The Free Concert Series in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre is a unique opportunity to experience diverse artistic programming in what has become one of Toronto's most exciting cultural hubs. Six inspiring series offer concerts, dance performances and engaging presentations that feature both up-and-coming young artists and established international stars. All performances are FREE to the public, with admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early as late seating is not available.
Date |
Series |
Artist |
December 1, 2015 12 - 1 p.m. |
Piano Virtuoso Series |
Preludes and Pralines Canadian pianist Linda Ippolito presents an assortment of her favourite piano confections, from popular works by Rachmaninov, Debussy and Bach, to lesser-known pieces by Gershwin and Billy Mayerl. |
December 2, 2015 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. |
World Music Series |
Roots of India, Grown in Canada Juno award-nominated Autorickshaw is one of the most intriguing acts on the world music and jazz scenes. This program features 100% Canadian content, from groove-driven pop to sensual reinterpretations of folk songs to fiery Indo-fusion originals, all with a deep foundation in north and south Indian classical music. |
December 3, 2015 12 - 1 p.m. |
Jazz Series |
A Very Cadence Christmas Cadence, Canada's premier a cappella vocal ensemble, wows audiences with their uncanny verve and infectious energy. Their program ranges from bebop standards to cheeky arrangements of 1980s hits to holiday classics that are simply irresistible! |
December 8, 2015 12 - 1p.m. |
Chamber Music Series |
Strange Luminescence Under the direction of Brian Current, the talented young artists of The Glenn Gould School New Music Ensemble present a program that showcases their expertise in performing landmark 20th- and 21st-century repertoire, including the world premiere of a new piano concerto composed by Chinese-Canadian composer Alice Ho. |
December 9, 2015 12 - 1 p.m. |
Jazz Series |
A Bluesy Holiday Powerhouse blues duo Diana Braithwaite and Chris Whiteleypresent a program of award-winning original songs, along with a selection of the great classics and holiday favourites. |
December 15, 2015 12 - 1 p.m. |
Piano Virtuoso Series |
Beethoven Tempest Young rising star pianist Alexander Seredenko returns to the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre with a program that includes Beethoven's masterful Piano Sonata No. 17 "The Tempest." |
December 17, 2015 12 - 1 p.m. |
Jazz Series |
Ellington Nutcracker Canadian jazz legend Brian Barlow, along with clarinettist Max Christie, presents his inimitable Big Band in a holiday program featuring Duke Ellington's famous Nutcracker Suite. Arranged by Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, these jazz interpretations based on Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker bridge a near-70-year gap and bring together the genius of three musical giants. |
FOUR SEASONS CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS TOURS
December 6, 2015
Start time: 10:30 a.m.
Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
145 Queen St. W. (at University Avenue)
Cost: $20/adults; $15/seniors and students
The Canadian Opera Company opens the doors of the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts on December 6, 2015 with a 90-minute tour for the general public. This extensive tour includes backstage access and is an exciting opportunity to learn more about the first purpose-built opera house in Canada, its history, architecture and innovative acoustic design. Starting at 10:30 a.m., the tours are led by trained docents and include information and access to the magnificent Isadore and Rosalie Sharp City Room, the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre and R. Fraser Elliott Hall, as well as backstage areas like wig rooms and dressing rooms, the orchestra pit, and other spaces that only a stage door pass could unlock.
Tickets for public tours are $20/adults and $15/seniors and students, and can be purchased in advance at coc.ca or at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts Box Office, located at 145 Queen St. W., Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.Tickets will also be available on the morning of the tour starting at 10 a.m. at the welcome desk located in the main lobby.
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