STEP

• Duo Concertante - MUN professors Nancy Dahn and Timothy Steeves. Internationally acclaimed artists preparing for a winter 09 North American Tour.
• The Atlantic String Quartet - Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra's resident string quartet. Alison Black, Nancy Case-Oates (STEP faculty), Scott Chancey(STEP faculty), and Theo Weber.
• Dr. Nathan Cook - MUN cello professor and one/third of the Hot Earth Ensemble.
• STEP Young Virtuosi - hot off their tour of England.
• Richard St. Onge - MUN graduate cello student
• Mattheiu Lacombe - MUN bass performance student
• Kate Bevan-Baker - MUN violin performance student
• Gordon Stockwell - STEP faculty, and MUN violin performance student.

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Alexander Technique is a proven method for freeing the body of  excess tension, which can have a limiting and even damaging effect on the body.  Whether this tension is produced by playing an instrument, sitting at a computer, or simply the stresses of everyday life, Alexander Technique gives you the skills to free yourself.   

Here is a URL with links to articles about the Technique.

 

http://www.alexandertechnique.com/musicians.htm#Information%20of%20General%20Interest%20to%20all%20Musicians

Trevor Allan Davies has been coming to St. John's to teach Alexander Technique for the past eight years.  He will be available to teach from November 10 to 16.  Lessons cost $50.00 and take place at 16 Maxse St.  To book lessons, contact csmith@nfld.com or call 754-1330.

Christina Smith

csmith@nfld.com

Labels: Community Events, people

Labels: Community Events, concerts

STEP is interested in providing public performance opportunities for our students of all levels and ages. We have been invited to perform by a number of community-based venues (i.e. day cares, schools, churches, nursing homes etc.). To facilitate this process we wish to build a list of families who are interested in performing at such informal spaces. Please email the artistic director Evelyn Osborne or sign up on the registration form, to be included in the list of potential performers. Thank you!

Labels: Community Events, concerts, requests

Labels: Community Events, concerts

On behalf of NAFCo:

The North Atlantic Fiddle Convention has posted new and detailed event information on the NAFCo web site at http://www.mun.ca/nafco2008 .  There you can find a full list of abstracts for the academic symposium, line-ups for the daytime and evening concerts and information on the late night dances.  Full ticketing information is now available too.  NAFCo is the word's largest gathering of fiddlers, folklorists and fans of traditional music; it features performances and presentations by over 100 of the world's leading fiddlers and fiddle scholars - representing ten countries and over a dozen different regions of North America.

Labels: Community Events

On behalf of Marie Wadden:

Due to the pre-emption of "Musicraft" on CBC radio, Saturday, February 10, the broadcast of STEP's 25th anniversary concert featuring Mark Fewer, Bill Brennan and Jim Vivian) will be rescheduled to March 9. Francesca Swann, the producer says it will be a lovely show that includes interviews with the performers and evidence of the importance of STEP to this community. Be sure to listen to that program on CBC Radio 1 on March 9 at 4:35 pm.

There will also be a NATIONAL broadcast of the same concert, Sunday, February 17, in the second half hour of "Canada Live" (8:30-10:30 pm) on CBC Radio 2. "Canada Live" has been promoting the concert with these words:

Mark Fewer began his journey with the violin as one of the first students in St. John's, Newfoundland, to learn the instrument using the Suzuki method. This year he returned to St. John's and helped the Suzuki Talent Education Programme celebrate its 25th anniversary when he joined two fellow Newfoundlanders: pianist Bill Brennan and double-bass player Jim Vivian, for a jazz concert called "Continuum".
For the past 2 years Mark Fewer has been Concertmaster of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Now he's teaching violin and improvisation on the faculty at McGill. With uncanny ease, Mark's playing straddles the classical and jazz worlds and this meeting of three friends, whose roots reach deep into the St. John's community, resulted in an evening of musical magic. The next generation of Suzuki students was cheering from the front seats!

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts, people

Dear STEP friends and families,

Tune in to CBC Radio 1 this weekend! Violinist Mark Fewer, pianist
Bill Brennan and bass player Jim Vivian bring friendship and talent
together for a jazz concert called "Continuum" that celebrates 25
years of the Suzuki Talent Education Programme in Newfoundland and
Labrador. Dont miss their musical cure for the February blahs!
MUSICRAFT, hosted by Francesca Swann, showcases the musical life of
Newfoundland and Labrador on CBC Radio 1 Sunday afternoon, Feb.10, at
4:35/4:05 in Labrador, or live on the web at that time at

http://www.cbc.ca/musicraft/ .

Suzuki Talent Education Program
P.O. Box 23182
Churchill Sq. P.O.
St. John's, NL
A1B 4J9
Phone: 738-2277 - - - NEW NUMBER
Web Site:

http://www.nfld.com/~step/

- - - UPDATED FEBRUARY 2008
Suzuki Talent Education Program
P.O. Box 23182
Churchill Sq. P.O.
St. John's, NL
A1B 4J9
Phone: 738-2277 - - - NEW NUMBER
Web Site:

http://www.nfld.com/~step/

- - - UPDATED OCTOBER 2007

Labels: Community Events, concerts

On behalf of Kellie Walsh ...
Bring On The Season!
Christmas From Around the World
Lady Cove Women's Choir presents its annual Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 8th, at 8:00 p.m. at Cochrane Street United Church.

If you've missed Lady Cove's Christmas concerts in years past, you will not want to miss this one. It’s a very special night of Christmas music old and new from around the globe. You will also be treated to the incredible sound of the Cellipeppers playing stunningly beautiful new arrangements by Bill Brennan, the percussion group The Sleeveens, and Heather Kao & Scott Chancey, violin!

"The weather outside is frightful, but the choir is so delightful"
Tickets are $20.00/$15.00 and available at Provincial Music on Campbell Avenue or from members of Lady Cove.

Labels: Community Events, concerts, people

Dear STEP Parents and Friends:

This Sunday, November 25, STEP will occupy the Masonic Temple for 2
Fund Raising and Social Events:

1. Santa's String Cafe and STEP Open House 1 - 4 pm

2. Third Annual STEP Scuff 4 - 7 pm

Come One Come All
to whichever suits your schedule or fancy
and encourage friends to attend as well!

ELVES:

If your child would like to be an elf at Santa's String Cafe just
come along and join in.
There will be a Head Elf to guide you.
Elves can help by gift wrapping CDs, making tree ornaments (see
below), playing music, playing with children in attendance.
Santa will be there and loves to be surrounded by elves!

Santa's Workshop: Christmas Tree Ornamnent making

Colette will be teaching elves to crochet Christmas tree icicle
ornaments from wool so if you have any odds and ends of wool you'd
like to get rid of and/or a crochet hook please bring it along. We'll
be selling the ornaments as part of our fund raising efforts.

Elf Dress:

baggy shirt with biggest belt you can find but any belt will do
tights or leggings
slippers
an elfish hat if you have one
instrument (knock off your practice for the day at Santa's Cafe!)

COST:

There is no entry fee for the afternoon Cafe.
The Scuff is $5 at the door.
We are selling consumables; most things will be $1 or $2. Tea,
coffee, hot chocolate, juice, fruit, snacks.
These are fund raising events so bring extra change if you like for
consumables, 50:50 tickets, STEP Fiddler CDs ($15, a new run hot off
the press!).

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday!

STEP Dance Committee: Sharon Hewitt, Colette Phillips, Janet Russell

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts

On Sunday evening, Nov. 18, 7:30 PM, at the D.F. Cook Recital Hall, we're going to be serving cake and punch to celebrate STEP's 25th birthday. Be part of the celebrations!

