HELPING SASKATCHEWAN CELEBRATE OUR MUSICAL FESTIVAL HERITAGE

The Ministry of Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport is pleased to assist the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association in celebrating 100 years of bringing music to our province.

The Saskatchewan Music Festival Association held its first concert in 1909. Its goal was to help Saskatchewan residents experience the sights and sounds of live music. The association continues to support music performances and festivals around the province to this day.

"This year marks a century of music festivals in our villages, towns and cities," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Christine Tell said. "It is a time to celebrate and honour our musical heritage. Our province is truly blessed with a rich and diverse musical landscape and a wealth of talent."

To celebrate this remarkable milestone the Government of Saskatchewan is providing $87,610 through the Building Pride program to help cover the cost of commemorative gatherings or scholarship opportunities in 49 communities around the province.

As well, on Sunday, May 24 the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association will host a re-enactment concert in Regina. It will feature the original 1909 program along with a new work by Saskatchewan composer Elizabeth Raum commissioned for the occasion. Those planning to attend are encouraged to dress in period costume to help give the performance an authentic feel.

"The association is a vibrant, grass-roots organization committed to enhancing the classical music education of our youth while adding a touch of contemporary music," Saskatchewan Music Festival Association executive director Carol Donhauser said. "We are extremely excited for the opportunity to honour the vision of our founders, as well as all our volunteers, teachers, participants and supporters across the province by celebrating this historic milestone."

"Think of how music then and now brings communities together and contributes to our quality of life," Tell said.

The Building Pride program was announced in January 2009. With an annual allocation of $750,000, Building Pride helps organizations and municipalities celebrate significant milestones and one-time legacy initiatives.

The Building Pride program has two funding deadlines for 2009-10; April 30, 2009 and October 31, 2009. Details on the program can be found at: www.tpcs.gov.sk.ca/buildingpride/.

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For more information, contact:

Sean St. George
Toursim, parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-9087
Email: sean.stgeorge@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-526-8635