Lunenburg-based Musique Royale is receiving a financial investment from the federal government.

 MP Gerald Keddy, on behalf of James Moore, minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, announced January 20 that funding totalling $44,000 will be turned over to the group for the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund.

 Musique Royale, which operates under the guidance of founder and artistic and administrative director Barbara Butler, presents a summer festival and year-round performances of Renaissance and baroque music in rural and urban communities across the province.

 The funding will enable the organization of community concerts and outreach activities that will promote the arts and boost tourism in the region.

 Soloists, vocal ensembles and instrumental ensembles from across Canada, the United States and Europe will participate in performances and other events.

 "Our government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in organizations like Musique Royale," Minister Moore said via a press release. "By supporting this first-class organization, our government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture and heritage."

 Mr. Keddy complimented Musique Royale on its past efforts, saying that thanks to its "excellent work" Nova Scotians will have opportunities to celebrate the province's rich classical music heritage.

 "Our government commends the group for bringing this special artistic excellence to communities all over Nova Scotia," he said.

 Ms Butler was naturally pleased that the federal government is helping to provide a strong foundation that will be used to support their music programs.

 "Musique Royale brings performances of early music featuring Canadian artists to more than 20 communities throughout the province each summer," she said. "We celebrate our province's musical and cultural heritage, and our success would not have been possible without the ongoing support of the Canadian Arts Presentation Fund."

posted on 01/25/12