If you are a student and would like to play (as people arrive for the Mark Fewer concert and during intermission), you can attend the concert for FREE. We're reserving front row seats for our students. Teachers will be there for tune-up and direction. (ADDENDUM: Please come at 7:00 to tune up!) We'd like you to wear black pants or skirt and a white shirt, so you'll stand out in the crowd. (Younger students may want to leave at intermission, after we've served cake, since it is a school night.)

Teachers are invited to the concert free of charge since this is a celebration of their hard work.

(Parents and partners, however, will be asked to support the event by buying a ticket. If you missed the chance to buy discounted tickets at the last group class, you'll be given another opportunity at the November 17 class. We can only accept cash or cheques. $15 or $12 for students and seniors. Regular priced tickets are available at Freds, Auntie Craes and Bennington Gate.)

This will be a gala evening and our children will get the privilege of hearing from Mark in person how his years in the program have given him a fabulous career, as a performer, concert master for the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and now, as a teacher at McGill University. We'll find an opportunity during the evening to honour his mom who was an early parent in the program.

Please support this important anniversary for our program.

thanks, 25th anniversary committee

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts, fundraising

On behalf of Valerie Holden, NSO Publicity.

Here is some information on the Friday November 16th Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra concert featuring soloist MARK FEWER playing the Meyer Violin Concerto.

For young string players, and their parents, it will be an evening to remember with lots of great music by American composers, Aaron Copland, (Appalachian Spring); Edgar Meyer (Violin Concerto) and Ferd Grofe (Grand Canyon Suite).

You'll hear Mark Fewer with the entire orchestra, and many of the Suzuki teachers will be playing in the orchestra as well - Gordon Stockwell, Sean Conway, Scott Chancey, Matthew March, Sandra Pope and Nancy Case-Oates.

In addition if you come to the Prelude Concert at 7:15 pm, you can hear the Atlantic String Quartet play music by Beethoven and McLean. The members of the Atlantic String Quartet include Alison Black and Nancy Case-Oates playing violin, Scott Chancey on viola and Theo Weber on cello.

You'll also hear the huge sound of the entire big symphony orchestra including flutes, oboes, and lots more woodwind, brass and percussion instruments.

And of course our conductor, Marc David.

Call the Arts Centre for tickets 729-3900

---

Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra
Masterworks No. 2
American Panorama
Friday November 16, 2007
Arts and Culture Centre 8 pm

The NSO’s second Masterworks concert showcases three masterpieces of the American symphonic repertoire.

The opening work is Aaron Copland’s APPALACHIAN SPRING. This ballet music was written for the brilliant choreographer, Martha Graham and Copland subtitled the music “Ballet for Martha”. Copland’s startlingly original music received a Pulitzer Prize and it remains one of his most popular works. The familiar Shaker tune “Simple Gifts” ends the piece.

The American bassist and composer, Edgar Meyer completed his VIOLIN CONCERTO in 1999. It weaves American folk elements, the violin’s virtuosic capabilities, and bluegrass and country fiddling.

Soloist is violinist MARK FEWER. Mr. Fewer is originally from Newfoundland. He is widely considered one of the most unique and creative musical voices of his generation. Comfortable in a variety of roles, he switches easily from duties as soloist, chamber musician, orchestral leader (he was concertmaster of the Vancouver Symphony), jazz musician, teacher and artistic programmer.

The final piece is Ferd Grofe’s GRAND CANYON SUITE. Each of the suite’s five movements describes an Arizona desert scene, inspired by a trip Grofe made with friends in 1916. His extraordinary skill as an orchestrator is in evidence. Idioms of Western films, cartoon soundtracks, and tone paintings of thunderstorms and desert heat are portrayed by expert orchestral writing.

The conductor is the NSO’s Principal Conductor, MARC DAVID.

As usual there is a Prelude Concert at 7:15 pm - this time featuring the Atlantic String Quartet playing music by Beethoven and McLean.

TICKETS: Call 729-3900

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Registrations are now being accepted for Young Folk at the Hall! The Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Arts Council is pleased to announce that plans are now being made to hold the annual Young Folk at the Hall event in January 2008. Fergus O'Byrne has asked that we send out the information and link to the registration form. Space is extremely limited and he already has many children signed up from last year. Therefore, it is very important to register early. Please fill out the application form on the NLFAC website (click here) and return by email or regular mail to the address provided. It's going to be another great year for the Young Folk! Don't miss it... sign up now!

Labels: announcements, Community Events

Announcing Les Ms' annual Sing for Care Concert featuring a wonderful concert of choral music. Sunday October 28, 2007, at Cochrane Street United Church; the afternoon show is at 2:00pm, and the evening show is at 7:30pm. Les Ms. is being joined this year by many fantastic choirs: Holy Heart Alumnae Choir, Lady Cove, Newman Sound. Heather Bambrick and Ron Hutton will also perform. It's going to be amazing. Tickets are $15 and all monies raised go to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Patient and Family Support Fund. More information: www.lesms.ca

Labels: Community Events

Lady Cove Women's Choir has become an integral part of the vibrant choral community in Newfoundland and Labrador. As a community choir it believes in fostering and supporting talented developing musicians, and therefore is very pleased to announce the establishment of the Lady Cove Women's Choir Bursary. Every year, Lady Cove will present $1,000 to a developing musician from Newfoundland and Labrador in the age group of 15 to 20 to support and encourage that young person's music education. The bursary may be used for travel to a music program, participation in a music festival, lessons or private instruction, tuition or any other music educational activity deemed to be necessary to further one's musical growth and experience. The deadline for applications is November 15. Applications can be found at local schools, music stores, or can be downloaded from our website, www.ladycove.ca . For more information please email ladycove@ca.inter.net .

Labels: announcements, Community Events

The Adult String Reading Orchestra is about to start a new season with Alison Black as our conductor, and we're looking for new players of Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass, no audition required. We're an amateur group with the aim of challenging ourselves while sharing the joy of playing together. The cost is $175.00/year; we rehearse bi-monthly for 1.5 hours (dates yet to be determined). If you'd like to join our group or visit for our first rehearsal, please contact: Margie McMillan - 726-3580 - margiem@nl.rogers.com Hilary Cass (outside St. John's)- 596-3789 - fhcass@yahoo.ca

Labels: Community Events

Good Day Everyone,

Another exciting family event for your consideration this weekend!

Presented by Patchwork Productions, "Once Upon A Dream: a Magic Musical Adventure" is written and directed by Kristan Hann and under the musical direction of Denielle Hann. The event is happening at the Rabbittown Theatre (corner of Lindscott Street and Merrymeeting Road) this weekend, with showings on June 23rd (2:30 & 7:30) and June 24th (2:30). Tickets are $5 for youth, $10 for adult and $25 for a family of four.

"Imagination is the key... Use the Key to unlock an adventure for the whole family!"

Regards,
Tzu-Hao

--
Tzu-Hao Hsu, B. Comm (Co-op)
Program Administrator,
Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP)
P.O. Box 23182
Churchill Square
St. John's, NL A1B 4J9
Tel: (709) 738-2277
step@nfld.com, suzukinl@gmail.com
http://www.nfld.com/~step

Labels: Community Events

Good Day Everyone,

Please see below for a free concert tonight presented by the Tuckamore Chamber Music Festival, featuring the Duo Concertante. Duo concertante is composed of Nancy Dahn (violin) and Timothy Steeves(piano), both faculty members of Memorial University's School of Music. For more information about the artists or the festival please visit http://www.tuckamorefestival.ca/.

In celebration of St. John's Day, the Tuckamore Festival presents a free evening concert at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (The Kirk) on Friday, June 22, 2007 at 8:00 p.m.

