Tuesday April 7th, 2009 ~ Editorial in Timmins Daily Press by Arron Pickard ~ TSO fundraisers allow music to continue flowing in the North

There are many aspects of Timmins of which its citizens can be proud. This city is home to some very unique people and organizations -- all of which contribute to the life we have all come to appreciate here in Northern Ontario.

The Timmins Symphony Orchestra is certainly high on that list.

It takes a great deal of talent to produce the quality of music we have become accustomed to through the orchestra.

Year after year, they just continue to get better.

Like a fine-tuned instrument, those who are part of the orchestra put on flawless concerts that continue to inspire hundreds of people who are regulars in the audience.

And, the TSO plays a vital role in shaping and honing the skills of our youth.

But, none of that could even take place without much-needed funds. It takes money to run the day-to-day operation of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, which like so many other organizations, relies on the generosity of the community to help deliver its programs.

On Saturday, volunteers transformed the Days Inn into a scene straight out of Paris, France.

It was a fitting scene, given the weather that waited only steps from the front door of the hotel.

But none of that seemed to faze those in attendance as they enjoyed walking through streetscapes of the French capital, under an archway reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe and, of course, a replica of the Eiffel Tower.

TSO fundraising committee chairwoman Mary Ellen Pauli said it was her intent to create an event that was very affordable, where people would walk away with a memory they would never forget.

Ask anyone who attended and they would likely agree that the TSO has created an event they won't soon forget.

Located as far north as Timmins, the orchestra still successfully brings to this city a variety of very talented musicians for their concerts.

These concerts are for the enjoyment of all -- not only for those who enjoy classical music.

The TSO is so talented that it caters to a variety of music lovers or anyone who likes to get lost in the beat.

The TSO even sponsors numerous bursaries for youth demonstrating high levels of skill with their instrument of choice.

"We fundraise so we can continue to do what we do in the community and that's let music happen," said TSO acting president Kathy Vainio.

"Without the support of the community, we wouldn't be able to do this."

TSO loves Paris in the spring
SYMPHONY: Parisian theme to fundraiser

By CHELSEY ROMAIN THE DAILY PRESS

While the weather outside the Days Inn and Conference centre couldn't have been further than spring, inside the Timmins Symphony Orchestra was providing the feeling of warmer climates in the most romantic city in the world.

The Springtime in Paris fundraising gala had guests walking through the streets of the French capital, under an archway that would rival the city's famous Arc de Triomphe and to face a replica of the Eiffel Tower. TSO fundraising committee chairwoman Mary Ellen Pauli said the idea of a Paris theme came the way many ideas do, as two of them sat around tossing ideas.

"Clarice Power has put together some incredible balls," Pauli said. "I wanted to put something together with that same sort of idea."

First came the idea of a black and white event, before finally the touch of Parisian elegance was added to the mix.

Pauli said she wanted to create an event that didn't cost a lot of money, but was built on the hard work of individuals involved, something she feels was accomplished by Saturday's evening.

"Timmins doesn't have the same opportunities like they do in the city, because we're so far north," she said. "This is really what I had envisioned and I am so fortunate that it seems to have come together."

Orchestra conductor Matthew Jones said it was only natural that the orchestra and its support of music and the arts would be tied in to a city known for its famous displays of art and appreciation for music.

As a non-profit organization, the TSO has to hold fundraisers in order to continue bringing music to the community, through the operation of the music school and the several concerts held every year.

"We definitely had a goal because we need to fundraise to cover our costs just to manage ourselves throughout the year," Pauli said. "But I wanted to provide a fun evening for people and an experience that doesn't come along too often.

"I am really happy it has come together for that reason."

In addition to a dinner, guests of the gala were treated to entertainment by local band Soul Doubt and had the opportunity to bid on items through the silent auction.

Items included everything from a Jacuzzi suite and limited edition prints to symphony season tickets and an afternoon for four in the wild with a ranger.

TSO acting president Kathy Vainio said just the other day she witnessed musicians of all ages practising together at the TSO office and said it was something she said epitomized what the symphony really was.

"We fundraise so we can continue to do what we do in the community and that's let music happen," Vainio said. "Without the support of the community we wouldn't be able to do this."

Up next for the symphony is a pair of concerts with the North Bay Symphony, where jointly they will perform Brahm's Symphony No. 2, first in North Bay and then in Timmins on May 9.

The final concert of the season will take place on May 28, and will feature Grammy award winning violinist James Ehnes.

Youth in tune with future education
By BRANDON WALKER, THE DAILY PRESS

The Timmins Symphony Orchestra announced the winners of its annual scholarships this week.

Adrianna Ciccone was the big winner, picking up $1,800 by garnering the Pavlina Anzelc Memorial Scholarship, the Fiorello Ziraldo Bursary and the Geoffrey James Lee Concerto Competition award.

She has played her violin all over the province and in various places in North America.

"I've just started and have a long way to go," Ciccone said last August before a concert at Christopher's Coffee House.

"I'm always learning new songs and have great teachers who pass along little tricks."

A popular participant at the Hockley Valley Music Camp, Ciccone has also taken part in the Shelburne Canadian Open Old Time Fiddle Contest and the Grand Master Fiddle Camp in Ottawa.

Organizers said the young winners have shown dedication and are seeing the results.

Awards will be presented May [9] at École secondaire catholique Thériault when the Timmins Symphony Orchestra performs with its counterpart from North Bay.

March, 2009
Timmins Daily Press ~ Letter to Editor

Doctor gets standing 'O' from Orchestras Canada

I was honoured to attend the formal presentation of the Practice of Excellence Award for 2008 to Dr. George Freundlich on Feb. 13 by the Canadian Medical Association and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, recognizing his outstanding achievements as a medical doctor.

It was a wonderful ceremony, and the tributes to Dr. Freundlich were very touching. I only wish that all of his friends and patients could have joined me to pay tribute to his work.

I write this letter on behalf of Orchestras Canada, a national organization representing 193 Canadian orchestras, to warmly congratulate Dr. Freundlich on this honour -- and to tellDaily Press readers a bit more about the man behind the honour, too.

Dr. Freundlich is much more than a devoted, conscientious and highly skilled medical professional.

He is, in fact, a Renaissance man: A respected physician, an accomplished musician, a fluent communicator in a number of languages, a lover of opera, a dedicated mentor and a generous philanthropist. What's more, he's remarkably humble, and approachable by all.

As many people in the area will know, Dr. George (as we affectionately call him at OC) was a skilled classical musician (with master's degrees in piano, violin and trombone) before he decided to study medicine. An especially gifted trombonist, he has been -- for the past 15 years -- a leading member of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra and the Timmins All-Star Big Band. He is as dedicated to musical excellence, and to these two groups, as he is to his medical practice. Many are the Saturday nights when Dr. George has rushed back to the hospital in Matheson after a performance to attend to his emergency room duties still dressed in his tuxedo, to the delight of nurses and patients alike!

As you may not know, though, Dr. George has also been closely associated with Orchestras Canada, and with orchestras and youth orchestras from coast to coast to coast for more than 12 years through his service as a volunteer, mentor, coach, guide and a regular and generous donor.

He has played a key role in the youth orchestra festivals we have presented in Mississauga in 1999, Kingston in 2001, Kitchener-Waterloo in 2003 and Windsor in 2005, and he remains a central part of our work with tomorrow's leading citizens.

He's an inspiration to all: Someone who can speak to students about the value of serious musical study as preparation for life as a contributing member of society, and, at the gala concerts, to their parents and teachers about the important role that they play, too.

Dr. George believes very strongly that the values of hard work and discipline inculcated through the study of music are key factors in success in any field, and he's living proof.

In all fields of endeavour, and by any measure, he gives until it hurts.

But all Dr. George is trying to do is to pay the musical community back for the formative experiences he himself had as a young musician, including his performance at the age of 17 with the World Youth Orchestra onstage at London's Royal Albert Hall under the leadership of the legendary Leopold Stokowski.

He's a proud Canadian, but he's also loyal to his Romanian heritage.

He's teamed up with world famous Canadian trombonist and conductor Alain Trudel to teach master classes at the Utrecht Conservatory in the Netherlands.

And in 2003, he represented Canadian youth orchestras as a VIP/Red Carpet guest at the famous youth orchestra festival in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Dr. George is also a keen opera aficionado, and a benefactor and patron of New York's Metropolitan Opera.

He has personal friendships with many of the world's most brilliant opera stars, including Angela Gheorghiu, Renee Fleming, Roberto Alagna and Ramon Vargas, to name but a few.

And I very much enjoy reading his insightful reviews of Metropolitan Opera performances in leading European newspapers. Furthermore (in the spare time that I know he doesn't have), he somehow managed to both compile and design the cover for a limited edition double CD entitled "The Royal Opera Gala," containing highlights from the world's best-loved operas, performed by the finest soloists.

