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| - The Cantos Music Foundation is a gem for music lovers and music history aficionados. Located close to downtown Calgary, it's something I can honestly say I never knew existed, if not for a First Thursday Art Walk where it was one of the stops on the tour.
Cantos bills itself as "a national catalyst for discovery, innovation and renewal through music." They have one of the most impressive musical instrument collections in the country, plus a fantastic event space and musical educational program. They now own the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame collection that's on display at Stampede Park, and are currently working on converting the old King Eddy Hotel into the brand new National Music Centre.
I've only ever done the public tour, which is offered every Sunday at 1:30 or 3 p.m. and every Thursday at 6 p.m.:
http://www.cantos.ca/node/786
On the public tour, you get to see, learn about, and even play some of the instruments from their collection. If you're a piano or keyboard lover, this is the closest thing to heaven you'll ever experience. There are harpsichords from the 1800's on display, pianos from every era, a massive organ that has to be heard to be believed, as well as a piano formally owned by Elton John. The best part is that most of the instruments are playable by the public! I keep meaning to go back one day, brush up on my piano, and play the theme to Phantom of the Opera and the Linus and Lucy theme from Charlie Brown on one (or more) of the keyboards.
They also have concerts and special events here every once in a while, and while I've yet to sample some of that, it's on my bucket list.
Cantos has a soft spot in my heart ever since I discovered it a few months ago, and I'm always looking for an excuse to go back and visit. The Foundation does so much work in the community, and the programs and events they offer at their facility are just as varied. Definitely worth a visit!
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