OTTAWA – There is still plenty to come in the Ottawa Live &Local series brought to you by Ottawa Public Library and Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe. This online series ofconcertsand workshops has been successful in providing a platform for local Ottawa artists to reach people right across the capital region and far beyond. With three concerts still to go, featuring Moonfruits, Silla and Rise and Amanda Rheaume, plus two interactive musical workshops, thereis something for every musical taste, from roots/folk to Inuit throat singing blended with electronic beats and samples.
The musical acts have beenchosen to showcase the diversity and vibranceof Ottawa’s music scene. There are artists from all walks of life, and all are well established in their careers.Two bilingual acts have been featuredas well, reflecting the deep roots of French and English language communities in Ottawa :Roxanne Potvin and Moonfruits. The conversations with the artists have given music lovers a unique glimpse into where their inspiration comes from, how they hone their material for recording, and given viewers an opportunity to get to know artists who live right in their back yard.
With the added offeringof four workshopswith the artists, people have a chance to interact with a seasoned artist such asLynne Hanson on resolving creative blocks and the rich folk singing and dancing traditions of Franco-Ontarian music with art-folk duo Moonfruits.
COVID-19 restrictions on live music performances have been hard on performers and artists everywhere and our localmusic community has been struggling as well. OPL is proud to be able to offer a virtual stage to help support our local artistsin these difficult times and promote the amazing music of theOttawa scene to a home-based audiencehere and all over the world.
Mini-concertstake place every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:30 pm on Facebook Live, with the next one on August25.Workshops are on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm with the next one happening on August 26. Jump on this chance to learn, enjoy and add a memorable soundtrack to the summer of 2020!
The full schedule of concerts and workshops is on the OPL website. These events are offered in partnership with Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointeand generously sponsored by the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association.