2024-2025 Concerts
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Invocations: Gryphon Trio violinist Lara St. John, vocalist Aviva Chernick and friends
Gryphon Trio joins forces with violinist Lara St John and vocalist Aviva Chernick in a musical journey co-curated with Soundstreams Canada. Delving into the mystical world of the Hasidim, this program explores the art of the nigun—an improvised prayer, either vocal or instrumental.
Highlighting the evening is a world premiere by acclaimed Canadian Jewish composer James Rolfe, drawing inspiration from the profound depths of the nigun.The program also features Avner Dorman's enchanting Nigunim, a composition for solo violin and ensemble that won The Azrieli Prize for Jewish Music, blending Israeli and American influences in a mesmerizing musical tapestry.
Co-presented with Soundstreams Canada with support from the Azrieli Foundation
JACK Quartet
The JACK Quartet excels in interpreting and conveying the intricate compositional intent of 20th and 21st–century music. Their performances showcase an impressive palette of colours, textures, and rhythmic complexities. With virtuosic skill, they breathe life into contemporary works, making them accessible and engaging. Experiencing their performances of pieces by modern masters is like discovering a new language and comprehending it effortlessly.
Presented in association with the University of Toronto New Music Festival
Rachel Fenlon
Rachel Fenlon is a soprano and pianist whose artistry brings a fresh perspective to classical music stages worldwide. With a unique blend of singer-songwriter sensibility, Rachel delivers captivating song recitals, often accompanying herself on the piano.
Originally trained as an opera singer, Rachel has established herself as an international performer, captivating audiences as a recitalist, solo pianist, singer, and opera performer. Born in the UK and raised on Canada's west coast, Rachel honed her craft at UBC and became a prominent figure in the Vancouver music scene before relocating to Berlin.
Experience Schubert's monumental song cycle, Winterreise, in a truly distinctive manner. Conceived as a journey into the depths of winter, this cycle sets a selection of poems by Wilhelm Müller, published in 1823 and 1824, to music. The singer embarks on an introspective dialogue with her own heart, navigating through reflections, inquiries, irony, and ultimately, resignation. She seamlessly drifts between the realm of dreams and the harsh reality of lost love, with the bleak winter serving as a poignant backdrop to her despairing thoughts.
Illia Ovcharenko
Illia Ovcharenko, just entering his twenties, is captivating audiences worldwide with his remarkable talent. His passion for the piano revealed itself at the age of 6, inspired by his first concert experience. Growing up in Ukraine, Illia dedicated himself to his musical aspirations, undertaking studies in Kyiv and Tel Aviv to refine his artistry.
His career soared to new heights following his victory at the esteemed 2022 Honens International Piano Competition, renowned for its celebration of the Complete Pianist. Illia's magnetic presence and profound musicality immediately resonated with Toronto audiences during his debut with the TSO in November 2023.
Janina Fialkowska
Janina Fialkowska, a revered Canadian grand master, has graced the world stage for over five decades. Now in her 70s, she continues to mesmerize audiences as a recitalist, chamber musician, and orchestral soloist.
Janina's career took flight in 1974 when she captured the attention of the legendary Arthur Rubinstein at his inaugural Master Piano Competition. Recognizing her exceptional talent, Rubinstein became her mentor and hailed her as a "born Chopin interpreter," setting the stage for a career marked by unparalleled artistry and dedication to her craft.
Isidore Quartet
Experience the dynamic artistry of the Isidore, one of the most exciting new quartets in the chamber music scene. Established in 2019, this quartet has swiftly risen to prominence, winning the prestigious Banff Competition in 2022 and receiving the coveted Avery Fisher Career Grant in 2023, all within their first four seasons.
Named in honor of Isidore Cohen, an esteemed early member of the Juilliard Quartet, the Isidore Quartet draws inspiration from the legendary ensemble's philosophy of "approaching the established as if it were brand new, and the new as if it were firmly established."
Celebration of Small Ensembles - April 5
Artists to be announced soon
Join us for a Celebration of Small Ensembles – ancient, classic and 21st century music boldly curated and performed by small ensembles.
Taking place in the Aperture Room, a light filled space on the top floor of a beautifully restored building just north of Yonge and Dundas Square, each COSE event will be as much a social gathering as it will be an opportunity for musical discovery.
Each concert will feature two 45 minute sets presented by new and established artists performing music rooted in different small ensemble traditions. Events will commence at 4 pm and conclude after 6 pm and will include short stretch and chat breaks between sets. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
What Makes It Great?® with Rob Kapilow and Gryphon Trio
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or just beginning to explore its depths, Rob Kapilow's "What Makes It Great?"® presentations are sure to captivate and enlighten you. With his infectious enthusiasm and profound knowledge, Rob delves into Beethoven's music, offering fresh insights and perspectives that will forever change the way you listen.
