Media Release

Grade 3 Student Wins Chance to See Her Story Performed by the CPO
Winner of “Once Upon A Time…” contest awaits performance

Calgary, AB – May 21, 2004: Lindsay Lehr knows Saturday is going to be a big day for her when her winning story, “The Zebra’s Spots,” is performed on stage by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO).

Nine-year old Lindsay’s story was written and submitted for the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra’s story-writing contest in their Discover Hour series. Winners of the contest are invited to the “Once Upon A Time….” performance where they will witness their work narrated by special guest, Dave Kelly, host of A-Channel’s “The Big Breakfast” and illustrated with music by the orchestra.

Having completed a writing assignment story for her Grade 3 English class, Lehr says she was encouraged by teachers to submit it to the contest after receiving a high grade. Lehr did not find out that she was a winner until last month when the CPO’s Resident Conductor Rosemary Thompson personally contacted her in class over the phone.

“It made her day when she received that phone call,” says Marthe Malchow, Lehr’s homeroom teacher. “Everyone was surprised when we found out it was Rosemary calling and when the news came, Lindsay’s been happy ever since.”

“I was excited when I first found out that I won,” says Lehr. “But it’s even more exciting now that I’m going to see it performed at the concert and I get to bring along some friends.”

Out of the hundreds of local elementary school children who took the unique opportunity to explore their writing talent, Lindsay is one of eight Calgary students who will see their work brought to life onstage. The CPO’s Discovery Hour starts at 1:00pm in the Jack Singer Concert Hall lobby followed by the concert at 2:00pm.

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