An international orchestral experience is coming to Prince George from across continents and oceans.
The musicians and singers are coming en masse and bringing a big sound to raise support for a simple cause: freedom.
The Kyiv Symphony Orchestra & Chorus has a date with our city to remind Canada and this region in particular that their country is in conflict, in need, and rich in cultural offerings to the world. They are here to show us all what could be lost if Ukraine is displaced from the path of stability and growth it had been on until the clouds of war gathered above them.
Those clouds also gathered above Wes and Kim Janzen, a British Columbia couple there to work with the Kyiv music organization.
Wes is the conductor and artistic director of the ensemble.
The Janzens are leading the cast on a junket across Canada to raise funds and awareness through song.
"A couple of years ago I had the opportunity to hear them. I was stunned, just thrilled, the sound was so rich," said Prince George choral music matriarch Rose Loewen, who is helping with the local groundwork for the arrival of the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra & Chorus.
"Come, enjoy the concert, there is no set charge but they are taking a free-will offering that will go to the displaced, the widowed, the orphaned in the conflict happening in Ukraine."
The ensemble is working with Music Mission Ukraine Canada to coordinate the fundraising, allowing them to issue tax receipts for donations over $25.
The 35 singers and seven instrumentalists have been making their way to Prince George via several dates in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and other appearances in B.C. Their date in Prince George is Oct. 5 at the Westwood Mennonite Brethren Church on Ospika Boulevard.
While in our city they will perform two concerts of spirituals, hymns, timeless instrumental chamber music, and Slavic a cappella songs. The first show that day is 2 p.m., the second is 7 p.m.
"That rich Slavic vocal sound is so amazing to soak in," Loewen said.
"Some have a working understanding of English, and some have never been out of Ukraine before. We are so privileged to have them come here to our city."
The orchestra is able to tour internationally thanks to the support of host churches and aid agencies, and community help like billet families that welcome the musicians and singers into their homes for a day or two.
Loewen said the opening of Prince George homes would be gratefully accepted.
To make contact about billeting or any other form of support, contact Loewen at [email protected] or call 250-563-6558 or 250-640-7496.
