Music
...decided to get into a new or under the leader ship of Charles barber, who conducted for the first couple of seasons.
The next conductor of the Civic Orchestra was Stuart Knussen, followed by Robert Cooper. Over the years, the players have enjoyed as guest conductors the different musical ideas and styles of Jean-Marie Kent, Janos Sandor, John French, Charles Job and Yariv Aloni. Dr. George Corwin has led the orchestra for about 10 years.
The orchestra’s objectives, as stated in its Constitution, are these:
• to perform orchestral music in and for the Greater Victoria area,
• to provide musical educational opportunities in the community.
At any one time playing members number about 50, and come from many backgrounds for the common purpose of enjoying making music together.
About half of the members have retired from the workforce. Careers, both past and present, span a wide range, including professional musician, astronomer, satellite engineer, corrections officer, university professor, government employee, teacher, retail clerk, realtor, accountant, world-class musical instrument craftsman, assistant to an organ builder, language translator, stock-broker, systems analyst, nurse and psychologist. Music and education students gain experience with the orchestra, as do foreign exchange students.
The orchestra has played at several venues in the Greater Victoria area, as well as in Duncan, Nanaimo and Arbutus Ridge. At one time exchange visits with a choir in Washington State took place. The annual Sing-along Messiah is the Civic’s biggest crowd pleaser.
The orchestra makes an effort to offer opportunities for gifted soloists to showcase their talents – particularly the youth of Victoria. The 2006/07 season featured young dancers as well as youth talented on various stringed instruments and piano.
Music Director — George Corwin
Renowned as a...
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