The CD contains beautiful photos of famous opera houses, all visited by Dr. George in his world travels, and it even contains a picture of your own Timmins Symphony performing Mozart's The Magic Flute in 1999!

I listen to this astonishing compilation regularly, and it's a urce of delight.

We at Orchestras Canada truly feel that Dr. George is an unsung hero of Canadian cultural life, manifested on the local level through his work with the Timmins Symphony and All-Star Big Band, on the national scene through Orchestras Canada, and internationally through his work as a musical ambassador for Canada and for young musicians.

Today's recognition of Dr. George by the Canadian Medical Association and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons simply confirms what we already knew: This is a remarkable man.

I invite the readers ofThe Daily Press to join us in recognizing Dr. George Freundlich, doctor, musician, educator, philanthropist, and a world citizen that Canada should be proud to claim for her own.

Katherine Carleton, Executive Director, Orchestras Canada

Matheson doctor earns top honours
By JESSICA YOUNG, THE DAILY PRESS

Friday the 13th was not a bad day for everybody.

For Matheson's Dr. George Freundlich, it was a day he was honoured by the Canadian Medical Association and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

Freundlich said that being picked out of 65,000 practising physicians was an out-of this-world experience.

"To be picked from Northern Ontario and from a small community, you have to be very special and very humble and down to Earth," he said while in Timmins a day after the award ceremony. "They spoke very highly of me when they commented about my work and acknowledged my outstanding medical practices in Newfoundland and New Brunswick and my practice in Matheson for the past 15 years."

More than 100 of the most prominent physicians in Canada from coast to coast were present to pay homage to the local doctor in downtown Toronto.

Aside from his medical accolades, Freundlich was also given kudos for his work with the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, being a director of Orchestras Canada and the award-winning Timmins jazz group the All Star Big Band.

Representatives from his native country Romania, including the Romanian ambassador to Canada, were also in attendance.

"I proudly respect Canada and Timmins first and foremost, but I'm a proud Romanian and I explained there's no contradiction in that," he said.

The Medical Post, Canadian Medical Association Journal and the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians were also present to document his success.

Freundlich brought his fiancé, Katherine, and the Romanian-Canadian newspaper Observator publisher C. Popescu some of his honoured guests.

In 1989, Freundlich was the only doctor left in Buchans, N. L. He said he did the work of four doctors for four months.

"Had I not been there, they would have closed down the hospital," he said.

"The mines would have closed down because the mines cannot operate without a hospital nearby. I saved a lot of jobs in the hospital and the spin-off businesses around."

Although Freundlich left 15 years ago, during the ceremony he said he was credited for every life saved in Buchans for the last 20 years.

In Matheson he was again left to fend for himself as the lone doctor for six months.

During the Valentine's Day performance by the TSO, Freundlich was acknowledged for his award and given a standing ovation.

Straight from his award presentation, he headed for the airport to head back to Timmins to make it for the TSO rehearsal on Friday.

Romance musically fills the air
TSO hosts Valentine's concert

By Jessica Young, The Daily Press

Music and love go together.

Timmins Symphony Orchestra guest artists Sharon Kahan and Sharlene Wallace agree nothing brings people together more than music.

“You’d never have a love scene without some kind of music to enrich that in a film,” Kahan said. “When I think about the two things together, it heightens it.

“Certainly there are songs that will remind me of when I first fell in love.”

Flutist Kahan and Wallace, who plays the harp, have performed together a few times before but never in Timmins. On Valentine’s Day the pair performed Mozart’s flute and harp double concerto at École secondaire catholique Thériault with the Timmins Symphony Orchestra.

“Any time I play Mozart there’s such a tremendous awe and respect. The music is so transparent, it doesn’t allow for a lot of fudging one way or another,” Kahan said. “It needs to be very precise.

“There’s a certain amount of nervousness when playing Mozart. The slow movement is just so romantic and almost operatic. It’s a journey.”

Wallace has a different response when playing a famous composer or piece.

“Everyone is familiar with the genre of Mozart. It’s relaxing because the audience is looking forward to their favourite parts. They are singing along in their heads,” she said. “They are already there with you. It’s like playing with the audience instead of to the audience and there’s a comfort in that.”

Kahan said the piece is one of the most romantic songs Mozart ever wrote.

“It’s gorgeous, it pulls at your heart strings. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day,” she said.

Wallace gets her share of romantic performances. She performs at many weddings and can see at every event how the harp is a symbol of love.

“The word harp and heart get mixed,” she said. “People say the other word, they’ll say harp instead of heart.

“There’s the shape of the harp as well. The actual sound people think it’s very romantic.”

The concert continued on with a concertino for flute and orchestra and music for the celtic harp, strings, percussion and celesta.

Popular songs for the evening included the theme from “Romeo and Juliet” and “Love Story.” Peter Colbert was the vocalist for “Moon River,” Alison Kirkpatrick sang “My Funny Valentine” and Mits Takayesu performed “Blue Moon.”

Kahan performs regularly with orchestras across Ontario and has studied with the likes of Jeanne Baxtresser and Timothy Hutchins.

Her many accomplishments include being a concerto soloist with the International Symphony, the Stratford Symphony Orchestra and Orchestra London (Celtic Pops). She is the principal flutist for the Stratford Shakespearian Festival Orchestra and in 2008, performed in the production of Music Man.

Wallace and her harp have travelled across North America and France as a soloist and she has shared the stage with bass player George Koller, percussionists Sal Ferreras and Rick Lazar. With four independent CDs under her belt, Wallace still has time to give workshops and master classes across North America. She is the principal harpist with the Kingston and Oakville Symphonies.

TSO concert master Angela Garwood was pleased with Saturday’s performance.

“I think it was a really great evening. There was something for everyone,” she said. “That was a rare treat because it’s not often you have a harpist as a soloist. The orchestra had an awesome time playing that and I think there are pieces that conveyed that we were enjoying ourselves.

“It was a really successful evening and added to the feeling of Valentine’s Day.”

TSO hosting night filled with romance
By CHELSEY ROMAIN, THE DAILY PRESS


Love and music will fill the air as the Timmins Symphony Orchestra provides a romantic setting for the perfect Valentine's Day.

Love birds are encouraged to bring their valentines out for an evening of romantic music as the TSO, along with harp soloist Sharlene Wallace and flautist Sharon Kahan, perform Mozart's Harp and Flute double concerto and several other romantic favourites.

It's a rare occasion for the TSO to be able to perform on Valentine's Day, said public relations and event co-ordinator Johanna Harrison, and the group wants to take advantage of the atmosphere the day provides.

"It's promised to be a fantastic and romantic evening, that is both affordable and memorable," Harrison said. "We're working on special details that will complete the atmosphere of the evening."

TSO conductor and musical director Matthew Jones said Mozart was a natural choice since he was remarkable at reaching the human soul and explaining what makes people human.

"There is no better composer in the world than Mozart to explain the human soul," Jones said. "He must have really appreciated the sound of these two instruments when he wrote this.

"It's very beautiful music."

Based out of London, Ont., Kahan has been a faculty member of the Regina Conservatory of Music, principal flutist of the Conservatory Chamber Orchestra, but left Saskatchewan and attended the University of Western Ontario where she received a Master of Music in Literature and Performance.

Currently, Kahan performs with a variety of orchestras and ensembles, including Orchestra London and the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.

She has travelled for recitals throughout Canada and Western Europe and is currently the principal flutist of the Stratford Shakespearian Festival Orchestra and performed in the 2008 production of Music Man.

A performer of both the classical and Celtic harps, Wallace has performed as a soloist across North America and France. She is the winner of several awards, and has four independent CDs that can be heard on radio.

Wallace received her performance degree in classical harp from the University of Toronto.

"We're hoping a lot of people come out and experience this somewhat unique concert," Jones said. "It's not easy to put a concert like this on, and we did it in our anniversary year to keep things special."

Following an intermission, the audience at Saturday's concert will hear some well-known romantic favourites, including the theme to Romeo and Juliet, Moon River with Peter Colbert on vocals and Blue Moon with vocals by Mits Taykayesu.

"Naturally music is a metaphor for harmony and ensemble, which are similar themes for Valentine's Day," Jones said, adding that both the harp and flute have sounds that are pure.

Harrison said the typical TSO audience was surveyed some time ago and one of the things they requested was a harp soloist.

"We don't have a harpist in the orchestra, so we less often get to experience that sound," Harrison said. "We try to meet what the audience is asking for while staying within our mandate."

Tickets for Saturday's performance are on sale at Your Independent Grocer at a cost of either $32, $29 or $26 based on seating at the Charles Fournier Auditorium at École secondaire catholique Thériault.

