The Indian River Festival

Prince Edward Island

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Association

The Indian River Festival Association

In the 1970’s and ’80’s, the historic St. Mary’s Church, now home to the Indian River Festival, was in serious disrepair. At that time, suggestions were made to tear down the church as the parish alone could not afford to undertake the expensive renovations. Instead, the “Save St. Mary’s” campaign was launched in 1987. Due to an overwhelming response from area churches, businesses, individuals, families and other groups, the necessary renovations were paid for and completed within 3 years. One of the campaign initiatives was the “Sundays in the Summer” concert series proved to be extremely popular and a secure source of revenue; however, the volunteer core behind the series became stretched to its capacity. In order to evolve to the next level, a dedicated focus was required to become a separate entity and permanent event.

Consequently, in 1996 the Indian River Festival Association Inc. was formed as an incorporated, non-profit body for the presentation of fine music, and to aid in the continuing upkeep and restoration of St. Mary’s. In 2009, St. Mary’s Church was deconsecrated by the Roman Catholic Diocese and subsequently purchased in 2010 by the Association. In July of 2012, the church became a designated heritage place in recognition of its cultural and historical significance to Prince Edward Island. Together, the Association and the Friends of St. Mary’s work in partnership to support the restoration and preservation of this historic building.

Since incorporation, the Festival has been bringing the very best in classical, traditional, folk, jazz and world music to St. Mary’s Church. An annual destination event for tourists and locals alike, it continues to facilitate restoration projects to preserve this beloved venue while maintaining a busy concert schedule from June-September each year.

Over its 23 year history, the Festival has received many accolades: a 2012 Music PEI Award for Achievement in Classical Music, several ECMA nominations for event and venue of the year, twice named in the Globe and Mail as one of the best small summer classical music festivals in Canada, and most recently, it was listed as one of the top summer classical music festival’s in Canada by CBC Music in May 2014.


The Board and Staff

Artistic Director
Robert Kortgaard

Board of Directors and Festival Organizers

Chair – Fred Martin
Vice-Chair – Rene Hurtubise
Treasurer – Jenna Dominey

Past Chair – Patricia Hobbs

Directors
John Drinkwater
Lorna MacGillivray
Theresa MacLellan
Dean Perry

Staff Members
Executive Director – Don Quarles
Email:  don @ indianriverfestival.com

Testimonials

“I enjoyed playing the piano. It had a lovely touch and resonance to it, and the acoustics in the church was magnificient… Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to perform at the festival this year. I hope that I’ll be invited to do so again another time.”
David Thompson, Youth Legacy performer
I visited PEI a couple years ago with my sister. We attended Matt Anderson’s show at St. Mary’s church and we were blown away by the musician and the acoustics of such a majestic building. One of my best memories now.
Bernadette Morris, Patron
Was blown away by caliber of the talent & also the friendliness of their volunteer staff. It’s a world-class venue and lineup with hometown warmth and charm.
Alicia - Patron
If you love music and old churches on a soft summer evening, try to book your holiday to coincide with the festival at Indian River – you’ll want to return.
K. New, Oakville, ON
I absolutely love sitting the the church pews listening to great music! The experience can’t be replicated elsewhere on PEI and that is why any music lover should go to the Indian River Festival.
Marilyn Earle, Patron
Coming to Indian River each Summer for the last decade has been a highlight of our PEI experience each year. Too many wonderful artists to focus on anyone, or any ensemble, in particular. The venue is World Class and gets better each year as the stewards of this wonderful facility do their very best to make it more enjoyable for both residents and visitors.
Frank Falzett, patron
Even before a performance begins, you are instantly transported into a world of beauty and serenity when you walk into St. Mary’s Church. And once the music starts, you will be spellbound until it is regretfully time to go home. The variety in the program schedule is unsurpassed; there’s truly something for everyone. The Indian River Festival is one of a kind and has been the highlight of our summers for many years. I can’t wait for this season!
Elizabeth Leighton, Patron
“Hard to pick one moment; it was another great season. The Men of the Deeps was certainly one of those special events; I had the opportunity to speak briefly with one of the men who confirmed that much of their emotional depth came from their own experiences in the mines. The venue itself is unmatched for beauty and for the acoustics. I always enjoy the concerts and am always wondering what the line-up will be for the next season – each year you bring such a broad spectrum of musicians it is tru…
Margaret Munro, patron
The Indian River Festival is the recent recipient of the Music PEI Award for Achievement in Classical Music, and has been nominated for several ECMA Awards.
Indian River Festival
I have yet to attend a performance at the Indian River Festival that I haven’t enjoyed. No matter if it is classical or jazz, folk or rock, I choose any concert from the eclectic offerings and won’t be disappointed. The acoustics in this church are so good that they enhance any performance. It’s hard to pick a favourite, but when pushed I’ll choose two: Matt Anderson and Meesha. Their voices just fill this hall with glory.
Anne Putnam, Patron and Volunteer

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