This year visitors to the 2011 Sooke Fine Arts Show and Sale will have the opportunity to listen to some of Sooke’s finest young musical talents as they play during Artz4Kids afternoon, Tuesday, July 26 from 2-4 p.m.
“Last summer when I read an article by Sooke music teacher, Trish Branson, about her students and their accomplishments, I though featuring young Sooke musicians would be a perfect fit for the Sooke Fine Arts Show and Artz4Kids Day,” said Sally Manning, who acts as both chair, and entertainment coordinator, of the 2011 show.
“Since this year is the 25th anniversary of putting on the show in Sooke, we felt it was the perfect time to highlight many of the artistic talents of Sooke’s youth,” said Manning. In addition, the EMCS Youth Arts Display, now in it’s third year in Jenny’s Bistro, will showcase art from students at Edward Milne Community School. The display will also provide a backdrop for the children’s arts and crafts activities offered during the afternoon.
Music for Artz4Kids is being coordinated by Trish Branson who has run the Music For Young Children Program from her home studio in Sooke for nine years.
“There is a great deal of talent in Sooke and many terrific music teachers,” stated Branson. “At the moment I have 12 students ranging in age from 6 to 14 who will be performing on the piano. These children are all playing at Conservatory Levels.”
Tom Lee Music is again supplying a Steinway B grand piano again this year for musicians to use during show performances.
“However, we would welcome children playing other instruments, as well,” said Branson. Any kids interested who would like to be considered for the Art Show performance may contact Trish Branson at 250-642-2498.
Branson assisted many of the students with their music selections, but they have input into their choices as well.
“Their pieces range from classical conservatory selections to jazz, pop, blues and contemporary styles.”
The performance pieces are designed to be listened to while enjoying the show and the various activities available to the kids during Art4Kids afternoon.
“I think children appreciate good quality music and it’s very interesting to them to hear their peers playing,” added Branson.
Artz4Kids is a way to provide children 12 and under with a fun afternoon filled with crafts, activities, prizes and, of course, musical entertainment provided by other children their own age.
“I think it’s great that we can foster connections between children and adults who value the arts. In this way, kids are encouraged to continue in their arts education,” said Branson.
There is no charge for the Artz4Kids activities, and children under 12 receive admission free with an accompanying adult.
The 2011 Sooke Fine Arts Show opens to the public at the SEAPARC Leisure Complex at 2168 Phillips Road, Sooke, on Saturday, July 23 and runs for 10 days through Monday, August 1.
Hours are from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily, except for July 30 and August 1, when it closes at 5 p.m.
Tickets are available at the door at a cost of $8 for adults and $7 for seniors (65+). Show passes, good for the entire 10 days of the show, are available for $15.
For further information about special events and directions go to www.sookefinearts.com
The Sooke Fine Arts Show Society, a volunteer, non-profit organization founded in 2006, promotes awareness of the visual arts and appreciation for local artists from Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands.