Edmonton Recital Society

The Edmonton Recital Society (ERS) is a registered, incorporated nonprofit music society and charity based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, dedicated to enriching the city’s artistic and cultural life through presenting world-class concerts in intimate settings. The organization primarily promotes artists with connections to Edmonton, often featuring local emerging talents alongside established international performers.

Mandate and Activities

ERS aims to make high-quality classical and recital music accessible and affordable to a broad audience. To achieve this, it relies significantly on support from donors and sponsors. Its mandate includes:

• Promoting musicians with Edmonton roots
• Providing performance opportunities for emerging artists
• Partnering with the broader community to enhance cultural engagement
• Giving back through educational outreach

Outreach and Education

The society places strong emphasis on community outreach by supporting music education for youth and young adults, particularly those facing financial barriers. Its outreach programs include:

• Scholarships and tuition assistance for aspiring musicians
• Master classes and mentorship aimed at nurturing children's musical abilities

Through these efforts, ERS fosters the development of young talent and contributes to sustaining Edmonton’s vibrant musical landscape.

Governance

For the 2024/25 season, the society’s governance consists of an elected Board of Directors and an Artistic Committee. Key leadership includes:

• Nora Bumanis, President
• Christopher Taylor, Vice-President
• Denise Hugman, Treasurer
• Barbara Ellis, Secretary and Donor Relations
• Sarah Ho, Artistic Director
• Frank Ho, Outreach Director

Programming

ERS curates a diverse concert season featuring both beloved classical repertoire and contemporary works performed by artists who often have a personal or professional connection to Edmonton. Concerts are designed to be intimate experiences, offering audiences close encounters with performers.

Legal Status and Recognition

The Edmonton Recital Society is officially registered as a charity under Canadian law with the business registration number 842099368RR0001. As a registered nonprofit, it complies with the Canada Revenue Agency’s regulations for charitable organizations.

By combining artistic excellence with community engagement and education, the Edmonton Recital Society plays a vital role in promoting classical music culture in Edmonton and supporting the next generation of musicians.