OPL’s live, local, virtual music show

OTTAWA – There is still plenty to come in the Ottawa Live and Local series brought to you by Ottawa Public Library (OPL) and Meridian Theatres at Centrepointe.

“This online series of concerts and workshops has been successful in providing a platform for local Ottawa artists to reach people right across the capital region and far beyond,” the OPL released in a statement yesterday (Aug. 25). “ With three concerts still to go, featuring Moonfruits, Silla and Rise and Amanda Rheaume, plus two interactive musical workshops, there is something for every musical taste, from roots/folk to Inuit throat singing blended with electronic beats and samples.”

The musical acts have been chosen to showcase the diversity and vibrance of Ottawa’s music scene. There are artists from all walks of life, and all are well established in their careers. Two bilingual acts have been featured as well, reflecting the deep roots of French and English language communities in Ottawa: Roxanne Potvin and Moonfruits. The conversations with the artists have given music lovers a unique glimpse into where their inspiration comes from, how they hone their material for recording, and given viewers an opportunity to get to know artists who live right in their back yard.  

“With the added offering of four workshops with the artists, people have a chance to interact with a seasoned artist such as Lynne Hanson on resolving creative blocks and the rich folk singing and dancing traditions of Franco-Ontarian music with art-folk duo Moonfruits,” the OPL said. “COVID-19 restrictions on live music performances have been hard on performers and artists everywhere and our local music community has been struggling as well. OPL is proud to be able to offer a virtual stage to help support our local artists in these difficult times and promote the amazing music of the Ottawa scene to a home-based audience here and all over the world.”

Mini-concerts take place every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m. on Facebook Live. Workshops are on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.

The full schedule of concerts and workshops is on the OPL website. These events are offered in partnership with Meridian Theatres at Centrepointe and generously sponsored by the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association.