Sound of music is going virtual this summer

The annual Sound of Music Festival is moving to an online platform in response to the live event being cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sound Of Music, which re-branded the live music part of the event to “Live on the Lake,” was supposed to hit the Spencer Smith Park on June 13th. However, headlining bands will instead be partaking in a virtual concert series under the name “SOM @ Home.”

“While forced by circumstances related to the pandemic, the changes we have made to the organization have resulted in innovations that we’re excited to incorporate for years to come.” said Executive Director Myles D. Rusak in a statement today. “The programming is dynamic and engaging and will help propel us into a new era of alternative ways to connect with our audience.”

Board President Peter John Van Dyk says that the SOM @ Home program is being created to continue even when society begins to normalize. He added, “everything we do going forward will be examined with the lens of how we can deliver experiences to a wider audience and ensure that The Sound of Music is in the forefront of the community all year long.” Van Dyk also says that though they hope to continue with SOM @ Home in the future, they are excited to bring the festival back to Spencer Smith Park in 2021.

“We recognize that these have been extremely stressful times for families and we hope that the online shows we’ve planned will provide a little bit of an escape and can be enjoyed as a break from the challenges of daily life,” said Van Dyk.

Tickets previously purchased are being honoured for next year’s festival.

You can find more information about SOM @ Home on their website.