Harper Government Supports the Orford Festival

ORFORD, Quebec, May 13, 2013 - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today reaffirmed the Government of Canada’s support for the Orford Festival, which will take place from July 13 to August 18.

“The famed Orford Arts Centre plays a key role in training the next generation of artists. Thanks to its festival, the Centre contributes to our country’s cultural wealth and helps shape our collective identity,” said Minister Moore. “Our Government is pleased to support an organization like this one that takes an active role in raising public awareness of the arts, making local talents known internationally, and fostering a dynamic and prosperous community.”

The Orford Festival will take place in the enchanting setting of the Orford Arts Centre, right in the heart of Parc Mont-Orford. Planned activities include about 60 concerts featuring guest artists, renowned orchestras and ensembles, as well as great masters and students from Canada and abroad. Also scheduled are conferences, a film club, exhibitions, and a sacred music series at the Abbaye Saint-Benoît-du-Lac. The festival is dedicated to presenting classical music and other art forms in Canada.

The Government of Canada has provided $140,000 in funding over two years ($70,000 in 2012 and $70,000 in 2013) through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. The Fund seeks to give Canadians increased access to the variety and richness of Canada’s culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.

For more information (media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Éric Amyot
Director of Regional Communications
Quebec Region
Canadian Heritage
514-283-4027
eric.amyot@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca