SAINT-JEAN-PORT-JOLI, Quebec, September 3, 2008 - Residents and visitors to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli will be able to take part in the 10th Les Violons d'automne festival and enjoy its improved programming, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
The Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for the Corporation Dièse de la Côte-du-Sud, the organization responsible for Les Violons d'automne.
The organization will receive $3,000 to help present this cultural event, which will take place from September 18 to 21, 2008. Every September, this arts festival celebrating the violin brings together music lovers, artists, artisans, and members of the general public. Activities at the 2008 festival will include concerts, music workshops, jazz and classical music evenings, a stringed instrument exhibition, and a traditional fiddle gala.
"I am pleased that our Government is investing the Corporation Dièse de la Côte-du-Sud. It will help the organizers and volunteers, who dedicate time and energy to present arts and heritage activities at the Violons d'automne festival, to enrich the cultural life of area residents and encourage local participation," said Minister Verner. "The Government of Canada would like to enhance the vitality of communities by encouraging citizens to celebrate Canadian arts and heritage and showcasing local artists and artisans."
"For 10 years now, Les Violons d'automne has allowed people throughout the region to reconnect with this aspect of our local heritage," said Daniel Lacombe of the Corporation des fêtes et événements culturels de Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. "Thanks to the involvement of Canadian Heritage, the 10th edition of Les Violons d'automne will present an enhanced program of activities and broaden its presence in the region. This year, residents of the municipality of Saint-Jean-Port-Joli will be able to take part in activities organized right here at home."
The Government of Canada has provided this funding through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
Applications for funding for festivals to be held between January 1 and August 31, 2009, and for community historical commemorations between January 1 and December 31, 2009, must be received by September 1, 2008.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Status of Women and
Minister for La Francophonie
819 997-7788
Marie-Claude Cadorette
Regional Director Communications
Quebec Region
Canadian Heritage
514 283-4027
