Government of Canada Supports Barrie’s Colours of Music Festival

May 17, 2010

BARRIE, Ontario – On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Patrick Brown, Member of Parliament (Barrie), today announced funding for Barrie’s 8th annual Colours of Music Festival.

From September 23 to October 3, 2010, the festival will bring a series of nearly 30 classical performances to several churches in the area. Artists from across Canada and around the world will perform for concertgoers of all ages, while special activities will educate the public—primarily students—about classical music.

“Our Government is proud to continue our support for the Barrie Colours of Music Festival,” said Minister Moore. “This local festival stimulates our economy by drawing regional and foreign talent, as well as music lovers, to Barrie to experience the best in classical performance.”

“The Colours of Music Festival is a much-anticipated yearly event that contributes greatly to the community,” said Mr. Brown. “It offers great exposure for performers and fosters the continued appreciation of classical music.”

“We are very happy to receive government support for the festival,” said Bruce Owen, Chair and Programming Director, Colours of Music. “Our volunteer-run organizing committee will put these funds into growing the festival’s audience base and providing more opportunities to access this music, which is so important for both the public and the performers.”

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the variety and richness of Canada’s culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.