Christmas shows online for kids and grownups, too - Louis B. Hobson

ONE FOR THE KIDS

Barb Mitchell and Laurie Parente’s family musical Candy Cane Kids, which has been part of the Calgary Zoo’s holiday fare, is available through video-on-demand until Jan. 2

“Laurie and I realized Candy Cane Kids is exactly what people need this holiday season. More than ever, we need to sing and dance. We need to laugh and we need to feel those sparkly feelings that Christmas brings,” says Mitchell.

Mitchell not only conceived the show with Parente but co-wrote the songs with Montreal composer Bob Stagg and directed the video version.

The show’s choreographer Kayla MacKenzie stars opposite Jeff Follis, Keirstyn Secord, Quinn Lazenby, Bri Zubick, Evelyn Frechette, Jocelyn Mah and Robyn Harris in this story of how the quality control inspectors at McJingles Incorporated have to reinvigorate Canada’s waning holiday spirit.

Visit occasionalnotes.net/candycanekids to book a viewing for your family.

Crazy for Christmas - "Gotcha"

Hey @juliarooney we have a job for you! Miss Julia joined our crazy cast of crooners as a guest star by introducing our new "Incognito Entertainment"  to the ILEA members in December .   "Crazy for Christmas "the  dinner sho,w also starred  Mr. Grinch, Elf on the Shelf and a cast of Christmas party crashers who shared the best and worst of Christmas. Thank you everyone for being great sports and stay tuned for more surprises ! 

With Reid Hubick, Martin Parnell, Lynda Hill Greuel, Amanda Bazant, Julia Rooney, Ciara Glendon, Joel Olandesca, Afton Koutzun and The Grinch at Civic on Third.

The Making of ZooStreet

The Choreographers

Creating and producing a musical is about being surrounded by talented and creative team members who share the vision of the show. We just got lucky. Some of Calgary's top talent actually found us, through a network of like - minded musicians, and dancers . Because we are NOT dancers and can barely do the two -step, Laurie and I surrendered our choreography dreams over to two talented young women and  made a brilliant discovery. Give people the opportunity to create and do what they are born to do , and magic happens . These two individuals on our ZooStreet Team are Jill O'Connell and Meg Martin. Their creativity blew all of us away! They thought carefully through each move and how the choreography  would reflect the music perfectly, and then, how children could dance all the fun moves themselves. Try making a Zebra look like he was born to Zumba,  penguins  promenade with purpose, and keeping five dancing ducks in a row? They did it! They even made three dancing flamingos into six! After spending years on point shoes and performing Grand Jete, they have brought our animal musical to life with roaring applause from us! Their approach to teaching and coaching our ZooStreet Team of performers has made them role models for young dancers and performers who have dreams of doing the same.  

ZooStreet - Family Musical

"They're out of the zoo to entertain you!"

What do animals do after the Zoo is closed ? Well, they party, they sing and they dance! They whoop it up! The monkeys mambo, the penquins polka, those crazy naughty monkeys mambo ! There is pretty pink tutu -wearing flamingos , Percy the Flaminguy and of course the adorable Mr. Bumble Bear ,

Our  fast -paced , interactive one-hour show is followed by a dance party with the entertainers, photo booth, sweet treats, and a Father's Day BBQ , all happening in the ballroom at the Grey Eagle Resort and Casino. 

The creators of Zoostreet are shaken' their tail feathers with excitement!

Before the wedding begins..what wedding professionals do...!

