'The Etiquette of Dying' invites audiences on a transformative feature-length audiovisual journey as a reflection on the human experience and our relationship with mortality after receiving a terminal diagnosis.
A unique collaboration between guitarist Ron Samworth and filmmaker Melissa Hubert, 'The Etiquette of Dying' came out of Ron’s experience with cancer a few years ago, which inspired a thought suite of music that leads Hubert’s 50-minute animated film.
After live performances around Vancouver, Ron Samworth's words and compositions for the 'The Etiquette of Dying' was recorded on August 30 and September 1st, 2021 at Vancouver's Warehouse Studio.
The first visual premiere of 'The Etiquette of Dying' was performed live with musicians in front of audience at Vancouver Jazz Festival at the Revue stage June 30, 2023. Using a library of visuals from the standalone video, Melissa Hubert mixed the live visuals along with the live and improvised music.
The first presentation of the feature length video first premiered at the Vancouver International Film Festival on October 27th, 2024 in partnership with Infidels Jazz followed by a live performamce of improvisations and visuals.
Ron Samworth's suite that inspired the mood and story of the video. 14-tracks of original compositions, narrations and improvisations featuring nine all-star Vancouver musicians.
Get it at Infidels Jazz Records on Bandcamp
Their dedicated team provides comfort, dignity, and essential support to individuals and families during one of life’s most vulnerable stages, and their presence made a profound impact on many families.
If this project resonates with you, or if you believe in the importance of compassionate end-of-life care, we invite you to contribute. Your donation will directly support the Vancouver Hospice Society and help ensure this vital care remains accessible to those who need it most.