Just wanted to let you all know that the website for ITG 2008 is constantly being updated and there will be further details within the next ten days.
MUSIC & SOUND AT THE BANFF CENTRE
This is going to be an amazingly unprecedented line-up of players and I have burned through my extensive speed dial calling in all kinds of favors.
The theme of the conference is what I'm calling 'Tapas-like' concerts...many small meals that make you feel entirely satiated by the end. I am intentionally blurring the lines between the traditional "classical-at-7-jazz-at-9" concept. Our evening galas will be from 7-10:30 with an entire array of stars performing. During the day, almost all events will involve a variety of artists and the evening club shows will be outrageous (I can't wait for Mark Gould and Pink Baby Monster!!!).
Since I believe fervently that it is only about music and not about categorizing, this conference is intended to allow us all to celebrate our instrument in it's many clothes. Although I mention Mark by name (personal bias since he is my mentor), I simply cannot tell you how excited I am about the wide array of acts. For any of you unfamiliar with any names currently posted on the website, I would encourage asking questions in this forum and engaging in spirited discussion about who they are.
Further, do not be deterred by the fact that the conference is in Banff, Canada. Calgary airport is a major international hub and easy to get to. Aside from the music, the scenery is breathtaking and worth the trip from that perspective alone. Every photo at this website (first one I googled) is within 5 minutes of the Banff Centre (except Lake Louise which is a 45 minute trip to a piece of heaven).
Banff National Park Photos, Stock Photos of Banff National Park, Canada, Canadian Rockies
There are also numerous options to keep things within a reasonable budget. Feel free to email my assistant co-ordinator Geraldine at:
itg2008@banffcentre.ca
Aside from the fact that I am hosting this conference and am more than happy to advertise it, I grew up in Alberta where this is all being held. I cannot begin to tell you how proud I am to show all of this off to the world and mean it sincerely when I tell you that this conference will be a once in a life time experience musically and scenically and well worth taking advantage of.
Hope many of you can make it!
Jens Lindemann
Jens Lindemann's Web Quarters