Music fans will be treated to high-caliber performances at the Sask Valley Music Festival (SVMF) in Rosthern March 23-29.
The original festival was held in 1940 and adopted the Sask Valley name in 1963. By 2002, with an ever-increasing number of entries, it became practical to divide the Festival into two events. Both the Twin Rivers Music Festival and the SVMF operate under the umbrella of the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association.
The competition is open to all ages and entry numbers are making a comeback after the pandemic. Categories include Vocal, Choral, Piano, Musical Theatre, Spoken Word and Instrumental.
“SVMF is placing emphasis on the Spoken Word classes, hoping to attract entries from schools fulfilling some of the requirements of the English Language curriculum in each grade,” stated SVMF President Linda Swab. “There is much to be learned from speaking with intention, clarity and feeling in a dramatic way.”
Many scholarships and trophies will be awarded at the discretion of adjudicators. These professional musicians highlight what entrants did well, provide advice on how to improve and offer overall support and encouragement.
To qualify for an award, participants must live in the Sask Valley District and/or study with a District teacher. They must also compete in two or more classes in the same discipline.
The Festival is made possible by the Organizing Committee, many volunteers, donors, sponsors, parents, teachers and, of course, the students themselves who work hard throughout the year in preparation for the event.
Venues for performances are St. Odilon’s Roman Catholic Church and the Station Arts Centre both in Rosthern.
The competition closes with an Awards Concert on Friday March 31 at 7:00 pm at St. Odilon’s.
Admission to the competition and concert is by donation at the door.