Lots of things happen before a wedding ceremony starts - before the excited guests arrive , before the, aunts, uncles, grandparents and  emotion parents walk into the ceremony space. Florists arrive with fragrant arrangements, photographers set up and adjust lighting, wedding officiants organize documents and the their wording, wedding planners put finishing touches of the space. Musicians set up instruments, sound check, warm up voices and fingers, ... all to ensure that those precious moments that make up a wedding ceremony are as perfect as possible. A beautiful wedding ceremony means paying  attention to every detail.  Being part of a team is always the best way to communicate, collaborate, and thoroughly enjoy the business of creating a perfect wedding day.  Event Core, Calgary 's newest event company is at this very moment, making wedding planning stress-free for brides and grooms by connecting them to dedicated caring industry professionals who ensure that every details is in place. Knowing that we can connect a couple to a magnificent florist,  videographer, photographer, decor consultant, cake designer, venue, ...(the list goes on) and know that that professional will completely take care of every detail  for a couple is another service that we can offer. How much does Occasional Notes  team of musicians love being apart of Event Core? We LOVE it! and .. you will too!   

Vocalist the beautiful Shaye Zadravec   Event Core  Website here!            

http://www.event-core.ca

Out of Our Comfort Zone! "If the Shoe Fits" in YYC

Occasional Notes started  as two girls playing two pianos. That's twice the number of keys to choose from ( 88 + 88 ) for a pretty cool sound . We were unique and still are.  We have discovered, through a few Internet searchs , that we are the only two- piano /two girl wedding music company in North America. This search field was fairly small, I admit , but still kinda cool. Our vision was to change the perception of wedding music and perform a completely customized playlist of songs for each Bride and Groom, ensuring that each song was important to them. We have been arranging and performing these custom songs for couples, their families and friends for seven years and sincerely loving every note and chord played. We have welcomed two talented songstresses, and more pianists to our team, who bring their own talent and expertise to our couples.

So ... why not step out of our comfort zone? Why not spread our wings and challenge ourselves? Why not use all those harmony rules and delve into the unknown world of musical theater? Why? Because we didn't know any better. That 's why. 

Occasional Notes believes in promoting women in the arts . Through a chain of interesting events and fascinating people we find ourselves in the Calgary Music scene, by writing and producing the Musical -   " If The Shoe Fits". This production will help raise funds for Gli Azzzurri ,Calgary Italian Dance Group, to represent Calgary in "Dance the World" -Florida.  The shoe theme for our story seemed  a natural "fit" to represent these talented young dancers, as they do what they love in their shoes. Dance.  

After hours of writing story lines, musical phrasing, and  vocal scores, this modern - day musical comedy features thirty of Calgary's most gifted singers, dancers, actors and  musicians . It is a feel -good production aimed at the importance of being yourself , at being  the best you can be in "your shoes" . Let's face it, all little girls grow up believing the Cinderella myth that shoes can magically transform their lives. Every woman has a connection with her shoes on some level. Shoes are a force for change , a means of shedding the past and buying into the future. So whether it is a new pair of Jimmie Choos, Ruby Slippers, or Crocs , why not try to be our very best? Why not slip on our very best shoes and sing about it? So - we have. 

This musical project has been the most challenging, exhilarating, thrilling, exhausting, labour of love that we have ever  done. Ever. With a cast of award winning performers ranging in age from 10 to 63  (with shoe sizes from girl's size 4 to men's size 12) we have been surrounded by more talent, more patience, more professionalism and more creativity than we could ever have dreamed possible, all for their love of making music. 

The show premiers Sunday February 28, 3:30. We know that you will leave this performance feeling a little happier in "your shoes". Mine are red. And sparkly. What colour are your's?

Mary Beth and Graham

One of the reasons that we love creating and performing wedding day music is when we meet clients like Mary Beth and Graham. This lovely couple connected with us via skype from Prince Edward Island, as they were getting married in Calgary at the beautiful Lake House.  All we had to hear from Mary Beth was that she loved the sound of the cello, she loved , romantic reminiscent music  and we instantly were able to choose the perfect songs for their amazing day . The bridesmaids dresses were a most sumptuous grey/green, and the wedding proceeded down the aisle to Ennio Moricone's Gabriel's Oboe, followed by Mary Beth and her father. Her song? Cinema Paradise, so perfectly elegant for this lovely bride. Occasional Notes so stress Emma Rose performed "Make You Feel My Love" during the ceremony -so perfectly. 

