Music lovers in the capital might be pumped for Bluesfest, but Ottawa’s newest music festival, opening today, is creating a buzz among a different musical circuit.
The classical music festival Music and Beyond brings international legends, including soprano Kathleen Battle, acclaimed pianists Peter Serkin and Menahem Pressler, one of the world’s top vocal groups, the Hilliard Ensemble, and the renowned Canadian Brass to Ottawa — some for the first time.
While Battle “is one of the biggest names ever,” the Hilliard Ensemble is making its Ottawa debut in this exclusive North American engagement, said the festival’s artistic and executive director Julian Armour.
“People will come from all over North America to hear them.
“To be able to hear so many great artists and great concerts is really rare,” he said.
“This festival has the potential to attract a lot of people from out of town.”
The festival features 350 musicians playing in 82 concerts.
