NEWS RELEASE
STRATFORD SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL
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Featuring world-renowned soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee with original musical work composed by multi-award-winning Aaron Davis all set to the riveting poetry penned by Canadian favourite, Margaret Atwood! Tickets for the highly anticipated finale concert for Stratford Summer Music’s 2024 season are already on sale, and music fans across the region are encouraged to get theirs fast! . Hosted at the Avondale on August 11, 2024 at 4 pm, this concert is expected to sell out quickly.
“Zombie Blizzard” is an original musical work that debuted in Toronto in March. Composed by multi-award winning Aaron Davis and Margaret Atwood, and sung by world-renowned soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee, there is simply no other music orchestrated like this in Canada, if not the world.
“This work was an interesting challenge for us. Margaret’s words have a real tenderness, and are a little humorous,” said composer Davis, speaking in March about the music’s origins. “Of course, because it’s her there’s a little darkness to them too,” he added fondly.
The composition is remarkable, making headlines across the Toronto music scene after its debut. To develop “Zombie Blizzard”, composer Davis had to find seamless and harmonious ways to blend modern jazz themes, with emphasis on brass–all while weaving in Brueggergosman-Lee’s sonorous voice. She brings Atwood’s deeply evocative poetry to life.
Davis and Brueggergosman-Lee both agree that the audience for August’s concert are in for a treasure of an evening. “We want people to join us and be willing to follow where the music called us, as it was written,” invited Brueggergosman-Lee. “It’s an unprecedented and highly futuristic composition. It was unique to chew on,” she added. Intrigued listeners can enjoy a free preview of this sometimes playful, sometimes solemn composition on YouTube, courtesy of Leaf Music.
This all-Canadian storm of sound creates a jazzy bookend, marking the culmination of what is poised to be a remarkable season for the Stratford Summer Music festival, setting the stage for its 25th Anniversary Season in the summer of 2025.
Already planned for the season includes continuing the free MusicBarge program, an Opening Night Gala on July 18 not to be missed, and other great performances spanning venues across the city. Visit stratfordsummermusic.ca for “Zombie Music” concert details and to get your tickets today.
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