Latin spice added to symphony show

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Vivace Latino, presented by the Prince George Symphony Orchestra on April 20, offers a cultural fusion, throw in a switcharoo where the Latin guest musicians play the traditionally classical music and the PGSO takes on the Latin flavour.

Orchestra North Summer Program

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 07:00:00 UT

Wanted: String Players, orchestral woodwinds and brass For: 1st Annual Orchestra North Summer Program, hosted by beautiful Smithers BC Dates: July 1-6

Concert taps Mozart's great work

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
The PGSO’s most recent concert featured works from the two operas Mozart premiered in his last year of life, La Clemenza di Tito and The Magic Flute, along with the music of the Requiem.

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra Announces its 2013/2014 Season

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 07:00:00 UT

"This has proven to be an exciting and successful first season of the PGSO under our new Music Director, Kevin Zakresky" said PGSO General Manager Marnie Hamagami. "But just wait until you see our plans for next year!"

New Symphony season starts September

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra has announced its new season filled with a variety of musical events for local residents, offering classical favourites, an outdoor concert and a new-to-the-schedule Halloween show featuring Magical Maestro Zee as host.

Media Release: Mozart’s Requiem - Local mezzo-soprano Melanie Nicol performs with PGSO

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 07:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra, the Prince George Cantata Singers, guest soloists soprano Erica Northcott, mezzo-soprano Melanie Nicol, tenor Bruce Hoffman, and baritone Nick Meyer, and the visiting Richmond Chorus join together to celebrate “1791: Mozart’s Finale,” March 16 at Sacred Heart Cathedral.

Raising her voice for opera

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
There's a local mezzo-saprano who will perform with the Prince George Symphony Orchestra Saturday, March 16, before jetting off to Italy to perform Ruggero in Handel's Alcina in August.

Young player a delight with PGSO

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Splendid local media coverage about this concert’s young featured soloist lent a pleasant sense of expectation as the audience settled in.

Local teen preparing for solo role

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Gabrielle Jacob is a 15-year-old violinist who will be performing for the first time as a soloist with the Prince George Symphony Orchestra during Masterworks Saturday night at Vanier Hall.

Media Release: Winner of Integris Youth Concerto Competition Plays Bruch

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:00:00 UT

The spotlight shines on Prince George’s own Gabrielle Jacob on the next concert of the Prince George Symphony Orchestra. She will be featured in Max Bruch’s romantic First Violin Concerto, one of the staple works of the violin repertoire.

Review: PGSO shines in Celtic team-up

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
PGSO Conductor Kevin Zakresky was in an exuberant mood anticipating this concert. He described it as “a dream come true” for the symphony to perform with the hugely popular Celtic band, Out of Alba.

Media Release: Celtic Symphony!

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra and the Queensway Branch of Raymond James proudly present Out of Alba and The Old Time Fiddlers in their upcoming Lord of the Dance concert. Saturday, January 26, 2013 7:30pm at Vanier Hall.

PGSO-Integris Youth Concerto Competition 2013

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra invites young musicians from all regions of northern British Columbia to apply for the 2013 Youth Concerto Competition.

Orchestra thrills with Christmas classic

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra and Prince George Cantata Singers delivered an inspired presentation of Messiah Saturday evening. Considered as Handel’s greatest oratorio, that work was performed for the first time April 13, 1742 in...

New GM for Prince George Symphony

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Born and raised in Cranbrook, the new Prince George Symphony Orchestra general manager, Marnie Hamagami, has moved to Prince George with permanence on her mind, she said.

Media Release: New General Manager at the helm of the PGSO

Sat, 08 Dec 2012 08:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra board of directors is pleased to announce the hiring of Marnie Hamagami as General Manager for the PGSO.

Media Release: Handel's Messiah

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 08:00:00 UT

Hallelujah! The perfect Holiday tradition for both the dedicated and the fairweather Symphony buff.

Media Release: BC Boys Choir

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 08:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra and The Bel Canto Youth Choir are proud to sponsor this special presentation of The British Columbia Boys Choir Saturday, December 1 7:30pm • First Baptist Church (5th & Gillett)

Bassoonist brings flare to PGSO show

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
There's a blue-haired musician coming this way and she's said to play one of the most unique instruments better than most people in the world.

Media Release: Nadina

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 07:00:00 UT

NADINA MACKIE JACKSON returns home to solo with the Prince George Symphony Orchestra for a one night engagement Saturday Nov. 3, 7:30pm in Vanier Hall.

BC Arts Council shares the wealth with P.G.

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
The BC Arts Council provided almost $300,000 in grants to Prince George arts groups in the past year.