After the ceremony we changed the mood to party! Cocktail hour music choices were everything from  Ed Sheeran to  Broadway. My favourite moment of this day, was watching  ( from the corner of my eye) as Mary Beth's Grandpa tapped his toes to the tunes, and then sharing a quiet little dance with his Grandaughter, who is clearly the apple of his eye.

Our job as musicians is to create a soundtrack to a very special day, and make it unique to each couple, their families and friends. Music is the one key ingredient on a wedding day, that keeps everyone entertained, connecting and smiling.

We wish Mary Beth and Graham such happiness and love!  

Making Music in #YYC

If you are visiting our site you will already know who we are - but just in case you kinda stumbled upon us - Occasional Notes is a two - piano duo specializing in designing  and performing custom wedding and cocktail music. Laurie and I are also music teachers and believe in promoting and encouraging young musicians. Music festivals, recitals and examinations are important components in the study of music - but quite frankly they can suck the life out of the enjoyment factor in music. "Magic on Black and Whites" came about from our yearning to get out of the studio and perform. Our troupe of pianists, (students of our's past and present) guitarists and singers  perform for Calgary schools, charities and events - and we are  growing. We have met and worked with most incredibly talented musicians along our way. Two of these musicians took top prizes at this year's Calgary Stampede Talent Show. 

The winner and first runner up for Stampede Talent Search 2015. Our team members Christian Hudson and Emma Rose.

 Christian Hudson is this sweet guy. He arrived one evening on his motorcycle, guitar (nicknamed Little Martin) strapped on his back , looper in hand to meet and perform for us, and blew us away. He improvises these great unique songs, harmonizes on the spot, and then gives you this great big smile! He is the real deal, with a huge heart - and giving spirit which was evident with the donation of his prize winnings to the Calgary Drop- In Centre. We are more than proud of him, and just can't wait to watch him soar! Thank you Grace Buchanan for introducing Christian to us, for believing in him and  his music. Boy, do you have great taste! (and come home soon - if you are reading this! - we miss you)

Emma Rose graduated this year from St. Francis and after several scholarship offers  has decided to attend McGill University this fall.  Emma has been 1st runner up for the last two Calgary Stampede Talent Shows. This talented songstress with her golden soulful voice, is genuine, professional, and poised. She can take a song line, manipulate it - add some beautiful runs and make it her's. Whether it is Motown, R&B, Broadway, or Ballades - she has a way of surprising us with each rendition. Playing for her is our thrill. 

Emma and Christian both volunteered their time and shared their voices at Occasional Notes, JDRF Benefit June 28/2015 at The National Music Centre. Audience request? "A Whole New World" !  A big "Wow" from the toughest critics  - the kids! Checkout the next blog entry for some fun photos and inspiring stories.

Calgary is filled with talent. As teachers and fellow performers it is such a pleasure to  promote, inspire, mentor, and believe in these musicians. We are constantly learning from one another and although there is a broad range in age in our troupe, we are all just playing music.

Christian Hudson

"Between long walks on the beach and struggling to write an original biography, Christian plays at open mics throughout Calgary on a nightly basis with his portable pal, a baby sized acoustic guitar affectionately known as 'Little Martin" - Christian Hudson

On behalf of the  Occasional Notes team, we would like to welcome Christian to the wedding music world. He sings with the sensitivity of Ed Sheeran,  strums a few John Mayer chords  and with a sheepish grin reminds us that music is his passion. 

Listen to a little rehearsal clip from today, as Emma Rose harmonized an on-the-spot, one take  "Thinking Out Loud" excerpt. 