Classical music strikes a chord
TSO series helps children get in touch with orchestra sounds

By Chelsey Romain, The Daily Press

Continuing its attempts to reach out to a younger audience, the Timmins Symphony Orchestra gave local children a taste of days gone by as part of the fourth show in its Children’s Concert Series.

Dressed for the party as Janitor Jones, orchestra conductor and musical director Matthew Jones said the series has been a whimsical way to introduce the children to an adult world of music making.

“It’s a major goal of every artistic organization to reach out to youth and show them the relevance of art,” Jones said, adding that the performances closely follow what is being taught as part of the schools’ curriculum. “The first message is that music is fun, and it’s the core reason for doing it.”

Through comical skits as Janitor Jones and some very oversized props, Jones and the orchestra, over the past two seasons, have managed to not only introduce children to the classical style of music, but make it relevant to them in their every day lives.

“They are experiencing it all the time,” Jones said of the style of music. “It’s in the background of their movies and television shows.

“We want to make them aware that they are hearing it.”

In the days of iPods and MP3 players, Jones said it’s also important to bring the younger generation to a live performance, where they are surrounded by the music, instead of just hearing it through headphones.

“Statistics show a link between the dropping audience figures and the MP3s, iPods and earbuds,” he said. “But here, the sound is all around you.”

In the past, the children have learned the history behind such instruments as wind and brass. While a large wooden cutout of a violin bridge meant an introduction to string instruments, Sunday’s performance went further into the history of the orchestra itself.

“We’re asking the question, where did orchestras come from anyway,” said Jones. “It takes them from a soloist, to a duet, a string quartet, a brass choir and by the end all the groups perform together as an orchestra.

The original idea of the series was to target children 12 years and under, but Jones said older children would find something entertaining and educational in the performances.

“We also explore the depth of music,” said Jones. “We get into the power that music has over us in a fun way. “

The TSO’s next performance takes place on Valentine’s Day, with two special guest soloists, harpist Sharlene Wallace and flutist Sharon Kahan.

“It’s a time to bring your sweetheart to hear wonderful, romantic and lovable music,” he said. “It’s an incredibly special concert because it’s not often we can bring two wonderful soloists up at once.”

The concert will include Mozart’s harp and flute double concerto, as well as a number of special guests for a Valentine’s Day special performance. The concert takes place Feb. 14, at École secondaire catholique Thériault beginning at 8 p.m.

TSO series kicks off on a good note
Chamber performance at Twain Centre

By JESSICA YOUNG, THE DAILY PRESS

Matthew Jones, Angela Garwood and Ariane Alexander seem telepathic when they perform together.

During their first chamber series performance, the trio was in perfect harmony at the Shania Twain Centre on Saturday evening.

"It's difficult because you can't talk to each other, you have to express yourself through other musical gestures, through your playing and physicality cues as well," Jones said.

Jones, who typically assumes the role of conductor, was on cello, Garwood on violin and Alexander as violist. Together they have been rehearsing since September.

"There is extreme emphasis on ensemble. We are individually responsible for every single note. You can't rely on anyone else. If I play the wrong note, you're going to hear it," Alexander said. "It's just as much pressure as a solo."

Trio Nov. 2 by Franz Schubert, Trio in E Flat Major, opus 3 by Beethoven and Divertimento No. 2 K. 439b by Mozart were the three famous pieces performed this weekend.

"It's very interesting because the composers are so famous and their music is so incredibly well-known," Jones said. "It's always interesting to explore why that might be and tonight's performance was an investigation of that."

These particular pieces span from the 1780s to the mid- 19th century and were played to an intimate audience.

"You have more opportunity to express something more personal than you have with the symphony," Garwood said.

"What you're doing has more of an impact. It's a solo-type feel. We're soloists within a group."

Jones had to make a mental switch as he typically takes the role of conductor.

"I'm used to giving orders all the time. I have to sit back and appreciate the voices of my colleagues in rehearsal and be willing to follow somebody else," he explained.

In this case there are three conductors, Jones added. Each player must take on a role of leadership but also know that there is a time to follow somebody else's lead.

"Part of the rehearsal process that we've gone through is to make sure who is leading when and what theme and motives are important," remarked Jones.

Chamber music is challenging for that exact reason and is also what makes it so special.

"It's not only inspiration for our audience but for our faculty to be asked to play at the highest possible level, it's an important tool for recruitment and for attainment. That's a critical component of this series as well."

Charlene Wallace and Sharon Kahan will be the guest artists for the TSO's Feb. 14 Valentine's concert that will feature Mozart's flute and harp double concerto.

The second half of the concert will feature popular love songs such as Moon River and the theme from Romeo and Juliet.

On April 4, the TSO will hold a fundraiser concert at the Days Inn at 6 p. m. called Springtime in Paris. Soul Doubt will perform and there will be a separate draw to win a trip to Paris.

Tickets for the dinner and dance are $100.

On April 25 the TSO will head to North Bay to play with the North Bay Symphony and on May 9, NBS will come to Timmins for a joint concert with the TSO and will perform Brahms Symphony No. 2.

Grammy award-winning violinist James Ehnes will perform a Mozart violin concerto and a Mozart piano concerto on May 28 to raise money for the TSO.

"The opportunity to play with James Ehnes is incredible," Garwood said.

Christmas tunes cheer homeless
By BRANDON WALKER, THE DAILY PRESS

Music has the power to take the chill off the coldest of days -- even for the homeless.

Eric Flondra, his younger brother Christopher and sister Kaitlyn warmed the hearts of several residents at the Good Samaritan Inn on Monday by playing classic Christmas tunes on violin.

A few residents of the homeless shelter sang along and tapped their toes while the siblings displayed how much their hours of practise have paid off.

Also in attendance were the children's parents and grandparents, all of whom proudly watched the youngsters strum out Christmas and classical music.

"My dad suggested we play here," Eric said. "It was a good thing to do. I enjoyed it very much. I like playing for people."

The 16-year-old picked up the violin at age four and started with the Timmins Symphony Orchestra when he was 12.

"It was enjoyable," said 12- year-old Kaitlyn. She felt it was a nice thing to do because many don't get to hear live music everyday.

Christopher, 15, said he enjoys playing for people and doesn't get nervous anymore.

Ed Ligocki, chairman at the shelter said the music was a special treat.

"It lifts their spirits. I saw a couple gentlemen walk out the door to the parking lot with tears in their eyes."

Christmas isn't a happy time for everyone, although Ligocki said residents at the Inn will have a turkey dinner with all the trimmings on Christmas Day and New Years thanks to generous donations from the public.

"Tragedies have befallen many of the residents here," he said.

"They come together like a family and it makes it easier to talk about things and music brings out some happiness."

Xstrata donation is music to ears of TSO
By CHELSEY ROMAIN THE DAILY PRESS

A request was made by the Timmins Symphony Orchestra and one local business stepped up to the plate, securing itself as the new podium sponsor for the organization.

Last week, Xstrata Nickel's Montcalm Mine manager Keith Bullock presented TSO conductor and musical director Matthew Jones, along with acting president Kathy Vainio, with a cheque for $10,000. The donation made the mine the single largest donor to the TSO.

"There's no question about it, the symphony thrives on donations like these," said Jones. "It keeps music strong in the community."

In November, the TSO spoke of an operational debt that has accumulated, due to circumstances such as a drop in fundraising dollars, an increase in operational costs and fewer available grants. As a non-profit organization, fundraising efforts must continue in order to keep the TSO and its music available to the community.

Sponsorship is just one of the many ways the TSO continues to hold concerts. In showing appreciation to sponsors, Jones said they like to provide as much visibility as possible within the community. As the podium sponsor, Xstrata Nickel's name and logo will appear on the podium at centre stage during the symphony's concerts.

"It's important we support the needy people in society, but it's also important we support culture within the community as well," said Bullock. "Advancements in our culture helps the society as a whole."

TSO events and public relations co-ordinator Johanna Harrison said a letter was written toThe Daily Pressseveral weeks ago commenting on the TSO's current financial position and a challenge was put out to both residents and corporate Timmins asking for their support.

"We mentioned different ways of supporting us and Xstrata Nickel definitely stepped up to help keep the symphony going strong," Harrison said.

Because of the need of sponsors, Jones said it was important all sponsors of the TSO receive visibility in public to show their gratitude.

"They help provide the amateur musicians of Timmins and area the opportunity to play and the audience the opportunity to hear the kind of music and art the symphony has to offer," Jones said. "It's important to take note of the sponsors and make an effort to celebrate them."

Others can help out the TSO by simply purchasing tickets to the symphony's main concert series, children's concert, chamber or other special events, by purchasing a TSO Goes Rock n Roll calender, making a donation and simply spreading the word of what the symphony is like.

The orchestra's next main concert series performance will be on Feb. 14, 2009 at École secondaire catholique Thériault.

