Muskoka’s longest running classical concert series celebrates 60 years with its upcoming 2007-2008 season, and promises to be a season that no classical music lover in Muskoka will want to miss.

It all began in 1947 when restaurateur and musician Gordon Sloan persuaded the Rotary Club to offer professional music at Gravenhurst Opera House in the Town Hall Series. Soprano Lois Marshall appeared, as did composer/conductor Howard Cable, and many others.

In 1956, Community Concerts of Canada spurred a local branch to continue the series, in the process providing a tried and true structure of publicity, membership recruitment and concert presentation. Members joined from all over Muskoka including Bracebridge, Huntsville, MacTier and places in between. Although most concerts were conducted in Gravenhurst, Bracebridge was also host.

By 1972, the Ontario Arts Council provided audition access to Canadian artists, plus grants and other support. The Muskoka Concert Association took over from Community, bringing Canadian Brass, Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, Jane Coop, the Canadian Opera Company, Maureen Forrester and a sparkling array to the acoustics, ambience and after-concert opportunities to meet the artists over simple refreshments.

Thanks to Cyril Fry for providing the above historical account. He should know it well because Cyril and his wife Marion were subscribers to the Rotary Town Hall Series, and in 1956 Cyril became the first president of the Muskoka Community Concerts. He then became president of the Muskoka Concert Association in 1972, with Marion alongside as the first secretary.

Tradition continues; Dean Perry is the president for the upcoming season, and he is aided by a group of dedicated volunteers who take on the various positions to run the concert series. Muskoka Concert Association is now a registered charitable organization.

Our Concert Series opener on Wednesday, Oct. 17, 8 p.m., features the brilliant duo of Nicholas Coulter and Graham Hargrove. Their “Mark of Zorro” performance has Coulter and Hargrove playing marimba and various percussion instruments, accompanied on piano by James Bourne — all while accompanying the swashbuckling adventure live! This opening concert will also be host to some very special 60th anniversary celebrations and surprises.

Inna Perkis and Boris Zarankin take to the stage for our second concert on Sunday, Feb.10, 2008, at 2 p.m. Founders, directors and performers of the superb Off Centre Music Salon Series held in the Glenn Gould Studio of the CBC, these two performers will delight all in this afternoon performance of four hand piano repertoire.

Back by popular demand for our third concert on Friday, March 7, 2008, 8 p.m. is the eclectic, energetic and spectacular Montreal Guitar Trio. Described by CBC as “the hottest guitar ensemble in Canada,” they are sure to please both young and old.

To close off the season with a bang we bring back an audience favourite to a new venue. Concert four will be held in the new Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre in Bracebridge on Tuesday, May 13, 2008, 8 p.m. Gracing the stage will be the charming trio Ensemble Vivant. Catherine Wilson piano, Erica Beston violin and Sharon Prater cello have been performing to sold-out houses throughout North America and Europe for 15 years.

Don’t miss out on enjoying this upcoming spectacular season of classical music at its best. To enjoy any one, or all, of these concerts call or e-mail Mary Kerfoot at 641-8773, mkerfoot@cogeco.ca.

An adult series ticket is only $85 for four great performances. Student series tickets are only $30. If you know a student who loves music, a series concert ticket can be a gift that will leave a lasting impression. After each concert light refreshments are served with an opportunity to mingle with the artists. Tickets are also available through Gravenhurst Opera House.