It began in 1927 as the Victoria Music Festival and has come a long way, but the goal remains the same. Its purpose is the “development of musical ability and appreciation of good music and it’s allied arts.” Back then it was a major event in the city’s cultural life with – according to the Mayor in 1935 – one tenth of Victoria’s population represented! Today there are honours and awards in Musical Theatre, Piano, Choral, Vocal, Speech and Dramatic Arts, Dance, Strings and Ethnic Dance with participants ranging in age from 4 to 70. It is a major stepping stone for many talented musicians and performing arts students. The 2010 festival began March 27 and continues through May 8. For more information visit www.gvpaf.org/pages/aboutus.html and you’ll have one more terrific reason to visit beautiful Victoria.
If you come to attend the Victoria Music Festival, you can find excellent accommodation at one of the many excellent Victoria Bed & Breakfasts who are part of the British Columbia B&B B&Bkeepers Guild. Stay an extra few days to explore the many other attractions Victoria has to offer!