B.C. Day long weekend a musical splash
David Gogo headlines the Capital Festival, a day of musical performances at St. Ann’s Academy on Monday (Aug. 3).
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Take your pick of musical styles
It may not reach the level of hype of last year’s 150th anniversary celebration.
But the 2009 B.C. Day weekend activities promise a little something for everyone, anchored by the 19th Victoria Symphony Splash in the Inner Harbour this Sunday (Aug. 2).
“We thought ‘let’s go in with a big splash,’” said Denis Johnston, outreach director for the Provincial Capital Commission, which oversees the weekend’s festivities. “You should excuse the expression.”
At the kids zone on the legislature lawn Sunday, symphony members are putting on an “instrument petting zoo” from 2 to 5 p.m. Curious kids will get a chance to try out various musical instruments.
The symphony performs a mix of classical and popular music throughout the evening, culminating in Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” synched with fireworks.
The party doesn’t end there.
On Monday the Capital Festival B.C. Day Celebration, a free, day-long music festival with workshops and diverse performances, takes over St. Ann’s Academy.
Starting at 11 a.m. there will be stages set up inside and outside the chapel. Performances will range from jazz, classical and pop to flamenco and even sitar.
“We’re trying to bring everyone together under the umbrella of great music and just great community,” said John Selkirk, a local musician who is organizing the festival at St. Ann’s. “Bring a blanket, sit back and just enjoy music all day.”
Highlights include Juno-nominated blues guitarist David Gogo and local opera singer Ken Lavigne, who made his debut at Carnegie Hall in New York earlier this year.
The list also includes Acres of Lions, the City of Gardens Chorus, the Vic High R&B Band and many others (go to www.capitalfestival.com for details).
Juno award-winner Hugh Fraser conducts a jazz workshop at 2:30 p.m. There is also a guitar and salsa dancing workshop.
People are encouraged to bring their instruments.
While no special events are scheduled for Saturday, a list of activities happening around town can be found by visiting www.oakbaynews.com and clicking on “View the calendar.” Then go to Aug. 1.
intern@vicnews.com
Long weekend at a glance
• Symphony Splash gets underway at 4 p.m. on Sunday, with the fireworks display set for 10 p.m.
• The Capital Festival B.C. Day Celebration at St. Ann’s Academy (835 Humboldt St.) runs 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday.
• Both events are free.
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