Some of the recipients included Theatre North West ($65,000), Two Rivers Gallery ($53,000), Prince George Community Arts Council ($21,157), Prince George Symphony Orchestra ($19,500), School District 57 ($14,000) and the Prince George Conservatory of Music ($9,750)

Media Release: PGSO Pops the Movies

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra presents their annual Pops in the Park end-of-summer blockbuster of music. Sunday, September 9 2012 2:00 pm at the Fort George Park Band Shell.

PGSO Annual General Meeting on October 1, 2012

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 07:00:00 UT

PGSO Annual General Meeting
Location: 2880 15th Avenue, Prince George, BC
Date: Monday, Oct 1, 2012
Time: 7:00 pm

The meeting is open to the public, and Nominations to the Board welcome.

Video: PGSO Director Returns Home

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 07:00:00 UT

From CKPG News
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra is getting ready to launch it's 42nd season, with a new leader at it's helm. His vision is to bring the world to Prince George, and help the symphony hit the right note in the community.

Season brings new music director for symphony

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 07:00:00 UT

Dr. Kevin Zakresky returns home as the Prince George Symphony's new music director during its 43rd season. The orchestra's series includes classics as well as pops for the traditional music lover.

2012 - 13 Season Highlights

Fri, 25 May 2012 07:00:00 UT

Our new Music Director Kevin Zakresky is putting the finishing touches on next season's program. Here are some highlights to look forward to.

Media Release: Prince George Symphony Orchestra Catches a Rising Star

Wed, 02 May 2012 07:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra will enter its 43rd season with a new Music Director. The PGSO announces that after a sixteen month long search, Kevin Zakresky has been selected to lead British Columbia’s premiere northern orchestra.

Hosts needed to house guest musicians

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 07:00:00 UT

The PGSO is looking for hosts to welcome and house guest musicians for the next concert on April 21st and for next season.

PGSO Review - The Red Violin

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
The much-anticipated PGSO concert featuring guest conductor Evan Mitchell and Elizabeth Pitcairn as guest artist excelled in meeting the audience’s high expectations. It was a superb evening of entertainment and a unique opportunity to hear a Stradivarius played by a world-class violinist.

The Red Violin comes to Prince George

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Free Press
Two final major works by famed composers will be featured in The Red Violin, the next concert by the Prince George Symphony Orchestra.

One-of-a-kind Violin Pendant Could Be Yours

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 07:00:00 UT

Hubbell Designer Goldsmiths have generously donated a custom designed, beautifully crafted violin pendant in celebration of the March 31st concert, The Red Violin. This precious piece could be yours by purchasing a raffle ticket.

Home hosts needed for out of town musicians

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 07:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra is looking for volunteers to open their homes to professional musicians from out of town when they perform concerts in Prince George.

Media Release: Finalists Named for 2012 Prince George Regional Arts and Cultural Awards

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Public Library
The finalists in 13 categories have been chosen for the 2012 Prince George Regional Arts and Cultural Awards... The best ensemble award will go to either local rock outfit Highball Riot, the Old Time Fiddlers or the Prince George Symphony Orchestra.

Last minute stand in for The Emperor

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 UT

Guest conductor Rick Dorfer, a doctor of musical arts in violin, and guest performer Sara Davis Buechner, a classical concert pianist, give a performance featuring Beethoven's Symphony No. 4 and Piano Concerto No. 5.

Mystery surrounds PGSO event

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
An aura of mystery cascades over the Columbus Community Centre when Il Carnevale de Venezia, a masquerade ball, takes over Saturday, Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Tonight at the Proms

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra presents Tonight at the Proms Jan. 28 with guest conductor Dr. Calvin Dyck at Vanier Hall. The concert celebrates Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee, her majesty's 60th anniversary of the accession to the throne.

A diamond celebration for the Queen

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Free Press
Tonight at the Proms is the Jan. 28 Prince George Symphony Orchestra concert at Vanier Hall. In celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, guest conductor Dr. Calvin Dyck will direct the evening, joined by the Prince George Cantata Singers and other VIP guests, in a wonderful collage of traditional and patriotic nostalgia.

PGSO Call for Vocal Auditions - February 3-4

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 UT

The PGSO will be staging the historic Canadian opera "Colas et Colinette" by Joseph Quesnel next season. OPEN AUDITIONS for solo roles and chorus take place February 3rd and 4th.

From prince to king

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
After 20 years, the Nutcracker Prince is now Snow King. Chris Larsen, the original prince in Judy Russell’s inaugural Nutcracker production, returns to the local dance studio to teach, dance and give back to the community where he got his start in ballet.

