“I wrote my first song when I was 12 and I am 16 now,” says singer/songwriter Deah-Lee Robertson. “I like songwriting because I feel like I can get my thoughts out and express myself through music.”
She is part of the Rotary Arts Centre new Emerging Artist Program. She, along with several other up-and-coming young musicians have had many opportunities to perform on the RAC stage this year.
“I have really been enjoying collaborating with other young artists,” says Kyah Goold. “All of the artists we are working with are people I know but it has given me a chance to deepen my relationship with them and get to know them not only as artists but as people.”
“We are all friends anyway so it is nice to rehearse with them and perform with them.” adds Carly-Rae Mouland. “We always have a lot of laughs.”
In addition to performing, the RAC Emerging Artists have received some mentorship from Performing Arts Officer, Brad Randell. “I love working with Brad, he’s great!” says Deah-Lee. “I feel I am learning a lot about how the equipment works. He always has good tips and tricks for us.”
This December the Emerging Artists will participate in a Christmas show at RAC. “I decided to write an original Christmas song, which is a really interesting task,” says Kyah Goold. “I have never written a Christamas song before and it has actually turned out to be one of my favorite songs I have ever written.”
“I am soooo excited about this show because I love Christmas and Christmas songs!” says Carly-Rae, who is looking forward to singing the duet, “Baby It’s Cold Outside” with guest performer Conner Cash Elliott.
Emerging Artist, Ellie Hamilton, will enjoy performing at another show at RAC this season. Together with her family, they will present “The Hamiltones at Christmas”. Ellie’s family members, Kevin, Ben, and Noah Hamilton who will also be joined by Kevin's partner Amy Erickson, are regular performers at RAC.
"It’s very special to have a space where we can share music with others because music has always been a big part of our lives," says Ellie Hamilton.
"We feel very blessed to be working with these young artists and their families,” says Executive Director Nicole Fougère. “They are part of our RAC family.”
Catch the RAC Emerging Artists at their upcoming shows!
Dec. 20 - Emerging Artists at Christmas
Dec. 22 - The Hamiltones at Christmas
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