It started as a lofty idea. Now, it's one of Victoria's grandest annual summer concerts that capitalizes on a unique location. And, over 30 years later, it continues to evolve.
Symphony Splash returns to Victoria's Inner Harbour Aug. 2 and 3, featuring four live orchestral performances from Victoria Symphony performing on the water from the harbour's iconic barge stage, culminating in a fireworks display on the last evening.
While the event was on a five-year hiatus, it's proven it can stand the test of time, returning this summer more than 30 years after the inaugural concert in 1990.
Sal Ferreras, one of this year's performers, remembers the concert's early years when he played with the Victoria Symphony.
"I thought the idea of a barge concert was interesting enough, but I had no idea what the impact of good music, a fantastic setting and a beautiful summer night would have on the huge crowd that gathered. It turned out to be a magical combination," he told Victoria News.
At this year's concert, Ferreras, a BC Hall of Fame percussionist, will perform with his Latin jazz sextet, backed by the event's host, the Victoria Symphony – celebrating 85 years.
His sextet stars Cuban vocalist Adonis Puentes, trumpeter Miguelito Valdes, pianist Cynthia Rodriguez, percussionist Hector Ramos, bassist Louis Rudner and guest artists trombonist Audrey Ochoa and pianist Miles Black.
"While many of these talented artists have thriving national and international careers, it may be the first time the Splash crowd will experience the energy of all this talent with a full symphony orchestra," he said.
This year's edition of Symphony Splash will feature other guest performers such as Juno-nominated Indigenous singer-songwriters Celeigh Cardinal and Shawnee Kish, as well as appearances by 91 members of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada.
For the symphony's CEO Matthew White, it will be his first time experiencing it from the barge, and he said he couldn't be more excited.
"I keep hearing that there is really nothing else like it, that it transforms the Inner Harbour into a gathering place for thousands of people from all walks of life," he said. "It is one of the most visible and cherished expressions of how music can serve the public good."
Sean O'Loughlin is conducting the B.C. Day long weekend event. He noted that on Aug. 3, they will perform the traditional Splash program featuring Tchaikovsky's classic 1812 Overture in addition to other classical and pop favourites.
From speaking to several key figures behind the scenes, one thing is certain. The event will be a highlight of the summer for music lovers and will continue to create lasting memories, hopefully for decades to come.
"Having a chance to light up the harbour night and share our brand of music at Symphony Splash means so much to all of us," added Ferreras.
