NOCCA Empowers Local Youth Musicians Through RDNO Grant

The North Okanagan Community Concert Association has been awarded $600 through the 2026 Greater Vernon Arts, Culture and Youth Project Grant from the Regional District of North Okanagan. This generous grant donation goes towards NOCCA’s “Warming Up the Act” program, bringing student youth openers to concerts on the Vernon stage.

This concert season, NOCCA had four students from throughout the community stand on the stage at the Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre and gain experience performing in front of our community: level 6 RCM classical guitar student Janssen Erikson, guitar student and recording artist Elise Dobernigg, level 8 RCM piano student Yixin Chen, and level 10 RCM piano student Emily Liao.

Yixin says about his experience on the NOCCA stage, “[it] boosted my confidence and courage onstage, and has motivated me to pursue even greater technical mastery.”

Elise was approached at the intermission after her NOCCA performance and was asked if she would be interested in performing at the Caetani House for the “Recapitulation Reunited! Exhibition & Gala” event. This experience has elevated Elise’s presence, and has given her opportunities to perform for events throughout the community.

Thanks to RDNO’s generous support, this grant opens doors for young musicians in Vernon with the experience of opening for world class talents, and provides opportunities that encourage their pursuits in music and the community.