What Was And Is To Come

By: Theresia Whitfield
Deep green hues on the leaves are turning to bold red, bright orange, and rich rust colors, all blending together making a rainbow signifying that summer has come to an end. Soon, those leaves will be on the ground, and as snow covers the branches where they once bristled in the breeze, The Canadian Tenors will be warming the hearts of thousands of new fans with spectacular holiday songs. But how did we get to this time of year? Didn’t we just start summer?
If you blinked, you might have missed all of the amazing things Fraser, Remigio, Victor and Clifton did in the summer of 2011. Most of their efforts were in putting the fine and finishing touches on their upcoming and much anticipated CD, which is expected to be released in early spring 2012. In keeping with their philanthropic traditions, they performed numerous private concerts benefiting various charities often partnering with David Foster and his Foundation, which provides support to the families of a child waiting for organ transplant. They performed at the two-day extravaganza in conjunction with the annual summer Napa Valley Festival Del Sol at the luxurious Robert Mondavi Winery. They also made a surprise appearance when Foster announced his Miracle Concert at next year’s grand opening of the Oak Bay Beach Hotel in his hometown of Victoria, BC. The event is expected to raise $1 million for his Foundation.
For the second year in a row, the Tenors performed at the Life Changing Lives event. The organization recognizes individuals and organizations who have had a positive effect – by inspiration or by action – on the lives of those who have struggled with disease, loss or adverse situations. The event was held on the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and honored a group of New York Fire Department heroes who endured the events of that tragic day. Proceeds went to the Wounded Warrior Project and other charities.
A major highlight for the Tenors was in being honored with two Gemini Awards. They received the award for Best Performance in a Performing Arts Program or Series (Individual or Ensemble) for Season of Song: The Canadian Tenors and Friends (CBC) and the award for Best Production Design or Art Direction in a Non-Fiction Program for Series for Season of Song: The Canadian Tenors and Friends (CBC) – Callum MacLachlan. MacLachlan was the programs artistic director and set designer.
Another highlight came when they were invited to perform at this year’s Emmy Awards. The widely seen television event afforded them tremendous exposure. Following the broadcast, sales of The Canadian Tenors' self-titled debut album soared over 2500%, landing them on the Top 10 of Amazon.com, while downloads of their single, "Hallelujah" jumped an amazing 15,000%.
The Tenors have just returned from their first ever visit to China and are already making plans for a return trip. This month will feature a special, private event with the Tenors performing alongside John Legend. This is a sold-out event. And now they’re working on making the holidays as memorable and special as possible through their music. Holiday concert schedules are posted on the web site. A US & Canada tour schedule for 2012 will be posted as soon as dates are confirmed.
It’s hard to believe that the last three months of 2011 could be any more exciting than the three months they just experienced. But with The Canadian Tenors, expect the unexpected. Come along for the ride. It promises to be beautiful and adventurous.