provides opportunities for young emerging professional performers from the community.

The Orchestra gratefully acknowledges the support of Ontario Arts Council and the Musagetes Fund at the Guelph Community Foundation for its 2007-2008 season.

Admission: Suggested donation of $5.00.

For more details about Guelph’s Own Orchestra or to become a Friend of Guelph Symphony, visit www.guelphorchestra.ca.

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GSO Youth in Performance Concerto and Conducting Workshop – June 7

Guelph Symphony Orchestra Youth in Performance – Concerto & Conducting Workshop

Date:   Saturday June 7, 2008
Time:   9:00 – 11:45 a.m.
Venue: Harcourt United Church, 87 Dean Avenue, Guelph

The Guelph Symphony Orchestra will be taking part in the Ontario Arts Council‘s “Spotlight – Celebrate Our Artists”, a weekend festival to celebrate the arts.

The orchestra will work in open rehearsal from 9 a.m. until 10:40 a.m. and then perform a concert at 11 a.m. The performers will be young players who will perform movements from a total of four different concertos (violin, piano and flute), accompanied by string players from the GSO, led by Simon Irving. There will also the chance to conduct the orchestra. Some ability to read music is required.

To pre-register or more information, contact Vaughn  at 519-836-6573 or svbarclay@rogers.com.

All are welcome to observe the workshop and listen to the concert, and admission is free.

Visit the GSO website for more details: www.guelphorchestra.ca.

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