About Vancouver Pro Musica
2010-11 Board of Directors with Composer-in-Residence, R. Murray Schafer
We are a non-profit volunteer-run society dedicated to the presentation and promotion of new works by B.C. composers. Our concerts, workshops, educational initiatives and multicultural partnerships help create a strong, vibrant musical community in British Columbia.
Since its inception in 1986, Vancouver Pro Musica has proudly presented hundreds of premiers by talented emerging and established local composers. Our concert series include Further East/Further West - a cross-cultural initiative blending Eastern and Western musical styles - and our flagship Sonic Boom Festival, a multi-day extravaganza of new music by B.C. composers.
Board of Directors: 2011-2012
President: Benton Roark
Vice-President: Craig Day
Treasurer: John Baker
Secretary: Cameron Catalano
Members at large: Keon Birney, Dubravko Pajalic, Eileen Padjett, Ryan Noakes, Martin Ritter
History
Vancouver Pro Musica was originally formed in 1984 as agroup of local composers with a chamber ensemble-in-residence. After two years as a performing ensemble, the organization took a new direction and became mainly a presenter of contemporary BC music. By 1987, the first “Festival of Composers”, now known as Sonic Boom, was initiated. Over the years, this annual festival has become not only the centrepiece of Pro Musica season, but also a fundamental catalyst for the development of emerging and experimental composers in British Columbia.
In consideration of the cultural mosaic of BC, Pro Musica has developed Further East / Further West. This program, which has evolved over the years, mainly focuses on introducing non-western music and instruments. Since its inception in 1995, FE/FW has not only has served as an outreach effort to expand our audience, but has also facilitated collaborations between emerging BC composers and cross-cultural performers.
