The Nanaimo Conservatory of Music is celebrating 40 years of guiding students on musical journeys.
The conservatory offers instruction for a range of ages from newborn to retirees. Students can intend to pursue music professionally or just as a hobby.
Patrick Olmsted, an instructor and member of the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music’s 40th anniversary committee, said the conservatory name can be “misleading because people tend to feel that is it only classical music,” that is offered, but the organization offers a range of genres from world music to classical.
“There is really no limit to what you can study, especially with the calibre of teachers we have and they are very open minded and versatile,” said Olmsted.
Since moving to its current location at 375 Selby St., in the Old City Quarter, the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music has been forming connections with the community.
“I think the fact that we are located in the Old City Quarter is significant. We are connecting with the community here and trying to get out and do performances,” said Barbara Livingston, conservatory executive director. “We are becoming part of the neighbourhood and that just strengthens our position in the community.”
To celebrate the 40-year milestone, the organization is hosting the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music’s 40th anniversary gala concert on Saturday (May 27) at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew’s United Church, located at 311 Fitzwilliam St.
Tickets are $10 and children under 16 are admitted for free. Tickets are available in advance at the conservatory office, or by calling 250-754-4611. The show features students and alumni.
Olmsted said attendees will get to see some of the youngest students perform.
“It’s pretty fun to watch four year olds perform well. It’s always moving to see all these tiny little violinists playing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” said Olmsted, adding that it is “remarkable” to watch some of the students grow over the years and perhaps go on to professional training at university.
Livingston said the show is going to be “exciting” and will include a tribute to founding executive director Joyce Horner.
“She was amazing. She was the one who put this whole thing together,” said Livingston.
The gala concert is the organization’s kick-off event to celebrate the anniversary. Events are planned throughout the year.
The Nanaimo Youth Choir celebrates its 25th anniversary during two concerts. On June 2 at 7:30 p.m. the show will feature returning alumni artists. One June 3 at 7:30 the show will feature current choir members and alumni. Both concerts are held at St. Andrew’s United Church. Tickets are $15 or $25 for both concerts and are available at the door and children under 12 years old are admitted for free.
Conservatory musicians will perform during the Vancouver Island Chamber Music Festival held June 23-24. The event is held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on June 23 at 7 p.m. and at Harbour City Theatre June 24 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 at the door.
During B.C. Culture Days, conservatory faculty and students will perform on a community stage. Festivities come to a close with a concert by pianist Angela Hewitt on Oct. 8 at the Port Theatre.
For more information, please visit www.ncmusic.ca.