Toronto Concert Orchestra performs for dogs - and their people - at Echo Beach

The conductor of the Toronto Concert Orchestra said they have done some off-the-beaten path performances including playing on the floor of the Design Exchange, at the Windsor Arms Hotel and Phoenix Concert Theatre, but nothing quite like their upcoming show.

On June 8, the orchestra will perform a concert tailored to a unique audience – dogs – at The Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam.

Kerry Stratton has conducted orchestras in Europe, North America and Asia, but this is the first time he will conduct musicians before an audience of as many as 5,000 dogs.

“This is a first for North America,” Stratton said.

It isn’t music with a certain tone or pitch, but rather the content of the music that makes it so dog friendly. The repertoire for the evening includes songs such as Hound Dog, (How Much Is) That Doggie in the Window and Who Let the Dogs Out?

In addition, they will perform a Wagner Overture and music from Star Wars.

“What it is, is basically a pleasant open air concert for a June night,” Stratton said. “It is meant for families to enjoy and for people who the dog is a part of the family, this is the concert to bring them to.”

The pets may bark and howl, but Stratton said that just means his audience is reacting and that is what every performer wants.

“It is about time classical music took a break from the stained glass approach and people actually enjoyed going to a concert,” Stratton said.

The concert takes place Saturday, June 8 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Echo Beach, 999 Lake Shore Blvd. W.

Also at the event will be an Ask the Vet booth for pet-health-related questions, sampling of Iams, doggie swag bags and a dog-friendly photo booth.

“I hope people will come, take it in the spirit that it is given and who knows, maybe we can make it an annual event,” Stratton said.

Tickets are $11.90 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com