BY LORNE ECKERSLEY
Advance staff
Mark Koenig and Victoria Tilling will be reprising last summer’s popular concert at Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery on Saturday, July 15.
The veteran, Juno-nominated Koenig has become something of a mentor to Tilling, who is a relative newcomer to community of performing musicians.
“When I listen to Victoria’s music and lyrics I hear something very special,” Koenig said of his protégé. “It’s the same feeling I had when I first heard Sarah (Mclaughlin).”
For this year’s concert, Koenig is bringing together a group of guest musicians that includes Boswell’s much admired Donnie Clark, a trumpet virtuoso who has been described as “the jewel of the Kootenays.” Gary Koliger will play guitar and standup bass master Rob Fahie will also take the stage. Adam Koenig will sit in at his drum kit and Jen Koenig will provide backup harmonies. Victoria’s sister, Cassidy, will also be joining in.
In the year since making her public debut as a singer-songwriter, Victoria has continued to write music and lyrics.
“I’ll be playing with a mix of the special guests—a couple with Donnie, a couple with my sister Cassidy, and a couple with the whole band. (That’s the plan right now, anyway!). I’ll be playing all of my own stuff, no covers,” she said last week. “So far, I’ve only had a chance to rehearse with Donnie. I remember thinking, after running through the first song, ‘How did I end up playing with this guy?!’ He brings my songs to life. It was fun!
“I really hope people have a wonderful night out—enjoy some good wine, a stunning setting, and I’m confident, good company, as well. It will certainly be a treat for me to play with such seasoned, professional musicians.”
The music starts at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 15, and gates open at 6:30 p.m. Wine and beer will available for purchase. Tickets are $20 and are available at Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery and Morris Flowers on Canyon Street.