MONTRÉAL, September 3, 2008 - Organists from Quebec and beyond will give public recitals for audiences to enjoy during the 10th Orgue et couleurs Fall Festival, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
The Honourable Michael M. Fortier, Minister of International Trade and Minister responsible for the Montréal region, on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for the Orgue et couleurs Fall Festival.
Funding of $30,000 will help the Festival celebrate its 10th anniversary by highlighting organ music and the prestigious past of this instrument. The Festival, which will take place from September 26 to October 5, 2008, will bring together more than 7000 participants for numerous activities planned for Montréal audiences.
"The Orgue et couleurs Fall Festival gives spectators a chance to discover the many facets of the organ through concerts, workshops, and other activities," said Minister Verner. "I am pleased to support this major celebration, which gives audiences an opportunity to hear both established and up-and-coming musicians. Accompanied by artists from various disciplines, such as dance, opera, and the circus, these organists will demonstrate the versatility of their instrument."
"This year, we can once again witness the importance of arts and culture in the lives of Montrealers," said Minister Fortier. "As Minister responsible for the Montréal region, I wish to congratulate and thank those responsible for the organization of the Orgue et couleurs Fall Festival. For ten years now, they have presented us with creative and innovative shows."
The Orgue et couleurs Fall Festival will take place in a number of churches across Montréal, but primarily in the district where it first originated, Hochelaga-Maisonneuve. Public concerts will be held in the evening and at noon hour for citizens of Montréal and visitors to the city. For the Festival's 10th anniversary, it will offer about 30 different activities, featuring artists from Quebec, other provinces, and abroad.
The Government of Canada has provided this support through the Arts Presentation Canada Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
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
Media Relations
819 994-9101
1 866 569-6155
Frédéric Baril
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Trade
613 992-6107
