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Spotlight on local music: Jon Shrier

Whistler is playing host to some very well-known Canadian and international acts during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Many are headlining shows at Whistler Medals Plaza or other big stages and venues set up throughout town.
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Whistler is playing host to some very well-known Canadian and international acts during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Many are headlining shows at Whistler Medals Plaza or other big stages and venues set up throughout town.

But our community is also home to some very talented musicians and performers who have been tapped to perform for the thousands of visitors who are here to enjoy the Olympic experience. To make sure these gifted artists aren't lost in the shuffle, Pique would like to introduce you to one of our very own: Jon Shrier.

 

Name: Jon Shrier

Hometown: Montreal

 

Pique: So, what's your Whistler/Pemberton story?

Jon Shrier: I first came to Whistler in '97 because I had heard great things from friends of mine who lived here. I thought it would be nice to go away for a while.

 

Pique: Your style can be loosely defined as acoustic rock, but how do you describe your sound?

J.S.: I try not to. It's hard. I sing loud and back it up rhythmically with my guitar. The blend is nothing new, but when I do it, I have been told that I perform with a lot of soul. So how about acoustic soul?

 

Pique: Which artists have been influential on your own musical style?

J.S.: Buddy Holly, Bob Dylan, Neil Diamond, Elvis and Bryan Adams.

 

Pique: What are your thoughts on Whistler's musical and artistic community?

J.S.: It's great! And it's getting better all the time. Most of my friends are involved in the arts in one form or another. It has been wonderful connecting with so many.

 

Pique: What do the Olympics mean to you?

J.S.: It's amazing to be around it all. It's the world at our doorstep. Not a big fan of crowds, but I have been really enjoying the excitement surrounding the Games. Performing music for so many during this time is a dream come true.

 

Pique: What events do you plan on attending?

J.S.: I have not planned to see anything yet. I am hoping to catch some of the Paralympic Games next month!

 

Pique: You collaborated with Barney Bentall and friends for the torch relay, and then will be performing again at Town Plaza. What is it like to have the opportunity to be a part of the Games?

J.S.: I am extremely grateful to be included in the Games. This will never happen again and already it is going by so quickly. Without question, my collaboration with Barney Bentall and the band was one of the best experiences of my life.

 

Pique: What do you hope people take away from your performances?

J.S.: If I could help someone forget about their troubles and worries for five minutes, I feel I have done my job. Bottom line, I hope it makes them smile.

 

Pique: What are your hopes for Whistler's arts, culture and heritage community post-2010?

J.S.: That it continues. One of the things I love about the Sea to Sky is the inspiration that comes from living in such a beautiful part of the world. In my opinion there will always be amazing people coming through here. There is poetry in the mountains, the trees, and the people. I believe it is the fuel that allows us artist-folk to create.

 

Pique: When do you perform?

J.S.: For Whistler Live!, on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at their Town Plaza site from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and again at 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Then again at Rebagliati Park on Wednesday, Feb. 17 and Tuesday, Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m. Then, on Friday, Feb. 19 and Saturday, Feb. 20, evening gigs at the Crystal Lounge starting at 9 p.m. Plus, an afternoon show up on Whistler Mountain at the Roundhouse each and every Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.