The Sunday, March 17 Chemainus Classical Concerts presentation of ‘Buttons and Bellows’ is sure to get the toes tapping and bring a huge smile to the faces of patrons.
The dynamic duo of Walter Martella and Karina Inkster bring a varied and easily accessible program of classics re-imagined, soundscapes from the movies, Latin-American selections by Astor Piazzolla, and even Chopin and Bach, where they switch seamlessly between the accordion and piano.
“Walter and Karina believe strongly in the power of music in the community and their annual Accordion Fest held in Powell River is a hugely popular event, uniting people from all walks of life through the pure joy of making music together,” pointed out Rykie Avenant, the artistic co-director for Chemainus Classical Concerts.
It will be an intimate afternoon of relaxing, uplifting music by two superb artists, “a reminder that music has the power to unite us even when we differ greatly on everything else,” added Avenant.
Martella is the conductor and music director of the Powell River Academy of Music. He is an accomplished instrumentalist that includes the trumpet.
Martella earned a Diploma in Jazz Trumpet from Malaspina College, a Bachelor of Music Degree from UVic and attended the Banff School of Fine Arts. Conducting became a significant part of his life and career after returning to Powell River to study at PRAM under Don James.
Inkster’s talents go well beyond music. She’s a fitness and nutrition coach, the author of five books, a magazine writer and host of the No-B.S. Vegan podcast that’s syndicated on Powell River radio. As the founder of K.I. Health & Fitness, Inkster works with vegan clients all over the world along with her online coaching team. She even holds a Master’s degree in Gerontology, specializing in health and aging.
Contact Eleanor Montour at 250-748-8383 for reserved tickets, $23 pre-paid and $25 at the door, for the 2 p.m. March 17 concert at St. Michael’s Church in Chemainus. Tickets are $30 at the door on the day of the performance and $10 for Under 18.