Gallery

Festival Directors

PALENAI initiated and directed new cultural events involving music, art history, and education.

How it started

In 1984, PALENAI’s work brought Joy and Adrienne to the remote west coast of Vancouver Island through their commission for the National Parks Centennial, Prelude: Pacific Rim. Preparing for the 60-minute multimedia program, the duo spent three months researching and photographing areas of the Park. During the summer of the Centennial, they performed the program weekly in the Greenpoint Theatre. Gradually they became familiar to the Pacific Rim Arts Society and were invited to become the Directors of Community Music. This adventure led to rich music programs in the area and planted the seed for the Pacific Rim Summer Festival.

PALENAI was able to identify ideal venues and to garner support for an international festival called “Soundwaves on the Edge” of Canada. Historic churches, art galleries, schools in the communities and venues within the National Park became host to concerts given by professional musicians and students from 14 countries.

PALENAI remained Artistic Directors from 1986 to 2002.

“ One of Canada’s most distinguished showcases of chamber music.”
Department of Canadian Heritage, Government of Canada

“Music played as it ought to be played beautifully, made so accessible in such splendid surroundings. We have been surprised and delighted to happen upon this place as tourists and to be treated to a musical feast. Altogether, a lovely and moving experience.”
— Mark and Ruth W., Shropshire, U.K.

“I was in the life of a real musician. The atmosphere was like family. I can hear warm music here. I hope I can have a chance like this again. Thank you.”
— Young Ran Lee, M.Mus. student, Dongduk University, Seoul, Korea

Festival on the St. Lawrence offered concerts in historic venues in communities along the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Mozart Bicentennial Festival
Sponsored by CBC Calgary and the Alberta Foundation
44 musicians · 4 concerts · 4 venues