To help unwind after the busy holiday season, the Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra is putting on two performances of some of their favourite works Jan. 18 and 19.
Musical Winterlude will feature pieces from composers including W. A. Mozart and Antonio Vivaldi.
The concerts will be at Duncan United Church on Jan. 18 and the Chapel at Providence Farm on Jan. 19. Both concerts start at 2 pm. Tickets are $20 and admission is free for those under 19. Tickets are available at the door (cash) or through the orchestra at info@cowichancamerata.org.
So what can concert-goers look foward to?
One piece on the programme is Mozart’s 'Divertimento in F major', written in 1772 around Mozart’s 16th birthday, said a press release for the concert. It is one of three divertimenti he wrote. It is speculated that they were composed as string quartets, but with the simple addition of wind instruments, could be readied as symphonies should he be asked at a moment’s notice.
Another piece is ‘Summer’, the first movement of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons suite.
"Through technical playing by the musicians, listeners will feel the heat of summer — the air at a standstill," the release said. "They might hear birds chirping while a breeze picks up, warning of a storm. In the third part, listen as a hailstorm pelts down mercilessly."
The concert rounds out with special performances from viola/accordion duets featuring Elisabeth Jahren and the orchestra's own Chris Redsell.
The Camerata was formed in 2006, and over the years has brought concert-goers a diverse repertoire of musical genres and composers. Under the direction of Redsell, the Cowichan Camerata is a small string orchestra that brings enthusiasm, heart, and hours of rehearsal to their performances. Through small ensemble, the orchestra also brings their music into the community and to those unable to attend concerts. If you’re interested in joining, connect by emailing info@cowichancamerata.org.
