If music be the food of love, play on... and on and on!
Back in 1998, Sooke fell in love with its new philharmonic orchestra. The affair has lasted 15 years and it is just getting better and better. Join us in celebrating the creation of the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra by Maestro Norman Nelson and handful of musicians those many years ago.
“I’m a very lucky guy,” said Norman Nelson. “I’ve been able to continue my work. I’m doing exactly the same as I did at the University of Alberta but I have my own orchestra. I’m lucky and privileged that things work out so well in Sooke... including the multitude of helpers who give their time and energy to keep us going. Where else but in Sooke? I’m absolutely delighted and look forward to another 15 years.”
Nelson was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal this year and received the Orchestras Canada Betty Webster Award in 2007.
In July, the Sooke Philharmonic celebrated the 10th annual Fling in the Park. The orchestra has grown considerably and now has its own chorus and the Sooke Philharmonic Society, which manages the orchestra. Musicians from the SPO participate in numerous music-related activities in the Sooke community, including the music program at Journey middle school, the Sooke Fine Arts show, the Rotary Auction, and Ayre Manor.
The new season begins in October with the Celebration of Young Artists featuring soloist Alice Haekyo Lee, winner of the 2012 Don Chrysler Concerto Competition. Two performances, one in Sooke on Oct. 27 and the other at Alix Goolden Hall in Victoria on Oct. 28.
This season of concerts presents a wide variety of programmes, from the youth-oriented to a Christmas concert, French music to the Slavic.
On Feb. 17, 2013 there will be a special event in the Prestige Oceanfront Resort Ballroom. Tea and Symphony will include danceable tunes performed by the Chamber Orchestra and a fashion show during intermission.
The concerts this season will present entertaining anecdotes from members.
Watch out for Random acts of Music throughout the season in the Sooke community.
The Fling in the Park on July 15, 2013 will not only celebrate 15 years of orchestra performance but will also present special entertainment, surprise guest conductor and a GIANT anniversary cake! It will be our opportunity to thank the community and our generous sponsors, members and supporters, who have made sure that we are able to continue performing each year.
Series tickets are available for four concerts, which would save the music lover $14. Your set of season tickets entitles you to a chance to win dinner for two at Sushi on the Sea, to be drawn at the Oct. 28 concert.
For more information, go to www.sookephil.ca or call Pat Phillips at 250-642-5549.