Welcome back!
As we start the 2020/2021 teaching season, times continue to be challenging but I trust that everyone is safe and healthy, and that there has been time to rejuvenate over the summer. Below are some developments for the Fall; be sure to check the Branch calendar for updates as the season progresses.
Centennial Celebrations
The year 2020 marks the Branch’s 100th anniversary and the website has already incorporated a new page: “Our History”. As noted in an earlier email, an in-person gathering will be planned for 2021 to properly honour the occasion but in the meantime a series of specials events is being planned. We start on Monday September 14 with Jon Kimaru Parker. Mr. Parker participated in Branch events as a young musician and we are honoured that he is joining us at this time. Click on this link to read more and to RSVP by September 8. Announcements for the October event will be sent in the coming weeks.
Memory Project
With the passing of Donna Fishwick in June, the community lost a vibrant musical advocate. Since then, the family has granted permission to post the eulogy read at her private memorial service, please visit this link to read the article.
An interview with Jocelyn Pritchard completed in August will also soon be added to the Memory Project.
Other news
- Three 2020 Student Bursaries were awarded in August: $500 for junior piano, $705 for intermediate violin and $1000 for senior piano
- A CMW Festival update will be emailed before the scheduled opening of registration on September 15.
- The responses of the Fee and Make-up Lesson Policy surveys have been studied by a committee of three executive members; the results will be announced and posted on the Members Only page in the coming weeks.
Letter of Informed Consent
If you are returning to in person lessons, remember to take advantage of the “Letter of Informed Consent” on the Provincial BCRMTA website. Click here to access it. If you are continuing with online lessons, be sure to connect with your colleagues at Branch meetings to stay in touch and avoid isolation.
Be safe, be kind, be calm!
Barbara Siemens
President - Vancouver/Burnaby BCRMTA