Richmond, B.C. – Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is pulling some strings to deliver two outstanding musical acts at Doors Open this year.
The world-renowned, critically acclaimed Borealis String Quartet (pictured) and the talented Richmond Delta Youth Orchestra will perform on stage at the Melville Centre for Dialogue at KPU Richmond June 6.
“This is an amazing and rare opportunity for Richmond residents to hear and see two of the most gifted musical ensembles in our community,” said Diane Purvey, dean of KPU’s Faculty of Arts.
The BSQ, which has been described as “compellingly emotive" and “rhapsodic,” is KPU’s String Quartet-in Residence. The musicians have performed to sold-out audiences from Los Angeles to New York, and from Rome to Beijing earning critical acclaim.
“This is our first time performing at Doors Open, and we’re thrilled,” says BSQ cellist Bo Peng. “For many people, live music is something of a rarity, and we get great satisfaction from the joy that live music brings to an audience.”
The Richmond Delta Youth Orchestra, meanwhile, is a platform for young musicians to gain high-quality musical education as members of an orchestra, chamber ensemble or as soloists.
Both groups will take to the stage at KPU in separate performances starting at 1 p.m. There will also be a musical “petting zoo” in the atrium at KPU between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., where parents, children and other young musicians can “try on” a musical instrument.
“If you’ve always wanted to play the French horn, the flute or the violin, this is a chance to come out, hold one in your hands and maybe even try a few notes to see if music is something you want to pursue,” says orchestra conductor Stephen Robb. “We’ll also have volunteers to answer any questions that may come up.”
The Richmond Delta Youth Orchestra is also holding auditions this month for the 2015/16 season, some of which will be taking place at KPU Richmond on June 6. The orchestra offers all levels of instruction from beginning violin to advanced full symphonic training program.
In addition to the musical instrument petting zoo and performances, KPU will offer overall campus tours throughout the day.
Doors Open is an annual celebration of arts, culture and heritage co-ordinated by the Richmond Museum Society in partnership with the City of Richmond. It runs June 6 and 7 at various venues around Richmond.
KPU Richmond’s Melville Centre for Dialogue is located at 8771 Lansdowne Rd. Parking is free.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region since 1981, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 19,000 students annually have a choice from over 124 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates citations and apprenticeships. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.
Photos and music samples from the Borealis String Quartet available here.
Media contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist
t: 604.599.2883
c: 604.364.1288
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca
For more KPU news:
@KPUmedia
kpu.ca/newsroom
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