DESCRIPTION:
Time for flowers-Time for snow is a major multi-disciplinary project that brought together, through the story and lyrics of the Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone, more than 180 Canadian children from 18 different ethnic backgrounds from the combined choirs of 8 Quebec schools and the Orchestre symphonique pop de Montréal to interact together. The project is also a massive transatlantic cultural collaboration. Through our non-profit cultural organisation Panarmonia Atelier Musical and our label Chroma Musika, we have gathered some serious Canadian and International talent in this production. Written by Canadian children's book author Glen Huser from Vancouver (Governor General Award), Time for Flowers, Time for Snow is an engaging story with clever lyrics, beautifully illustrated by internationally acclaimed Quebec artist, Philippe Béha(3 GGAs). Included with the book is an operatic version of the story on CD, composed by Athens-based Giannis Georgantelis, narrated by the legendary British comedic actor, Terry Jones of Monty Python fame.
With this project the children of the choir, irrespective of their ethnic or cultural backgrounds, gained a better understanding and appreciation for an ancient myth through the words and lyrics of an accomplished Canadian author. They also learned how a professional CD is made — from recording to final mixing, editing and mastering with Concordia Professor and Juno Award Judge, Dr. Mark Corwin. The opportunity to perform alongside professional soloists and the Orchestre Symphonique Pop de Montréal is a unique musical experience not available to many. Even more importantly, the children learned the value and rewards that come from teamwork, cooperation, hard work and discipline.