About Grand River Region
The name Grand River Region was coined to encompass Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph, Cambridge, Stratford, Brantford, Paris and the vast number of neighboring towns. Many of these cities are known for their cultural and artistic communities. We have arrived at a unique time in the wide spread interest in Canadian repertoire to host this fundamental project.
The first Contemporary Showcase for the Grand River Region Centre held November 22, 2003 at the Erb Street Mennonite Church in Waterloo was a huge success. One hundred students from all instrumental disciplines enjoyed a day with professional instructions in an informal, non-competitive setting. After a full year’s preparation, the Grand River Region Committee was not only excited to see the event finally taking place, but it was rewarding to hear the many positive responses received from students, parents, teachers, and adjudicators. It was evident that an all-Canadian festival was overdue for our community. I wish to take this opportunity to thank all our sponsors for their generous donation to enable our scholarship program and all the volunteers that made this day run smoothly.
In addition to the full spectrum of instruments, the 2004 Showcase included a Choral Class and Composition Workshop. Also in 2004, Grand River Region hosted a Showcase Festival for the Hamilton Suzuki School of Music in Hamilton. d