CALGARY, Alberta, July 12, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Lee Richardson, Member of Parliament (Calgary Centre), today announced funding for the Calgary Opera Association, specifically the Emerging Artist Development Program.
The funding will allow young singers to study and train with high-calibre teachers and other established singers.
"Our Government knows that solid support for professional training in music enables emerging Canadian performers to achieve excellence and thus contribute to the vitality of this sector of the arts," said Minister Moore.
"The passion and dedication of these young artists are truly inspiring. We are very fortunate to have the Calgary Opera Association here as part of our local arts scene," added Mr. Richardson.
"We are thrilled to receive funding from the Canada Arts Training Fund," commented W.R. (Bob) McPhee, General Director and CEO of Calgary Opera. "Not only will it allow us to expand the scope and impact of our Emerging Artist Development Program, it is also an acknowledgement that our program is established and has achieved a level of excellence. We offer the only program of this nature and scope in Western Canada, and we thank the Department of Canadian Heritage for the opportunity to continue enhancing the professional development of many emerging opera singers for at least the next three years."
The Government has provided $375,000 in funding over three years (2010 to 2013) to the Calgary Opera Association under the Canada Arts Training Fund . This program supports non profit organizations that provide training for Canadians planning a professional arts career in Canada or abroad.
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
