Duke Ellington's Sacred Music

Dee Daniels • Fred Stride Orchestra • James Caddell
Phoenix Chamber Choir • Troy McLauglin

When performing with the Fred Stride Orchestra during the summer of 2008, singer Dee Daniels spoke to the audience and put it “out in the universe” that she was looking for help to bring the Sacred Music of Duke Ellington to Vancouver—she didn’t know who, how, or what would happen. The next day she received an email.

Tony Weall, on the staff of the First United Church Mission, was in that audience the night before and the music touched him. The initiatives that have since developed from this one pair of ears has resulted in the mounting of this meaningful performance—a way to recognize, support, and continue the work of the First United Church Mission as they approach their 125th year of serving in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside community.

Today in the Vancouver Downtown Eastside, it is not the mills or wealth creation that draws the attention; instead of the decimated trees, it is the decimated lives at the margins of the city. The statistics tell the story:

• 10 city blocks with a population of 10,000
• 75% of residents are classified as “low-income”
• 5,000 to 6,000 are addicted and/or mentally ill
• 750 to 1,000 people are classified as homeless
• 50% of those are chronically homeless

While further corporate sponsorship opportunities remain, the project has already attracted the support of Pacific Coastal Airlines as Platinum Sponsor, and CBC as the Media (Radio and Television) Sponsor. It is hoped that you will also be moved to support this worthwhile cause and experience western Canada's premiere presentation of Duke Ellington's Sacred Music.

Making Music • Making a Difference