Anna Somerville

Anna Somerville, a seasoned folk singer-songwriter, traces her musical roots back to her childhood in Grand Prairie, located in the Peace River country. Raised in a small town with limited entertainment options, Anna fondly recalls the Western Canadian Chinese cuisine restaurant downtown, the Golden Star, where she and her friends gathered, carved their names on the walls, and enjoyed Chinese food on weekends.

The Commodore, a venue she discovered later in life, holds a special place in her heart, reminiscent of her Grand Prairie experiences. Anna acknowledges the significance of such spaces in small towns, providing not only entertainment but also a sense of community and acceptance.

Her journey into music began at a young age when, as a child, she assumed everyone played music. Alongside her sister, she even convinced a radio station to let them perform on air. Influenced by folk legends like Gordon Lightfoot and Joan Baez, Anna's musical path took a hiatus during her family-raising years but found its resurgence when she encountered David Ward at a jam.

David, a fellow musician, played a crucial role in Anna's return to music, guiding her into the Bluegrass community. The collaborative nature of Bluegrass, with its emphasis on the song rather than the performer, resonated with Anna. Eventually, she and David formed the Bluegrass band "Lonesome and Then Some," contributing to the vibrant Bluegrass culture.

Anna's involvement in the Blueberry Bluegrass Festival, the largest in Canada, further exemplifies her commitment to the genre. Her dedication to fostering a sense of community through music extends to hosting workshops and facilitating a songwriting group during the COVID era.

Marc Ladouceur, a key figure in Anna's musical journey, entered the scene through Bluegrass. Their paths crossed at festivals and jams, solidifying their partnership. Marc, an accomplished musician with an open and collaborative approach, has broadened Anna's exposure to high-level jams and introduced her to elite musicians worldwide.

Throughout her career, Anna has navigated the complexities of songwriting, often using her craft to express emotions while maintaining an element of mystery. Despite her preference for her living room as a performance venue, Anna has graced notable stages like the Winspear, showcasing her talent alongside her sister.

Anna Somerville's musical journey is not just about performing; it's a celebration of community, collaboration, and the timeless joy that music brings.

We are absolutely honoured to have Anna as our guest for the first episode of our series, "After Hours at the Commodore". We hope you enjoy her session as much as we did.