 

The concert will feature Duo Concertante; Nancy Dahn, violin, and Timothy Steeves, piano, performing a program of well-known orchestral music, arias, Latin tunes and Gershwin classics; all arranged especially for them by composer Clifford Crawley. These arrangements will include the traditional Irish tune "The Lark in the Clear Air," Gershwin's, "Lady Be Good," and the well known "Tico Tico" by Zequinha de Abreu.

 

Since forming in 1997, Duo Concertante has been acclaimed for performances characterized by brilliance, subtlety, passion, and stunning ensemble across Canada, the United States and abroad. Timothy Steeves and Nancy Dahn have appeared in London (Wigmore Hall), Germany (Am Neuendorfer Anger, Berlin), Chicago (Dame Myra Hess Series), New York City (Music of the Americas; Trinity Church), Ottawa (National Arts Centre), Beijing (Forbidden City Concert Hall), San Francisco (Old First Church), Toronto (Walter Hall), and Montreal (Chapelle du bon Pasteur), and Los Angeles (Los Angeles County Museum of Art).  The Duo has also been featured at the Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival, Peterhof International Festival of Ensembles (St. Petersburg, Russia), Huntsville Festival of the Arts, Cactus Pear Music Festival (TX), Colours of Music Festival, Sound Symposium, and the Baie des Chaleurs Chamber Music Festival. Recent highlights include an eight-city tour of China, which the Duo will repeat in 2008, world premiere performances of works by Chan Ka Nin and Linda Bouchard, and five performances of a new concerto written for them by Alice Ho, commissioned by CBC.

Regards,
Tzu-Hao
--
Tzu-Hao Hsu, B. Comm (Co-op)
Program Administrator,
Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP)
P.O. Box 23182
Churchill Square
St. John's, NL A1B 4J9
Tel: (709) 738-2277
step@nfld.com, suzukinl@gmail.com
http://www.nfld.com/~step

Labels: Community Events

The household refrigerator is a children's art gallery.

FridgeWorks: A Children's Art Exhibit is happening over the St. John's Days weekend Friday June 22nd-25th in downtown St. John's. On Saturday there will be a free children's art workshop at the Eastern Edge Gallery (Harbour Dr) 12-4pm. All children are welcome to come and make art for the exhibit. Their works will be publicly displayed on "door galleries" placed in shops around the downtown area starting June 23rd after 4pm.

The workshop is this weekend and STEP students are welcome to bring their instruments and play. It'll be an informal public performance opportunity and lots of fun to make art.

Labels: Community Events

Good Day Everyone,

Our Artistic Director, Evelyn Osborne, is having a free children's art workshop on Saturday June 23 from 12-4 at Eastern Edge Gallery, 72 Harbour Drive (between Clift's-Baird's Cove Road and Prescott Street). Everyone's welcome to come and make some fridge arts, which will be displayed on fridge doors around the dowtnown area in various businesses for public viewing.

She was also wondering if anyone would like to show up and bring your instrument for an impromptu performance! It's a fun little opportunity for everyone to relax, enjoy some arts and crafting, and play for a small audience. Those interested in playing please confirm your attendance via email, or just come along and make some fridge arts.

I would also like to remind everyone about submission of the graduation tapes. It's very important to make sure these tapes make their way to me or teachers by June 30th, so we will have time to coordinate adjudications and their return to you!

Congrats also to members of the STEP Young Virtuosi class, who performed in concert with Averill Baker under the co-leadership of Heather and Sean, accompanied by Joanne, on Sunday night. Ms. Baker called me this morning to express her heartfelt thank-you for the stellar performance, and looks forward to playing with us again!

That's all for today. Any questions for me, I'm just a phone call or email away!

Regards,
Tzu-Hao

--
Tzu-Hao Hsu, B. Comm (Co-op)
Program Administrator,
Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP)
P.O. Box 23182
Churchill Square
St. John's, NL A1B 4J9
Tel: (709) 738-2277
step@nfld.com, suzukinl@gmail.com
http://www.nfld.com/~step

Labels: Community Events, requests

Good Afternoon Everyone,

Sent by request of our Artistic Director, Evelyn Osborne!

Mehdi Azarsina, an Iranian musician, will present a free of charge concert on Monday, June 4th at 7pm in School of Music's Petro Canada Hall, Rom 1050. The concert features works for kamanche (or the Persian spiked fiddle) and setar, following the Radifi music tradition of Iran. For more information you may email Farhood Azarsina at Farhood.Azarsina@nrc.ca .

Regards,
Tzu-Hao

--
Tzu-Hao Hsu, B. Comm (Co-op)
Program Administrator,
Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP)
P.O. Box 23182
Churchill Square
St. John's, NL A1B 4J9
Tel: (709) 691-2545
step@nfld.com, suzukinl@gmail.com
http://www.nfld.com/~step

Labels: Community Events

Good Afternoon All,

The following is sent by request of Christina Smith; a little bit of world music for your enjoyment!



Thanks,
Tzu
--
Tzu-Hao Hsu, B. Comm (Co-op)
Program Administrator,
Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP)
P.O. Box 23182
Churchill Square
St. John's, NL A1B 4J9
Tel: (709) 691-2545
step@nfld.com, suzukinl@gmail.com
http://www.nfld.com/~step

Labels: Community Events

Lady Cove Women's Choir presents its annual Spring Concert on Friday, May 25th at 8:00pm at the CLB Armory on Harvey Road in St. John's. More details on The Lady Cove Choir website.

Labels: Community Events, concerts

“Outside the Box” ... a celebration of the accordion. It’s happening at the Geo Centre on May 27th, starting at 7:00 -- an entire evening of music, displays, workshops, dancing, and a silent auction, all focused on Newfoundland’s beloved instrument.

Labels: Community Events, concerts

On May 16th, beginning at 8pm at School of Music's Cook Recital Hall, is an evening of music from classical, jazz, cabaret to traditional Newfoundland tunes! All proceeds of the concert are in support of the Children's Centre Association, a parent-led non-profit nursery and pre-school organization. Hosted by CBC's Angela Antle, this concert will feature a wealth of local talents, including Duo Concertante, Christina Smith, Lady Cove Women's Choir, Alan Doyle, and many others. Tickets are $25 each, available at Bennington Gate or the door. Alternatively, you may call 737-2476 for reservation.

For information about the Children's Centre please visit www.thechildrenscentre.com.

This announcement was sent by request of Diane Hollett, Suzuki parent and chair of Children's Centre.

Here's the (very cute) poster for the concert. (268K JPG file.)

Labels: Community Events, concerts

1) For those solo concerts performers who haven't found out their rehearsal time:

10am – Christina's students

10:30 am – Jennifer's students

11:20am – Nancy & Sandra's students

11:40 – Evelyn's students

12:30 – Sean's students

Rehearsal's taking place at St. David's Presbyterian, and please arrive and be ready to play at the above times to avoid running late. Thank you!

2) Reminder that STEP's open house and Scuff are taking place tomorrow, April 28th, at the Masonic Temple. Open house will be from 11am to 4pm, and Scuff's door opens at 8pm with beginner instruction at 9pm. Come and show your support for the program, bring a few friends, and have a great time!

3) General meeting: Just a reminder that the general meeting for STEP is taking place at St. David's Presbyterian on Monday, April 30th, starting at 7pm. There will be a Q&A session after and refreshments will be provided. Please make every effort to come as there are some exciting news from the board!

4) There have been some concerns regarding punctuality at group classes recently.  While we can all appreciate occasional lateness due to inevitable circumstances, late arrivals are disruptive to students, parents and teachers. Please remember to observe standard concert courtesy if you arrive late at a class, and enter when there is an appropriate break in instructions to minimize distraction. If you happen to arrive shortly after the tuning period, please ask the accompanist to discreetly tune your instrument; if you happen to arrive well into the lesson, we ask that you opt to observe that day, and obtain earlier notes from a fellow parent or the teacher after the class. Thank you for your consideration and respect for your fellow classmates and teachers!

