Mountains, Music & Masterpieces

The weekend began with a cocktail reception in the Lakeview Lounge. Through the windows, frosty Lake Louise glittered under the sinking sun. Classical guitarist John Goulart played while guests mingled around tables of h’or doeuvres, sipping wine and feasting their eyes on the majestic Rocky Mountains. Lamb, risotto, bococcini salad, and lobster bisque were among the edibles.

Pat and Sherrold Moore, Alison and Elliot Geskin, and Andrea Brussa lounged and laughed, sharing travel stories. The Moores and Brussa recounted their most recent trip to Zimbabwe; the Geskins spoke of Hawaii and Mexico. Across the room, Patricia Johnston and Don Groot shared stories of cycling through France, eating grapes off the vine. Talk of beautiful landscapes shifted easily to the one thing they share above all else - a love of fine arts. Hence their presence at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for an intimate experience with The Art Gallery of Alberta and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO).

Ann Lewis-Luppino, president of the CPO, welcomed guests warmly, making introductions and setting a relaxed tone. “This weekend is really meant to encourage dialogue, and make friends,” she explained, “I wanted to keep it small, special.”

Lewis-Luppino and her husband, Tony Luppino, executive director of The Art Gallery of Alberta, were gracious hosts for the weekend, the concept for which came from Fairmont Hotels and Resorts Inc.

“European tourists love the mountains, but they’re also used to culture,” explained Luppino, “A package like this keeps them here a little longer and introduces them to more than our wild outdoors.”

It’s also a community-building exercise, they explain further, both for The Fairmont and their two cities. The Mountains, Music & Masterpieces weekend was the first in a variety of themed packages to come.

Saturday featured a discussion on the Group of Seven and their unique role in shaping Canadian identity. Luppino gave an inspired lecture, inviting the forty guests to examine the Lawren Harris and J.E.H. MacDonald paintings in the room. While utterly respectful of original artwork, Luppino wonders if our society is not overly cautious.

“What’s the point in preserving them if no one ever sees them?” he asked.

After a light lunch, Maestro Roberto Minczuk took the stage for an interactive seminar on music and nature, including a performance by CPO musicians Craig Hutchenreuther, Tom Mirhady, Rob Penner, and Brad Otteson.

A four-course gala dinner in the small, plush Alpine Room capped off the day. Atlantic salmon was presented three ways: tartare, smoked, and ceviche, followed by a tomato bisque, and Alberta beef. Another private performance from the CPO quartet - complete with a heartfelt rendition of “home on the range” - prompted standing ovations.

Guests stayed in the elite 7th floor “gold rooms” and following dinner, some made use of the kitchen, chess board, and armchairs in its comfortable lounge while others braved the grizzly-friendly weather for a glimpse of the stars and lumbering porcupines.

A decadent brunch - champagne and eggs benedict with duck confit - gave time for guests to say goodbye. Most agreed that the end of the weekend marked the beginning of something wonderful.

Published in National Post, May 30 2009

NOTE: My accommodation for this event was generously supported by the CPO and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise - what a treat! My gratitude is only shadowed by my awe for the spectacular views, detailed luxury, and superb service from the valet to the saloon. We will return; thank you!