Crowe returns for annual concert

As ex-Nanaimoite prepares to tour and record, she still makes time for
family and friends in the city

By Tamara Cunningham Nanaimo Daily News December 8, 2011

Recording artist Allison Crowe has much to feel merry about this season with an documentary and a CD in the works.

The independent artist, a former Nanaimo resident, has had a slow, but steady rise to international-acclaim after turning down a major recording label more than five years ago. As she prepares for her third concert in Nanaimo for her annual Tidings tour, she says she's pleased with her gradual rise to fame.

It's allowed her to pursue music on her own terms and create albums when the whim strikes.

Crowe is in the early stages of her eighth album and launching her annual cross-country concert tour with a film crew in tow, after the Newfoundland Arts Council agreed to help her document the growing musical tradition.

"It has been so rewarding to be who I want to be," she said of her success.

"I am not under the gun to write a number one hit, I can take my time, build relationships and write when the mood strikes."

Crowe, who now resides in Corner Brook, Nfld., said it's good to be back in Nanaimo, where she launched the Tidings concert.

The show plays Saturday night at St. Andrew's Church in the Old City Quarter of Nanaimo and features a fusion of holiday favourites, cover songs and music from Crowe's seven albums.

The concert is also set to highlight some of the city's young talent, like Dover Bay's Kiana Smith and Chris Wood.

Most of the concerts Crowe holds across Canada are linked to charities and young singers.

It's her way of giving a boost to the next generation of musicians.

The 30-year-old crooner attributes much of her success to the opportunities her music and tour band teachers offered during her high school years at Woodlands Secondary School.

She reconnects with the duo every year with the hopes of inspiring other talent.

"My teachers gave me the chance to do live (shows), which is really where I learned to perform," she said.

"If I am able to offer other young people the same kind of platform, why wouldn't I?"

From Nanaimo, Europe beckons and Crowe is planning a spring tour across the continent.

The Tidings concert kicks off at 7 p.m. and tickets can be purchased in advance at Lobelia's Lair, Tom Lee Music, House of Indigo and Thrifty Foods. Tickets are $20 with discounted rates of $15 for students and seniors in advance.

TCunningham@nanaimodailynews.com 250-729-4230