Listening to world-class classical music in an intimate heritage building is a treat Greater Victorians can enjoy once a month thanks to the Township Arts Council.
Formed in February of this year, the Township Arts Council has already put on three major events in Esquimalt: the Memorial Park Music Fest, Esquimalt Art’s Festival at Gorge Point Park and Sculpture Splash.
“This is a little arts council with a big heart and big big plans,” said Morlene Tomlinson, founding president of the Township Arts Council.
Their latest event, Township Classics, is a classical music concert hosted at the English Inn. Concerts take place the last Sunday of every month from September to February. Reservations must be made in advance due to popularity. The first concert, on Sept. 28 sold out, and the next concert on Oct. 26 is already completely reserved, said Tomlinson.
The venue holds 80 people and serves as an intimate setting for its guests, said Tomlinson.
“We’ve got the English Inn beautifully organized in a traditional house concert style,” she said. “We were truly amazed and satisfied at the quality of the acoustics for this world-class music.”
On Oct. 26, Robert Holliston, playing piano, and Gwen Thompson, playing violin, will be accompanied by a special guest. They will play Johannes Brahms sonata for violin and piano, Sonata No. 1 in G major Opus 78 Regensonate and Sonatensatz.
Admission is by donation, with a suggested donation of $20. All the money raised will go back into the community.
“Proceeds from the concerts go to youth music and arts programs in Esquimalt,” said Tomlinson. “We believe that arts and culture are a primary cornerstone for a healthy and vibrant community.”
For more information go to www.townshiparts.org or email townshiparts@gmail.com to reserve tickets for the Nov. 30 concert at the English Inn.