ArcherFest: Day 1 | Composer Reading Session with the Kensington Sinfonia

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“I knew in my soul that I needed to play music every day for the rest of my life. Music brought me so much joy that I didn’t want to think about how hard life could be at the time for a woman trying to make a name for herself in the musical industry.” – Léa Plourde-Archer, Violet’s Path: the melodious life of Violet Balestreri Archer

Violet Archer (1913-2000) earned high honours as a classical music composer beginning in the 1930s. This was a rare career choice, especially for women at the time, so Violet faced many obstacles. Through passion and perseverance, she earned much respect from her peers and built up a catalogue comprising over 300 compositions.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Violet’s death, and her work and life story are as relevant as ever. Inspired by her great-aunt’s legacy, drive, and enthusiasm, writer Léa Plourde-Archer presents a picture book manuscript that will bring Violet’s story to new eyes and ears. Meant to be enjoyed by children and adults alike, this story is one of a great Canadian artist who didn’t set out to be a trailblazer, but became a role model to many simply by following her instincts.

The author will read the full manuscript, which will be accompanied by drawings and photographs illustrating Violet Archer’s life. The reading will also be punctuated with short musical interludes played by live musicians.

Event Artists

Léa Plourde-Archer, Kensington Sinfonia

ArcherFest: Day 1 | Composer Reading Session with the Kensington Sinfonia

Date/Time
Saturday, November 22, 2025
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

Location
Studio Bell
850 4 Street SE
Calgary, Alberta
Canada,

Price
$0

Phone
403-220-7403

Website
https://pr.cmccanada.org/archerfest-2025/

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