SHERBROOKE, Quebec, April 26, 2010 - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding to the Corporation du Printemps musical de Sherbrooke.
The funds will be used to host the 2010 edition of the OFF Festival des harmonies et orchestres symphoniques, which will take place from May 6 to 23, 2010. This 18-day artistic festival will bring together close to 260 local artists who will offer musical performances in various locations familiar to Sherbrooke residents. The program will also feature workshops that provide an introduction to music and will help to demystify musical instruments: their origin, history, how they work, and their role in an orchestra. The organization expects to welcome approximately
25,000 people and will rely on the participation of about 90 volunteers. The OFF Festival precedes and then runs parallel to Le Festival des harmonies et orchestres symphoniques du Québec.
"Artists, artisans, and volunteers are the very heart of our communities. They come together to encourage community participation, help strengthen relationships between citizens, and stimulate the vitality of their region," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is honoured to support festivals like the OFF Festival des harmonies et orchestres symphoniques that promote the emergence and recognition of new talent while also fostering access to our rich cultural diversity--to the benefit of all Canadians."
"The Government of Canada helps ensure the longevity of this cultural event of large scale, highlighting in this 7th edition the performances of 260 musicians from Sherbrooke," added Wilfrid Morin, President of the Corporation du Printemps musical de Sherbrooke. "We wish to thank the Government of Canada for its participation in the OFF Festival des harmonies."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $48,400 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Éric Amyot
Director, Regional Communications
Quebec Region
Canadian Heritage
514-283-4027
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