5) Scholarship alert! Steven Woodcock Memorial, established in memory of our dear friend and luthier, is valued at $100 and is given to a string student who shows promise in Kiwanis Festival. Theo Stylianides, a member of Christina Smith's Veracini class (the same class that volunteered for a concert at Chancellor Park and got amazing reviews from the residents!), was the winner of the award this year! We are very proud of you, Theo, and congratulations again for winning this award!

Labels: administration, announcements, Community Events, concerts, fundraising, people, requests

STEP String Program hosts
Open House
for
Prospective Parents and Teacher Trainees

Are you the parent of a child between the ages of 0 and 9
and interested in their early music education?

Or are you a string player/teacher
interested in becoming a Suzuki trained string teacher?

If you are either of the above, you are invited to the Masonic Temple this Saturday where you can find out more about a St. John's based String Education Program based on the teachings of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki.

Suzuki String Program Open House: The Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP) will host an Open House this Saturday, April 28 about what the STEP String Program and the associated Atlantic Canada Suzuki Institute (ACSI) have to offer parents of young children and interested string instructors.

• From 11 am to 12 pm: Christina Smith, folk artist and STEP faculty member, will lead a visiting fiddling group from Makkovik in a fiddling workshop.
• Beginning at 1:30pm and ending at 3pm, Evelyn Osborne, STEP's Artistic Director, will lead group classes in their lessons as a demonstration of STEP curriculum.

Both of these events are open for visitors to observe, and an information booth will be available throughout the day, providing brochures and facts about the program and the Atlantic Canada Suzuki Institute. Nurtured by Love, a documentary on the life and philosophy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, Suzuki method's founder, will be aired continuously as a part of the booth presentation.

In addition to the open house, the annual STEP Scuff, also at the Masonic Temple ($5 at the door), opens at 8 pm, with beginner instruction in traditional Newfoundland Set Dances starting at 9pm. The STEP Scuff is a program Scholarship Fund Raiser, and an excellent opportunity to meet parents currently in the STEP program.

When & Where: Saturday, April 28^th, 11am to 4pm; Masonic Temple, Cathedral Street, St. John's

STEP String Program (http://www.nfld.com/~step)

The Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP) is a non-profit music education and performing arts organization based on the teachings of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. STEP provides music education in the area of string playing and orchestra and ensemble playing as well as teacher training and the delivery of the Atlantic Canada Suzuki Institute Camp each spring. Run by volunteers with the help of paid professional music educators, the STEP Program was founded in St. John's in 1982 and is a registered charity. STEP will celebrate its 25^th anniversary 2007/2008.

Atlantic Canada Suzuki Institute (ACSI) (http://www.nfld.com/~step/acsi.htm)

Sponsored by STEP, ACSI is the only annual Canadian summer institute east of Montreal that is recognized by the Suzuki Association of the Americas. The institute is a week long intensive music camp. This year in addition to our established programs for string students we are offering Early Childhood Music Education (for children from 0-4 years of age). This program is non-instrument specific and focuses on rhythm and listening.

We also offer instruction for violin, viola and cello students of varying degrees of skills, providing both individual and group lessons, ensemble playing opportunities, as well as a teacher training program for eligible candidates. The institute features a mix of local and imported internationally renowned instructors.

When & where: The ACSI Camp runs daily at St. Paul's School, Newfoundland Drive, St. John's from June 24 to June 30. The registration deadline is May 12^th, 2007.

Suzuki Early Childhood Education

This program is designed for parents and young children (0-4 years old). ECE consists of daily 60 minute classes, during which parents and children sing, move and interact with instruments and other students. Suzuki ECE creates a nurturing environment which enhances the strong bonds between parent and children through music and development of early skills such as listening, a sense of rhythm/movement as well as socialization and a willingness to participate. Instruments are not required for this class but parents are essential! Included in the fee is a CD that will be provided in advance of the start of the program.

Beginner Blitz: Violin and Cello

This week-long program is open to children from 5 to 9 years of age who would like to begin the process of learning the violin or cello. Children younger than 5 that have a sibling currently enrolled in the Suzuki program may be admitted at the Institute Director's discretion. Each child is required to bring his/her own instrument. A parent must be present during the program. Both the parent and child will participate in the various aspects of learning to play a stringed instrument through group classes, musical activities and individual instruction. A parent-training session is included to explain the Suzuki philosophy and how to practice with your child.

Contact Information

Labels: administration, announcements, Community Events

Second Annual STEP Scuff Scholarship Fund raiser, April 28, 2007

When: Saturday, April 28, starts with instruction for beginners at 9:00 pm; Doors open 8:00 pm

Where: Masonic Temple: Main entrance Cathedral St., St. John's; Stairless Access around the back from Willicott's Lane off Gower St.

What: Traditional Newfoundland Set Dancing

Who: Music by Geoff Panting and surprise guests; Dance calling and instruction by Jane Rutherford

For Whom: All Dancers of any or no experience Welcome.

Cost: $5.00 at the Door. Cash Bar; 50:50 Draw and Grand Prize Tickets for sale

Sponsor: STEP String Program; a St. John's based music education and performance program based on the methods of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. STEP (Suzuki Talent Education Program) is a registered charity.

Objectives: 1. To have a great Scuff and 2. to raise money for the STEP Scholarship Fund: STEP is developing a full tuition Scholarship to be administered by the R.E.A.L .Program starting in Fall 2007. Donations to Fund of $20 + will receive tax receipt.

Jane Rutherford has been dancing, calling and teaching with folk dance groups for 20 years. She has performed at festivals, concerts, and special events in Newfoundland, Quebec, Ontario, St. Pierre and north eastern United States. She's been a staff member for the past three years teaching traditional Newfoundland dance at Vinland Music Camp (www.vinlandmusic.ca ) in Gros Morne National Park and is currently working on contract with Vinland Music to create a teaching resource on Newfoundland dance for schools in the province.

Geoff Panting is a well known St. John's pianist, accordionist, one of the ubiquitous Panting Brothers and widely known from his days with the band Rawlins Cross.

STEP String Program (http://www.nfld.com/~step) The Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP) is a non-profit Music Education and Performing Arts Organization based on the teachings of Dr. Shin'ichi Suzuki. It provides music education in the area of string playing and orchestra and ensemble playing as well as teacher training and the delivery of the Atlantic Canada Suzuki Institute Camp each spring. Run by volunteers with the help of paid professional music educators, the STEP Program was founded in St. John's in 1982 and is a registered charity. STEP will celebrate its 25th anniversary 2007/2008.

The R.E.A.L (Recreation Experiences and Leisure) Program (http://www.stjohns.ca/cityservices/recreation/real/index.jsp): A Program with a mandate to provide recreation and leisure opportunities through the provision of program and financial assistance to children and youth who, due to financial circumstances, are unable to participate in registered activities. The R.E.A.L. Program has agreed to administer a fully paid long-term placement in the Suzuki String Program on STEP's behalf beginning in fall 2007.

Contact Information: STEP Tel: (709) 691-2545 Email: suzukinl@gmail.com

Labels: announcements, Community Events, fundraising

This good news is sent by request of Janet Hewson, congratulations guys!

Three of our STEP members are with the St. Bonaventure's College Wind Ensemble who have just taken first place in the All American Music Festival in Orlando, Florida! As well they received the highest marks awarded to a band this season (that's 3 or 4 festivals).

Congratulations to Timothy Brennan (trumpet), Valerie Hewson (clarinet) and Rhiannon Tracey (clarinet).

Here's their official Orlando picture.

