Government of Canada Supports Barrie’s Colours of Music Festival

June 22, 2011

BARRIE, Ontario – Residents and visitors will once again have the opportunity to enjoy Barrie’s fall Colours of Music Festival, thanks to support from the Government of Canada. This was announced today by Patrick Brown, Member of Parliament (Barrie), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

This funding will support the 9th and 10th editions of the Colours of Music Festival. Each year, the Festival attracts emerging and established local and international classical artist­s, who perform in various churches throughout the city. Taking place from September 3 to October 2, the 2011 festival will feature over 40 performances, including several by the Festival’s “in‑residence” musicians. Other festival activities include a number of educational workshops and concerts for students.

“Our Government is pleased to invest in events like the Colours of Music Festival that enrich local cultural life and stimulate our economy,” said Minister Moore. “This festival brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy high-quality musical performances.”

“Colours of Music continues to draw a variety of talented artists to this annual celebration of classical music,” said Mr. Brown. “The Festival has become an eagerly anticipated community event and a source of pride for residents of Barrie.”

“The support from the Government of Canada enables us, in our 2011 Colours of Music Festival, to undertake a number of musical adventures, including our first full requiem: the Brahms German Requiem, as well as our first full opera: a concert version of Puccini's La Bohème,” said Bruce Owen, Chair of Colours of Music. “This funding will also allow us to better plan for our 2012 Colours of Music Festival.”

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,000 each year for 2011–2012 and 2012–2013 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.