An international collection of diverse musical styles is coming exclusively to the Comox Valley in a series of intimate concerts being held in multiple venues, Jan. 16-31 as part of the WinterBites Festival.
"Music speaks to the soul in a variety of ways - blues, soul, jazz, maybe a bit of Boogie Woogie" said Doug Cox, executive producer, Vancouver Island MusicFest. "The wonderful thing about this Festival is there will be something for everyone to enjoy and performances will be in venues that provide an up-close-and-personal setting with the musician - it can't get any better than that!" The lineup includes West African Dance Night with Alpha Yaya Diallo Friday, Jan. 17, at the Best Western Plus the Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre. Ticket price: $25. Accommodation package prices: starting from $74.50 per person.
Pianorama with Kenny 'Blues Boss' Wayne and David Vest hits the stage Saturday, Jan. 18 also at the Best Western. "We've got two of North America's true piano masters of blues and boogie woogie teaming up exclusively for a show at WinterBites," said Cox. "My favorite thing about curating shows is putting together once-ina-lifetime collaborations of talent for what makes a truly unique event."
Ticket price: $30. Accommodation package prices: starting from $79.50 per person.
Ashley MacIsaac is up Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Native Sons Hall.
Ticket price: $35 (all ages). Accommodation package prices: starting from $84.50 per person.
Throughout the 16 days, other concerts also include: classic rockers Chilliwack who will open the Festival on Jan 16. Join '80s icon Barney Bentall, known for his multi-genre music, or Jim Byrnes and the Sojourners for a night of country, soul and blues. There will be an exclusive double bill featuring The Grapes of Wrath and The Odds or join last year's MusicFest star, Blind Boy Paxton, who will play a night of acoustic blues along with Canadian favourite Suzie Vinnick. Cousin Harley will close the Festival with his rockabilly sounds that will have everyone dancing in the hall.
For a full list of the activities, musicians, and accommodation or to buy concert tickets visit www.winterbitesfestival.com, call 1-855-400-2882 or drop into the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre. One can also join the conversation using #CVWinterBites on Facebook or Twitter.