October 06, 2006 -

OTTAWA -- The National Arts Centre Orchestra Association (NACOA) will officially launch its 2006 - 2007 season with a musical brunch on Sunday, October 15 at 11:30 a.m. in the Panorama Room of the National Arts Centre. Musicians of the NAC Orchestra will be in attendance as guests of NACOA, and a musical interlude will be provided by Mark Johnston, the talented young violinist who won the 2006 NACOA Bursary Award. It is a perfect opportunity to meet the Orchestra, and to become familiar with NACOA’s various offerings.

“Last year, NACOA enjoyed a wonderful season of musical and cultural events, all of which served to benefit the Orchestra and young musicians as well as to support the Orchestra’s vital programmes of community outreach and music education," said Josie Finestone, President of the Board of Directors of NACOA. “We expect an even more stellar season this year.”

In addition to its season-launching brunch, NACOA will once again provide a range of special events to its members. These will include the popular Saturday morning “Behind the Music” lecture and performance series, access to Orchestra rehearsals, and the always sold-out “Music to Dine For” dinners at Ambassadorial residences and other spectacular venues across Ottawa. Tours, including a planned visit to Montreal for a performance of La Traviata, are also being offered.

Those interested in attending the brunch on Sunday, October 15 are asked to reserve by leaving at message on the NACOA hotline at 613-947-7000, extension 590, before October 10. The cost is $15.00 for non-members of NACOA and free to members. Memberships, which cost $30.00, will be available at the brunch.

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For further information, media representatives may contact Lillian Thomsen at lillian.thomsen@rogers.com