Organist, John Vandenbeld to play in Nanton
JOYFUL NOTES - John Vandenbeld, an acclaimed organist, pianist and musical director from Claresholm, will be performing at the Nanton United Church On Nov. 2. Photo submitted
By David Gale
Music lovers in the Foothills region are invited to an afternoon of “Joyful Notes” on Sunday, Nov. 2, as acclaimed organist and pianist John Vandenbeld performs at the Nanton United Church from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
This family-friendly concert, presented by the United Church Women of Nanton, will feature a wide range of music from classical and semi-classical selections to hymns, spirituals, and familiar popular tunes. Following the concert, guests are welcome to stay for coffee, tea, and homemade sweets provided by the United Church Women.
Organizer Susan Somerville, secretary of the United Church Women, said the event will also include a special opportunity for aspiring musicians. “After the performance, John will be offering a short tutoring session for a small group interested in learning to play the organ,” Somerville explained. “He’s very passionate about teaching and about keeping the tradition of organ music alive.”
Vandenbeld, a graduate of the Royal Conservatory of Music (1967), was born in the Netherlands and has long maintained a special connection to Canada – his hometown in Holland was liberated by Canadian forces during the Second World War. Over his career, he has served as organist and choir director in numerous communities, including with the St. Michael’s Cathedral Choir in Toronto and as the founding director of the Dutch Canadian Choir of Calgary in 1972. That ensemble performed at Spruce Meadows, for Queen Elizabeth II, and earned national recognition for its contribution to Canadian culture.
In later years, Vandenbeld founded the Claresholm Community Singers, which gained a strong reputation across southern Alberta and frequently performed at the historic Empress Theatre in Fort Macleod – one of his favourite venues.
This concert marks Vandenbeld’s first performance in Nanton, and Somerville said the community is eager to welcome him. “We’re thrilled to have such a professional musician coming to share his talent with us,” she said. “It’s going to be a wonderful afternoon of music and fellowship.”
Tickets are $20, which are available at the door or can be reserved, and include admission to both the concert and the post-performance refreshments. For more information, call 403-646-2648.