Songs and stories make for wonderful time

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
My daughters and I had the pleasure of attending Songs & Stories at the public library. There was an informal woodwind performance from PGSO along with a dancer. The choice of the story was perfect with live music and dance.

Nutcracker celebrates 20th anniversary

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Judy Russell’s production of the Nutcracker is taking the stage for its 20th anniversary this year, and with it comes with a few changes on stage and off. Presented by Judy Russell and the Prince George Symphony Orchestra, the Nutcracker runs five shows at Vanier Hall Dec. 16 to 18.

Sistema and the Professional World – plus an apology

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 UT

By Jonathan Govias
...sometimes the sensation of conducting a good orchestra is the same as driving a fancy car down a motorway, unfettered by speed limits. Not a feeling of control, but of release, of being carried. I had that feeling working with the PGSO.

Education is key for orchestral success

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Guest conductor Jonathan Govias solicited a special composition from Canadian composer Christine Donkin to showcase the Prince George Symphony Orchestra's talent as part of Govias's on-the-job interview.

Simply Classical

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:00:00 UT

By Ruth Langner
Please join us for the second concert in our season, Simply Classical. The orchestra will blend the passion of Mozart and the elegance of Mendelssohn, two favourite classical composers, in a zesty program, Saturday, November 5th at Vanier Hall.

Search for symphony's music director brings variety to P.G.

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
It's the start of the Prince George Symphony Orchestra's new season. Each major concert will feature a guest conductor that is interested in the position of music director of the PGSO. First up is Martin MacDonald who will conduct the Jupiter Symphony at Vanier Hall Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Pre-Concert Chat

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 07:00:00 UT

Do you want to know more about the music, insights into the composer, or chat informally with our guest conductor? Then plan to attend our Pre-Concert chat.

"Pops in the Pen"

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 07:00:00 UT

by Ruth Langner
On September the tenth, the Prince George Symphony Orchestra members signed in at the front desk of the Prince George Regional Correctional Center and set themselves up for a new outreach experience.

Pops - and Pigeons - in the Park

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 07:00:00 UT

By Pamela Liu
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra kicked off the season with a free concert in Fort George Park last Sunday. The performance included pop tunes, movie themes, and light classical music, plus the added excitement of a pigeon race.

Birds of a feather will flock together

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Pops in the Park sees the Prince George Symphony Orchestra (PGSO) set up at the Fort George Park bandshell Sunday at 2 p.m. to play popular hits that are everyone's favourites. There will also be a healthy dose of pigeon pageantry as 120 pedigree pigeons take to the skies

PGSO Guest Conductors Featured on CFIS Radio

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 07:00:00 UT

Peter Clemente of CFIS 93.1 Community Radio will be interviewing the PGSO's guest conductors this season on his classical radio program Speech of Angels.

Local violinist is Toronto Symphony Orchestra concertmaster

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Jonathan Crow, born and raised in Prince George, is now the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) concertmaster.

Shaping the Future of the Symphony

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
With 40 conductors to choose from, the task of whittling them down to the lucky seven who will audition as part of the new season at the Prince George Symphony Orchestra was quite a challenge, said PGSO's general manager, Ruth Langner.

2011-12 PGSO Concert Season Revealed

Fri, 27 May 2011 07:00:00 UT

Now that our landmark 40th anniversary season has come to a close, we look ahead to another great season of live music in 2011-2012.

'O' is for opera

Thu, 26 May 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Conductor Les Dala’s final performance with the Prince George Symphony Orchestra was a triumph. This was about as big an entertainment spectacle as it is possible to see here - complete with all the frills and flourishes. The Sunday afternoon event was timed to become the major concert event of the BC Choral Federation’s Chorfest celebration hosted by the Prince George Cantata Singers.

Do Ray Me Fa So Long

Fri, 20 May 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
For the first time in 25 years, Chorfest, the provincial choir confederation conference, hosted by the Prince George Cantata Singers, will be held in Prince George this weekend.

For the last time Les Dala, conductor of the Prince George Symphony Orchestra, will perform Sunday at the Civic Centre during the O is for Opera concert where hundreds of choristers will come together in song.

O is for Opera at Prince George Civic Centre

Thu, 19 May 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Free Press
Chorfest, a provincial choral conference, will be held in Prince George May 20 to 22, and co-chair Evelyn Lee says it’s been a while.[...] The final concert is O is for Opera and features a number of selections from various operas. The Prince George Symphony Orchestra will be performing with the assembled choral group, and it’s a special occasion for the orchestra as well.

