The Province

Whistler Presents: Outdoor Concert Series

- By CAROLINE HELBIG

“The hills are alive with the sound of music....” Whether or not you know this line from the 1965 classic The Sound of Music, it totally captures the essence of Whistler’s Outdoor Concert Series.

Throughout the summer, the hills of Whistler are alive with great music from a diverse lineup of talent. Grab your family and friends and enjoy the free outdoor concerts in Olympic Plaza.

On July 30, the High and Mighty Brass Band combines classic New Orleans funk with modern Afro-beat and hip hop influences. Find out why they’ve been described as “a party in progress.”

Nahko and Medicine for the People take the stage on July 31. Their sound is a fusion of cultural influences, and their raw storytelli­ng never fails to connect with the audience.

“The unique feature of the Whistler Concert Series is that it has such broad appeal,” says Whistler Mayor NancyWilhe­lm-Morden. “When you look at the audience you see people of all ages.”

On August 1, Michael Franti and Spearhead blend hip hop with funk, reggae, jazz, folk, and rock. This dynamic group will get you grooving.

At ninety-seven, Dal Richards is one of the busiest musicians in Vancouver. Hear the legend perform on August 21 as he leads his orchestra in classic big band, rock and roll, and pop tunes.

August 22 features Canadian music power couple Raine Maida and Chantal Kreviazuk in their exciting Moon vs Sun collaborat­ion. Their musical inspiratio­n comes from other greats like Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen and Neil Young.

On August 28, check out a new genre of talk rock. Canadian spoken-word artist Shane Koyczan and the Short Story Long enthral with a range that stretches from folk to funk, from ambient to rock.

Twenty-eight years after the release of their first album, Canadian country rock band Blue Rodeo is still going strong. On August 29, don’t miss one of Canada’s most successful bands.

No need to think about Labour Day and the end of the summer yet, but mark your calendar for more awesome concerts. On Sept 5, Great Lake Swimmers entertain with their melodic folk rock songs. Long-time favourite Spirit of the West will ensure that on September 6 the hills of Whistler are alive with rock, Britpop and Celtic folk.

Pack your blanket and a picnic and be captivated by the music in Whistler’s great outdoors. For the most up-to-date concert listings, go to www. whistler.com/events/ concerts/.

 ?? PHOTO COURTESY TOURISM WHISTLER ??
PHOTO COURTESY TOURISM WHISTLER

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