Imagine enchanting choral music performed below a night sky, accompanied by footage of the performers highlighted on the big screen. Instead of a concert hall, the security and serenity of your own private vehicle as you hear live performance by a group described by the Calgary Herald as a “choral ensemble of considerable technical accomplishment, remarkable for its blend, refinement, and polish.”
This Car Concert by Luminous Voices combines the old-school charm of a drive-in theatre with modern technology and live performance to deliver a concert like none you’ve experienced before.
In a season with many limitations, High River Gift of Music is delighted to offer this escape into live musical performance in a format which safeguards the health of audience and performers. This event falls into the category of activities permitted by Alberta Health Services and the Alberta Government.
Praise for Luminous Voices
“A choir that is remarkably well balanced, effortless in its projection of a tight choral sound, and delivers the virtuosity and brilliance possible when the choristers are excellent and the direction is imaginative and musical.”
The Calgary Herald
This special concert is dedicated to the memory of Candice Scott. Candice was a devoted supporter and patron of the High River Gift of Music Society. She touched many lives with her kindness, care and generosity. We are deeply honoured to offer this musical tribute to Candice and are grateful for the support of her family and friends to present this concert.
About Luminous Voices
Calgary’s professional chamber choir spans culture and traditions to illuminate choral music of the past and present. Founded in 2012 by conductor and Artistic Director Timothy Shantz, the Luminous Voices ensemble delivers exceptional sonic experiences encompassing live and virtual performances, recordings, workshops, new commissions by contemporary composers, and community education and development.
The choir is becoming known for their willingness to experiment with format and material. In February 2020, they premiered Carmen Braden’s Crooked by Nature, a piece reflecting on the role of women in the Tudor age of England, which was commissioned especially for Luminous Voices,
The Wild Sun of Winter event will warm a winter evening by taking us on a musical adventure through darkness and towards light and optimism. The program features an international collection of works.
- Anton Bruckner • Ave Maria
- Nathaniel Dett • Ave Maria
- Eriks Esenvalds • Only in Sleep (with soprano solo)
- Morten Lauridsen • O Nata Lux
- Don MacDonald • Winter Sun
- Stephen Paulus • The Road Home
- Bill Withers • Lean on Me
How does a car concert work?
During car concerts, the singers are isolated in their own vehicles and perform using wireless microphones. The sound is mixed and amplified through an FM transmitter, connecting audience and performers through the car radio.
Step 1 • Buy your ticket.
Purchase a ticket online are available online.
Step 2 – Watch your email for instructions.
On the day of the concert, you will receive an email contained details of how to attend, including the radio frequency which will be used to transmit the music.
Before the event, you will also be emailed a self-assessment for symptoms of Covid-19. As patrons will remain in their vehicles for the entire concert, this provides an additional level of precaution to reduce the possibility of infection.
Step 3 – Park your car and tune in.
Before the concert, please follow the directions of our parking volunteers as they guide you to a spot in the lot of Ecole Secondaire Highwood High School.
Show your ticket (either on phone or printed) to the greeter at the parking lot entrance. Please do not open your car windows or leave your vehicle in order to comply with COVID safety protocols. Our attendants will be on site at 6:25 p.m. Please arrive with enough time to check in and park before we start the show at 7:00 p.m.
Once you’re settled, tune into the designated radio frequency.
Step 4 – Enjoy Luminous Voices!
Instead of applauding, express your appreciation by honking your horn at the end of each selection.
TIPS
Your vehicle is your concert venue, so bring everything you need to feel comfortable including snacks and warm clothing. No alcoholic beverages or cannabis allowed.
Please do not gather outside of your cars either before, after or during the event.
Expect the concert to last between 60-75 minutes. Be aware that you will be within your vehicle for the entire concert. The safety of car concerts depends on having all audience members stay in their own isolated space.
Washroom facilities are not available on site.
Learn more in our Facebook interview with Timothy Shantz.
What is a Car Concert?
Learn more about Luminous Voices.
