Photograph by Analyn Cuarto
Upcoming performances by Douglas students and ensembles
By Caroline Ho, Arts Editor
The Douglas College Music Department is holding several concerts in the next few weeks as part of the Spring 2017 Concert Series. These events will showcase the artistry and dedication of Douglas music students and community members. The upcoming concerts will take place in the Laura C. Muir Performing Arts Theatre, and with the exception of Arts at One, all shows will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Arts at One
Arts at One concerts are held almost every Thursday at 1 p.m. during the Fall and Winter semesters, and the shows coming up at the end of the term are especially worth checking out. March 30 is the first Student Showcase Concert, April 6 is the Student Ensemble Concert, and April 13 is the second Student Showcase Concert, which also includes the Long & McQuade Student Recognition Awards. These three concerts, and all Arts at One concerts, are completely free, giving audiences a chance to appreciate the countless hours of learning and practice put in by talented music students over the past few months.
Choirs in Concert (Saturday, March 25)
Unfortunately, this event is already over, but this lovely show was performed by the Douglas College Chorus and Chorale vocal groups, directed by Eric Hannan. The concert included a broad selection of beautiful works, including Arvo Pärt’s haunting and evocative Salve Regina, the harmonious Missa Brevis by Benjamin Britten, and many more musical pieces. This event took place off-campus at the Queens Avenue United Church.
Awards Benefit Concert (Friday, March 31)
Featuring the Douglas College Choirs and Concert Band, this concert is held yearly for the Douglas College Award Fund for Music Students. The concert is free for students, $10 for general admission, and $5 for seniors. The proceeds go towards supporting the students of the Music Department.
Current Sound Waves VI (Thursday, April 6)
The sixth annual Current Sound Waves recognizes the skills of students in the two-year Music Technology Diploma Program directed by Blair Fisher, and the Douglas College Midi Ensemble directed by Robert Caldwell. Students in Music Technology develop expertise in areas like audio recording, studio maintenance, sequencing and sampling, and developing music for film, video, and other media—skills that are sure to show up in the compositions and recordings performed at this event, which is free for all audiences.
Student Composition Concert (Friday, April 7)
Presenting a collection of freshly-written works, the Student Compositions Concert directed by Doug Smith showcases original pieces created by Douglas music students over the past semester. Last semester’s concert featured a stunning variety of songs, from moving piano solos to full-on musical numbers with vocals and small ensembles. This term’s edition of the concert is sure to be just as riveting, and it also has free admission.
An Evening of Jazz (Monday, April 10)
Fans of Big Band are sure to have a fantastic evening listening to lively performances by Douglas College’s Night Band and Dues Band. The Dues Band is largely made up of full-time music students, while the Night Band contains both talented Douglas students and experienced music professionals, and has performed across the country. An Evening of Jazz is directed by Blair Fisher and John Van Deursen. General admission tickets are $10, and admission for seniors is $5, while the show is free for students.
