Brandon University had a successful series of concerts this weekend during the supermoon. From Thursday to Saturday, the school held a range of concerts, all with one theme in mind: Hope. Brilliant musicians like Witness Matlou and Nic Bray featured some of their works, each of which told its own journey through beautifully crafted musical expressions.
Thursday, October 17 featured the School of Music’s yearly Open House and Kaleidoscope Concert, which attracted significant young talent from throughout Manitoba. Showcasing all of Brandon University’s large ensembles, the Open House is always a chaotic event of old and new faces hoping to inspire and collaborate. Performances included the BU Choral directed by Dr. Andrée Dagenais, the Concert Choir directed by Prof. Carolyn Gwyer, the BU Orchestra directed by Dr. Leanne Zacharias, the Symphonic Band directed by Dr. Wendy Zander, BU Eklektikos ensemble directed by Prof. Aren Teerhuis, and BU Jazz Band directed by Prof. Diego Piexoto. There was also a performance of a choir group, Invicta, which featured some amazing talent of BU Choir gentlemen. It was truly a wonder to see all the efforts of the Brandon University Music Department in one glorious display of music and discipline. I would like to extend my congratulations to the performers for the wonderful presentation! I also heard of a jam session that happened afterwards, which I've heard nothing but positive feedback from.
Friday, October 18 featured Nic Bray’s recital. As a fellow Dauphinite, it was a pleasure to see Nic Bray in his composition recital featuring new music. Leeanne Gerry directed the first ensemble, which featured orchestral works and themes. Nic then stole the show with a solo Piano feature, inspired by a friend who passed due to drug use. There was a jazz portion featuring a trio, and afterwards Nic picked up a guitar and stole the audience's attention. He even had his brother fly from London, England to watch him!! (You had to be there.)
Saturday, October 19, was “On the Brink of Peace”, the event put on by the Brandon Chamber Players featuring Witness Matlou. Witness (on piano) presented many compositions that night, and through collaboration with bassist Marika Galea, drummer Eric Platz and saxophonist Jon Gordon, had musical conversation like no other. The audience was a little shy at first, not understanding when it was appropriate to clap, but gradually understood through patience and communication that transcended culture and words. The musicians amplified the joy and enthusiasm in the room, like adding fuel to the fire of life in the room. By the end, the musicians had a standing ovation. There were both pre-concert talks and a reception, in which Witness generously shared some of his knowledge and inspirations with participants. I would like to thank the Brandon Chamber Players for hosting a wonderful event, and to thank Witness for a shining performance and all the knowledge he brought to our school.
That concludes this successful week for the Queen Elizabeth II Building. Students of the Music Department can be excited about the new students that came to scout our school. These students also had a great selection of ensembles that demonstrated the musicality of many performers. This is the 25th anniversary of the Chamber Players, so be ready for more amazing concerts to come!