Canadian Opera Company Announces Free Concert Series Schedule

FREE CONCERT SERIES IN THE RICHARD BRADSHAW AMPHITHEATRE
June 1 to June 3, 2010
Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
145 Queen St. W. (at University Avenue)

The Free Concert Series in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre is a unique opportunity to experience diverse artistic programming in what has become one of Toronto's most exciting cultural hubs. Six inspiring series offer concerts, dance performances, and engaging presentations that feature both up-and-coming young artists and established international stars. All performances are free to the public.

June 1, 2010
12 - 1 p.m.
Piano Virtuoso Series

Around Iberia
To conclude the Albéniz anniversary celebrations in the piano virtuoso series this season, pianist Koichi Inoue performs a group of works around the Iberia suite, including La Vega, Albéniz's first attempt to write a substantial work for piano before Iberia, and Azulejos, his very last work, which was left unfinished and completed by Granados. The program is rounded out with other works including de Falla's Fantasia Baetica among others.

June 2, 2010
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Vocal Series

Choral Explorations
Join the Victoria Scholars, an all-male choir directed by Jerzy Cichocki, on a musical journey exploring some of the best-loved arrangements from Canadian, American and European composers, including works by Biebl, Chesnokov, Daley, de Morales, Raminsh, and the choir's namesake, Tomás Luis de Victoria.

June 3, 2010
12 - 1 p.m.
World Music Series

New Traditions in Taiko
Internationally acclaimed taiko ensemble Nagata Shachu has enthralled audiences across North America and Europe with its mesmerizing, heart-pounding performances of the taiko and other traditional Japanese instruments. Featuring an arsenal of taiko, percussion, bamboo flutes and the three-stringed shamisen, Nagata Shachu will take you on a musical journey beyond all borders.

For more information, visit www.coc.ca.