The Most Eclectic Music You’ll Ever Hear North of Fargo

What with the well-documented financial woes of the Canadian orchestra industry, it’s a wonder that the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra’s New Music Festival still exists. Now in its 13th year, the festival became one of the surprise industry successes of the 1990s, drawing thousands of fans from across North America with its quirky programs and relaxed style. This year’s edition, which kicks off this weekend, will feature a 20-piece electric guitar band made up of teenage musician-composers; a rapper participating in a formal premiere of a Swedish composition; and an appearance by composer Arvo Pärt.