Edward Norman, organ

Edward Norman, organ, studied at the Royal College of Music, London, principally under Harold Darke, winning the Haigh Prize for organ performance. After immigrating to Canada he later continued studies with Hugh MacLean at the University of British Columbia. Some years later he - in turn - taught the organ at University of British Columbia (and at University of Victoria and Trinity Western University). Before leaving for the USA he was for many years organist with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the Vancouver Bach Choir.

As a recitalist he has appeared widely in Canada and has performed frequently in the USA (including the 2010 Piccolo Spoleto Festival in Charleston SC) and in the UK, including at Cambridge University (Fitzwilliam College). He has performed in Poland, Germany and Asia and has appeared in the Vancouver International Festival, the Spoleto Festival in Charleston SC and the Janacek Festival in Tokyo with the YNSO. Over the years he has been heard frequently on CBC radio as a recitalist, continuo player and accompanist. He and his wife Susan live in Vancouver where he is a freelance accompanist and recitalist, and a faculty accompanist at Trinity Western University. Edward Norman was also a music producer with CBC radio for ten years.

Walter Martella, conductor Music Director of the Powell River Academy of Music and Artistic Director of the International Choral Kathaumixw, is a pianist, trumpeter, and accordionist. Walter has taken the stage with many world class musicians and conductors. He has recorded 5 cds. Performing is a significant part of Walter’s career but just as important to him is his involvement with the Academy of Music. He is a strong believer in the power of music as part of community. Walter is currently the conductor of Chor Musica, Academy Chamber Choir, and the Powell River Chorus and has a full private teaching schedule. He is a graduate of Banff School, Vancouver Island University, UVIC, and the BCCF conducting program. He is a charter member of the Powell River Boys Choir.