Our program is called “Encounters” and it features a mix of hidden gems by lesser-known historical composers, as well as new music by living composers (some active in the Calgary area!). As musicians we are always astonished by how much wonderful music is out there, and our goal for the program is to share some of this wonder with our audience, with the same excitement we would have as if we were introducing our audience to a great new friend.

Lindsey Herle, violin

Currently a member of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, violinist Lindsey Herle has played with several other Canadian orchestras, including the Hamilton Philharmonic, Calgary Philharmonic, and the Victoria Symphony. An alumna of both the National Youth Orchestra and the National Academy Orchestra, she recently participated in the National Arts Centre Orchestra Mentorship Program in 2022 and 2023. In addition to orchestral playing, Lindsey enjoys chamber music, and has participated in a wide variety of chamber concerts with colleagues and friends. She holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Victoria, a Performance Certificate from Mount Royal Conservatory, and a Master of Music from the University of Ottawa. During her graduate studies at the University of Ottawa she was awarded a grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. Her primary teachers include Yehonatan Berick, Yosuke Kawasaki, Ashley Vandiver, William van der Sloot, Sharon Stanis, and Peter Ellis.

Elizabeth Clarke, piano

Calgary-based pianist Dr. Elizabeth Clarke is active as a performer, collaborator, and teacher. She has performed numerous solo and chamber recitals in Canada and the United States, and has been featured as a concerto soloist with the University of Victoria orchestra. She is also an in-demand accompanist and frequently works with singers and instrumentalists of all levels.

As a teacher, Elizabeth previously held the position of Assistant Professor in Residence at Bradley University in Peoria, IL, as well as teaching assistantships at the University of Victoria and Michigan State University. Currently, she is a sessional instructor at Ambrose University, and maintains a private studio at Calgary Music Academy.

Elizabeth holds degrees in piano performance and music theory from the University of Alberta, Augustana Campus, University of Victoria, and Michigan State University. She has received numerous awards for her work, including the Governor General’s silver medal, the Johann Strauss scholarship for advanced musical study in Austria, and a graduate student grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

This concert is the third in a series of five Piano Concerts during 2024 generously sponsored by: