Interested in learning something new about the symphony? Whether you are new-to-symphony, consider
yourself a music aficionado or are just plain curious, our monthly lectures are here to inspire you. Join us
monthly to learn about this season’s music and musicians in a fun, casual and welcoming environment.
Attendance to each lecture is by donation at Oliver Woods Community Centre in Salal Room 2.

Attendance to the lectures are by donation. Advance bookings and walk-ins are welcome.

How to Book your Seat in Advance to the VIS KeyNote Speaker Series Lectures:

On the right hand side of this page, click on the Full Series Pass button to reserve a seat at all 7 lectures or find the lecture you would like to attend and click on the  Single Tickets button.

When you attend the in-person lecture you also receive the link and password to the online version of the lecture. This allows you to reference the KeyNote lecture that you attended in-person or if you are away, you can view the lecture from anywhere online.

LECTURE 2

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2025
2:30 – 3:00 PM
Oliver Woods Community Centre
6000 Oliver Road, Nanaimo, BC

Speaker: Carolyn Cusson, Celtic musician, entrepreneur and leadership consultant, with René Cusson

You don’t have to be from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, or Brittany to love Celtic music. Local Celtic expert and producer Carolyn Cusson looks at why this magical musical tradition is beloved around the world and thriving right here on Vancouver Island. Discover how Celtic music has grown through homegrown organizations, global collaborations, and a universal appeal that transcends borders.

LECTURE 4

THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026
2:30 – 3:30 PM
Oliver Woods Community Centre
6000 Oliver Road, Nanaimo, BC

Speaker: Cosette Justo Valdés, VIS Artistic Director

In anticipation of the first Cuban music festival in Nanaimo, taking place February 12 – 14, 2026, Artistic Director Cosette Justo Valdés takes us inside the festival’s programming: the music, musicians and Cuban music history. If you want to become a specialist on Cuban music, this is your chance.

LECTURE 6

TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2026
2:30 –  3:30 PM
Oliver Woods Community Centre
6000 Oliver Road, Nanaimo, BC

Speaker: Cosette Justo Valdés, VIS Artistic Director

In anticipation of VIS’ final concert of the season, VIS’ Artistic Director Cosette Justo Valdés will share her passion for combining artforms. Inspired by guest poets & performers Titilope Sonuga and Wakefield Brewster, Cosette links the brilliant work of composer Gabriela Smith and the genius of the young Lili Boulanger with the impactful music in Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet.