The vibrant arts scene in Edmonton owes much to a number of talented individuals whose contributions to the city are invaluable. One woman played a pivotal role in the development of classical music in Edmonton.
Van Beatrice Carmichael, a classically trained musician from Chicago, embraced Edmonton as her home and used her talents to shape the city’s cultural landscape. Her numerous musical projects brought an air of charm, sophistication, and artistic brilliance to the city. More on edmontonka.com.
Beatrice’s Life Story
Beatrice was born in South Bend, Indiana, in 1889 to a modest family. Her father was a musician who greatly influenced her talent. When she was 10, her family moved to Chicago, where she pursued her musical education.
Her exceptional talent for music was evident from a young age. By 16, she was already an accomplished vocalist and was also studying violin and piano. It was during this time that she began directing her first operetta. In 1914, her vocal coach arranged for her to continue her education in Germany. However, the outbreak of World War I interrupted her plans, and she remained in Chicago.
First Touring Ensemble and Performances
In the early 20th century, women were rarely allowed to participate in professional orchestras, which led to the creation of all-female touring ensembles. Under the direction of her manager, Beatrice joined one such group.
This ensemble, known as the Beatrice Van Loon Dutch Ladies’ Orchestra, comprised just seven women dressed in Irish costumes. In the fall of 1920, the orchestra embarked on an eight-week tour to Edmonton, with Beatrice among its members. The performances of the women from Chicago became a sensation.
They played nightly for appreciative audiences, with Beatrice showcasing her talents as a violinist and conductor. A local dentist, captivated by her performance, proposed to her at the end of the tour. Contrary to societal expectations of the time, marriage did not mark the end of her career.
Beatrice became a valued member of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, playing first violin for 13 seasons until the orchestra dissolved. She had the distinction of conducting its final concert, becoming the first woman in Canada to conduct an orchestra.
Contributions to Alberta’s Musical Culture
Beatrice was actively involved in developing musical organizations at the University of Alberta. Under her leadership, the university orchestra collaborated with the Glee Club on light operatic productions, which led to the establishment of the University Philharmonic in 1932. She dedicated over a decade to her work at the university before deciding to pursue other projects.
She was a supporter of the Edmonton Women’s Musical Club and, in 1932, was asked to produce a concert rendition of Faust by Gounod. Its success inspired her to create an opera company. In the winter of 1935, Beatrice invited friends to her home to discuss forming a troupe, and thus the Edmonton Civic Opera Society was born.
The local opera debuted in the spring of 1935 with a production of Maritana. The cast included 12 actors, a 38-member choir, and an orchestra of 30 musicians. Despite attracting large audiences, the debut incurred significant financial losses. Undeterred, Beatrice used her own funds to cover the costs.
Over the years, the opera flourished. Critics frequently praised its success, and despite the emergence of competing troupes in Edmonton’s post-war climate, the Edmonton Civic Opera Society remained a favourite among locals.
Beatrice remained devoted to her work, performing on stage until her final days. She passed away on March 11, 1964, at the age of 75, in her home.