Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival returns for 18th year

We are thrilled to announce the much-awaited return of the Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival 2023, a true cultural gem in Westman for 18 years!

This year’s festival is set to be particularly special as we join the global celebrations honoring the double anniversary of the legendary composer and pianist Sergei Vasilyevich Rachmaninoff (1873-1943), commemorating 150 years since his birth and 80 years since his passing.

To inaugurate the festivities, we invite you to join us for the enchanting “Soirée Rachmaninoff” on the Opening Night, taking place on Saturday, Aug. 19, at 7:30 p.m. in the Lorne Watson Recital Hall at Brandon University’s (BU’s) School of Music. Sergei Rachmaninov was undoubtedly one of the most celebrated composers and pianists of his time, and honoring his anniversary with a festival dedicated to his music is a wonderful way to pay tribute to his legacy. Having father-son pianists Alexander and Daniel Tselyakov performing together at the festival adds an extra layer of significance and excitement. It’s not only an opportunity to experience the mastery of two exceptionally talented musicians, but it also highlights the importance of passing down musical traditions and talent through generations. A post-concert refreshment, graciously sponsored by Brandon University, will allow attendees to mingle, discuss the performance, and further immerse themselves in the wonderful atmosphere of the festival.

Our beloved “Coffee Concert/Serious Fun” will return on Saturday, Aug. 26, at 10:30 a.m., featuring the winner of the first prize of Prix d’Expression, soprano Lea Weilbrenner, at the Erickson Lutheran Church. This delightful morning concert will blend humour and entertainment, showcasing light classical works, musicals, tangos, and jazzy-style musical moments. As always, we will provide complimentary coffee and pastries to complement the music and enhance your enjoyment. Prepare to be swept away on a magical journey of music and ambiance at the Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival’s newest addition — the “Piano Candlelight’s Concert,” which will take place on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m., at the charming Erickson Lutheran Church. Immerse yourself in the soothing glow of candlelight as you step into an enchanting atmosphere that sets the stage for a truly unforgettable evening. This remarkable event is definitely not to be missed by anyone who appreciates the allure of a beautiful, romantic, and relaxing concert experience.

“The Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival is a great way to celebrate summer with amazing talent from our School of Music along with superb visiting musicians in fantastic Westman concert venues.”

Greg Gatien, Dean of Music

To conclude the festival, we present the “Young Artist’s Initiation — Rachmaninoff Celebration” on Saturday, Oct. 14, at 4 p.m. in the Erikson Lutheran Church. This concert will showcase the talents of pianists: Vivian Yin, Sophia Ye, Joy Sunqiaoyi Zhang, Zhuo Song, Jia Zhang, Haocheng Gong, Xingduan Qiao, Wanting Ren, and Darina Lavrukhina.

“Once again, Alexander Tselyakov and festival director Alla Turbanova have put together a captivating program that will delight everyone from Rachmaninoff afficionados to any lover of fine music,” said Greg Gatien, Dean of Music at BU. “The Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival is a great way to celebrate summer with amazing talent from our School of Music along with superb visiting musicians in fantastic Westman concert venues. The addition of a fall performance featuring up-and-coming pianists just adds to the pleasure.”

Here are the details for the concert locations and ticket prices:

Saturday, Aug. 19, 7:30 pm

Lorne Watson Recital Hall, School of Music, Brandon University; 270-18th Street

Tickets —  Adults: $30 (at the door $35) Senior/Students: $20 (at the door $25)

Saturday, Aug. 26, 10:30 a.m. (coffee at 10:30 am, concert at 11 a.m.)

Erickson Lutheran Church, 30 3rd Street SW, Erickson

Tickets — Adults: $30 (at the door $35) Senior/Students: $20 (at the door $25)

Saturday, Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.

Erickson Lutheran Church, 30 3rd Street SW, Erickson

Tickets — Adults: $30 (at the door $35) Senior/Students: $20 (at the door $25)

Saturday, Oct. 14, 4 p.m.

Erickson Lutheran Church, 30 3rd Street SW, Erickson

Tickets — Adults: $20 (at the door $25) Senior/Students: $15 (at the door $20)

For further information, ticket reservations, and program details, please visit our website at ClearLakeFestival.ca. Alternatively, you can contact the School of Music, Brandon University, at 204-727-9631 or via email at Burba@BrandonU.ca. You may also reach out to the Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival directly at 204-571-6547 or email Tselyakov@Hotmail.com.

We are eagerly looking forward to welcoming you to the 18th Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival, where we will celebrate the timeless legacy of Sergei Vasilyevich Rachmaninoff while enjoying exceptional performances in the company of fellow music enthusiasts.

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