A Burnaby singer is a featured performer in this month's SONGFIRE Festival of Song.
Robyn Driedger-Klassen can be seen several times during the festival, which opened June 3 and runs until June 24 at the University of British Columbia and various venues around Vancouver.
The annual festival brings together local and international artists and scholars to study and celebrate the art song genre, with its fusion of music and poetry.
"Song is one of the most fundamental forms of expression. It's the way we share our life experiences across generations - from lullabies to love songs, in ritual and in celebration, across all cultures since forever - humanity sings its stories," said Rena Sharon, artistic director of the Vancouver International Song Institute, which stages the festival each year.
"SONGFIRE opens its doors to everyone throughout the month of June in celebration of art song. Art song ignites words and hearts through the power of soaring voices and beautiful piano landscapes."
Driedger-Klassen, a professional soprano who lives in Burnaby, is featured in several different performances at the festival, including upcoming concerts on June 14 and 22.
She brings to the stage an extensive background that spans the musical spectrum from baroque to contemporary music. She has performed with companies throughout the Pacific Northwest - including Seattle Opera, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Vancouver Opera and Vancouver Bach Choir - as well as around the world.
She has also been an active member of the Vancouver International Song Institute for many years, serving as a performer, teacher and organizer.
Tickets for festival events range from free to $40. For a full schedule and all the details about the festival, see www.songfire.ca.
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