BRAMPTON: Together with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO), the Rose Brampton is presenting a performance titled Reggae Roots to promote training possibilities and awareness of orchestra prospects in Brampton.
As part of its commitment to engage meaningfully with communities in the Greater Toronto Area, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) will give its first-ever performance at The Rose Brampton on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 2 pm. The event is open to people of all ages, tickets are on sale now at www.therosebrampton.ca
The all-ages concert program, entitled Reggae Roots, will be led by TSO Barrett Principal Education Conductor & Community Ambassador Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser and feature Jamaican-born, Halifax-based vocalist Jah’Mila. As part of this collaboration, TSO musicians will also engage with members of The Rose Orchestra’s youth orchestra—the Rose Buds—in music education and talent-development activities.
Reggae Roots, conceived by Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser as a tribute to his Jamaican and Trinidadian roots, is a concert for both young people and adults. Reflecting on the social, cultural, and spiritual importance of Reggae, one of Jamaica’s most famous exports, the concert invites attendees to explore the evolution of the genre, and discover the people, sounds, and stories of the movement that grew to influence music around the globe.
“Ever since moving to Ontario from Alberta, I have had increasingly strong ties to Brampton through my family, who have lived there for many years,” he said. “As a result, I am proud to connect my work at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra with the many different communities that form the vibrant city that is Brampton.”
The Rose Brampton’s efforts closely align with the TSO’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion—specifically, seeking to serve broad and diverse communities by sharing meaningful artistic experiences that can be enjoyed by all and that foster social inclusion and societal well-being.
“We’re honoured to welcome the TSO to Brampton, home of The Rose Orchestra and its youth program, the Rosebud Orchestra,” said Steven Schipper, Performing Arts Brampton, Executive Artistic Director. “The TSO’s sensational presentation of Reggae Roots Young People’s Concert is a perfect way to entertain our audience and also raise awareness of orchestral opportunities in Brampton.”
“As the Toronto Symphony Orchestra concludes its Centennial season and anticipates its 101st year and beyond, we are grateful for the invitation to The Rose and for the opportunity to reintroduce ourselves to the wonderful people of Brampton,” said Mark Williams, TSO Chief Executive Officer. “Presenting this concert, at this venue, in this city, perfectly represents everything the Toronto Symphony Orchestra is and seeks to be—a cultural mirror in which all members of all communities can see themselves reflected. This is music for everyone, and we want to ensure that everyone can experience it.”
One of Canada’s most respected arts organizations, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) is celebrating its Centennial in 2022/23, and has played a vital role in the city’s dynamic cultural life for 100 years. Music Director Gustavo Gimeno brings an expansive artistic vision, intellectual curiosity, and sense of adventure to programming the 93-musician Orchestra. The TSO is committed to serving local and national communities through vibrant performances, extensive educational activities, and impactful community relationships. It has a notable recording and broadcast history and has been celebrated internationally during its many tours. The TSO remains synonymous with musical versatility and growth, and artistic distinction.