Labels: Community Events, news, people

Unfortunately, members of the Tokai String Quartet were unable to perform in concert yesterday evening due to delays caused by storms. The concert has been rescheduled for Sunday, March 18th, at 8pm at Music School's Petro Canada Hall. Again, this is an excellent opportunity to observe a professional chamber ensemble at work, and show our support for a program alumnus, Mr. Rafael Hoekman, cellist of the ensemble. Hope to see some, if not all of you, there tonight!

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts, people

Good Day All,

Toronto-based Tokai String Quartet is one of Canada's most promising, upcoming chamber ensemble, and will appear in concert at DF Cook Recital this not Saturday evening, but Sunday evening at 8pm. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for students, children and seniors. The quartet is on tour in the Atlantic Provinces with support from the Debut Atlantic Series, and is sure to present a spectacular program to us. For more information on them please visit their Website at: http://tokai.wellington-music.com/.

As a point of interest, Mr. Rafael Hoekman, cellist of the quartet, is a Suzuki program alumnus! Rafael (or Raffie, as he's affectionately known to some of our teachers) has kindly volunteered to give current students in the program a master class on tomorrow from 12 to 2pm at St. David's Presbyterian Church on Elizabeth Avenue. The event is free for spectators, and will be a fantastic opportunity to observe a professional cellist at work. It will also show support for a returning alumnus, who's very excited to perform for the home town crowd! Masterclass cancelled due to a delayed flight.

Both of these events will be very educational to students in the program and I strongly encourage the participation of all members and friends.

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts, people

A message from Christina:

If you are interested in some Alexander lessons, Trevor Allan Davies will be returning to St. John's from March 20 to 30! Classes will be held at 16 Maxse St., and cost $50.00. For more information or to book lessons, please email Christina Smith at csmith@nfld.com, or telephone 576-0359.

Space is limited, so you're encouraged to contact Christina ASAP.

Links:

• http://www.trevorallandavies.org/
• http://www.ati-net.com/ati-artl.php
• http://www.alexandercenter.com/pa/

Labels: announcements, Community Events, people

Press Release March 13, 2007 For immediate release:

St. John's, NL - Successful Alumnus Gives Back to St. John's String Program: Raphael Hoekman of visiting Tokai String Quartet to Give Master Class to Alma Mater

Raphael Hoekman, cellist of the Toronto-based Tokai String Quartet, will perform with the Tokai Quartet at the D. F. Cook Recital Hall, St. John's, March 17th, 2007. The same day, Hoekman, a native of St. John's and alumnus of the STEP String Program, will give a Master Class on cello and chamber music to some current STEP students. For Hoekman, this is an exciting opportunity to give back to the program that formed his musical foundation. Hoekman first experienced Chamber Music at a STEP Summer Camp and studied with STEP teacher Christina Smith until the age of 16.

"I use my Suzuki training every day!.. growing up in a geographically isolated place like St. John's is never easy if you want to learn a special skill, so the existence of a specialized grass roots type of organization like STEP is imperative for a community to be able to give a young person the chance to become a professional musician. ... it certainly is long overdue to pay tribute to that organization where I got my very first musical training." - Rafael Hoekman

Raphael Hoekman

A string student since the age of 3, Hoekman, praised by the Toronto Star for his "spirited and fiery performance," is a founding member of the up and coming Tokai String Quartet. As a soloist Hoekman first distinguished himself by winning first place in the 1988 Orford International Competition. He has appeared as feature soloist with various orchestras, including the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra. Hoekman is also the principal cellist of the Toronto Sinfonia and in demand as a Teacher.

Tokai String Quartet ( http://www.tokaiquartet.com )

Formed in August 2002, the Tokai Quartet is quickly becoming one of Canada's most promising chamber groups. They are touring the Atlantic provinces this spring with the Debut Atlantic Recital Series.

STEP String Program (http://www.nfld.com/~step)

The Suzuki Talent Education Program (STEP) is a non-profit Music Education and Performing Arts Organization based on the teachings of Dr. Shin'ichi Suzuki. It provides music education in the area of string playing and orchestra and ensemble playing as well as teacher training and the delivery of the Atlantic Canada Suzuki Institute Camp each spring. Run by volunteers with the help of paid professional music educators, the STEP Program was founded in St. John's in 1982 and is a registered charity. STEP will celebrate its 25th anniversary during the 2007/2008 year.

Master Class Venue:

St. David's Presbyterian Church, Elizabeth Ave., 12 to 2pm, March 17, 2007. The Class provides an excellent opportunity for media to observe a Professional Cellist taking time to share his knowledge with young players from his local Alma Mater.

Contact Information:

Rafael Hoekman: Raphael is on tour at the moment but can be reached through the Tokai Quartet violist's (Yosef Tamir-Smirnoff's) cell: (416) 875-9225 hoekman@hotmail.com

Evelyn Osborne (STEP Artistic Director) evelyn_osborne@yahoo.com

Tzu-Hao Hsu (STEP Program Administrator) (709) 691-2545 suzukinl@gmail.com

Labels: announcements, Community Events, groupclass, people

Let's give a big round of applause for the STEP Fiddlers and STEP Senior Orchestra! Both groups competed in the Group Rose Bowl events last night, and thank-you to Christina Smith and Kellie Walsh for their excellent leadership in helping our two ensembles achieve marks of 90% in their preliminaries! Kellie Walsh, our Orchestra Director, is also the director of the Rose Bowl winning St. Bonaventure College Girls' Choir. The group received a 92 in their class earlier this week, and a couple of our students also participate in this group's activities! Other STEP ensembles also received amazing marks in the Festival, with the Intermediate Orchestra scoring 88%, Junior Orchestra scoring 88% and Émile Benoît Fiddle Class a 90%!

Again, we're interested in publishing individual achievements in the Festival, so if you'd like to send in your results by Monday, March 12th, we'll make sure you're recognized in our next newsletter, coming very soon.

Thanks again everyone! Students, for your talent and passion; parents, for your dedication and patience; and teachers, for your leadership and devotion to your craft. Congratulations, you've once again done STEP proud.

Labels: announcements, Community Events, news, requests

Congratulations to the STEP Fiddlers and the STEP Senior Orchestra for earning places in the Kiwanis Rose Bowl Competition! The concert is tomorrow night (Thursday March 7th) at the Arts and Culture Centre, so please come out and applaud our hard-working young musicians. Many thanks to Kellie and Christina for their leadership, and GOOD LUCK to all!

We are very interested in hearing about how the rest of our students did in the Kiwanis. We truly have a very talented community of young and gifted musicians, and it would for be great for everyone to share the news! If you've taken part, please send in your name, instrument (not just strings!) and placement, and we'll acknowledge everyone's accomplishments in this year's Festival in our next newsletter, which is coming very soon.

Great job everybody, hope you all had fun during the Festival!

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts, news, people, requests

Sent on behalf of the multi-talented Evelyn Osborne, who performs in the show.

ANNOUNCING... the fantastic circus show that myself and several other talented local variety performers will be launching (FOR ONE DAY ONLY) at the LSPU Hall on Victoria Street this coming Sunday, Feb. 25th. It has been directed by Gentleman Juggler James Burke, and stars many of the performers you might recognize from busking, school shows, The Wonderbolt Circus and more.

I really encourage you to come out and see it. Bring your friends, bring your family. Bring your kids, bring your parents. See arts such as magic, juggling, hula-hooping, unicycling, poi, clowning, and more, mixed with exceptional live music, and woven into a fairy tale about learning to see past the limitations that so often cloud our vision, into a world of truly magical possibilities.

It's The Ringmaster's Attic. Show you support Variety arts, and come see for yourself how strong local performers in this field have become! This is our first major show as Go Big Productions, so we're counting on seeing you there! There MAY even be a Beni Malone cameo!

