“What a marvelous way to mark the 100th anniversary of such a profound loss. As audience members we are uplifted and grief-stricken by turns, and by the end of the concert we feel transformed by the experience of great art brilliantly presented. This masterpiece should be on tour for every Canadian to enjoy. Highly recommended!”
“A sublime afternoon of beautifully performed, cinematic compositions. So very proud and happy for you all. (Yes there were indeed a few tears shed.) Wishing you every success in the future recording and Canadian tour. EVERY gallery across Canada should be sharing this with their patrons!”
“The emotionally charged Sonic Palette performance by the Algonquin Ensemble was the most appropriate way for the McMichael to commemorate the anniversary of Thomson’s death. Exactly, one hundred years after his disappearance, the combination of the atmospheric, original musical compositions and projections reminded us that Tom’s voice is still vibrantly alive through his works.”
“The artist Tom Thomson's life and paintings were the catalyst for the writing of this work. Thomson captured the countryside, shone light on it, proclaimed it, understood it, exalted in it. Sonic Palette is an inspired musical interpretation of the same. The two reflect each other, like mirror images of skies and trees in clear and deep water. An exceptional work. As Canadian as a Maple Leaf. Forever.”
“Sonic Palette is a masterful celebration of Canadian painter Tom Thomson, in which the Algonquin Ensemble interprets Thomson’s visual creations through music. Using piano, strings, fretted instruments, and voice, the Ensemble has invented musical soundscapes which beautifully evoke the spirit, mood, and textures of Thomson’s works, with invitations to view selected paintings while enjoying the corresponding compositions. Regarding his work, Thomson is quoted as having said, “Someday, they’ll know what I mean.” Sonic Palette illuminates and brings us closer to that understanding. I think Tom would be quite pleased.”
“The music is stunning and brings so much beauty and emotion to these docs... I feel so grateful for that!”