SSO presents the inaugural concert of its 20th-anniversary season with an invitation to Stratford for a mesmerizing performance featuring "Beethoven's 5th." Led by conductor William Rowson and showcasing the exceptional talents of bassoonist Alexandre von Wartburg, this evening promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. The journey begins with Stravinsky's dynamic Pulcinella Suite, followed by Weber's enchanting Concerto for Bassoon in F, Op. 75, highlighting von Wartburg's virtuosity. Concluding the spectacle is Beethoven's timeless Symphony No. 5, inviting you to witness the sublime in classical music. Join us for a night that marks both celebration and innovation in our musical journey.

Concert arias composed by Aaron Davis and Margaret Atwood, sung by soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee.

As part of the Avondale program Measha and Aaron will perform “Zombie Blizzard”, a new song cycle that Aaron composed, setting Margaret Atwood’s poems to music, written for brass ensemble, rhythm section and voice. The brass quintet will include trombonist David Pell and other members of the Hannaford St. Silver Band, who commissioned the song cycle. “Zombie Blizzard” has a unique blending of the classical concert aria and jazz-influenced art song where Atwood’s lyrics tackle issues of sexism, humour, gender inequality, and grief.

Susan Grace and Steven Beck form one of the most dynamic piano duos before today’s concert-going public. Giorgio Koukl’s EarRelevant review of their latest CD, Hallelujah Junction says “..their incredible array of capacities is strong enough to place them precisely on the top of the piano duos of today.” Fanfare’s Robert Carl writes that “Quattro Mani is one of the most enduring and leading keyboard duos anywhere” and the Boston Globe printed “Quattro Mani proved itself fearless and equal to every challenge.”

A daring and ultimately touching combination of music and dance, telling the story of Matthew Shepard, a young gay student at the University of Wyoming that was beaten, tortured and left to die on October 6, 1998. His death brought international attention to hate crime legislation, with President Barack Obama signing into law what is commonly referred to the “Matthew Sheppard Act” for hate crime prevention.

Echo Chamber is a performance series that intertwines live chamber music and dance in new choreographed works. The objective of director, Aaron Schwebel is to create performances that offer a new lens through which both music and dance can be experienced. By merging these two art forms in an intimate setting, Echo Chamber performances deliver the unique opportunity to see and hear music and dance together as one integrated expression.

Come and see our 2024 Jazz Academy participants as they are coached by SSM Jazz faculty Jim Doxas, Florian Hoefner, and Kelly Jefferson.

 Jazz Academy is sponsored by Ron Hikel & Tricia O’Malley, John & Leslie Wright, Jessica & Jeff Leney, Mark Fewer, and Andrew Hilton.

Ofra Harnoy has established herself as one of the greatest cellists on the world’s concert stage. She is one of Canada’s most celebrated personalities and is a Member of the Order of Canada. By joining the international artists roster of RCA Victor Red Seal in 1987, Ms. Harnoy became the first Canadian classical instrumental soloist since Glenn Gould to gain an exclusive worldwide contract with a major record label.

Canadian trumpeter, Mike Herriott, a respected multi-instrumentalist in both the classical and jazz genres, is in demand as a lead trumpeter, jazz improviser, orchestral soloist, bassist, arranger and composer. He has toured extensively through North America and South East Asia and has shared the stage with a host of luminaries, including Maynard Ferguson, Rob McConnell, Doc Severinsen, Arturo Sandoval, Michael Buble, Slide Hampton, Kenny Wheeler, Phil Nimmons, Maria Schneider, Seth MacFarlane and more.

A legend who needs no introduction, Angela Hewitt returns to Stratford for the first time in six years! Not to be missed!!

Michael Bridge, Yolanda Bruno and Mark Fewer in “Bring The Light”, featuring music by J.S. Bach, Benjamin Britten, Johnny Cash, Edith Piaf and more…!  7:30-9:00

Seatings at 4:45pm and 6:00pm

Take out 5:00- 6:30pm

Ham, salads, bun, pickles,

dessert with strawberries

(includes drinks for eat-in)

Tickets $25 ...on sale until June 10

from the church office

194 Avondale Ave

519-271-7946

proceeds support Avondale ministries

Led by Christin Dennis (Indigenous Knowledge Carrier) & Catered by the Howling Moon

Tickets are $35 and includes a lunch comprised of a variety of Indigenous food.

To reserve your ticket, email eventsavondale@wightman.ca or call 519-271-7946 x 223 and ask for Aleah.

Rev. Keith and the Pastoral Care Team invite you to join us for our annual Friendship Tea at Avondale United Church, Monday, May 27th at 2:00 p.m. There will be a short worship service with communion in the Sanctuary, followed by tea and treats in the Narthex.  Thanks to the Worship Team for assisting with refreshments. We encourage you to bring a friend who for one reason or another may find it difficult to attend regular Sunday service.  If transportation is required please contact the church office

Summer Song

May the Fourth Be with You

Brahms Violin Concerto