The cost is $5 for kids, $7 for students and seniors, and $10 for adults. Two showings: at 3:00 and at 8:00. If you wish to reserve tickets, call the LSPU Hall at: 753-4531. For more info, email theringmastersattic@gmail.com.

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts, people

(Posted by request of Evelyn, our Artistic Director.)

Empire Theatres is proud to present the experience and excitement of the Metropolitan Opera Live in High Definition on the Big Screen. These are one day only performances; seating is limited. Don't miss your chance to experience world class opera at your neighbourhood Empire Theatres location.

Admission prices:
Adult: $17.95 + tax
Children and Senior: $14.95 + tax

Dates:

Saturday February 24: Tchaikovsky - Eugene Onegin
Saturday March 24: Rossini - The Barber Of Seville
Saturday April 28: Puccini - Il Trittico

All performances in St. John's are at 3:00 PM.

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts

If you are coming to the Gower Wassail, bring your instrument with you!
Suzuki Talent Education Program is sponsoring 'O Come Little Children', the third carol on the program, and if you know how to play the song in the key of D, you are free to join in. Senior students should play the duet part if you know it! If you want to play, come early to get tuned up and find a place to sit near the front. If you play cello it's especially important to come early, and don't forget to bring a chair!
Hope to see you all out to support a good cause, making some fine music and enjoying yourselves this Sunday!

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts, groupclass

On behalf of Christina Smith:

STEP is sponsoring 'O Come Little Children' at the Gower Wassail! It will be an enjoyable event for the whole family.

The St. John's Folk Arts Council Presents:

THE GOWER WASSAIL

A Christmas Carol sing-along and fundraiser
Sunday, December 17th at 3:00 pm

at the Gower Street United Church

Featuring all your favourite carols PLUS special guest performances from
Carolyn Schiller
Alan Doyle
George Minimis
Anita Best and Pamela Morgan

Special guest accompanists and carol leaders
Tim Steeves
Valerie Long
Kellie Walsh
Brian Way
Jean Hewson
and the Young Folk Chorus

A Newfoundland and Labrador
Folk Festival Rainy Day Fund event
Come and raise your voice for the Folk Festival!
Admission $10 General, $8 Students and Seniors or $25 per family
No advance tickets
Wassail, Hot Chocolate and treats will be available

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts

On behalf of Jennifer Johnson:

Dear Parents and Teachers:
Many of you know for the past year I have been teaching this course to musicians to prevent injury and physical limitations at the instrument. I wanted to let you all know about the upcoming session in January as I am bringing in a special guest Body Mapper to co-teach the course with me. He is John McCrary, a pianist/organist, vocal coach and choral conductor. He has studied with Don Zukermann, the leading teacher in the Alexander Technique world in the movement of breathing so he has a great deal to offer to musicians (and esp. singers and wind and brass players about breathing) in addition to being able to demonstrate the course's principles as applied to keyboard playing. I will be taking all the string players when he and I split the class and he will take all the pianists and "breathers".

Please see the poster in PDF format for more information on how to register. I now have some discounted books from my teacher so that will reduce the cost by a fair bit for the first 8 registrants.

To register or for more information: call 709-579-1160 or email jennifer@bodymap.org.

Labels: announcements, Community Events, people

On behalf of Kellie Walsh:

Christmas Cabaret

Don't miss this Magical evening with Julia Halfyard and special guests from Lady Cove Women's choir!

Sunday, December 10 & 17...7:30 cocktails, 8:00 show
Bianca's Bar on Water Street
Ticket price: $20
For more info call 722 5957 or e-mail jhalfyard@hotmail.com.

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Every year in January, the St. John's Folk Arts Council sponsors workshops for young folk musicians of St. John's. On consecutive Saturday afternoons at Holy Cross Elementary school, young musicians are grouped into ensembles and rehearse together. Well-known folk musicians donate their time to coach the ensembles. The workshops culminate in a concert presented in the LSPU Hall. Admission is charged for the concert and any profit is donated to the Neil Murray Stage (the young folk performers venue) at the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival.

The intention of the workshops is to instigate friendships among the young people involved, to encourage performance of traditional music, and to give young performers the experience of playing in a small band.
** Space is limited ** but at this time a few places are still open.

This year's YFATH workshops will take place on Saturday, Jan. 13th and Saturday, Jan. 20th, from 2 - 5 p.m. The concert in the Hall will take place on Sunday the 21st in the afternoon.

Fergus O'Byrne is the founder and coordinator of this event. To be involved, email him at fobyrne@nl.rogers.com .

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts

Trudy got several requests for this recipe at the Play-in and says, "I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS SUPER-EASY TREAT!"

This recipe was originally called "Chocolate Ghost Gum" since you chew it a couple of times and it disappears! Also refers to how fast it disappears from the plate!

Chocolate Chew Candy

Over medium heat, in medium non-stick pan, melt 1 stick (1/4 lb.) butter.

Add 1 large bag of miniature marshmallows. Stir constantly until melted. Whisk to combine.

Sprinkle in 1 bag of chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet).
Remove from heat. Stir until melted.

Beat vigorously until it cools slightly and begins to get a "stretchy" consistency.

Pour into greased 9"x11" pan and spread evenly.

Chill 1 hour in fridge. Remove from pan in single block onto large cutting board and slice into small bite-size pieces.

Store for up to a week in fridge in air-tight container.

ENJOY!

Trudy

Labels: Community Events, people

On behalf of Christina Smith:

The St. John's Folk Arts Council is sponsoring a fundraising Christmas Carol Sing-along at Gower St. Church, Sunday December 17th at 3:00 pm. Featuring all your favourite carols plus special guest performances from Carolyn Schiller, Alan Doyle, George Miminis, and Anita Best and Pamela Morgan. Special guest accompanists and carol leaders include Tim Steeves, Valerie Long, Kellie Walsh, Brian Way, Jean Hewson, and the Young Folk Chorus.

Admission $10.00, $8.00 students and seniors, $25.00 per family.

Wassail, Hot Chocolate and treats will be available.

A Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival Rainy Day Fund event. Come and raise your voice for the Folk Festival!

**Sponsor a carol!**

Would you or your business like to sponsor a carol at this event? Email Christina Smith at csmith@nfld.com for information.

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts

The Lady Cove women's choir and The Celli Peppers cello ensemble will celebrate Christmas in a beautiful and unique concert on Saturday, November 25, at 8:00 p.m., at Cochrane Street United Church.

Lady Cove, under the direction of Kellie Walsh with accompanist David
Chafe, will perform Benjamin Britten's exquisite "A Ceremony of Carols". This magnificent work will be accompanied by renowned harpist Lori Gemmell of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony Orchestra.

The Celli Peppers, under the direction of Theo Weber, will perform "The Swan" and Corelli's "Christmas Concerto" plus much more! Lady Cove and The Celli Peppers join forces on Franz Biebl's "Ave Maria", Sean Carroll's arrangement of "Let It Snow", and the rousing spiritual "Ride On, King Jesus".

This is a very special Christmas concert not to be missed!!

Tickets are $15 (only $10 for seniors and students) and are available in advance at Provincial Music on Campbell Avenue and at the door prior to concert time.

This concert will also mark the official launch of Lady Cove's debut CD
"Lady Cove".

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts

The Newfoundland Symphony Youth Orchestra presents an exciting concert in the Arts & Culture Centre on Saturday, November 25, 2006. The NSYO is made up of 60 players aged 14-23, many of whom eventually join the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra.

Brilliant pianist James Hurley will perform the first movement of Beethoven's dramatic Piano Concerto no. 3 with the NSYO, under the direction of Peter Gardner. James is currently a student at the MUN School of Music.

