It may be true that there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but in the summer there is very often an abundance of free concerts. Over the next couple of weeks, TNB is performing in two such concerts, so this is your chance to hear some great music absolutely free.

This Friday, July 25th, we’ll be performing as part of What is Classical? This event, which takes place at Toronto’s Harbourfront, includes three days of concerts exploring the idea of “classical” music from a range of cultural perspectives. We’ll be playing from 7:30 to 8:00 on the Toronto Star Stage. (If, like me, you’re not exactly sure where that is, click here for a map.)

Al’s enjoying a well-deserved break this week, so for this performance we have a special guest, Curtis Metcalf. Curtis is one of the world’s finest euphonium players, and is Artistic Director of the Hannaford Street Silver Band. He’ll be featured in the virtuosic theme and variations, Grandfather’s Clock.

We’ll also be performing a selection of pieces focussed on folk music and music from Canada, including Morley Calvert’s Canadian Folk Song Suite, Calixa Lavalée’s La rose nuptiale, and two fanfares by our own Scott Irvine.

If you’re nearer to our nation’s capital, you’ll have three chances to hear us this August, and one of those is also a free concert. On August 3rd, we’ll be playing on the grounds of Rideau Hall along with our good friends, the Rideau Lakes Brass Quintet. Watch this blog for more information on all of our performances at the Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival; in the meantime, you can get more information on all of our performances on the Events page.