Symphony Splash

The Symphony Splash is an annual event held in Victoria, British Columbia on the first Sunday in August. The event consists of the Victoria Symphony playing, live on a barge, in the middle of Victoria's Inner Harbour. Also included in the event is a very large fireworks display, as well as live cannon fire, during the 1812 Overture. The 1999 event was led by then Victoria Symphony, conductor Peter McCoppin. Currently, it is led by Tania Miller.

The free event leads to about 40,000 spectators gathered around the Victoria waterfront, as well as on the grounds of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and The Empress Hotel. Hundreds of people also gather in boats and kayaks to watch the concert. Each year, a young soloist is a featured performer with the orchestra.

British Columbia 150th Anniversary (2008)

This year's event was held on Sunday, August 3rd, 2008. The 2008 Symphony splash coincided with the the 150th Anniversary of the founding of British Columbia Province and the captial, City of Victoria's 165th anniverary of it's founding as Fort Victoria. On BC Day, August 4, 2008, BC Premier Gordon Campbell, Canada Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and other politicians were on stage to start the festivities. Musicians/bands Colin James, Burton Cummings, Sarah McLachlan, and Feist performed in front of the Legislature Buildings, for approximately 40000 spectators.

External links

* [http://www.victoriasymphony.bc.ca/ Victoria Symphony Website]