Powell River Academy of Music will host Ensemble Vivant as it joins the Academy Chamber Choir in concert at 7:30 pm on Thursday, February 19, at James Hall.
Ensemble Vivant features Powell River native Don Thompson (vibes and acoustic bass) together with Catherine Wilson (piano and artistic director), Sybil Shanahan (cello), Stephen Sitarski (violin) and Norman Hathaway (viola and violin).
Ensemble Vivant has been referred to as “Canada’s Chamber Music Treasure” in the media. It has received accolades internationally and is a favourite wherever the group performs. Since its inception over 25 years ago, Ensemble Vivant has been a pioneer in the piano chamber music world, championing exciting, innovative programming ranging from classical to Latin and other jazz styles. Ensemble Vivant’s 12 recordings are heard on radio around the world.
Led by Wilson, Ensemble Vivant is also known for its depth of artistry, passionate, virtuosic interpretations and engaging stage presence.
Jazz legend Thompson, who received the Order of Canada in 2009, has further broadened the group’s jazz-based repertoire with arrangements that he has written for the group as well as with his own compositions. Two recordings of Ensemble Vivant with Thompson are in the process of being released.
Ensemble Vivant is dedicated to fostering a love of great music among our youth. One of the ways the group does this is through the not-for-profit charitable musical organization Euterpe. Renowned neuroscientist Dr. Laurel Trainor, founder of McMaster’s Institute for Music and the Mind, has endorsed the vitally important work Ensemble Vivant achieves through Euterpe: “The wonderful interactive, high-caliber performances of classical and jazz music that Euterpe (Ensemble Vivant) brings to our children and youth are of vital importance for planting the seeds of music in our lives and putting people on a path to be enriched by the benefits of music.” For more information, visit the website.
Powell River’s Academy Chamber Choir rounds out the evening with a varied program ranging from a traditional Irish tune to a lively Latin tango.
Tickets are $22. Readers wishing to obtain more information can visit the academy online. Tickets can be purchased from the Academy Box Office, 7280 Kemano Street or by calling 604.485.9633, and online.