 

‘Dr. George’ earns top honours

Receives award from Canadian Medial Association

By Chelsey Romain, The Daily Press

MATHESON — When a patient visits Dr. George Freundlich in Matheson, they aren’t walking into a regular doctor’s office.

Hanging among the medical accolades and accomplishments, are photos of Freundlich and some of the world’s greatest musicians, pictures of his travels, and certificates from his work with the Timmins Symphony Orchestra.

It’s for all those reasons and many more, that Freundlich was recently honoured by both the Canadian Medical Association and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

Freundlich will be presented with The Council Award, created to honour outstanding physicians and recognize the range of diverse roles and abilities of doctors.

The award also recognizes physicians who have demonstrated excellence and come closest to meeting society’s vision of an ideal physician.

“I’m overjoyed,” Freundlich told The Daily Press. “I don’t work for awards, but it’s most rewarding to receive recognition for the endless hours on this unstoppable treadmill.”

Known affectionately by his patients as “Dr. George,” Freundlich has been credited with saving thousands of lives, simply by ensuring hospitals remain open.

Before arriving in Matheson 15 years ago, Freundlich was working on Canada’s East Coast in a small community of Buchans, N.L.

As the only doctor for the small mining town, it was Freundlich who ensured residents had a place to go for medical treatment.

The same happened several years ago in Matheson, when Freundlich became the only physician in the community for six months.

But it isn’t just his work in the medical field that has made Freundlich the person and doctor he is today. A member of the Rotary Club, and a classically trained musician, Freundlich is a member of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, the Timmins All-Star Big Band and a director of Orchestras Canada.

“It gives me a lot of satisfaction,” Freundlich said of his busy schedule. “It is very difficult being a physician with long hours, but this gives me a balance and I think makes me a better doctor.

“It gives me the sense that however the long hours I work, there is more out there.

“If I only had work, I would feel a bit unaccomplished — like I could do more.”

As a doctor, Freundlich has seen it all. Living only a few doors away from the hospital, he once ran — wearing only slippers and pajamas — to the aid of a patient

Through his travels, he has often been called to duty on a plane, coming to the aid of a sick, fellow traveller.

He has been called by many of his patients a true national treasure and Northern hero. In Matheson, Mayor Mike Milinkovich knows the value of having a physician like Freundlich in his town.

“He is that rare type of individual who, time and again, has demonstrated his love and respect for his fellow man, through his exceptional skills as a physician and a human being,” Milinkovich wrote in his letter seconding the nomination of Freundlich for the award.

Originally from Cluj-Napoca, Romania, where he graduated from its school of medicine, Freundlich immigrated to Canada in 1985 to live a life outside of the country’s communist regime.

But it was life in Romania that led to the career he has today, both in music and medicine.

“I was a classically trained musician before I ever became a doctor,” said Freundlich, who was playing in Europe by the age of 17.

It was an incident that happened when he was just 10 years old that would lead him on the path to medicine.

A severe injury caused the young Freundlich to spend nearly a year in a hospital, hours away from his family and hometown.

“It haunted me how good they were to me, the kindness they had,” Freundlich said. “I was, perhaps, motivated more than others, because of this personal experience.”

Surrounded by stories, accomplishments and experiences to last a lifetime, Freundlich said being a doctor in a small, rural community has left him with a “very dysfunctional private life.” But his dedication to community, patients and love of music has kept him in the area for the past 15 years.

“I wonder how they picked me when there are 65,000 doctors practising in Canada,” he said. “But I try to be a compassionate person. And to me patients are not numbers.

“This is the highest honour anyone can achieve, especially working in a relatively small community, having someone chosen from Northern Ontario is even more valuable to me.”

Musical gift from TSO will fill church ~ Concert set for Saturday
By Jessica Young, The Daily Press

The church walls will echo with the sound of singers young and old, bringing to the light the spirit of the season and the gift of music.

On Saturday at 8 p.m., St. Anthony’s Cathedral will turn into a performance ground for the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, the full orchestra chorus and the A battuta Children’s Chorus.

More than 100 musicians will perform Handel’s Messiah with soprano Aileen Kleinhuls, alto Ailson Kirkpatrick, tenor Chris Rodgers, and bass Peter Colbert as featured soloists

“This is not normally where symphony concerts take place,” said Matthew Jones, musical director and conductor for the TSO..

“It’ll be a treat for the audience and musicians to be in a music hall.”

“It was very kind to Father Pat and his team to host us to make it possible for us to do this,” he said. “It’s not easy to host an entire concert choir at the same time. They’ve been really super to make it work for us.”

The TSO rehearsed for its upcoming performance at W. Earl Miller Public School on Monday evening. Jones is thrilled that the TSO is able to bring Handel’s Messiah back to the people of Timmins .

“Not only does it celebrate the season very well but it utilizes almost all of our musicians so we get to showcase all of our guys which is a lot of fun,” Jones said. “We’re very happy to present our soloists and they are all from the community and they will contribute in a beautiful way. We also happen to be in a new venue at St. Anthony’s Church.”

It was Jones’ idea to hold this year’s concert at the local place of worship. The new setting will provide for very satisfying acoustics for the choir and will also be an opportunity for the TSO to branch out from their traditional performance hall at École secondaire catholique Thériault.

“It’s a slightly different format,” Jones said. “It’s also a concert by donation at the door so it’s not part of our regular season concerts so we’ve said a $20 donation or so at the door or anything a concert goer can donate to help keep music strong is much appreciated. The money goes towards the TSO. We are madly fundraising to make up for our shortfall from last season.”

The Timmins Symphony Chorus and A battuta Children’s Chorus are looking for new members for the new year. For information on joining or the concert, call the TSO office at 267-1006.

Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 ~ Editorial in Timmins Daily Press ~ TSO great asset to city

TSO is great asset to city

Agood sign of just how far the Timmins Symphony Orchestra has come over the years was on display Saturday night.

The fact the TSO can attract an internationally renowned pianist like Teresa Walters to perform with them is a testament to the great reputation and amazing musicianship displayed by the local symphony.

The TSO is celebrating 30 years of bringing wonderful classical music to the residents of Timmins and Northeastern Ontario.

Walters brought the house down and earned a standing ovation for her performance of Beethoven's "Emperor" Concerto No. 5.

The pianist, who has performed all over the world, said coming to Timmins and playing with the TSO is an honour.

"It's wonderful that you have the resource of this orchestra here in a community like Timmins," Walters told Daily Pressreporter Chelsey Romain, after her terrific performance at École secondaire catholique Thériault.

"These people go about their profession throughout the day and then come together at night to rehearse and they just give it their all."

Walters and the orchestra rehearsed Friday after she arrived and despite the limited time together, she and the TSO members performed an awe-inspiring rendition of one of Beethoven's most famous and moving pieces.

"They are so invested in it," Walters said of the TSO members. "One of the members said to me they do not do it for the money, but for the love and I immediately said that's the only reason to do great music.

"There's never enough money in the world to pay for music by Beethoven, but he belonged to all the world, not just the country to which he was born."

TSO music director and conductor Matthew Jones said the piece touches all levels of emotion and having a skilled world-class musician like Walters perform it was exciting for all members as well as the audience.

"It's a piece of music that has enthralled generations of human beings. It's amazing how that piece reaches us," he said.

Walters said she wouldn't have wanted to play anything else as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations of the TSO.

"When there's a special call for it, or a special celebration like the 30th anniversary of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, it's such an appropriate work," she said.

The fact a city with a population of 45,000 is able to support a symphony orchestra is remarkable on its own as most cities this size don't have that luxury.

It's an outstanding symphony orchestra which continually plays to sold-out audiences and keeps attracting renowned national and international musicians to perform with and that's a testament to each and every member and various conductors who have led it over the past three decades.

People who choose to live in Northern Ontario often do so because of the outstanding quality of life offered here. Organizations like the TSO contribute to the quality of life for their hundreds of fans and the musicians who are proud to be members.

The next performance will take place on Dec. 13 at St. Anthony's Cathedral, where the orchestra and chorus will perform Handel's Messiah. Admission will be by donation.

Another huge crowd is guaranteed. This is Timmins and the TSO we're talking about after all. Congratulations on 30 years of great work, great music and improving the quality of life for Timmins residents.

Renowned performer joins TSO for special show
By CHELSEY ROMAIN, THE DAILY PRESS

Written in a dressing room, the words "to be born with talent is to continually chase perfection," rings true for internationally renowned pianist Teresa Walters.

They are words she herself believed after a performance with the Timmins Symphony Orchestra Saturday night.

Performing Beethoven's "Emperor" Concerto No. 5 as a special guest of the TSO, Walters said it is always an honour to play a piece composed by Beethoven, but more so with people so dedicated to the music.

