Cochrane Culture Days continue to shine the spotlight on our diverse arts community, this year focusing on music and our local authors.

Held at the Cochrane Farmers' Market on Sept. 10, then in the Historic Downtown on Sept. 11, it offered a wide range of musical genres. In between, local authors provided readings of their works.

"It was fantastic," says Jane Kazcmer, of the Cochrane Integrated Arts Society (CIAS), "Perfect weather, of course, always helps, but it really was an amazing weekend. We just had so much fun. The people who were there really enjoyed both days."

He says working in conjunction with the Cochrane Farmers' Market and the Fall Colours Show & Shine was a perfect fit.

"People learn about all kinds of performers, instrumentalists, musicians, and dancers in our community."

"Every year we add different things. This year we added the literary readings by authors to let people find out that we have a lot of authors in the area and It gave them a chance to get a little bit of exposure. It's just a lot of fun."

She says it also encourages other people to become involved. , For example, Adam Mailman, band director of the Cochrane Music Society, had people approach him afterward to learn how they can join.

"For any group, that's is great exposure to attract people to come and join them."

Collaborating with other events in town seems to be the way to go, but Kazcmer leaves the door open for new ideas each year.

"There are some performers that have been coming back year after year, and we love that, but I'm always looking for new things to present.

She points to the success of One World Drum drumming circle which was well received, and it was their first appearance at Culture Days.

Tipi raising and Mini Thni DancersA Mini Thni Dancers performance followed the tipi-raising on 2nd Ave. W across from Cochrane Coffee Traders. (Photo/Melissa Engdahl)

Culture Days also included the second tipi-raising of a group dedicated to establishing an Indigenous Centre in Cochrane. A performance by the Mini Thni Dancers followed. Both attracted a crowd.

"It was very successful. It was the first presentation this group put on, and it was very important to take advantage of the audience there."

Cochrane Culture Days were made possible by many generous sponsors: Erol’s Automotive, Spray Lake Sawmills, Co-operators, Riverbend Interiors, and Ink’d Graphics. Grants were provided by Alberta Culture, Town of Cochrane, and Treasures For Your Home Society.