Interview: BC Composer Mark Fenster’s “Gabriola Breeze” Charts the Emotional Arc of a Transformational Move

Mark Fenster is no stranger to musical storytelling. After early mentorship by producer Ben Kaye (Céline Dion), he went on to collaborate with members of April Wine, Luba, and Chilliwack, and spent nine seasons with the Vancouver Opera. His work has scored Jessie Award-winning productions, and his songs have reached TV, film, and choirs around the world.

Now, the Montreal-born composer, vocalist, and meditation leader is unveiling his latest single, “Gabriola Breeze”—a soulful instrumental odyssey inspired by his transformative move from bustling city life to the calm nature of Gabriola Island, British Columbia. 

The piece blends multicultural instrumentation with lush, cinematic textures, offering a serene yet emotionally charged soundscape that explores what it means to follow one’s calling.

“This is essentially a musical rendition of my move to Gabriola—or more generally, of one’s leaping quest to their dream,” Fenster explains. 

“It begins with a ‘calling’ of sorts—somewhat softly alluring, but also accompanied by a bit of tension and fear as it represents the unknown. Then ultimately, [the music] shows us the value and loving kindness that awaits if we prove our strength and faith are stronger than the fear.”

“Gabriola Breeze” stands out for its rich fusion of spiritual and electric elements, where instruments like the tambura and distorted Telecaster weave together seemingly contrasting emotions, just as life’s challenges often hide within them the seeds of peace. It is meditative, multicultural, and emotionally complex—mirroring the internal landscape of transformation.

1. What did you enjoy most about the recording process of this new release?

Allowing the flow of emotions, expressions and spirit guiding the way in melodies, harmonies, instrument choices, and watching in near awe how it all fused together to weave a story, a journey and a destination, which itself is always moving.

2. Share a nugget of advice that has resonated with you most over the years.

How many times I’d heard the words ‘Never Give Up!’, so yes, I’ll begin (and end) with that.  I’ll add, Stay true to your self.  You’ll hear so many ideas and suggestions from others, and you’ll just know which are truly who YOU are and which are another’s perspective, neither right nor wrong, just not you.  Whatever you feel inside, please be that.  You’re the only one who can.

3. Who would be your dream artist/band to co-headline a tour with?

Oh, so many folks I admire and would love to tour with, hard to say.  If I have to choose just one it would have to be Sir Paul McCartney.  So much talent and poise and wisdom.  I’d be mesmerized to be and share in his musical presence.  A very close second, and possibly more in the realm of possible, would be Roger Hodgson  of Supertramp fame.  I met him once and just love his poetic passion and love for music and positive messaging.

4. What sets your music apart from others in your genre?

For the meditative music that comes through me, in a word, I’d say “journey”.  Each of my meditative “songs” carries a host of characters who all combine their feelings, wishes and directions to the entirety of the experience.  Each plays a role and helps guide the listener to a place of peaceful acceptance and ultimate joy, simply by accepting and being with the totality of the experience.  I’d learned a long time ago that the feelings and journey that guide a particular song is not necessarily the same feeling and journey which might be felt by another person.  I can’t tell you how many times I got off the stage and heard an audience member say that that particular song was the very same story as theirs.  This is what that song brought up for them and that is a beautiful thing – it’s not about my story, or even the story/journey that it brings up for the listener, it’s all unique and beautiful exactly as that.

5. Tell us what your favourite song is at the moment and why.

Wow, again, so many to choose from.  I’d have to say, right at this moment, it is “What Was I Made For” by Billie Eilish.  The truth hidden in the beauty is brilliant, and gorgeous.  I just love Billie & Finneas’ writing and production ~ so very clear, deep, clever and moving.  And what a spectacular message <3

There are no lyrics to “Gabriola Breeze,” but the music speaks volumes. It starts in C minor, a key full of tension and curiosity, and ends in E-flat major, a shift that mirrors the emotional arc of transformation—uncertainty giving way to joy. With its softly guiding orchestral palette, the track invokes a range of moods—calm, peace, and joy—while nodding toward Fenster’s belief that “it’s never just a dream.”

“‘Gabriola Breeze’ makes me feel calm and joyful, and at times a little scared,” Fenster says, smiling.