You’ve heard of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, but what about the Calgary Youth Orchestra? Chances are, if you have musically-orientated friends who play a string instrument, you’ve probably heard of it. For those who haven’t, don’t fret, because you’re about to learn so you can go out and enjoy the finest Calgarian musical talent this weekend.
A program of the infamous Mount Royal Conservatory, the CYO rehearses every Saturday to polish and perfect classical selections not dissimilar to what you would hear at the CPO. In fact, CYO musicians work alongside members of the CYO as well. The difference between the two? The CYO features around 65 talented young musicians between the ages 14-24. In addition to touring internationally to critical acclaim, the orchestra performs regular concerts at a youth-friendly cost. This weekend, join them as they celebrate the winners of the 2016 Frank Simpson Concerto Competition featuring 18-year-old Solina Lee on Elgar’s Cello Concerto (4th mvt.) and 16 year-old Yan Li, who will be performing the 1st movement from the notorious Sibelius Violin Concerto. In addition to these talented youth soloists, the night will open with the 12th-ever Juno Award winning composer Christos Hatzis’ “Sepulcher of Life”, which will feature the CYO, and several choirs and vocal soloists. The concert will take place at the new Bella Concert Hall at 7:30pm on Saturday. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by calling 403 440 5978, by visiting tickets.mru.ca, or simply at the door.
As if that wasn’t enough to satisfy your dose of youth talent this weekend, join the Kensington Sinfonia at Hope Lutheran Church on Sunday at 3:00pm as they present to you their concert “Tilting against Windmills” in support of Syrian families new to Calgary (a portion of money from ticket sales will go to supporting them). The concert will feature Syrian music, as well as Syrain artist Aya Mhana on the oud, a eastern Mediterranean instrument. This is also the 6th year of the Kensington Sinfonia’s Annual Student Concerto Competition, the winner of which is 15-year-old oboist Cameron Wong. Despite his young age, this win is even more impressive given the fact that Cameron has only been learning the oboe for three years, as well, he is also a member of CYO. He will be performing the Oboe Concerto in D minor by Albinoni. Several other works will also be performed by the Sinfonia, making the program both diverse and comprehensive. Tickets are $25 general, $20 for students and seniors, and free for those 12 and under. They can be purchased by calling 1 800 838 3006, visiting www.brownpapertickets.com, or at the door.
Look for upcoming concert reviews and interviews with all of the youth talent mentioned in the post. Hope to see you out at the concerts this weekend!
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