"I think it's wonderful that you have the resource of this orchestra here in a community like Timmins," Walter said. "These people go about their profession throughout the day and then come together at night to rehearse and they just give it their all."

Arriving in Timmins Friday night, to unexpected weather and a lack of winter boots, Walters rehearsed with the orchestra before performing an awe-inspiring rendition of "Emperor" that received a standing ovation.

"They are so invested in it," Walters said of the TSO members.

"One of the members said to me that they do not do it for the money, but for the love and I immediately said that's the only reason to do great music. There's never enough money in the world to pay for music by Beethoven, but he belonged to all the world, not just the country in which he was born."

Considered Beethoven's most popular piece and final piano concerto, TSO music director and conductor Matthew Jones said the piece touches all levels of emotion.

"Many people in the world feel that after the second movement, music could have stopped being written because all was said in that one movement," Jones said.

"It's a piece of music that has enthralled generations of human beings. It's amazing how that piece reaches us."

Walters said she learned the piece as a student and has been playing it professionally for about a decade.

A piece that can go on for 40 minutes, it's not one Walters said she performs every season, but only when it's called for.

"It's such a classic and magnificent piece," she said.

"When there's a special call for it, or a special celebration like the 30th anniversary of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, it's such an appropriate work," said Walters.

Living in New York City and traveling the globe to play her music, having earned her doctorate from the Peabody Conservatory, Walters has played New York's Carnegie Hall, the great Hall of Moscow and the Salle Cortot in Paris.

"When I was a little girl I was always reading the map and saw Timmins was always on the map," Walters said with a laugh. "But this is the furthest north in Canada that I've been."

International tours have taken her from Japan to Australia and from Israel to Brazil.

"Someone did a dissertation once about how long classical musicians live, and some will live well into their 90s, still performing and composing," Walters said. "I think it's the quest to always improve and always striving to reach perfection and to be true to the recreation of a great composer that gives musicians a goal and a reason to get up in the morning."

Walters' appearance with the TSO was part of the second performance in the main series.

"She's a wizard on the piano," Jones said of Walters. "She's a world class performer and we were lucky to have her.

"She brought a grace and gentleness to the performance that wasn't lost on our audience."

The next performance will take place on Dec. 13 at 8 p. m. at St. Anthony's Cathedral, where the orchestra and chorus will perform Handel's Messiah.

Admission to the performance will be by donation.

"It's kind of acts as a thank you to the community," Jones said of the special performance. "It puts every musician associated with the orchestra on stage at once, with the chorus, soloists and the orchestra itself."

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Xstrata donation is music to ears of TSO
By CHELSEY ROMAIN THE DAILY PRESS

A request was made by the Timmins Symphony Orchestra and one local business stepped up to the plate, securing itself as the new podium sponsor for the organization.

Last week, Xstrata Nickel's Montcalm Mine manager Keith Bullock presented TSO conductor and musical director Matthew Jones, along with acting president Kathy Vainio, with a cheque for $10,000. The donation made the mine the single largest donor to the TSO.

"There's no question about it, the symphony thrives on donations like these," said Jones. "It keeps music strong in the community."

In November, the TSO spoke of an operational debt that has accumulated, due to circumstances such as a drop in fundraising dollars, an increase in operational costs and fewer available grants. As a non-profit organization, fundraising efforts must continue in order to keep the TSO and its music available to the community.

Sponsorship is just one of the many ways the TSO continues to hold concerts. In showing appreciation to sponsors, Jones said they like to provide as much visibility as possible within the community. As the podium sponsor, Xstrata Nickel's name and logo will appear on the podium at centre stage during the symphony's concerts.

"It's important we support the needy people in society, but it's also important we support culture within the community as well," said Bullock. "Advancements in our culture helps the society as a whole."

TSO events and public relations co-ordinator Johanna Harrison said a letter was written toThe Daily Pressseveral weeks ago commenting on the TSO's current financial position and a challenge was put out to both residents and corporate Timmins asking for their support.

"We mentioned different ways of supporting us and Xstrata Nickel definitely stepped up to help keep the symphony going strong," Harrison said.

Because of the need of sponsors, Jones said it was important all sponsors of the TSO receive visibility in public to show their gratitude.

"They help provide the amateur musicians of Timmins and area the opportunity to play and the audience the opportunity to hear the kind of music and art the symphony has to offer," Jones said. "It's important to take note of the sponsors and make an effort to celebrate them."

Others can help out the TSO by simply purchasing tickets to the symphony's main concert series, children's concert, chamber or other special events, by purchasing a TSO Goes Rock n Roll calender, making a donation and simply spreading the word of what the symphony is like.

The orchestra's next main concert series performance will be on Feb. 14, 2009 at École secondaire catholique Thériault.

Janitor Jones sweeping in young fans
Kids leave enlightened, entertained

By JESSICA YOUNG THE DAILY PRESS

Children got to meet Santa Claus and a Chinese lion all within an hour.

During the Girones Lawyers Children's Concert Series, the Timmins Symphony Orchestra and guest star Janitor Jones got the crowd pumped up to learn about brass instruments during the first of two concerts at École secondaire catholique Thériault on Sunday afternoon.

Santa Claus made a guest appearance handing out candy canes to children while a Chinese lion danced to a song called Thunder Dragon. For one portion of the show stars hung on the side of the stage during a space-themed lesson.

"It's a riot," musical director Matthew Jones said. "They learn the instruments that they play and how they make sounds, change notes and why instruments are shaped the way they are."

Jocelyne Kos brought her two sons to the show for the second time this Sunday.

"It introduces children to the different elements of the orchestra," she said. "I know in Grade 3 they study wind instruments so it's helpful for that.

"We all love music. They would like to perform in the music festival sometime and we encourage music in the family."

Jordyn Taylor proudly toted that this wasn't her first time seeing Janitor Jones hit the stage.

She also proclaimed that her grandfather Don Taylor was in the symphony, reason enough for her to attend.

"I like to dance to music," she said. "I like playing the guitar at my uncle's and I like the symphony because they are pretty big."

It's the enthusiasm of kids like Jordyn that makes TSO public relations and events coordinator Johanna Harrison beam with pride.

"The children's concert series is something we want to continue year after year," she said.

"We're always looking for fun ways to bring the love of music to children and I think that this concert accomplishes that quite nicely."

This is the second year of the children's concert series. TSO will be performing Handel's Messiah on Dec. 13 at St. Anthony's Cathedral. Donations will be requested at the door and the start time for the performance has been changed to 8 p. m.

Class visit from TSO conductor
Janitor Jones drops in on students

By Chelsey Romain, The Daily Press

Janitor Jones was performing double duty during a visit with students at a local elementary school on Monday.

Not only was he hoping to raise awareness of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra to a younger audience through its Janitor Jones Children’s Concert series, but also sending home a reminder to parents that Timmins will soon welcome world renowned pianist Teresa Walters.

“We’re trying to introduce Janitor Jones to the kind of audience we hope to attract to the concert,” said Jones, a.k.a. Matthew Jones, symphony conductor and musical director.

“We’re hoping once an audience comes to check it out they’ll enjoy it and want to come back.”

Dressed in full Janitor Jones gear and sporting props, such as a homemade trumpet, Jones visited every class at Coronation Public School.

Last year provided the debut of the concert series, which teaches children about classical music in both an educational and entertaining way.

“Last year was such a success, this year we want to build on that,” Jones said. “This introduction could ensure that success takes place.”

Students not only went home with a new idea of what to do come this Sunday afternoon, but were also given bookmarks for mom and dad, inviting them to attend a performance by the TSO and special guest Walters at the end of the month.

In Australia, she has been called a “rare musical phenomenon,” in Mexico a “bright shining star” and in Washington it has been said “her hands create cascades of luminescence.”

“Headlines alone can write her biography,” said TSO public relations and events co-ordinator Johanna Harrison.

An American pianist, in recent years, Walters has maintained a packed international touring schedule.

As a special guest of the TSO, Walters will perform Beethoven’s “Piano Concerto No. 5, The Emperor.”

“It’s obviously an honour to have a musician of this calibre to come to Timmins and perform with the TSO,” Jones said. “It’s going to be a performance up to normal standard for the TSO, as no doubt she is clearly a fantastic performer.”

Performing Beethoven’s last piano concerto, which was written sometime between 1809 and 1811, Jones is confident everyone will either recognize or identify with the music performed.

Janitor Jones set help youngsters become swept away by music
By JESSICA YOUNG THE DAILY PRESS

With a broom in hand, Janitor Jones is ready to sweep up the children of Timmins and teach them about the wonders of music.

The Timmins Symphony Orchestra is proud to host the Girones Lawyers Children's Concert Series this year. It will provide two shows to entertain youngsters and teach them about music.

