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Musical event celebrates end of summer

Diverse international lineup promises music for everyone
SMF
WORLD CLASS: Argentinian pianist Gabriel Palatchi is one of the artists to watch at the 37th annual Sunshine Music Festival. The event takes place at Palm Beach this weekend, September 1 and 2. Contributed photo

The Sunshine Music Festival is an end of summer tradition in Powell River. For 37 years, the event held over the Labour Day weekend at Palm Beach has delighted local audiences.

Over the years it has progressed from its early folk roots to include more musical genres, according to artistic director Robert Mackle.

“The old reputation of the festival as a bunch of young hippies playing folk music has long evolved into a very different, modern, more diverse kind of thing,” he said.

Folk music festivals around the world have changed with the times to include international artists and genres, he added. “They’ve really evolved into an extraordinary display of world music, of ethnicity and a variety of diverse styles. This year we have quite an array of world-class award-winning musicians from many genres including jazz, latin, world music, soul, R&B and some interesting new forms of electronic music.”

Artists of note at this year’s festival include Argentinian pianist Gabriel Palatchi, blues/roots musician Ndidi O and eight-piece band Coco Jafro.

Mackle said an aspect of the festival that has not changed is the inclusive all-ages feeling of the volunteer-run event.

“We now have multi-generational volunteers: grandparents working with their grandkids to make the festival happen, and that appears in the audience as well,” he added.

This is the second year performers will take the stage at the festival’s pavilion, designed by local talent and built last year by Cartsen Huber. The pavilion has been gifted to the community and hosted weddings and other gatherings throughout the year, something Mackle said he feels very proud of. “It makes for a real contribution back to the community that has supported us for over 37 years.”

Sunshine Music Festival remains one of the most affordable musical events because it is volunteer run, he added. “The bulk of the revenue we earn goes directly toward the musicians and supporting live music. We’re proud of putting our money back into the musical community.”

Mackle hopes that those who have not yet attended the outdoor event will come and experience the gathering for themselves.

“We’d like to reach out to all the music lovers of Powell River no matter what they like. If they’re interested in world class musicianship we have it here.”