Community members gathered in the sun Aug. 17 at Jim Taylor Park near the Old Barn to listen to music and enjoy a BBQ at the Music in the Park event organized by the University Neighbourhood Association (UNA).
The community concert has been held often over the years. COVID-19 put a break on things but for the last two years, it’s made a comeback.
UNA Connected Community Coordinator Elias Rieger, with help from many others, worked to find the right artists and organize the event.
The community engagement advisory council provided food and drinks, selling tickets for a dollar an item.
There were six performers varying from singers to instrumental shows with saxophones, clarinets, guitars, and even saws.
Four performers were campus residents. Many have performed at different pop-up locations, and one is a frequent busker on Granville Island. Many genres were covered, but one common factor was the positive effect the music had on everyone there, from young to old.
My family and I sat on the grass along with many others under the shade trees. Chairs and tables were set up further back and the musicians performed at the top of the grassy hill, away from the blaze of the sun. Families set up blankets and tents, and many brought food.
Kids ran around, blowing bubbles, racing to the playground, and listened to the music. Two little girls even set up a lemonade stand.
OLIVIA HAILAIJIAO IS A STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY HILL SECONDARY SCHOOL