Inspired by his voyage to Canada’s arctic on a scientific research vessel last year, Winnipeg Symphony Resident Composer Vincent Ho has written a 30-minute symphony that will get its world premiere performance at the gala opening of the WSO’s New Music Festival.  The concert, scheduled for February 6, will also include works by Steven Stucky and John Tavener, and will be conducted by WSO music director Alexander Mickelthwate.

Featured performers in the new work include the Nunavut Sivuniksavut Performers, a group of throat singers from various Nunavut communities, and recorded sound-files of the Arctic environment.

Talking about the creative process, Dr. Ho notes:  “In the summer of 2008, I was provided with the opportunity to visit the Arctic region as part of an ‘Artist on Board’ program through the Circumpolar Flaw Lead System Study (CFL).  I was taken on board a state-of-the-art research vessel, the CCGS Amundsen, where I was introduced to studies conducted by many of the world’s leading arctic research scientists. I was also taken to Inuit communities to learn about their culture and how the current state of the environment has impacted their way of life. The goal was to provide me with first-hand experience of the Northern region while gaining a better understanding of climate change (from both the scientific and the cultural perspective)… I found myself developing a spiritual connection with the environment, and for good reason: I was in a vast open area; I was constantly being subjected to the environmental conditions of the region; and I was continually surrounded by nature’s angelic beauty, untouched by utilitarian society. I therefore felt that the music needed to express this spiritual connection that had formed.”

For tickets, visit here.