By Ashleigh Fielding | posted on August 10, 2017
ALBANY born and bred international opera tenor Matt Ward graced audiences with his faultless voice at the 40 Years Later concert at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station on Sunday.
The 40 Years Later project comprises a series of workshops and performances, exploring the historical events of the 1977 Save the Whales campaign in Albany and has been running throughout August.
Ward’s spine-tingling voice echoed throughout the Skeleton Shed at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, captivating the audience with his harmonies and humble presence.
Ward was accompanied by singer and pianist Matthew Quick, and together they created an ensemble of eerie, stunning songs that reflected both contemporary music, timeless classics and elements of the ongoing 40 Years Later project.
Ward led the audience in creating their own song about whaling, after hearing an old recording of an interview with a whaler.
The low hum of the audience and the “in the deep blue ocean” repeated chant was combined with a hint of sonar noise and Ward’s incredible vocals, crafting a unique piece of musical theatre to commemorate Albany’s whaling history.
Ward will continue his journey with open acting and singing workshops at the Vancouver Arts Centre on August 12 and 19.
The entire 40 Years Project will wrap up with a massive performance at the Vancouver Arts Centre on August 27, featuring the works of Ward and contributing artists.
Tickets can be booked online at vpinitiative.com/40yearslater.