Council here is ready to continue its support of the Summer Sizzle program in Palmerston.
Recently, Debra Wanless wrote to council again asking for support of the annual event Northern Lights Candidate National Conservatory of Music, for a financial donation of $1,000 to be used for advertising Summer Sizzle 2009, plus a donation of the arena surface for a trade show, dining area, and additional work area.
“I am writing on behalf of the Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music board of directors regarding our annual Summer Sizzle Symposium.”
She said the 2008 event was the most successful to date:
– attendance of about 300 visitors including parents, students, teachers, composers, clinicians and other family members;
– guests from Britain, California, Colorado, and across Canada;
– a Keyboard Kamp that more than doubled to host 60 students from Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario;
– a children’s program grew to 50 students, accompanied by their parents, for the Tuesday morning program;
– 22 Canadian composers performed, attended, and led workshops, and worked with students;
– nearly 100 teachers attended the 10 workshops, five showcases and two concerts;
– guest composer, performer, recording artist and clinician Christopher Norton travelled from Great Britain to host teacher workshops, student master classes and perform at the Sunday evening concert;
– internationally known pedagogue Dr. Scott McBride Smith came from California, hosting teacher workshops; and
– Norton and McBride Smith were so impressed with Summer Sizzle that they will return in 2009 as guest participants.
Council had no objection to the support. Councillor Barb Burrows said the impact on the local area and Wellington County is impressive – and suggested the county might be approached for support.
Recreation director David Stonley said the county did provide some funds last year.
