There Is No Other Orchestra Like It Anywhere

For this 35th Anniversary Esprit season, I've aimed to present thought-provoking programs with strong thematic coherence and resonance. My philosophy of building strong artistic relationships over time is reflected in the commissioning of composers we've worked with or featured previously, repeat performances of significant pieces in the orchestra's evolution, and the welcoming back of soloists who appeared with us in previous seasons. This plan allows for audiences and musicians alike to get a deeper understanding of a composer's work or a greater appreciation of a performer's talent.

Our annual mentoring program in composition and performance is taking on new dimensions for the benefit of a great number of high school music students from six schools. Our mentors, mostly emerging composers, are Esprit associates who will assume leading roles in the resurgence of Esprit's New Wave Festival as well as other initiatives next season.

Some guest artists and young composers will be appearing us for the first time. As always, exciting world premieres of Esprit-commissioned works and Canadian premieres of important international pieces are essential ingredients of my programming. I'm really proud to say, from the orchestra's first days until now - there is no other orchestra like it anywhere.

- Alex

For information about Esprit's 35th Anniversary Season, visit our Current Season page.