In Squamish, the Arts have always had an impact on the community. It has served as the anchor to the environment of the town and continues to thrive to date. Throughout town, there are excellent displays of the arts, such as murals throughout the downtown area, and the U Siyam Pavillion that hosts community events such as the Squamish Wind Festival and Amped in the Park. Art flows through Squamish.
When you look at Squamish, you see many examples of art, however, opportunities for live music aren’t offered very often in Squamish.
There are few venues for all-ages live music: the Brackendale Art Gallery, Eagle Eye Theatre and U Siyam Pavillion. The Squamish Wind Festival and Amped in the Park both showcase local artists, but those are annual events that only run during specific times through the summer. These venues are great, but how is the community participating in keeping Squamish’s music scene alive?
Amped In The Park has recently adapted to COVID-19 by renaming the event ‘Amped in your Neighbourhood’. It’s a great way to spread live music through Squamish and it’s keeping the music scene alive, with many people attending each of the events. One of the reasons why there are many people attending concerts is because there is a demand for it. Live music is scientifically proven to do things like reduce stress, boost moods and relieve pain. It’s a feel-good activity.
What can you do to help keep the Squamish music scene alive? Hosting driveway concerts, attending and spreading the word about upcoming concerts can help make a difference. Keeping the music scene alive requires a team effort and anyone can help. Though it can be difficult to host concerts, attending one is a great way to show your support. Look around town for upcoming concerts and put them down in your calendar.
The benefits of a thriving music scene will make an impact on where we live and everyone will feel great about it. Live music can help move you, increase reflection time, help you to meet new people and so much more.
Keeping Squamish’s music scene alive is important for the diversity and health of our community. If anybody wants to get together to play music, let me know.
Editor's note: Grant Boguski, 13, is a performer with Amped in the Park. This is part of a Back to School youth pilot project.
We worked with ‘youth’ reporter Grant Boguski to create content geared to young Squamish residents. Let us know what you think of this initiative by writing [email protected].