Works by Malcolm Arnold, Kelsey Jones and Katchaturian will also be performed, culminating in Lord of the Rings-Two Towers.

Call 722-4441 or contact members of the NSYO for tickets. At only $10 apiece, the whole family can enjoy this show!

Mary O'Keeffe
Operations Manager
Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra
Tel: (709) 722-4441
Fax: (709) 753-0561
<mailto:mary@nso.nfld.net>mary@nso.nfld.net

Labels: announcements, Community Events, concerts

(Posted as a courtesy on request: not e-mailed.) The Gower Community Band is an award-winning adult concert band open to adult band musicians of all skill levels. The band is accepting new members for its 2006-2007 season. If you have ever played a band instrument and want to again experience the joy of playing in an instrumental ensemble, The Gower Community Band welcomes you! For more information, please contact 753-0643 during business hours, or 726-8382 during evenings or weekends.

Labels: announcements, Community Events

Suzuki parents (some of us, anyway) are a talented bunch. Here's another couple with an upcoming recital.

Duo Concertante and Blue Engine Violinist Nancy Dahn and pianist Timothy Steeves join Halifax's acclaimed Blue Engine String Quartet in Mozart's spirited C major Viola Quintet, Brian Current's riveting Faster Still (world premiere commissioned by CBC Radio) and the magnificent Chausson Concert.

More information at http://www.mun.ca/music/conc/index.htm

Suzuki Talent Education Program P.O. Box 23182 Churchill Sq. P.O. St. John's, NL A1B 4J9 Phone: 691-2545 - - - NEW NUMBER Web Site: http://www.nfld.com/~step/ - - - UPDATED JUNE 2006

Labels: Community Events, concerts, people

Yet another recital - this time by Suzuki-mom and -dad Kristina and Theo! Message on behalf of the NSO.

On September 9th at 8:00 in Petro-Canada Hall, Theo Weber, principal cellist of the NSO teams up with pianist Kristina Szutor for an encore performance of their recent recital for the "International Rio Cello Encounter" in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The program includes Dohnanyi's heroic and little known Cello Sonata as well as works by Haydn, Gavin Bryars, Arvo Part and Malcolm Forsyth.

For tickets call: 737-4455 or visit MUN Music

Labels: Community Events, concerts, people

Jennifer Johnson and Andrea Lane will be playing a benefit recital for STEP on September 8, 7:30 at the Kirk (St. Andrew's Presbyterian) on Queen's Rd.

The program will include the Mozart violin sonata K. 379, movements from the Franck violin Sonata, a showpiece by Fritz Kreisler and a surprise piece by Andrea Lane for all present and former Twinklers out there!

The program has been purposely kept under an hour so that parents will have an extra incentive to bring children of all ages. Jennifer and Andrea would prefer to have as many little folks there as possible even if there are minor distractions throughout the program when restlessness sets in or shifting to the back of the church becomes necessary!

Ticket prices are: $15.00 per adult, $10.00 per student/child.

Please bring as many friends and relatives as you can so that this can be a viable benefit effort for STEP. Start the STEP registration weekend off with some great music!

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Don’t miss the 2006 Tuckamore Festival!

Aug 7-20

www.tuckamorefestival.ca

737 2372

Tickets available at Fred's Records, Bennington Gate, Music City and at the door.

About the Tuckamore Festival

Since 2001, the Tuckamore Festival has been a unique two-week experience, offering both an outstanding chamber music series of internationally acclaimed artists and an inspiring program for emerging artists. Our goal is to create an intimate and challenging environment of intense music-making, collaboration and mentoring for young and established artists in an extraordinarily beautiful corner of Canada. The Festival presents numerous concerts and master classes in a number of superb venus in historic St. John's, Newfoundland.

In previous years, the Festival has featured guest artists such as André Laplante, the Avalon String Quartet, and the Shanghai Quartet. Participants in the Young Artist Program have included winners of nation competitions and students from some of North America's finest music schools including The Juilliard School, Glenn Gould School, Rice University, SUNY Stony Brook, University of Toronto and McGill University.

Don't miss this season's series: extraordinary performances packed with exuberance, passion and great beauty that are sure to move and inspire you.

Tuckamore Festival Events and Concerts

Free Lunchtime Concerts

Wednesday, August 9th; Thursday, August 10th; Wednesday, August 16th; Thursday, August 17th at 12:30 pm, St. Thomas’ Anglican Church

Our talented Young Artists perform a wide range of solo and chamber works each Wenesday and Thursday. Bring your lunch and enjoy!

Luthier Workshop

Thursday, Aug. 10th at 7:00-8:00 pm, Choral Room (1032), MUN School of Music

Rodney DeVries, the new luthier in town, presents a workshop on stringed instrument care and maintenance with a question and answer period to follow.

Young Artists On Stage

Friday, August 11th at 8:00 pm, Petro-Canada Hall, MUN School of Music

Some of North America’s most talented musicians perform a diverse program of solo and chamber music.

Humour, Homeland & Heartstrings

Saturday, August 12th at 8:00 pm, D.F. Cook Recital Hall, MUN School of Music

Nancy Dahn, violin; Rennie Regehr, viola; Vernon Rehehr, cello; Timothy Steeves, piano

Mozart - Trio in B-flat major, K. 502

Martinu - Duo no. 1 for violin and cello

Schubert - Trio in B flat, op. 99

Richard Raymond, piano

Monday, August 14th at 8:00 pm, D.F. Cook Recital Hall, MUN School of Music

Beethoven - Sussmayr Variations

Liszt - Ballade no. 2 in B minor

Chopin - Scherzo in B flat minor Op. 31, no. 2

Wagner/Liszt - Isolde’s Liebestod

Reubke - Sonata in B flat minor

Free Young People’s Concert

Tuesday, August 15th at 1:00 pm, D.F. Cook Recital Hall, MUN School of Music

Good things are made for small packages! The Jupiter Quartet delights and dazzles smaller sized eyes and ears in a concert especially designed for ages 6 and up!

Free Open Rehearsal: Jupiter String Quartet

Tuesday, August 15th at 3 pm, D.F. Cook Recital Hall, MUN School of Music

Ever wonder how four people end up sounding like one fantastic instrument? Find out! Be a fly on the wall at the Jupiter Quartet’s open Rehearsal!

Jupiter String Quartet

Wednesday, August 16th at 8:00 pm, St. Thomas’ Anglican Church

Beethoven - Quartet op. 59, no. 11 “Razumovsky”

Shostakovich - Quartet no. 8

Schubert - Quartet in C Minor, D. 703 "Quartettsatz"

Music for a Summer’s Evening

Saturday, August 19th at 8:00, D.F. Cook Recital Hall, MUN School of Music

Stephanie Sant’Ambrogio and Nancy Dahn, violins; Rennie Regehr- viola; Vernon Regehr- cello; Timothy Steeves, piano

Mozart Quartet in C Major, K. 157

Francaix- String Trio

Brahms- Piano Quintet in F Minor, op. 34

Festival Finale

Sunday, August 20th at 8:00, Petro-Canada Hall, MUN School of Music

Celebrate the culmination of the Tuckamore Festival as the young artists perform great chamber music.

Free Master Classes

All classes will be held in Petro-Canada Hall, MUN School of Music

Tuesday, August 15th at 10:00 am

Richard Raymond, piano

Wednesday, August 16th at 2:00 pm

Jupiter String Quartet

Thursday, August 17th at 2:00 pm

Rennie Regehr, viola

Friday, August 18th at 2:00 pm

Stephanie Sant’Ambrogio, violin

Learn about the inner workings of the music and musician as our guest artists coach and inspire the Tuckamore Young Artists.

