John Farmer of the Sunshine Coast Arts Council (SCAC) hopes to fill a niche in the Coast's musical scene this spring.
As an avid guitarist himself, he's working with the SCAC to present a classical guitar concert series, bringing in some of the world's best guitar musicians. The first concert presents Alexander Dunn performing this Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. at St. Hilda's Church in Sechelt.
Dunn has performed to enthusiastic acclaim around the world and he has been cited for his virtuosity. In solo recital, concerto and chamber music he is consistently praised for his musicality, technique and rich sound. Dunn has performed with principal players from the Pacific Baroque Orchestra, Seattle Baroque Orchestra, Tafelmusik, in duo with guitarist Pepe Romero, David Tanenbaum, tenor Benjamin Butterfield, fortepianist Michael Jarvis, and with numerous other musicians. He has been a featured soloist with many Canadian symphonies.
Currently, Dunn heads one of Canada's top guitar programs at the University of Victoria and the Victoria Conservatory of Music.
Farmer notes that St. Hilda's Anglican Church is "a perfect place for acoustic guitar." It's the right size and shape to offer good sound for unplugged performances.
The programme opens with the melodious Etudes L'Indispensable Op. 40 by 19th century composer Leonard Schulz. It continues with Benjamin Britten's Nocturnal after John Dowland Op. 70 and closes with Studies for Guitar by English composer Allan Willcocks.
SCAC hopes to bring in another guitarist in the fall: Michael LeFevre from Washington state. Two performances a year is a start to what Farmer hopes will be an ongoing series. Like any new program, it needs help to get off the ground and Farmer is thankful that the Town of Gibsons has contributed to the Arts Council to help with costs. To get involved with this concert series or make a donation, call the Arts Centre at 604-885-5412.
Tickets are $20 general admission and $15 for students and seniors, available at Strait Music in Sechelt, Gaia's Fair Trade in Gibsons or at the door.
