Strathmore Performing Arts Festival celebrates seven years

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

The Strathmore Performing Arts Festival is celebrating its seventh year, continuing to expand opportunities for young performers and draw audiences from across southern Alberta.

Loralee Laycock, president of the organization – commonly referred to as SPAF – says the festival has evolved significantly since its first event in 2019.

“Our first festival that we put on was in 2019, so now 2026 … that would be seven festivals, except for we didn’t have one in 2020 because of COVID. Six actual festivals, but the festival’s been running for seven years.”

This year’s festival has drawn 428 registrations, a number Laycock says reflects steady community support.

“It’s about the same as last year actually, but with a steady number, we’re happy with that,” she said.

One of the fastest-growing components is the band festival, scheduled for March 18-19 at Holy Cross Collegiate.

“The band festival is getting bigger,” she said. “We’re bringing in more schools from other places.”

Because of increased participation, two adjudicators will attend on the second day, and every available performance slot has been filled. The band festival also uniquely attracts performers from outside Strathmore, including groups from across southern Alberta.

Local participation is also expanding. Westmount School will bring a choir, and Wheatland Crossing School bands are participating, reflecting broader involvement within the Golden Hills school division.

Laycock emphasized the importance of volunteers in making the festival possible.

“We always need more volunteers,” said Laycock. “We couldn’t do it without them. Every year we get a few new people who attended the festival the year before and say, ‘Wow, that was really great. I’d love to help out next year.’”

While volunteers are essential during the festival, SPAF also seeks year-round board members to assist with planning. The organization typically holds its annual general meeting in early June.

Laycock says the festival offers something for everyone.

“Some people really love to watch singing and musical theatre because they like to connect with the stories and the songs,” said Laycock. “Some people love the instrumental because it gives them a connection to music they’re familiar with.”

The piano division continues to be one of the largest categories.

To enhance the experience, SPAF brings in a Steinway piano from Calgary so participants can perform on a concert-quality instrument.

“All the kids who play in our piano festival play on a Steinway, which is kind of a huge deal.”

When duets or ensembles perform, the venue’s grand piano is placed beside the Steinway, creating expanded learning and performance opportunities.

“To be able to play on a piano of that calibre is a real treat for those kids.”

Laycock also praised teachers for their dedication.

“The amount of time that these teachers put in … is astounding to me … making sure that these kids have a positive experience is really inspiring,” she said.

The festival begins March 18, with simultaneous events during the first two days.

Contemporary voice and instrumental classes will also run concurrently early in the festival, offering audiences plenty of viewing options.

This year, the Praeker family has donated funds to establish the Geordie Praeker Quarter Note scholarship, in memory of their son, Geordie.

“They wanted to really celebrate music and how music can help overcome challenges in your life and help you find joy,” said Laycock.

The scholarship will be awarded to a Grade 12 participant who applies by reflecting on how music has shaped their lives.

The festival concludes with the Best of the Best concert on April 1 at 7 p.m. at Hope Community Covenant Church. Admission is $5 per person or $10 per household.