Liona Boyd Performing at the taste of the Danforth. Photo credit ccvic.zenfolio.com

On Aug 09th, I headed down to the Taste of the Danforth Festival via Toronto’s Subway. A short walk east of the Chester Subway Station, I heard the sound of music and a familiar voice. Yes I arrived “fashionably late”, as usual.

The familiar voice was that of Liona Boyd singing on stage. It was great to see and hear Liona Boyd again. She is an amazing Classical Guitarist. Very likely one of the very best in the world. Along with that gift, she also has a wonderful voice.

The stage was a small street festival size. Perfect for the audience, who were enjoying the show. Being up close and personal to the stage makes for a more intimate performance. For a street festival stage the sound guy was really good.

All the photos were effectively shot at around ISO 5000 (ISO 3200 and under exposed by about 3/4 of a stop so as not to totally blow out the highlights in the dress and hair). Something between the stage lights, High ISO and the cameras Auto White Balance went amiss. All the pics came out with a warm tint. Have made a few attempts at post processing the pics.

Liona Boyd performing at the Taste of the Danforth. Photo credit ccvic.zenfolio.com

I really enjoyed her performance. Liona Boyd makes playing Classical Guitar seem so effortless. The set lasted about 30 minutes. There was also an after show meet and greet with fans, on the sidewalk beside the stage. Again, very close and personal.

Have a read thru her page on Wikipedia. Rather unique in how Liona Boyd gives her time, to perform for different charities around the globe. The Guitar, which was Liona Boyd’s first album, was released back in 1974. Next year will be the 40th anniversary of that release. She has had quite an amazing career. Liona Boyd is a gifted musician and her performances are not to be missed events.

Liona Boyd. Photo credit ccvic.zenfolio.com

Those living in Toronto and the GTA area, are really lucky to have such a diverse and extremely talented number of musicians playing at the assorted Festivals during the year. Thanks to Toronto radio station 680 News for mentioning Liona Boyd’s appearance at the Taste of The Danforth. It was a great evening and even the weather was perfect.

Special Thanks go out to Vincent Banial for shooting the photos of this concert.