Sooke Philharmonic

The Sooke Philharmonic Society is thrilled to announce the much-awaited return of its annual Sooke Secret Garden Tour scheduled for Saturday, June 1st and Sunday, June 2nd. The Garden Tour will be followed by an outdoor garden concert on Sunday, June 2 at 4:30pm. This highly anticipated event offers a delightful opportunity for gardening enthusiasts, as well as music and art lovers alike, to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of some of the most captivating gardens in Sooke. The Garden Tour promises a journey through garden landscapes, each boasting a unique design. Participants will have the chance to explore a diverse array of gardens, from sprawling sanctuaries to intimate urban oases, all lovingly cultivated by passionate gardeners within our community. "We are excited to showcase the diversity and creativity of local gardeners through our annual Garden Tour," said Bonnie Sprinkling, SSGT Coordinator. "This event is not only a celebration of gardens but also an opportunity to enjoy the music of the orchestra and view the arts of the community." This year's tour will feature eight gardens and three special destinations. In addition to exploring the enchanting gardens, attendees will have the chance to exchange ideas and tips with fellow gardening enthusiasts. As well, members of the Victoria Master Gardeners will be on hand to offer expert guidance. Tickets for the Garden Tour are available for purchase now at sookephil.ca. Proceeds directly support Sooke Philharmonic's mission to keep music performance and wellness accessible in our community. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by the splendor of our local gardens. For ticket information and tour details, please visit https://www.sookephil.ca/secretgardentour

The performance is conducted by Nicholas Fairbank, with soloists Carson Moore, countertenor, Michael Kelley, tenor, and Nathan McDonald, bass. The program begins with anthems for Advent and Christmas by English Baroque composers Purcell and Gibbons. This is followed by the motet Hodie Christus natus est by Dutch composer Jan Sweelinck. Orchestra, chorus and soloists then join forces in two oratorios by Handel, written in thanks for peace treaties that ended the War of the Spanish Succession in 1713, and the War of the Austrian Succession in 1743. Both works provide opportunities for lively and joyful music, including trumpets and timpani, with variety provided by the solos and small ensemble movements sung by Moore, Kelley and McDonald. Visit sookephil.ca for tickets and more information

On October 31, the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra’s string section, conducted by music director Yariv Aloni, will take the stage in front of a live audience in the ensemble’s first indoor concert since the start of the pandemic. Violinists David Stewart and Paule Préfontaine are the featured soloists. Recently calling Sooke home after a distinguished careers in Europe, the duo will perform Vivaldi’s Concerto for Two Violins in A minor, and Piazzolla’s Libertango. This varied program has some beautiful string orchestra works: Respighi’s peaceful Ancient Airs and Dances for Strings, Elgar’s haunting and soulful Sospiri, and Weiner’s Divertimento No. 2, based on Hungarian folk melodies “We are eager to play for a live audience in Sooke, our wonderfully supportive home community,” says Aloni. “The performance is named ‘Together Again’ in celebration of the musicians and audience reuniting in concert, as music lovers are able to enjoy live performances once again.” As per the Provincial Health guidelines, proof of double vaccination and identification must be provided upon entry. Masks and social distancing will be required.