Canadian Wedding Awards

Okay - it has been a while. Blogging sometimes reminds of how bad a student I was at writing essays. Love the project - but just making sure the words fit was always a little taxing. So - why don't I just pretend we are talking and I am telling you how "much fun this Canadian Wedding Awards Gala was"! Laurie and I took the Red Eye ( don't do it ) to Toronto. Drank a lot of coffee, got to our hotel early morning, crashed for a few hours - then we were off on our three day and three night adventure in beautiful Toronto. Visited the coveted Royal Conservatory of Music ( of which we are both teachers and past students),  

Toronto Eaton Centre, The Christmas Market, ate a HUGE sandwich at Dunn's, took Uber cars everywhere - which is an experience - meeting incredible wedding professionals from all over Canada was the cherry on top of the incredible cake of a weekend. - (Holy run- on sentence! )Special Hello to Tamara from Rustique Pie Kitchen in Montreal who is a dream of a girl who creates incredible deserts for weddings and special events! Pina Colada Cotton Candy, Ammeretto Martinis were divine but  to hear Tracy Moore from Cityline announce "Occasional Notes from Alberta" was the biggest  thrill of all! It was a quiet flight home.  

Sean Parker's Dream Wedding

 How cool is it that the billionaire internet wizard, Sean Parker serenaded his songwriter bride Alexandra Lenas with a song from "The Little Mermaid". He new the lyrics by heart.."Look at this trove, treasures untold/How many wonders can one cavern hold?"  

This enchanted Big Sur California wedding,took place in a cavern, under 500-year-old redwoods. Parker says the wedding was meant to be a "Performance-art project" set in a modern day enchanted forest. With renowned designer Preston Bailey creating this 10 million dollar event,it is said to have been the event of the year.

Sting erupted a cappella in an impromtu version of his song "I Was Brought to My Senses". Celtic musicians played on. Celtic performer, Loreena Mckennitt performed The Mummers Dance. 

To bad he was fined 2.5 million dollars, by California Coastal Commission for conservation by law offences. What's an extra 2.5 million to Sean Parker? Nadda 

Oh... the Company Holiday Party

If you are planning or attending a company Christmas Party you may be aware of the following:

1. Comrades sharing the best of the season!
2. The warmth of friendship during this most special time of the year.
3. Fitting into tight Christmas Cocktail attire on a frosty Calgary evening.
4. Polite conversing with other obliged spouses.
5. A minefield of interpersonal conflict, that can result in the only solution:

Alcohol and MUSIC!

Occasional Notes specializes in "Rocking You Around the Christmas Tree", " The Most Wonderful Time of the Yea"r"Santa Claus WILL Come to Town  " Peace on Earth" and finally a "Silent Night"! 

CHEERS!!  

Luckiest - Ben Folds

Really listen to this song.... Perfect wedding ceremony tune

Merry Merigolds

This weekend Melissa and Sanjay will be wed at a small ceremony for family and close friends. As we helped them choose their music, the subject of marigolds came up. What is the significance of these colourful flowers at wedding celebrations in the Indian culture? Marigolds signify creation and regeneration and are believed to bring good luck and happiness. They come in beautiful yellows and vibrant oranges, large and small . As flowers add so much beauty to any event, we will adorn our pianos with lovely traditional marigolds!

Here is their song

Carrie and Derek's Wedding at Rouge - Calgary

T'was a sunny, warm calm August day just two short months ago when Derek and Carrie came together to become husband and wife under the bows of a maple tree in the garden at Rouge Restaurant in Calgary. Pink champagne flowed, fresh blooms hung from Mason Jars around them. The food! Fresh! Sumptuous! Superb! The service was nothing short of impeccable.

Colours: The Bridesmaids wore shades of blush, each syled a little differently to match their personalities

Mr. Derek and his boys were suited up, doning turquoise sneakers. Miss Carrie... Wow!  Romantic, champagne- white gown. "A dress within a dress" said Jane Hooper of Ethos Bridal!

What a pleasure it was to perform for this garden wedding!

Tres Magnifique! We wish them all the very best in their life together!

A "Great Gatsby" Wedding - Canmore Alberta

Location: Beautiful Canmore is known  for it's small town charm and welcoming spirit,  Laurie and I felt it on Saturday for the incredible 30's style, destination(from Ontario) wedding for Alicia and Jim.