Labels: Community Events

Congratulations to Senior STEP violinist Co co Leung for making it to the National Finals of the Canada Music Competition to be held in Quebec in two weeks' time! She won in her first two rounds in Toronto which qualified her to move on to the prestigious third round!

Good Luck, Co co...we'll be rooting for you!

Labels: Community Events, people

On behalf of Jean Hewson, St. John's Folk Arts Council:

CALLING ALL YOUNG TRADITIONAL MUSICIANS!

On Saturday afternoon at the folk festival, (August 5th) we are staging an event called Youth Invasion! We're inviting young players from all over to come and join in a massive session on the main stage. Due to the scope of this, we are unable to pay the performers, but they will get a weekend pass to the festival. The performers who are under-aged will also be able to have one of their parents attend the Saturday Session free.

We will be deciding on some of the repertoire in advance (Christina Smith is overseeing that aspect of it). It will be mostly easy tunes, Mussels, Auntie Mary, etc. We'll be posting a list on the website.

If you would like to attend, we will need your name on our list. Please feel free to pass this message on to any young person you know who plays traditional music

To register, please contact: Erin McArthur 30th Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival (709) 576-8508 Email: office@sjfac.nf.net http://www.sjfac.nf.net/

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Mark your calendars! The first Steve Woodcock string prize for excellence will be presented at the Kiwanis Music Festival on March 9 at 7 pm at St. James Church on Elizabeth Avenue.

Labels: announcements, Community Events

Congratulations to the STEP Senior Orchestra and the STEP Fiddlers! Both have qualified for the group Rose Bowl competition. The Competition takes place Thursday, March 2 at the Arts and Culture Centre, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door, adults/seniors $10.00, children under 10 $8.00.

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Posted on behalf on Diane Hollett, Suzuki mom and chair of The Children's Centre.

Labels: Community Events

Posted on behalf of the MUN School of Music. MUN SCHOOL OF MUSIC PRESENTS!!! On Saturday February 4 at 8:00PM and Sunday February 5 at 2:00PM, in the D.F. Cook recital hall at the School of Music, the Opera Workshop Ensemble and the MUN Chamber Orchestra team up for performances of Franz Joseph Haydn's comic opera 'The Diva'!!! Also on the program will be operatic excerpts from the Marriage of Figaro, Cosi fan Tutte, Idomeneo, Die Fledermaus and Lakme. These performances are directed and produced by Shelley Neville, and conducted by Vernon Regehr. Don't miss this amazing operatic showcase of some of the provinces most talented musicians! Tickets are available for at the door for $10 ($5 student/senior) For more information call 737.4455. Hope to see you all there! Vernon Regehr --------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Vernon Regehr Conductor, MUN Chamber Orchestra Assistant Professor of Cello School of Music Memorial University of Newfoundland St. John's, NL Canada A1C 5S7 phone: (709) 737-3146 email: vregehr@mun.ca

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Jennifer Johnson will be offering a course on "What Every Musician Needs to Know About the Body", based on Body Mapping and the Alexander Technique. It takes place March 25th and 26th from 9:00 to 1:00. Please contact Jennifer at jinnjohn@yahoo.ca or phone 709-579-1160 to register. See poster for more details (PDF format).

Labels: Community Events, people

Announcement! Thursday night, January 26th, at 7:30 on Cable 9, our senior group class (Concerto Class) will be on "Out of the Fog" performing some Mozart. Don't miss it!

Labels: Community Events

The Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra presents THE JUPITER STRING QUARTET Sunday, January 15, 2006 at 8:00 pm D.F. Cook Recital Hall Mozart - String Quartet in B flat Major (“Prussian”) Dutilleux - String Quartet Schubert String Quartet in d minor (“Death and the Maiden”) Tickets: $25.00 Call: 722-4441 The Jupiter String Quartet captured First Prize in the 8th Banff International String Quartet Competition in 2004. This award includes a debut CD and a concert tour of Canada in the 2005-2006 season. The Jupiter Quartet was also awarded Grand Prize at the 2004 Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, resulting in tours of the United States and Italy. For more information, please visit the NSO website: http://www.nso-music.com/ . Click on "Concerts and Events".

Labels: Community Events, concerts

I received this message from Vicky Northey to send out: Hannah Woodcock has asked me to let you know that the business is still open on an appointment only basis. She will continue to sell the instruments and accessories that are presently in stock. It will be necessary for customers to call her to arrange a convenient time to meet with her because of her other work commitments. Her number is 753-2680.

Labels: Community Events, people

It's been decided that a group of Suzuki musicians, book 2 and up, will play a few pieces before Steve's funeral tomorrow (Wednesday). If you plan to attend, please dress in black and white and bring your instruments for tune-up to Caul's Funeral Home at 1:30 PM (the funeral is at 2:00). It's only fitting that we honour him who took such care to keep us all playing well.

Labels: Community Events, people

Dear Suzuki friends, It's with great sadness that I deliver the news of Steve's passing. Below is his obituary as it appears in the Telegram. Hope you can all come to pay respects on Wednesday afternoon. WOODCOCK, Stephen E. of St. John’s, NL died suddenly of a heart attack on December 22, 2005. Leaving behind his beloved wife, Hannah; his parents Alexander and Winifred Woodcock of Cambridge, ON; his sister Linda Woodcock of Toronto, ON; brothers Robert, wife Meg and David, wife Yvonne; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends; also his devoted mother-in-law Mrs. Thelma Reed of Malvern England and his brother-in-law Steven Reed of Sheffield England. Stephen was well known for his music and skills in making and repairing string instruments. His workshop in St. John's was an open door to fellow musicians and friends. A soft-spoken and gentle man whose love of family, friends, music and life were inseparable. He will be greatly missed and well remembered by all who met him. Funeral Service at Caul’s Chapel, December 28, Wednesday 2 p.m. Cremation to follow.

Labels: Community Events, people

An announcement from the MUN Chamber Orchestra. The orchestra includes Suzuki teachers Sara Mills, Sean Conway and Matthew March as section principals! The MUN Chamber Orchestra opens its new season with a concert on Tuesday October 18 at 8:00PM at the D.F. Cook recital hall at the School of Music. The program features the 2005 School of Music concerto competition winner Greg Bruce in a performance of Villa Lobos Fantasia for Saxophone and chamber orchestra. The Orchestra, under the direction of Vernon Regehr, will end the program with a performance of Beethoven's highly energetic Symphony No. 2. Don't miss this fantastic and committed group of musicians in some of the greatest symphonic repertoire. Tickets are $10 ($5 for students/ seniors) and are available at the door. For further information please call the School of Music office at 737-7486.

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Here is a public service announcement from the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra: The annual Big Ticket Gala is on October 29th, 2005. Please see the poster below for more details.

Labels: Community Events, concerts

Trevor Allan Davies will be returning to St. John's to teach Alexander Technique from October 3 to 12. Alexander Technique has been called a 'kinsethetic re-education.' It re-establishes the balance and freedom of movement we all posessed when we were pre-schoolers. Taught in a series of one-on-one lessons, the Technique is studied widely by musicians, athletes, actors, and anyone who would like to improve their balance, poise and posture. It is also extremely helpful for anyone suffering from back, neck or joint pain, arthritis, muscle tension, repetitive stress injury, and other ailments which can be caused by unbalanced use of our bodies. For more information or to book a lesson, call Christina at 576-0359 or email at csmith@nfld.com. For more information on the Alexander Technique please see the links below. http://www.alexandertechnique.com/ http://www.alexandertechnique.com/articles/brennan/

Labels: Community Events

Steve Woodcock has asked me to pass on to his customers - most of you! - that he will be out of town from September 8th until the 24th, and to please come see him before then, if he has an item of yours or if you need work done before he goes. He apologizes for the inconvenience.

Labels: Community Events, people