A big thanks to the West Coast Symphony (WCS) for performing for over 210 audience members of all ages in theBICS gym on December 11. The tradition of affordable by-donation concerts for the community, held biannually, is made possible by a network of community support. The Bowen Island Community School (BICS), as the island's hub, is bringing all the elements together. The community school coordinator organizes the many elements of the event to ensure a success for all. That includes generating public awareness, connecting community youth andBICS students to the event, inviting the seniors at S.K.Y., writing articles, preparing the rental forms, invoice forms, connecting the WCS to the Community School Association (CSA,) and the Bowen Island Arts Council (BIAC) who provide additional support and sponsorship for the event. Additional school coordinator tasks related to the concert series include working with the school district on the scheduling for heat, lights and the custodian. Aspecial thanks to West Vancouver School District 45 for supporting our community school's annual community traditions during the joint use agreement update process.
The West Coast Symphony Concerts for the Community series is a unique opportunity to directly experience classical music with a full symphony of over60 musicians. It is also one of the few musical opportunities for parents with young children to hear classical music in a venue that allows for a quick exit if needed, or a quick break on the playground outside before returning to the show. Despite the ability to pop out during the middle of the show, most people of all ages stayed in their seats and the members if the symphony were really impressed by the level of respectful etiquette by the youngest audience members.
The generosity of the West Coast Symphony is exemplified by their performances, which always include at least one surprise in the repertoire. This year's Peter and the Wolf, featuring guest narrator Gordon Roberts, wasadded to the programwith Bowen's youth in mind. The West Coast Symphony musicians get much joy from seeing three to fourgenerations in the audience, allsitting together,andare delighted by how many students and youth attend.
A new community partner emerged this year: The Legion discovered it has member and family connections with the WCS and they hosted a lovely social after the concert. Thank you to Tim Hausch,Tim's Mom, and all the Legion staff who helped to host the WCS social.
The WCS greatly appreciates the support of our community. Every year, they go through a democratic process to decide where they will play in the upcoming seasons, and as Bowen gets a 100 per cent positive response from the musicians. I am happy to announce that the West Coast Symphony will return toBICS on Sunday, June 9, at 2 p.m. Stay tuned tohear what they will play.