"Janitor Jones is the musical guide through learning about and getting to know the symphony orchestra here in Timmins," said Matthew Jones, TSO musical director (a. k. a. Janitor Jones). "They are going to be introduced to an orchestral instrument and we'll pull out a section of the orchestra and feature them as guinea pigs of the instruments they play.

"They'll learn how they make sounds and why they are important to the orchestra."

Each show will present new music and instruments in different ways, Jones said.

There's no doubt the janitor will come up with all sorts of fun ways to introduce instruments such as using a garden hose to make music.

Audience participation is all part of the show too, Jones added. It's his No. 1 priority to make sure everyone is having fun, including the orchestra musicians.

"He's gregarious and somewhat of an unwilling host but he makes it fun," Jones said. "He has lots of energy and likes to have the kids involved. Hopefully when kids leave they will have a little more appreciation of how symphony's play and relate to what's going on in the stage a little better."

Last year was the debut of the series. Jones hopes Timmins will be just as receptive this year.

"We had a great turnout and we're hoping to build our audience," he said. "I hope all the kids and parents will spread the word because it turned out really well. It's very near and dear to our hearts for sure. I hope lots of kids will come out and enjoy the show."

Shows take place on Nov. 16 and Feb. 1 from 2-3 p. m. at École secondaire catholique Thériault. Single tickets are $15, a season pass is $25 and for a family of three both shows will cost $65. Tickets are available at Your Independent Grocer or by phoning 267-1006.

TSO keeps it in the family
First concert of the season
By JESSICA YOUNG, THE DAILY PRESS

It was truly a family affair. The first concert for the Timmins Symphony Orchestra season on Saturday evening at École secondaire catholique Thériault had four Jones family members participating in the evening's event: Guest artist Megan Jones, her brother and TSO musical director Matthew Jones and their parents who sat in the audience.

"It was a lot of fun but a little nerve wracking," Megan and Matthew's father Richard said.

"I feel I couldn't enjoy it fully. It was really nice to see. It's been a lot of years since we've seen them perform so thank you Timmins."

The last time Megan and Matthew performed was quite embarrassing, Megan explained.

Years ago she was sitting way at the back of the orchestra with her brother acting as conductor.

"Me and my stand partner had the wrong music out," she laughed.

Big brother Matthew had no qualms about telling the embarrassing story to the audience.

Being able to perform with his little sister was nothing short of a delight, Jones said.

"It's been awhile since we played together," he said. "We play when we're at home for the holidays but to perform together in a professional environment is great. It's been a long time."

This is the first time Megan has played with the TSO. Matthew took on the role of musical director in December 2000 and playing with so many musical professionals that Matthew holds dear to his heart made the performance for Megan a sentimental one.

"I performed with a group of people I've heard so much about," she said. "This group of people is very important to my brother and, therefore, they are important to me. It's very nice to be in this community."

The evening began with Johann Strauss Jr.'s Mogenblatter Walzer as the first piece with Megan entering the stage to perform the beloved Violin Concerto, Op. 64 by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy. Gary Kulesha's Romance (1986), Johann Sebastian Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 4, BWV 1049 and Glenn Buhr's Akasha were also performed to the delight of the audience.

"The Timmins audience is incredibly warm," Matthew said. "A concert if you are playing for yourself is pointless. You want to share it.

"It's really pleasant to share with the audience. It inspires us."

TSO concert master Angela Garwood admitted she was nervous before hitting the stage but once she got settled in, she was able to enjoy her surroundings.

"I'm looking forward to definitely playing some new pieces and seeing the orchestra improve," she said. "We accomplished our first concert and it's only going to get better from here."

Siblings open new TSO season
By BRANDON WALKER, THE DAILY PRESS

Local residents might witness a sibling rivalry on Saturday when conductor Matthew Jones and his sister Megan take the stage for the Timmins Symphony Orchestra's first show of the season.

Megan is quick to point out there wasn't a rivalry while they were growing up or at least she didn't feel there was one.

"We were really good friends," she said. "Matthew was five years older than me so he always took really good care of me.

"We had this connection through music ... I think it must've been harder for him to have a little sister who took to music so quickly. He was always really supportive and excited for me."

Megan will be the violin soloist on Saturday at 8 p. m. at École secondaire catholique Thériault. During Bach's Brandenberg Concerto No. 4, she will be joined by Matthew and Karsten Skeries, both playing recorder, along with the string orchestra.

It's "a really fun piece," Megan said. "It's pretty challenging technically, there's some pretty nasty fingerwork going on but it's a really fun piece to play."

Matthew described it as a piece written later in Bach's career, at the height of the baroque era.

"That piece is just a joy. If you put joy on a page I'd suspect it would look something like that," Matthew said.

Mendolssohn's Violin Concerto is another one of the featured pieces. Matthew said listeners will experience a whole range of emotion.

"It goes from sheer joy to thoughtfulness and perhaps even a bit of longing," he said. "It contains something of the human experience."

Megan called it one of her favourite pieces to perform.

"It's challenging," she said. "It's a beautiful concerto piece, probably one of the finest violin concertos ever written. It pretty much encompasses everything from a violinist's standpoint.

"It has a lot of beautiful phrases and a lot of virtuoso stuff with some beautiful slow moments in between."

There are a few tickets left for Saturday night's performance, which can be purchased at the door.

TSO turns to rock 'n' roll for latest fundraising venture
By CHELSEY ROMAIN, THE DAILY PRESS

The thought of an orchestra always conjures the same images. Dozens of people seated properly in elegant clothing, with instruments at the ready for a rendition of Beethoven's finest.

But members and supporters of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra decided to play on these images, showing a much more hip, funky personality with its newest fundraiser -- a calendar.

Members of the orchestra and the community put on makeup made famous by KISS, black clothes associated with Johnny Cash and big hair like the glam rockers of the 1980s.

"We wanted album covers that were easily recognized by people," said Mary Ellen Pauli, one of the calendar's producers.

It was conductor Matthew Jones who came up with an idea of producing a calendar with a rock 'n' roll theme to help raise money for the orchestra.

"The orchestra has 55 members and the choir almost as many," Pauli said. "It was difficult to try and get covers where we can use as many people as possible."

The calendar has a local celebrity page for December with Mayor Tom Laughren as Stompin' Tom Connors, John Larche as Johnny Cash and former Timmins first lady Clarice Power as Cher.

"We had a blast shooting the pictures, it was a real hoot," Pauli said. "We're very happy with how it turned out."

TSO acting president Kathy Vainio said the organization is always in need of funds, to provide the programming and services to the community.

"There are things we want to keep going, as a non-profit organization we have to make up the difference," Vainio said.

Johanna Harrison, public relations and events co-ordinator for the TSO, said the calendar really shows that orchestra members are not stuffy and poised all the time, and they can have fun.

"This idea helps us continue to make music happen in Timmins and do it at a high quality," Harrison said.

The calendars cost $20 each and feature photos for 13 months beginning with December 2008. The calendars are available for purchase at the Timmins Symphony Orchestra office, Timmins and District Hospital Foundation office, the Timmins Museum in The Porcupine Mall, the Timmins Square customer service booth, Shoppers Drug Mart on Algonquin Boulevard, and at all TSO concerts and events.

Thunderous applause greets Toronto Symphony Orchestra
By RON GRECH, THE DAILY PRESS

The Toronto Symphony Orchestra didn't disappoint.

The orchestra's evening performance at École secondaire catholique Thériault Thursday drew thunderous applause from the sell-out crowd of 700 people.

The performance included a world premier performance of a piece entitled "Rhea" composed by the Toronto symphony conductor Alain Trudel.

The concert was held as a kickoff for the Timmins symphony's 30th season and created a buildup of anticipation.

"It's a big event. As the date for the concert was approaching, people were getting very excited, ready to see a great show," said Johanna Harrison, events and public relations coordinator for the Timmins Symphony Orchestra.

The show also featured guest musician Nora Shulman who has been the Toronto Symphony Orchestra's principal flutist for more than 20 years.

Leading up to the event, organizers hoped the concert could raise $28,000. Those proceeds would be shared between the Toronto and Timmins orchestras.

However, Harrison said the benefits go beyond the proceeds from the show.

"It's not just profit from the ticket sales but also exposing people to the music," she said. "That's a big part of the show."

The concert in Timmins comes on the heels of a performance in North Bay.

"This is a big effort by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra to expose the North to a professional orchestra," said Harrison. "This was a fundraiser but it wasn't so much about profit as it was about exposing the North to this calibre of music.

"For example, in a few short weeks, they go from Timmins to Carnegie Hall, one of the most esteemed music halls in the world."

Earlier in the day, the Toronto symphony put on an in-school performance. "Through this tour, they've reached over 9,000 students in both Timmins and North Bay through their master classes as well as in-school performances."

