From the rocks of Newfoundland to the sands of Haida Gwaii, Canada is an expanse that cries out for song.
Music has been the vehicle for this nation to converse and come together as a culture over time and over landscapes, as the song goes, "from Bonavista to Vancouver Island."
Those travels and journeys come to a meeting point around campfires, in coffee shops, in stadiums and arenas, and on Monday night in Prince George it will be at Vanier Hall when a set of acclaimed musicians crack open the The Great Canadian Songbook. The Prince George Symphony Orchestra is partnering with a set of folk acts that all together will perform some of the strongest pieces of our musical culture in one feel-good night.
The incoming special guest performers are Ken Lavigne, Tiller's Folly and Diyet. They will take turns leading this campfire sing-along of familiar all-Canadian tunes by folk legends Leonard Cohen, Stan Rogers, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Buffy St. Marie, Anne Murray, Stompin' Tom Connors in addition to contemporary stars like the Barenaked Ladies, Blue Rodeo, and original songs by the Great Canadian Songbook performers themselves.
The PGSO is the beneficiary of this fundraiser concert.
"I cant think of a more delightful concert to offer to people in Prince George," said PGSO general manager Teresa Saunders.
"It's an experience we've never had before in our city. Some of these musicians have been here, but never together, and not in a performance like this. It isn't orchestral music, like we are used to presenting, but it will reach people who don't normally come to PGSO kinds of concerts. Our theme this year is "For People Like You," which means we want to be the catalysts for a wide array of live musical experiences and opportunities for the people of Prince George to enjoy music in a number of forms."
The Great Canadian Songbook was built together by Ken Lavigne, Tiller's Folly and Diyet as their way of celebrating Canada's 150th anniversary.
They explained that they had consistently crossed paths at gigs and festivals across North America, over the years, and so often it resulted in invitations to collaborate. Eventually, they did, and The Great Canadian Songbook was the result.
"The tickets are $20. We kept the price low so many more people could come see this unique show," Saunders said.
The event will be held at Vanier Hall on Monday night at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are available in advance at the Central Interior Tickets website, or at the door.
