“The musicians were awesome”: The surreal candlelit tribute series taking over local venues with music from Vivaldi to Drake and Coldplay

Every attendee can give their opinion and rating out of five stars so when you’re browsing through the Candlelight marketplace, you’ll often find reviews of past performances.

Not only do these performances take place at iconic venues in the city, including the historic Christ Church Cathedral and the impressive Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church, but they are also adorned by the golden light of thousands of flickering candles. Unlike traditional concerts, the warm ambiance encourages deep listening, allowing you to really connect with the music.

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By recreating timeless masterpieces in a new setting, these captivating performances bridge the gap between past and present, making the genre feel fresh and as relevant as ever. Consequently, classical music is made more accessible for all audiences, from seasoned aficionados to eager novices. Every music lover can experience Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, relish in Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty and feel Beethoven’s powerful symphonies in real life.

However, it doesn’t end there. Candlelight has a wide array of programmes and concerts on display every season. From celebrating the works of jazz legends like Herbie Hancock and Louis Armstrong to iconic film composers in the likes of Joe Hisaishi and A. R. Rahman, there is a concert for every mood and interest. Whether it’s classical masterpieces, film scores or modern hits, every note feels more emotional and immersive.

Nothing taps into nostalgia like seasonal music and the popular series offers a range of seasonal concerts throughout the year, setting the mood for every occasion. Tributes to Christmas carols bring back cosy memories with friends and family during the holidays, spooky tunes bring out our mischievous and dark side, while Valentine’s Day ballads make February feel even more magical. It’s the soundtrack to our favourite moments and they are made even more unforgettable by Candlelight.

One of the main reasons to attend Candlelight is to witness top-tier and local musicians do what they do best. Their skill, dedication and ability to interpret any song or composition—be that in the classical, pop, rock or jazz genre—elevate the whole experience.

A much welcome moment for many guests is when musicians impart little nuggets of knowledge and short anecdotes about the artist they are honouring or the songs they are playing. For instance, during these enchanting performances, between sets, they often give insight into the creative process and the historical context. This way, the experience is made more comprehensive for the concertgoers and they can learn something new about their favourite artists.