Wedding Officiant: Rob White

Lonnie and his staff at The Bear and Bison Inn hosted this stylish and lovely wedding with such professionalism and attention to detail! As the skies decided to rain down three minutes prior to the ceremony, staff and groomsmen put their beer down and with great humour,  grabbed a piece of our equipment to relocate inside. No worries for us! They were hitched without a hitch by the kind and gracious Rob White.  With the help of some Gershwin and Ellington hits, this was hands down, one of our favourite weddings ever! 

Alicia and Jim  truly value and appreciate their friends and loved ones, and it showed in their care and thoughtfulness in the palnning of their day! Truly " The Perfect Circle" .

We will miss you Alicia and Jim! It was so much fun playing for your day.

A Dance with Darlin' Dad

Such an emotional moment! Dancing with the guy who loved you first! But it doesn't  have to be a sad song....it is a happy event!

Take a listen to this vintage tune.

Vintage Wedding Music

Whether you are referring to the shiny red '66 Ford Mustang, a 1950's stunning black lace, tulle and organza cocktail dress,1960's Dior Baroque Pearl Flapper Necklace, or the Spectator Shoe from the 40's.

These classics signify attention to detail, authentic, and timelessness.

This wave of vintage style proves that newer isn't always necessarily more desirable. There are historicl implications to those who appreciate vintage. It brings us back to a few decades ago. There is also something to be said about nostagia, a sort of escape from contemporary stresses. The 1920's for example was a period of indulgence when women gained new rights and roles in society.In the words of Coco Channel " The most courageous act  is to still think of yourseld. Aloud"

And this is clearly a wedding style trend. 

Music from times gone by has continued to be soundtracks for movies, reinvented and stylized. Some of the standards listed below give new meaning to wedding ceremonies and first dances. Consider adding classic style, and beauty to your day with one of these song choices.

"When I fall in Love" written by Victor Young, music, and Edward Heyman, lyrics, was written in 1952 and  has become a standard that has been recorded by the great Etta James, Nat King Cole and Celine Dion. With poignant, poetic  words, and beautiful and unique chords and harmonies it is no wonder that it is considered "vintage".

• Body and Soul
• All the Things You Are
• Summertime
• 'Round Midnight
• I Can't Get Started (With You)
• My Funny Valentine
• Lover Man (Oh, Where Can You Be?)
• What Is This Thing Called Love?
• Yesterdays
• Stella By Starlight

- Until next time. Humm a little, please. BM

Music to Wine to

Food and wine ... both pleasing, and appeal to the sensation of taste and smell. What about  your connection to wine and music? Good food, good drink and good music should be enjoyed and shared together.

Can hearing a certain kind of music enhance the taste of wine? Does music set up the brain to respond to a certain wine?  According to the studies of Dr. Adrian North, music psychologist, there is a strong connection! Professor North states, his studies could lead retailers to place  music recommendations on their wine bottles....essentially while drinking a certain wine, you should listen to a certain music. North conducted market research in liquor outlets, which suggested people were five times more likely to buy a French wine, than German, if French music was being played in the background. Subliminal suggestion? 

Occasional Notes is about to find out as we take our pianos out into the world of wine tasting in Calgary. A sample of our playlist is:

• "I Still Call Australia Home" - to be performed while sipping  - Wolf Blass Riesling

Written by legendary song writer, and Aussie - Peter Allen, enjoyed with the taste of the`Australian  heartland.

• Sittin`on the Dock of the Bay - Otis Redding 

To be performed while relaxing to California Chardonnay - sunny and relaxing.

• Nessun Dorma`from Puccini`s opera Turandot

Any Valpolicella Full bodied,savory, rich in history.

• I Dreamed a Dream , Les Miserable 

The taste of France with Chateauneuf du Pape

• Over the Rainbow ( Eva Cassidy's version)

Any Merlot....don't know why.