Fair-goers were treated to an expanded entertainment lineup at Powell River and District Agricultural Association’s Fall Fair this year.
Del Riviera, who was not only involved in bringing more bands to the fair’s stage but also performed on both days, is very pleased with the public’s response to the music.
Saturday’s sunny skies filled Paradise Exhibition Grounds with spectators. “Saturday went so well,” said Riviera, before taking the stage on Sunday afternoon. “Everything went smoothly and everyone was good at taking their cues.”
Riviera brought up the idea of making the fair into a small music festival with the agricultural association last year. His mandate was to book local bands to the stage.
“We’ve got such a wealth of musicians in Powell River,” he said. “It’s across the spectrum.” Riviera said being a musician “who goes everywhere,” helped tremendously to bring the talent to the fair.
An eclectic mix of bands played a variety of music genres from ancient Celtic up to post-modern minimalist indie rock. In total 13 bands played over the two-day event. Riviera joined Slim Milkie on stage Saturday and then played solo with his red accordion Sunday. Riviera is big on improvising and said that when he plays solo shows he often goes out on stage, feels out the mood of the audience, “and then just goes.”
Scout Mountain, Powell River’s bluegrass band, was the first group Riviera contacted. “I had to have them for this,” he said. “It’s quintessential down-home. It doesn’t get any more down-home than this.”
It is the first year that musicians have been paid for performing, though Riviera describes the money as being simply “an acknowledgement” and everyone was paid the same.
“Musicians are often the last ones on the list to get paid,” he added. “I know because I’ve been one my whole life.”
Riviera said the experience has been positive and hopes it will be continued next year. Musically, he plans to go into the studio to record an album of “real soundtracks for imaginary film” and start an ambient music society for public events.
