Canadian music icon Steven Page returns to Laurier for fundraising concert

July 17, 2023
For Immediate Release

WATERLOO – Canadian music icon and founding member of Barenaked Ladies Steven Page will return to Wilfrid Laurier University’s Waterloo campus for an intimate afternoon of live music on Oct. 29. Joined by Laurier’s Quartet-in-Residence, the Penderecki String Quartet, Page will share his musical talents in support of the university’s Making Space for Music fundraising campaign. Get tickets to the show.

“Everyone’s invited,” said Jason Coolman, vice-president of Advancement and External Relations at Laurier. “Spend a Sunday afternoon with Steven Page, the Penderecki String Quartet and Laurier music students. Not only will you be entertained, but you’ll also be helping Laurier in its fundraising efforts to Make Space for Music.”

Page, Barenaked Ladies founding member, will take centre stage to showcase his powerful tenor voice, quick wit and celebrated songs from a 30-year career, offering a heartfelt performance of solo works as well as iconic hits from his time with Barenaked Ladies. All proceeds from the concert will support Laurier’s Making Space for Music capital fundraising campaign, which is transforming Laurier’s Faculty of Music building, practice rooms and main Waterloo campus gateway.

A Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee, Page will also join forces with members of Laurier’s Faculty of Music orchestra, students and faculty members for the afternoon of music and storytelling. Laurier is also pleased to welcome back alumnus Isaac Page (B.Mus. ’18), Steven’s son, as guest conductor for the show. Steven and Isaac will be joined by bandmates Kevin Fox on cello and Craig Northey on guitar.

"We're thrilled to welcome Steven Page back to Laurier, and grateful for his support of Laurier's Making Space for Music fundraising campaign,” said Cynthia Johnston Turner, dean of the Faculty of Music. “It's going to be a great show."

Page received an honorary degree from Laurier in 2022 for his contributions to music education and mental health. As frontman of Barenaked Ladies, Page toured the world, selling out venues ranging from Madison Square Garden to Royal Albert Hall; sold nearly 15 million albums; and won numerous awards and accolades. In 2017, Page visited Laurier and performed with members of the Faculty of Music. The performance included songs arranged by Page and was conducted by his son, Isaac. Page also visited Laurier during Orientation Week in 2012 and spoke about his passion for increasing mental health awareness and eliminating the stigma around seeking help.

James Campbell, Canada’s distinguished clarinetists and a member of the Order of Canada, will also perform at the concert. Campbell recieved an honorary degree from Laurier in 2012 for his outstanding contributions to music and education.

Steven Page at Laurier with the Penderecki String Quartet and guests takes place Sunday, Oct. 29 at 3 p.m. in Lazaridis Hall’s 1,000-seat auditorium.

Laurier alumni, staff, faculty and community members save $5 per ticket if purchased before July 31.

All proceeds from this concert support Laurier’s Making Space for Music fundraising campaign. Learn more about the campaign at give.wlu.ca/music. Get tickets to the show.