Submitted By Jen Burak
The Meaford Culture Foundation and the Community Foundation Grey Bruce have both stepped up to sponsor a special event coming to Meaford Hall on April 1 at 3 p.m. With their support, the Georgian Bay Symphony is coming to town for the incredibly low price of $17 per ticket.
The concept is to raise awareness of the symphony and to make sure that over 300 people can see a classical concert (with a twist or two) without breaking the bank. The GBS will not be making money on this event; the goal is to cover costs and present the audience with a unique arts experience. The two major sponsors mentioned above, along with donations from local businesses like Hills are helping to make the show possible.
“Sadly, many newcomers to the area are not aware that the Georgian Bay Symphony exists,” said show co-producer/director Jen Burak. “We hope this event will change that; encourage folks to meet one of the region’s true cultural treasures.”
The 2022-23 season is a special one for the GBS because it has just turned 50+1 years old. A pretty impressive statistic for any regional arts organization. Started in Owen Sound over half a century ago, the orchestra has continuously grown and evolved. Fun fact: the GBS was one of the few community-based orchestras in Canada to provide full virtual programming during the pandemic.
The current orchestra is comprised of a few professional players with the majority being top notch community musicians. There are several new members and then there are the Hall brothers, Murray and Bill, who have played in the violin section for 51 years and are still going strong!
While the symphony performs its regular five concert series in Owen Sound, it was felt by its 50+1 planning committee that a great way to celebrate this incredible milestone was to take the show on the road!
“Meaford Hall is such a wonderful classic venue that it seemed just right for the occasion,” said Alicia Hutchings, a member of the violin section and co-chair of the event. “We wanted to make the concert very accessible for our celebration year by removing economic barriers so that everyone can afford to see the GBS in action.”
The Symphony Is Coming To Town will definitely NOT be your typical classical concert. It is a show designed to have wide appeal; to encourage the audience to meet the symphony. There will be special guests, prizes, comedic moments, and the poet laureate of Owen Sound has even composed a unique poem for the musical occasion. The GBS musicians will present a varied repertoire, including both classical and modern numbers. Definitely good news… there will be something for every musical palate on April 1.
Tickets available at the Meaford Hall Box Office or on line at www.tickets.meafordhall.ca