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Toronto conductor meets up with Northern friends
By ARRON PICKARD, THE DAILY PRESS

When the Toronto Symphony Orchestra takes the stage tonight at École secondaire catholique Thériault, conductor Alain Trudel will see more than a few familiar faces in the audience.

The Toronto Symphony Orchestra has returned to Timmins to kick off the Timmins Symphony Orchestra's season with a fundraising concert. And, for several young musicians in the audience, they'll be able to see what was taught to them applied in a performance.

Daniele Jones, Nathalie Boudreau, Brian Scott and Alison Scott travelled to the Interprovincial Music Camp in August, where they were able to further develop their skills under the guidance of Trudel and three other conductors. Upon his arrival at the Days Inn in Timmins, Trudel was enthusiastically greeted by two of the four campers.

"It was an amazing experience," Jones, a flautist, said of the camp. "We were able to work with one of the best conductors in Ontario. He taught us how to work together as a team."

One of the best aspects of the camp, said Boudreau, a violinist, was the fact Trudel didn't focus on individual musicians, rather he shared his knowledge with the entire camp as a whole. The week-long camp was incomparable to anything she had ever experience, she said.

"It'll be nice to see them perform here in Timmins," Boudreau said.

Trudel said Timmins has produced some excellent musicians over the years. There were about 300 participants attending the Interprovincial Music Camp and all four Timmins musicians were selected for the top orchestra of the camp.

"It's a pretty select group and a big accomplishment," Trudel said. "There's some really nice talent coming out of this community."

Trudel said he is looking forward to performing in front of a Timmins audience and said he has very fond memories of past performances with the local orchestra.

"It's nice to come back because the crowds are very appreciative," Trudel said. "Timmins has a soft spot in my heart because it's a very nice French community. I am more than happy to see all of our old friends and we are going to play our hearts out."

Performances by symphony orchestras are for everybody, he said. You don't have to have an appreciation for classical music to enjoy the Toronto or Timmins symphony orchestras, you just have to let the emotions wash over you as you're listening, he said.

"People go to concerts to experience the sound as it moves through them, especially with live orchestra music because there are so many players on stage working together in harmony."

An exchange of energy between the orchestra and the audience is what creates the concert he said.

TSO launches new season Thursday
By CHELSEY ROMAIN, THE DAILY PRESS

The countdown is on to the new season of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra.

In just two days, the TSO will be welcoming the Toronto Symphony Orchestra to kick off the 30th season in style.

The famed orchestra has performed in musical halls across the globe, including in Timmins in past years, and will begin the special anniversary year for the TSO with a performance, which will include Dvorak's Symphony No. 8.

"They tour to help increase the exposure of that level of classical music," TSO events and public relations co-ordinator Johanna Harrison told The Daily Press. "This is a professional orchestra."

The performance will also include the world premiere of a piece of Maestro Alain Trudel's own work and guest flutist Nora Shulman, who has been the orchestra's principal flutist for more than 20 years.

The opening concert will take place at École secondaire catholique Thériault's Charles Fournier Auditorium on Thursday, with the performance beginning at 8 p. m.

"We try to do a special event every year to kick off the season," Harrison. "But our entire concert calender is pretty packed this year, so it's very exciting."

The first official TSO concert will take place on Oct. 25, and will have special guest soloist Megan Jones performing.

Other mentionable dates include two children's concerts featuring Janitor Jones and the TSO on Nov. 16 and Feb. 1, a performance by both the TSO and chorus on Dec. 13 and the TSO playing host to the North Bay Symphony for a joint concert featuring Brahms Symphony No. 2 on May 9, 2009.

On May 28, for the season's final concert, Timmins will host world renowned violinist and Grammy award winner James Ehnes, who will perform a Mozart Violin and piano Concerto.

In 2001 Ehnes won a Juno award for Best Classical Album and in February received the Grammy in the Best Instrumental Soloist(s) Performance (with Orchestra) category.

The fundraising event will support the TSO.

This year not only marks the 30th anniversary of the orchestra in Timmins, but the fifth anniversary of the TSO choir and the 10-year anniversary of the death of Geoffrey Lee, a former TSO conductor and namesake of the symphony's music school.

Tickets for Thursday's performance of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra are $40 and are available by calling the TSO at 267-1006.

For more information on the 2008-09 season visit www.timsym.com.

Happy campers in tune with nature
TSO-run camp offers unique experience
By Brandon Walker, The Daily Press

This is no ordinary band camp.

Timmins Symphony Orchestra music director Matthew Jones sneaks up beside one of the many buildings at Camp Bickell, in search of the more than 50 students in hiding.

He's careful to keep the blue coffee can within view, otherwise one of the energetic children will kick it and free his or her bandmates.

"I see you in the orange," Jones says with a smirk and a chuckle. "I got ya baby."

The young students received quite the work out on the first day of the Geoffrey James Lee School of Music summer camp, on Tuesday.

They started the day with a warmup including shoulder rolls and neck stretches, then moved on to a mass rehearsal with the choir and instruments.

Then students broke off into groups depending on the instrument they specialize in, to practice pieces of music.

TSO gearing up for 30th-anniversary celebrations
By CHELSEY ROMAIN THE DAILY PRESS

The Timmins Symphony Orchestra has plenty of events lined up for a busy concert season.

As the TSO gears up to celebrate its 30-year anniversary, as well as five years in existence for the TSO choir, several big-name guests will join in the festivities.

This year also marks the 10- year anniversary of the death of Geoffrey Lee, a former TSO conductor and namesake of the symphony's music school.

On Sept. 11, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra will help officially launch the musical season in Timmins with a performance at École secondaire catholique Thériault.

Toronto's symphony, which has performed in music halls and festival's around the world, will also play in North Bay. Both visits will include a public performance, student concerts and a variety of in-school programs.

"The tour is supported by the Ontario Arts Council," said TSO events and public relations co-ordinator Johanna Harrison. "They tour to help increase the exposure to that level of classical music."

The concert by the Toronto orchestra will help local musicians as they prepare for their own season to begin the following week.

The Toronto symphony will be led by Maestro Alain Trudel and be joined by guest flutist Nora Shulman, who has been the orchestra's principal flutist for more than 20 years.

The concert will include work from Dvorak's Symphony No. 8, as well as the world premiere of a piece of Trudel's own works.

"This is a professional orchestra," said Harrison. "The in-school sessions and master classes in the community will allow different players and youth to learn from them in smaller groups and have access to that music."

This isn't the first time the Toronto symphony has visited the Northern TSO, performing in 2005 for a full house. Occasionally, a handful of musicians from Toronto head north to hold classes for students.

"We try to do a special event every year to kick off the season," Harrison said. "But our concert schedule is pretty packed this year, so it's very exciting."

Tickets for the Toronto symphony's performance go on sale this afternoon at Your Independent Grocer for $40.

The first TSO concert of the year will be held on Oct. 25, with guest soloist Megan Jones -- who's not only a violinist, but also conductor Matthew Jones' sister.

Other guests this year will include internationally acclaimed pianist Teresa Walters, the North Bay Symphony, Grammy Award winner James Ehnes and none other than Janitor Jones -- an onstage persona of conductor Matthew Jones.

If Sept. 11 or Oct. 25 is just too long to wait to get your fill of Timmins' classical music, the organization is inviting the public out to a special performance by youth at the TSO Summer Camp's final performance.

Beginning Monday, students will attend a week-long camp at Camp Bickell learning from several of the TSO's greatest musicians, including the orchestra's newest concert master Angela Garwood and principal viola Ariane Alexander.

At the end of the week, on Aug. 23 at 1 p. m., the public is invited to attend the camp's final performance.

Timmins Daily Press

TSO officials are grateful for community support

On behalf of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, it is our pleasure to recognize and thank all who joined us on May 24, at our fundraising gala with Don Carroll and his Fabulous Little Swing Band. The Gala evening, sponsored by Xstrata Copper, The Daily Press, the Days Inn and EZ Rock was a grand success drawing a diverse and most enthusiastic crowd.

This event could not have been possible without the generous support of so many community-minded businesses and individuals. Timmins displayed its 'heart of gold' and beaming pride for its 'own' orchestra.

Special thanks goes out to the Days Inn staff and management (including Louise Brazeau, Jason Van DeKraats and Fran Ces) who provided exemplary service and a delicious meal.

Additional thanks goes out to Midnight Express (Luc Chalifaux) and Perfect Settings (Carole Gervais and Estelle Demers), both of whom completed the experience with top-quality sound and beautiful décor.

Appetizers and dinner wine were courtesy of Iain Martin, investment adviser at RBC Dominion Securities.

Our silent auction was made possible by many local businesses and individuals. A big thank you to Esko Vainio who very kindly provided many of the auction items.

