Revved up concert
By Melissa Piche Times Contributor
Music lovers in Strathmore are in for a treat as ReMix: Powered by Revv52 takes the stage at Strathmore United Church for the Arts on 817 concert on Feb. 8.
The high-energy ensemble, a smaller offshoot of Calgary’s renowned Revv52, promises an unforgettable night filled with powerful vocals, intricate harmonies, and a set list spanning multiple genres.
John Morgan, Artistic Director of Revv52 shared his excitement about the upcoming performance.
“We’re really looking forward to it,” said Morgan. “We’ve put together a set list that’s going to appeal to a broad audience.”
Revv52, founded in 1952, is a dynamic performance group known for its 52-member ensemble and innovative vocal arrangements. Due to the logistical challenges of bringing such a large group to every venue, ReMix was formed about a decade ago to provide a more intimate, flexible experience, while maintaining the high-energy style of the full group.
“ReMix consists of about 13 to 14 of our members,” said Morgan. “We have a book of about 100 songs we can pull from which allows us to tailor performances for different audiences.”
The smaller group has performed at corporate events, charity functions, and even Carnegie Hall as part of Deke Sharon’s Total Vocal showcase.
Theatregoers at the Strathmore United Church can expect a mix of beloved classics and fresh arrangements that put a new spin on familiar songs.
“We take songs people know and love, but present them in a way they’ve never heard before,” Morgan said. “For example, we’ve got a Johnny Cash medley, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ and an acapella rendition of ‘Smile’ by Charlie Chaplin. We even include a little country with ‘Wagon Wheel.’”
The performance will also feature a live band adding an extra layer of energy and musical depth to the show.
Like many musical ensembles, Revv52 had to pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic turning to virtual performances and music videos.
“We actually made over 30 videos during that time,” Morgan noted. One of the most special projects was a version of ‘O Canada’ featuring Cree, French, and English, which got over half a million views.
In recent years Revv52 has been embracing new technology including individual handheld microphones for all members and video integration in performances. Their goal is to continue expanding collaborations with other performance groups and even work alongside top recording artists as a backing ensemble.
Beyond just another stop on their performance schedule, this show holds personal significance for ReMix.
“One of our members, Becca Peterson, is actually from the Strathmore area,” Morgan revealed. “We love the opportunity to perform in different communities and having that local connection makes it even more special.”
ReMix’s performance promises to be a lively and engaging evening that will have audience members singing along to their favourite tunes.
“We’re bringing our full band and it’s going to be an amazing night,” Morgan said.
For more information on Remix people can visit their website where they can also find a link to their YouTube channel revv52.com.
Tickets can be purchased at The Vault Cultural Collective or online (www.smoreuc.com).