Last year, a musically-talented group of women got together in Whistler to share their music, spread their passion, and help other women in the community. The talent was plucked from auditioned performances, and Tuned Women was born.
Now, after a successful stint on the stage which brought rave reviews and ultra-positive community feedback, the girls are at it again as part of Tuned Women II.
This gifted group of 10 all-age females will be playing Whistler's MY Place on Feb. 26 and 27 at 8 p.m. Not only will the audience be treated to an eclectic range of styles, topics and musical talents, they will also be part of fundraising efforts to support the Whistler Community Services Women's Support Group and MY Place.
"The feedback and support from people who experienced it last year was so good we thought we'd do it again," said Gillie Easdon, event co-organizer and performer. "It's really an exciting event. People jumped to their feet at the end of the show last year."
The all-female showcase was the brainchild of singer/ songwriter Tessa McLoughlin, who wanted a listener-friendly environment for women to play their original music. The response from interested musicians was so high that they had to hold auditions.
"There are a lot of women writing music, and for a performance, more than just the tune and lyrics are important," said McLoughlin. "We also look for presentation. The crew we have this year is dynamic, supportive and extremely talented."
Squamish's own Carolyn Grass is part of the Tuned Women II line-up, and will take to the stage with her guitar and a host of other instruments to perform a comedic folk song called Farewell to my Youth. Grass is returning to Tuned Women after experiencing such a positive vibe from all of the artists last year.
"These women have really been an inspiration," said Grass. "I'm really excited and feel quite honoured to be part of this talented group of women."
Grass has lived in Squamish for the past nine years and is a member of the United Church choir. She gets together every week with other musicians in the community to collaborate, share, and practice - and to get ready for Tuned Women II.
"Music is a big part of my life right now," she said. "I've really developed an appreciation for the talent we have here in the Sea to Sky corridor. All of the women are quite amazing."
Joining Grass on stage at MY Place are: Leanne Lamour, Louise Brunker, Susan Holden, Sue Stearns, Nicole Fitzgerald, Kath Haling, Emily Lee, Tessa McLoughlin and Gillie Easdon.
Tuned Women has been recognized by the Whistler Arts Council and has received funding from Celebration 2010 to develop the event to continue showcasing original music from original female musicians.
"It's growing slowly, steadily and really well," said Easdon. "It's nice to be recognized by the arts council for women creating our own music. Because of the success of last year, a lot of the women have started to focus more on their own music. They're really taking their time to cultivate their own art."
Easdon also said the performance will be a different experience than hearing live music in a pub or bar, where performers are often asked to play cover tunes instead of original music.
"It's really nice to be listened to. The audience is there for the musicians in a listener-friendly environment."
In October, 27 women auditioned for Tuned Women, with 10 ladies making the grade after showcasing polished performances. They will all be performing their own original songs, as well as collaborating as a group for several songs. The musical range varies from jazz to blues, from folk to rock.
Tickets are $15/12 before the day of the performance, and $16/12 on the day of the show. Contact MY Place at 604-035-8410.