Being a non-profit volunteer-based orchestra and chorus, we rely on Fundraising dollars to continue in the pursuit of musical excellence and service to the community.

We applaud our event volunteers: Suzanne Robichaud, Ann Henning, Cameron Grant, Mits Takayesu, Mollie Petryna, Amy and Steve Stewart, Anne Marie Baranyk, Katherine and Debbie Armstrong and Tammy, Kristina & Kaitlin Senkus.

As well to the String Quartet who provided entertainment before dinner (Matthew Jones, Geoff McCausland, Audrey Grant and Caitlin Roos).

Finally, a standing ovation goes out to Don Carroll, who brought his band over from Halifax to support the symphony. Don put a great deal of heart into the planning and preparation leading up to and during the performance.

His efforts paid off as his rich vocal talent and pure love of music bridged musical genres and the generations for a remarkably unforgettable evening.

It was solid proof that we are all working together for the joy, benefits and love of music.

We invite Timmins to come out and experience the Symphony starting in September for our 2008 - 2009 30th anniversary season.

A variety of concerts are in the offering, with something for all.

Keep your ears open for the Toronto Symphony Orchestra; the TSO and Chorus in Handel's Messiah; Soloists Megan Jones, Sharlene Wallace, Nancy Woods, Teresa Walters and Grammy Award-winning violinist James Ehnes.

As well, Janitor Jones returns to conduct the highly popular not-to-be-missed Girones Children's Concert Series.

See you on the downbeat!

Johanna Harrison, event co-ordinator

and Kathy Vainio, past-president

Timmins Daily Press

TSO's Don Carroll event was great entertainment

I was one of the many people who attended the Timmins Symphony Orchestra fundraising gala at the Days Inn on Saturday.

I would like to express my appreciation to those who organized such an absolutely successful evening.

The dinner was excellent, along with the silent auction.

However, I must confess the entertainment provided by Don Carroll and his fabulous band deserves special mention.

Don's choice of vocals, accompanied by his talented musicians evoked memories of a wonderful bygone era ... that of the big bands, when swing was more than just a word.

The audience loved Don and company ... offering them a number of standing ovations.

Hopefully they will return to Timmins and perform again in the future.

Once again, thanks to all for a very memorable evening.

Gordon Spears,
Timmins

Timmins Daily Press

By Chelsey Romain

It may have been a Timmins Symphony Orchestra fundraising event, but the sounds of Beethoven and Puccini were replaced with the jazzy sounds of Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. But there was Don Carroll, standing on stage in front of more than 300 people, backed up by a seven-piece jazz band, guaranteeing an evening of music never experienced in Timmins before.

The rare performance Saturday night was all part of the TSO's fundraising gala, complete with dinner and silent auction to help cover costs of its upcoming season.

"We were just so pleased he was willing to help us out with the fundraiser,"

said TSO president Debbie Armstrong of Carroll.

"It's a very different type of venue, both for Timmins and the symphony and the support has been phenomenal."

More known for the East-Coast style of music he performs with his brother Dave, as part of Sons of Maxwell, Carroll returned to his hometown this weekend both without his brother and a different style of music.

"It's like a whole new marriage, and it's something I have been working on for a couple of years,"

Carroll said before Saturday night's performance.

"It's like a dream gig."

"I don't know any singer who wouldn't want to be performing these kind of songs with a band like I have."

Backed by four-piece horn section, an upright bass, drums and piano, Carroll called his performance a set straight from the Rat Pack era that began in the mid-1950s.

"I'm not trying to reinvent the wheel," Carroll said.

"We're just trying to authentically capture that style."

Not ready to create a CD filled with big band jazz music, Carroll said playing in the TSO fundraiser will not only help out the organization, but help him along his career path the old fashioned way.

"I think it's crazy to put out an album before people are actually interested in buying it," Carroll said. "In the old days you would put a band together, create a sound, get fans and then create a CD." Because the evening offered a different type of event than normal, event co-ordinator Johanna Harrison said they were able to attract its regular audience and more.

"I think it's all inclusive, for TSO supporters, for Sons of Maxwell supporters and those who truly enjoy this type of music," Harrison said.

"As an organization we're always looking to attract new people to your shows."

TSO musical director and conductor Matthew Jones said

Carroll's willingness to come back to Timmins in support of the Orchestra is proof of the close relationship between musicians of all genres.

"It shows we're all out there for the common cause,"

Jones said.

"Our mission as an organization is to allow as many people as possible to enjoy the music we perform.

"In order to do that we need to keep costs at a minimum and fundraisers like this help us do that."

Armstrong said concert ticket sales only cover between 25 and 40 per cent of their total costs, which include theatre rental, teaching, professional faculty and special guests.

In addition to ticket sales for Saturday's event, silent auction items, which included guitar lessons with Jason Sadites, vintage wine, gift baskets and art, sponsorship, and in-kind donations, raised a net amount of about $25,000.

Beginning in September, TSO officials promise a special year as the organization celebrates 30 years. In addition to a classic TSO performances, next season will include the second annual children's concert series, a performance by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra & Grammy Award winning violinist James Ehnes.

Timmins Daily Press

By Jessica Young.

Twisting and turning, Timmins Symphony Orchestra conductor Matthew Jones finally broke free and escaped from a band of pirates who have been keeping him hostage since the TSO's last performance.

"I think I've escaped heroically," he said of the fictitious holding. "They tortured me with out-of-tune singing. It was hell."

Thunderous applause could be heard throughout cole secondaire catholique Th‚riault on Saturday evening as Jones took to the stage and began conducting the opening piece for the play "The Pirates of Penzance." The TSO joined forces with 25 actors to bring the performance to life for two shows over the weekend.

The play centres around Frederick, a poor pirate who seems to have everything working against him.

His childhood nurse is obsessively in love with him and once he finally escapes and finds true love, his new father-in-law, Major-General Stanley, has it in for him.

With lots of physical comedy coupled with British humour, the play highlights all the struggles of poor Frederick as a pirate.

"It's extremely funny," director Laureen Kuhl said. She got to sit in the front section during the Saturday evening performance and watched her creation be enjoyed by the audience. Kuhl was elated that every seat was sold for the opening night performance.

Lead actor Jim Davis, who plays Frederic, was ecstatic about how the performance went.

"It's a wonderful audience and group (of actors) to be with. The enthusiasm (from the audience) was infectious," he said. "We rehearsed long and hard. It's definitely an honour to perform with the TSO. Most of us have never done it and it's a real treat."

Two sisters really enjoyed the music and pirates on stage.

Cecile Bonsall was invited by her sister to attend the show and she says the performance didn't disappoint.

"It's vivacious and the music is wonderful," she said.

Sitting right in the front row was Sean Lee and Shane McBride.

Shane's wife Lindsay was making her debut on stage as a constable and he was quite nervous for her.

"She's rehearsed quite a few times but I'm still nervous," he said. "I told her to break a leg and I hope that helped."

Lee was cheering on his friends Lindsay and Aileen Kleinhuis, who plays Mabel. The two gentlemen sat proudly and watched the people they cared for have the spotlight.

"It's tremendous," Lee said. "I enjoy the live performances so it's very enjoyable."

Pirates 'kidnap' TSO conductor to promote upcoming show; Production features romance, sword comedy and music

Timmins Daily Press - By Jessica Young

Someone is being held hostage, but don't call the police.

Recently, viewers watched in mock horror as Matthew Jones, conductor of the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, was kidnapped by pirates during a concert featuring Kayla Wong.

The audience was told that if they want to see their beloved conductor again, they would have to see the next TSO production, "The Pirates of Penzance at École secondaire catholique Th‚riault on May 10 and 11.

At a top-secret location, The Daily Press was let in to make sure Jones was still alive and well.

He begged the people of Timmins to help set him free. If music lovers come to "The Pirates of Penzance," they will surely be entertained, he said.

Jones said his request was not in the least bit selfish in nature.

"It's really, really funny," director Laureen Kuhl said. "If you like British comedy, this is for you. There are a lot of parodies."

The idea for this production began almost a year ago, Jones said. It's a 105-minute light opera with singing, theatre and symphony.

He and Kuhl have worked tirelessly to help bring the show to life.

"There is a little bit of romance, sword comedy, a touch of drama and the music is lovely," Kuhl said.

She labels the play a modern comedy.

Last October, the cast was hired and rehearsals have been taking place since November. Fifty members of the TSO and 25 actors make up the cast of this play.

Every single member of the production is working on a volunteer basis, stage manager Johanna Harrison said.

"If you like British comedy, this is for you. There are a lot of parodies."

Director Laureen Kuhl

Tickets are being sold at Your Independent Grocer for $22, $25, or $28. The May 10 performance begins at 8 p.m. The show begins at 2 p.m. on May 11.

Organizers said the show is family friendly.