Ones to watch in 2013 – Rising stars in the Vancouver arts scene worth keeping an eye on this year

Cellist Ariel Barnes had a very good 2012, and indications are strong for an even better 2013. His performances ranged from an evening of all three Suites for solo cello by Benjamin Britten, in March at The Cellar, to a performance of Bossa Nova classics with guitarist Daniel Bolshoi for MusicFest Vancouver. The duo “Couloir” (Barnes and harpist Heidi Krutzen) has been “commissioning up a storm,” with four new works recorded and two more in the works.

Given his composer father and violinist mother, Barnes’ career choice seems almost pre-ordained. His imaginative interest in music from all eras, refined technique, and luscious tone have made him an indispensable part of the Vancouver music scene. Barnes’ career as a soloist and chamber player seems poised to kick into a new level of intensity over the next few months.

Watch for: Barnes starts the new year with a Prairie tour, then in late February records Areomancy, Jocelyn Morlock’s concerto for two cellos, with cellist Joseph Elsworthy. In April he’s back at The Cellar with pianist Robert Silverman and violinist David Gilham, playing Brahms – and all this on a “new” cello, a fine 18th-century Italian instrument, on loan for three years from the Canada Council’s Instrument Bank.

David Gordon Duke, Special to The Sun