Vancouver Chants

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ChantFest 2007?

ChantFest 2007 is an all day celebratory Festival inviting particpants to open their hearts to the joy of chanting. There will be chant workshops during the day where chant leaders from two different tradtions will come together to teach and lead chants exploring a theme such as peace or connecting to the Earth. (Please see our Schedule of Chantshops).

In the evening there will be a Chant Celebration featuring Aline Laflamme and the Daughters of the Drum and chant performers Lorne Mallin, David Embry Solest and Myrna Rabinowitz, Gina Sala, Amir OLoughlin, Jerry DesVoignes and members of the MantraVani orchestra and Joseph “Pepe” Danza and Navaro Franco who will lead you in chanting from a variety of traditions including Aboriginal, African, Brazilian, Hebrew, Hindu, Sufi and Tibetan.

Where is ChantFest 2007 taking place?

ChantFest 2007 is taking place at the Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace located at 1825 W. 16th Ave in Vancouver (at Burrard).
(Google map)

When is ChantFest 2007 taking place?

Saturday March 31st. 2007. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. The Opening Ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m. Chantshops will offered in three sessions; 10:30 a.m. to noon, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. And 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. The Evening Chant Celebration will take place in the sancturary of the Canadian Memorial Church on 15th Avenue at Burrard. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Celebration begins at 7:30 p.m.

How do I get a ticket?

Tickets for the Festival all day event (including the Evening Chant Celebration) and for just the Evening Chant Celebration can be purchased at the door or in advance through Banyen Books and Sound, 3608 W. 4th Avenue by calling 604-737-8858. Tickets purchased through Banyen can be picked up at the door on the day of the event.

What does it cost?

The full day Festival pass (including admittance to the Evening Chant Celebration) is $55. Students/Seniors is $35. For just the Evening Chant Celebration tickets are $25. Students/Seniors $20.

How do I pay for the event?

While Banyen Books accepts most credit and debt cards, if you are planning to purchase tickets at the door, CDs, raffle tickets, or lunch, please be sure to bring cash. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we will not be able to process debit or credit cards at the event.

Are refreshments provided?

Complimentary tea and coffee will be provided during in the afternoon break and there will be a light lunch for purchase for people who don't bring their own lunch or choose not to go out for lunch.

What should I bring with me?

Water, a mug for the tea break, a cushion to sit on if you like to sit on the floor (there will be some chairs provided), a lunch and snack foods , extra clothes to keep you comfortable.

I’ve never chanted before. Do I have to know how to sing?

No, chanting is really quite simple and you will pick it up quickly. The quality of your voice is unimportant. What matters is the spirit you bring to it. People of all ages can join in the chanting. The words are simple and repetitive. The melodies are easily mastered. If the chant is in a language that is unfamiliar to you (Sanskrit for example), any close approximation will be fine. There will be song sheets provided.

Will there be CDs for purchase?

Yes, CDs from most of the chant leaders will be offered for the special festival price of $15. Visit the display table in the Great Hall. The will also be raffle tickets for sale. We are raffling off a beautiful First Nations skin drum. Proceeds will go to the Aboriginal Front Door Society a non profit organization dedicated to helping Aboriginal people in the downtown eastside on their healing journey. 1 tickets for $5, 3 tickets for $10.

Is this event wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace is fully wheelchair accessible. There are ramps, handicap washrooms on each floor and an elevator.

May I bring my children?

Children are welcome if they truly want to be there and if they are old enough to understand the spirit of the event. They would need to be able to stay engaged for the entire 90 minute time of the chantshop. Please be respectful of your fellow chanters and their right to a peaceful, contemplative experience.

If you'd like to speak to one of our organizers, please call 604-685-3536.