Music breathes life into the soul. Single notes strung together connect us to something greater – the ability to feel the rhythm of the universe. To quote renowned cellist Pablo Casals, “music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart.”
In 1992, Michelle Bruce and Tom Kershaw decided that they wanted to touch the hearts of the Sunshine Coast and founded the Sunshine Coast Community Orchestra Association (SCCOA). Beginning with a group of seven violins, and with the help of many others over the years, they have grown the association to over 75 players in both the band and orchestra.
This year marks their 30th anniversary of performing on the Sunshine Coast, always following their vision – to make beautiful music together.
SCCOA is built on community. There is no audition requirement to become a member. Young or older, with plenty of experience or just picking your instrument back up after a long hiatus, you are encouraged to attend a practice to see if you want to become a member.
Weekly rehearsals, along with expert conducting, allow for exponential growth. Current members love the connection they feel with other members as they work to master a piece. A note if you join: be prepared to make new friends, feel a sense of belonging, be engaged with learning, and to love going to rehearsal.
For the second year in a row, SCCOA will be joined by qathet Orchestra from Powell River on May 4th in Pender Harbour for a collaboration of musical excellence.
SCCOA are also inviting everyone to join them for their anniversary events:
Sunday May 11th, 2:30pm at Raven’s Cry Theatre, the band will be performing conducted by Tak Maeda. The show is called “Down Memory Lane” and will honour the association’s conductors throughout the years.
Sunday May 25th, 2:30pm at Raven’s Cry Theatre, the community orchestra will be showcasing their best with the guidance of Jose Ceron-Ortega conducting, keeping to the theme of “Down Memory Lane”.
And June 14th, their alumni lunch reunion will be held at the Sechelt Senior’s Centre.
There is a real strength in music to bring people from all walks of life together. The band and orchestra endeavour to bring life to the notes strung together on a page. In doing so, they connect with each other, and through each stroke of their bow, breath into their reed, or thump of their drum they speak directly to our souls. Whispering what we need to hear.
Join them to celebrate their 30th year in concert and listen for what you need to hear
