BTA presents seven concerts per season and each artist is backed by excellent acoustics from the skills of a professional sound engineer. All guests have to do is show up, sit back, and let the music take them away.
“The Society was formed in 1988 by a group of local citizens including Myrna Gnyp, Peggy McGill, Judy Lawton, and Jane Toews,” says Richard Toews, Treasurer. “No live music was accessible to families in the area at that time.”
This was a shame because live music has a profound impact on well-being and mental health. Attending concerts, gigs, or even just listening to live performances can be a transformative experience. The energy and connection that comes from being in a crowd, united by the love of music, can boost mood and create a sense of belonging. Research has shown that live music reduces stress levels, decreases symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhances overall mental wellness. The rhythmic patterns and melodies stimulate the brain, releasing feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin. Whether it's the catharsis of singing along to your favourite song or the exhilaration of witnessing an artist pour their heart out on stage, live music has the power to uplift, inspire, and heal. With this missing in the community, BTA took action.
Most of the musical groups brought in by BTA are Canadian, but occasionally BTA brings in acts from the USA and Europe. Well known performers, such as Billy Cowsill, Ian Tyson, Quartette, William Prince, The Brothers Landreth, Chip Taylor, Eivor, and Joel Plaskett have appeared on the BTA stage in the past.
“The 2023/24 season includes three acts from Alberta,” Toews adds, and this year we have Mariel Buckley with her band. She is a rising Americana country music star.
This season, guests will also enjoy:
- Blue Moon Marquee, a band that brings a unique blend of up-tempo blues with influences from swing, jump, and groove.
- Tom Phillips and the DT’s, an iconic Calgary act known for their honky-tonk style and heartfelt lyrics.
- Steve Pineo's Prohibition Hall Show takes listeners back in time with a New Orleans style big band blues show from the 1920’s and 1930’s. This Calgary artist has designed a show just for the BTA audience.
- John Reischman and the Jaybirds bring their renowned bluegrass harmonies and impeccable picking skills to make for an evening of foot-stomping fun.
- Leaf Rapids, a Winnipeg-based folk band, offers a contemporary twist on traditional song writing.
- Del Barber and Band made their return from Manitoba to captivate the audience once again with beautiful country roots songs infused with a Western Canadian soul.
“There are quite a few people who have moved to the community and have credited BTA as being one of the influences supporting their choice to relocate here,” says Toews. “The concert goers contribute to the local economy by supporting local restaurants, hotels, galleries, and other businesses.”
BTA also supports the kids. Each concert, BTA has a 50/50 draw with proceeds available for bursaries to be awarded to area students. The bursary was designed to enable young performing artists to enhance their experience and skills in a performing arts field.
For the second year, BTA is proud to announce another WIN A CANOE adventure raffle! Prizes totalling over $6400 are generously donated by local businesses and tickets are available at each concert.
In addition to enjoying the series, you can get involved as a volunteer. While the BTA is well served now with volunteers, they appreciate having names on hand for future opportunities.
To learn more or to get your tickets for one (or all) of the bands listed above, visit the BTA website, the current season page, and the ticket page.
