Music Festival Reports
This past week has been a busy week for our Choirs and Bands. On Monday, our 29-voice Concert Choir performed at the Victoria Music Festival in St. Aidan's Church. The choir was well received by our adjudicator, Eileen Cooper, spouse of former Music Director of Brentwood College, Robert Cooper. Still fresh from the choir's trip to the Vocal Summit in Powell River, the Concert Choir performed two songs, both by Canadian composers; a folk song called “Old Lady Rose” and a traditional Spiritual called "Home in D’ Rock". Ms. Cooper had a great deal of praise for the singers and many good suggestions as to how they might improve. After the adjudication, Director Ms. MacIsaac treated everyone to a much deserved treat at Dairy Queen.
On Tuesday, it was the Jazz Band and Jazz Combo’s turn to perform at the Victoria Festival. Each group performed 3 numbers from their repertoire and were well received by their adjudicator Kelby MacNayr. Mr. McNayr praised the high standard of both jazz groups and gave a great workshop on communication skills between players. The highlight of the trip however was a visit to “Red Robin’s” afterwards for burgers and milk shakes.
On Thursday, the Jazz Band was performing again, this time with a trip to the West Coast Jazz Festival in Parksville, where they were adjudicated by Vancouver Island's very own Phil Dwyer. As the WCJF is a qualifier for Music Fest Canada, the adjudication tends to be a little tougher. Phil’s adjudication was almost faultless, particularly praising the saxophone section for their tight sound. The band was awarded a superior gold standing, and we are hopeful that that will lead to an invitation to Music Fest Canada 2009.
On Friday, it was the Jazz Combo's turn to perform as they headed up island to Qualicum for the West Coast Jazz Festival. The Danny Seo jazz combo as is it is called, performed 3 pieces for their esteemed judges, missing gold by 1 point to settle for a silver standing. Nevertheless, they played well and learned from their adjudication.
On Tuesday, it was the Jazz Band and Jazz Combo’s turn to perform at the Victoria Festival. Each group performed 3 numbers from their repertoire and were well received by their adjudicator Kelby MacNayr. Mr. McNayr praised the high standard of both jazz groups and gave a great workshop on communication skills between players. The highlight of the trip however was a visit to “Red Robin’s” afterwards for burgers and milk shakes.
On Thursday, the Jazz Band was performing again, this time with a trip to the West Coast Jazz Festival in Parksville, where they were adjudicated by Vancouver Island's very own Phil Dwyer. As the WCJF is a qualifier for Music Fest Canada, the adjudication tends to be a little tougher. Phil’s adjudication was almost faultless, particularly praising the saxophone section for their tight sound. The band was awarded a superior gold standing, and we are hopeful that that will lead to an invitation to Music Fest Canada 2009.
On Friday, it was the Jazz Combo's turn to perform as they headed up island to Qualicum for the West Coast Jazz Festival. The Danny Seo jazz combo as is it is called, performed 3 pieces for their esteemed judges, missing gold by 1 point to settle for a silver standing. Nevertheless, they played well and learned from their adjudication.
Phil Newns