O is for Opera, C is for Chorfest, D is for Dala

Fri, 13 May 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
It has been a quarter of a century since the last B.C. Choral Federation conference was held in Prince George, but the wait is over. Chorfest will be held at the Civic Centre May 20 to 22 and will include workshops, an opening reception, a banquet, and a gala concert to conclude the event.

Media Release: Mass Choir Joins the PGSO for Opera Event

Fri, 13 May 2011 07:00:00 UT

By Pamela Liu
Prince George, BC – The Prince George Symphony Orchestra (PGSO) and the Prince George Cantata Singers are joining forces to stage a major musical event. ‘O’ is for Opera is the PGSO’s final concert of the season and the highlight of this year’s Chorfest celebration. Choristers from across the province will attend the three day choral conference, culminating in a mass choir performance of some of the most popular and beloved opera music. ‘O’ is for Opera takes place Sunday May 22, 2011 at 3 pm at the Prince George Civic Centre. Tickets available at Studio 2880 or at the door.

Seniors Will Be a Hit at the Opera

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 07:00:00 UT

On May 22, the PGSO will be playing a concert of opera favourites, one of which will be the Anvil Chorus by Verdi. It involves a great deal of percussive power, and we would like to invite every senior in Prince George to join in and hit the anvil on the "off beat".

Baroque Bouquet on Mother's Day

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 07:00:00 UT

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra's Baroque Bouquet concert will feature José Delgado-Guevera performing the ever-popular Four Seasons, Vivaldi's most famous work and the boldest of the Baroque period. Young Suzuki students from the Prince George Conservatory of Music will provide a lovely addition to the afternoon.

Lapp It Up as Daniel performs with orchestra

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 07:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Sounding like something out of a Dr. Seuss children's book, famous fiddle player Daniel Lapp, will be playing the flumpet during the PGSO concert Saturday night at 7 at Vanier Hall.

Music Lovers LOVE Chocolate!

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 07:00:00 UT

What accompanies great music? Great chocolate of course! Or at least it will on Saturday April 9th at Prince George’s Vanier Hall.

Fantastic Fiddler Finds His Way Home

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 07:00:00 UT

By Ruth Langner
Lapp it Up! will feature the multi-talented Daniel Lapp in concert on April 9th, 2011. After an amazing performance at the Olympic celebrations in Vancouver, fiddler Daniel Lapp returns home to Prince George to celebrate with the PGSO 'Fiddleharmonic' orchestra.

PGSO Honours Veteran Musicians

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 07:00:00 UT

By Pamela Liu
As we celebrate 40 years of live music in Prince George, the Prince George Symphony Orchestra is honouring three musicians who were instrumental to the organization's inception and remain committed members of the orchestra to this day.

Classic Choice

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:00:00 UT

By Ruth Langner
At the start of the season, the PGSO asked you to vote for an Overture, a Symphony and a Concerto that you would like us to play. Voting could be on-line or by ballot box at concerts. With the voting now over and the ballots tabulated, the audience favourites are...

Spirit of the One Song - Grand Performance

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:00:00 UT

By Ruth Langner
Uniting the Arts - On the Program...

Talking Shop

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 08:00:00 UT

As published in the Prince George Citizen
Les Dala spoke to an enthusiastic audience at the Prince George Chateau on Friday about the Classic Love concert held on Feb. 12.

Where art and entertainment collide

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
Cat Sivertsen is the artist who create art while performers entertain during The One Song B.C. Spirit Festival art reception and grand performance at the Coast Inn on Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m.

Media Release: The PGSO Spirit of The One Song Festival is at Two Rivers Gallery

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 08:00:00 UT

By Shelley Sivell
Ken Turner, assistant curator at the Two Rivers Gallery, began the first meeting with the three exhibiting artists stating “If you ever wanted to create by dropping paint from 20 feet up, this is the time”

Gallery, PGSO collaborate

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
To commemorate the country’s 2010 Olympic success, the Prince George Symphony Orchestra (PGSO) will take over hosting this year’s Spirit Festival in Prince George with events that encourage community engagement in arts and cultural activities.

Strauss kicks off Spirit of the One Song

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Free Press
Dressed for the occasion in formal wear, the guests danced the night away at the Civic Centre to beautiful music provided by PGSO musicians. Government grants and the Arts Legacy program have made it possible for the orchestra to fill the month of February with special events that include performing, visual and technical arts groups.

Search is on for PGSO conductor

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 08:00:00 UT

Prince George Citizen
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra (PGSO) is conducting a search for a new conductor, and with word just barely out, applications have already been submitted for the position.

Band played on thanks to city: PGSO

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 08:00:00 UT

As published in the Prince George Citizen
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra (PGSO) gave mayor and council an overture of thanks on Monday night.