United Active Living’s focus on active aging and the arts is introducing residents to the best classical and chamber artists, thanks to our partnership with Calgary Pro Musica.
For the past 40 years, the non-profit organization has brought in world-renowned chamber ensembles to perform in the Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall in the University of Calgary’s Rozsa Centre.
Their latest initiative brought in the New Orford String Quartet, who won a Juno Award this year for “Best Solo or Chamber Recording”.
“It was a well deserved award for a group of extraordinary musicians,” said Dean O’Brien, artistic director for Calgary Pro Musica. “The last time they played in Calgary they gave a spectacular performance, and their performance this time was no exception.”
United’s partnership also brings young musicians into United’s communities to perform and interact with residents. The musicians are part of Pro Musica’s Dick Matthews Young Artists Development Program, which was created to discover, nurture and promote young Calgary musicians. The program was named for the late philanthropist who was a long-time patron of the arts in Calgary.
“These young musicians will be coming to our communities for two concerts, which is a unique feature of life at our communities,” noted president Gail Hinchliffe. “Having access to some of the best emerging musicians in Calgary is a real benefit to residents, especially for those who have difficulty going out to concert venues.”
The young musicians will perform in their debut concert at the Rozsa Centre April 24. They will also hold special performances for residents in April at United’s Fish Creek community and in May at the Garrison Green community.
“The concerts, whether at the Rozsa Centre or in our communities, enables the music lovers, and music-curious to hear a wide variety of the highest-level Canadian and international chamber music,” added Jill LaForty, United’s music director. “This season the music has ranged from tangos to challenging contemporary South American music, to a whole program of French music. Our residents had rave reviews for all four concerts they went to at the Rozsa Centre and we were welcomed with such kindness by Dean, the staff and other patrons of Calgary Pro Musica.”
Dean particularly appreciates the active, artistic lifestyle that United promotes. “My mother has developed memory issues and is living in an older adult community in the U.S. With our partnership with United, I’ve been impressed with the approach that Gail is taking, particularly with the large variety of activities that residents have access to.”
The partnership with Calgary Pro Musica ensures that residents will continue to enjoy a high calibre of musical talent that Calgary – and international – musicians have to offer.
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
