Now in its 11th year, PRISMA (Pacific Region International Summer Music Association) Festival continues to captivate audiences of all ages, making it a must-attend event on the cultural calendar in the qathet region. The 2023 edition began on June 12.
Until June 24, this world-class event brings together more than 100 guest artists and exceptional music students for two weeks of extraordinary musical exploration.
The festival showcases the dedication and talent of its participants, particularly young musicians who have invested countless hours in mastering their instruments, according to Arthur Arnold, artistic director for the festival.
“To get an orchestra on stage with 80 people who all, in the same moment, do what they’re told by the composer, that in itself is quite unique,” he says.
With a diverse audience ranging from longtime attendees to younger music enthusiasts, PRISMA offers a range of performances and activities catering to everyone’s interest. Each day, attendees can indulge in various musical events, including symphony concerts, chamber music performances, master classes and limelight concerts, 46 in total.
These events are open to the public, allowing everyone to witness exceptional musical talent firsthand.
“I know many people who went to a symphony concert for the first time in their lives, and they were immediately hooked,” says Arnold. “It’s so hard to imagine what you’re going to hear, but to be inside that sound, to be with those players who have so much love for what they do, and so much dedication, is an incredible experience.”
PRISMA’s schedule is carefully curated to provide an enriching and diverse musical experience. The first week features the Friday night (June 16) symphony program, preceded by a concert that includes students and a smaller orchestra section.
The following evening (June 17), the festival takes over the waterfront for the highly-anticipated PRISMA on the Beach event, which includes a large variety of food and craft vendors in addition to the music.
In the second week, a new program takes the stage, along with the thrilling final round of a concerto competition that showcases the top 10 musicians vying for the prestigious title. The winner receives a cash prize and an invitation to return to PRISMA on a full scholarship.
One of the highlights is the PRISMA for Kids concert, which provides young audiences with an immersive and educational experience. School District 47 students attend an open rehearsal where they witness the inner workings of an orchestra and gain insights into the conductor’s role.
Later that evening, the activities continue with the kid’s concert and fun fair featuring face painting, ensembles, a musical instrument petting zoo, and more. The day culminates in a specially designed concert featuring storytelling with music, introducing the children to various orchestra instruments and captivating their imaginations.
In addition to concerts, PRISMA offers educational initiatives to nurture the next generation of musicians. A unique teaching approach includes individual lessons and sectional rehearsals where students learn and perfect their orchestral parts.
The PRISMA Academy, which provides full scholarships to selected students, is made possible by the generous support of the Musical Merit Fund donors. Comprehensive training on audition preparation and performance skills, helping students navigate the demanding world of professional music, is also offered.
Since its inception in 2013, PRISMA has mentored more than 600 students from 32 countries. Many of these individuals have secured principal positions in renowned orchestras worldwide, while others have flourished as soloists, chamber musicians and instructors.
Supporting PRISMA means more than just a musical night out. It keeps the festival coming back year after year. General ticket sales are still open; purchases can be made online at prismafestival.com/tickets, and at the Evergreen Theatre box office in the upper concourse of Powell River Recreation Complex.
“Treat yourself to an incredible experience,” says Arnold, “that you might have never had before.”
