Kingston Road Village Concert Series begins its 14th season with Silent Movie Magic on Sept. 26

The Kingston Road Village Concert Series is entering its 14th season of chamber music and much more in Toronto’s east end.

What began as a modest “retirement-in-advance” project for Toronto Symphony bassist Timothy Dawson has grown into a 10-concert season featuring an unusually diverse lineup of music, performers and experiences.

“I see concerts as a place for people to gather, spending time together and sharing a transformative experience,” said Dawson, who retired from the Toronto Symphony after 44 years in its double bass section. “It’s pretty crazy—the idea of having one job for 44 years, let alone a job in the arts, is pretty rare. I’m the luckiest guy in the world!”

Dawson is now drawing on the friendships and connections he made during his TSO career to bring music to his neighbourhood. “My wife Kim and I started this while we were both working full time. How we did it, I have no idea!”

Today, a volunteer board helps them bring audiences to the beautiful Kingston Road United Church, with its stunning acoustics and warm atmosphere. Unlike many arts organizations, the series has received no grants in its 14 years. It relies entirely on sponsorship and ticket revenue.

Dawson is particularly grateful to its three major sponsors: Karin Schemeit and Larry Williamson, Bob and Mare Gore (Robert Gore and Associates, CPAs), and Heidi Gollert, along with many other community supporters.

This season’s lineup ranges far beyond traditional chamber music.

There will be silent movies accompanied by live, improvised piano on Sept. 26; Cuban music with dancing, food and drink on Oct. 17; Men of the Deeps, the famous coal miners’ choir from Nova Scotia on Dec. 4; and a Solstice concert with longtime favourites Sultans of String on Dec. 21.

The season also includes a Lunar New Year celebration featuring a string orchestra, Chinese instruments, food and a dragon dance; the annual side-by-side concert with conductor Kathleen Allen, bringing students from the Royal Conservatory’s Taylor Academy together with professional musicians; a vocal recital featuring two outstanding Canadian soloists; and a spectacular combination of mime and music built around Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition.

There are also two family concerts. In October, children can come in costume for a Halloween celebration with pizza, singing and dancing led by two-time Juno-nominated Chris McKhool.

In January, Peter Duschenes, formerly of Platypus Theatre, will present Peter and the Wolf.

Early-bird pricing is available for all concerts except Men of the Deeps. To order tickets, please go online to https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/kingston-road-village-concert-series-17790346760