Andrew Forde, a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering who is also a musician, entrepreneur and philanthropist, strives to challenge the status quo with his projects.  A violinist and composer, he creates art and compositions that speak to the consciousness of the human family. His most pressing concern is to create meaningful work.

‘Toronto musician will re-interpret renowned pianist’s The Idea of North as part of Black History month’

Zulekha Nathoo
CBC News 2018 – IDEAS OF NORTH

Ideas Of North

(Koerner Hall, Toronto,  February 2018)

Inspired by Glenn Gould’s iconic 1967 CBC radio broadcast The Idea of North, Forde decided to create a project about embracing something classic and wrapping it in a modern quilt of voices and instrumentation. Half a century later, Forde recognized that many of the original themes were still relevant to contemporary Canada.

“By using Gould’s legendary radio documentary as the backdrop, I want to re-imagine the North for a 21st-century, pan-cultural Canada,” says Forde. “I want to extend my search of self, of community, of those whose perspectives remain untold, and to take the lead from our Aboriginal sisters and brothers and share our collective stories.”

Ideas Of North celebrated hope and vision, with its sights set on nation building and authentic equality. It is an astonishing work that engages in cultural reconciliation and the healing of lost connections. All of this happens in direct contradiction to Gould’s wishes; before a live audience.

Andrew’s Ideas Of North not only celebrates black history, it is creating it.

 

In the Press

Follow Andrew on Instagram