Songs for the Strait: Folk music benefit for Georgia Strait Alliance

Date: Sunday, March 22, 2026
Time: 2 – 4 pm. Doors 1:30 pm
Location: Notional Space 1523 East Pender Street, Vancouver

Join us for an afternoon of West Coast inspired folk from some of Vancouver’s finest folk musicians.

Enjoy an evening of music featuring talented Vancouver-based musicians Tim Readman, Brian Robertson, Holly Arntzen, and Michael Burnyeat. Brian Robertson, described as “a genuine BC treasure,” shares authentic songs about the region, its history, and universal themes of love, travel, social justice, and the blues. Holly Arntzen blends folk music with environmental advocacy and ecological education, while Michael Burnyeat, two-time BC Fiddle Champion and versatile multi-instrumentalist, brings mastery in Celtic, Folk, and Country genres.

Support the Salish Sea through the power of music! This benefit concert for Georgia Strait Alliance (GSA) is a chance to enjoy outstanding performances while contributing to the protection of the Salish Sea and its coastal communities.

We hope to see you there!

About the musicians

Brian Robertson
Brian is perhaps best known for his well-crafted songs and stories about life on the west coast, many based on his personal experience in its various resource industries and as a historical consultant on First Nation land issues. A long-time supporter of the Georgia Strait Alliance, Brian will be joined by the mighty Michael Burnyeat, and together they’ll leave the songs with a few hot fiddle tunes. His website is www.brianrobertson.ca

Michael Burnyeat
This two-time BC Open champion and multi-time finalist at the Canadian Grandmasters Fiddling Championships is in great demand both as a performance fiddler and accompanist. He and Brian have delighted crowds with their mix of songs and tunes for many years at local and regional venues. He has a large following for his fabulous tune recordings on YouTube.

Holly Arntzen
Holly has been wowing audiences throughout Canada for decades, with her powerful vocals, wonderful songwriting and talented musicianship. A fine pianist and a unique chromatically-fretted dulcimer player, Holly and her Artist Response Team have been leaders in promoting environmental awareness and reconciliation through music. For more, go to www.ArtistResponseTeam.com

Tim Readman
This much-loved transplant from England’s north east brings a rapid-fire wit to go with his wide-ranging and entertaining repertoire. Founder and leader of the band Fear of Drinking, you might find Tim MCing at the Mission Folk Festival, organizing a benefit for the Food Bank or performing at the Vancouver Folk Song Society. Find him online at timreadman.com