Rob's unique ability to make complex musical concepts accessible and engaging ensures that audiences of all levels will find his presentations both enjoyable and enlightening. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly entertained as Rob Kapilow opens a new world of understanding and appreciation for Beethoven's masterpieces.
Co-presented with TO Live
Celebration of Small Ensembles - May 3
Artists to be announced soon
Join us for a Celebration of Small Ensembles – ancient, classic and 21st century music boldly curated and performed by small ensembles.
Taking place in the Aperture Room, a light filled space on the top floor of a beautifully restored building just north of Yonge and Dundas Square, each COSE event will be as much a social gathering as it will be an opportunity for musical discovery.
Each concert will feature two 45 minute sets presented by new and established artists performing music rooted in different small ensemble traditions. Events will commence at 4 pm and conclude after 6 pm and will include short stretch and chat breaks between sets. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Celebration of Small Ensembles - June 7
Artists to be announced soon
Join us for a Celebration of Small Ensembles – ancient, classic and 21st century music boldly curated and performed by small ensembles.
Taking place in the Aperture Room, a light filled space on the top floor of a beautifully restored building just north of Yonge and Dundas Square, each COSE event will be as much a social gathering as it will be an opportunity for musical discovery.
Each concert will feature two 45 minute sets presented by new and established artists performing music rooted in different small ensemble traditions. Events will commence at 4 pm and conclude after 6 pm and will include short stretch and chat breaks between sets. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Marc-André Hamelin
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the incomparable Marc-André Hamelin in an intimate concert setting downtown. Renowned worldwide for his brilliant technique and musical artistry, Hamelin has a special affection for our hall, having performed here since he was a young artist in 1986. Join us for an unforgettable evening with this acclaimed pianist.
COSE pre-concert: Prairie Sons cello/piano 6:30 pm Miró Quartet 7:30 pm
The Miró Quartet stands out in the world of classical music. Formed in 1995, the Miró won both the Banff and Naumberg chamber music competitions, and in 2005 became the first ensemble ever to be awarded the coveted Avery Fisher Career Grant.
In unforgettable performances, the Miró achieve the chamber music ideal of sounding as if they are only one instrument, the pinnacle of communication and collaboration.
The Miró Quartet took its name from the Spanish artist Joan Miró, whose Surrealist works — drawing on the realm of memory, dreams, and imaginative fantasy — are some of the most ground-breaking and admired of the 20th century.
What Makes It Great?® with Rob Kapilow and the Cheng2 Duo
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or just beginning to explore its depths, Rob Kapilow's "What Makes It Great?"® presentations are sure to captivate and enlighten you. With his infectious enthusiasm and profound knowledge, Rob delves into Beethoven's music, offering fresh insights and perspectives that will forever change the way you listen.
Rob's unique ability to make complex musical concepts accessible and engaging ensures that audiences of all levels will find his presentations both enjoyable and enlightening. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly entertained as Rob Kapilow opens a new world of understanding and appreciation for Beethoven's masterpieces.
Co-presented with TO Live
Quartetto di Cremona
Since its formation in 2000, the Quartetto di Cremona has established a reputation as one of the most exciting chamber ensembles on the international stage. Regularly invited to perform in major music festivals and halls in Europe, North and South America, and Far East, they garner universal acclaim for their high level of interpretive artistry.
Frequently invited to present masterclasses in Europe, Asia, North and South America, the members of the quartet have been Professors at the Walter Stauffer Academy in Cremona since 2011.
Quartetto di Cremona gave a brilliant performance for Music TORONTO in 2019 and we look forward to their return.
Celebration of Small Ensembles - June 1
Canadian Chamber Orchestra and the Ladom Ensemble
Join us for a Celebration of Small Ensembles – ancient, classic and 21st century music boldly curated and performed by small ensembles.
Taking place in the Aperture Room, a light filled space on the top floor of a beautifully restored building just north of Yonge and Dundas Square, each COSE event will be as much a social gathering as it will be an opportunity for musical discovery.
Each concert will feature two 45 minute sets presented by new and established artists performing music rooted in different small ensemble traditions. Events will commence at 4 pm and conclude after 6 pm and will include short stretch and chat breaks between sets. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Celebration of Small Ensembles - May 4
Gentileschi Baroque and Rilian Trio
Join us for a Celebration of Small Ensembles – ancient, classic and 21st century music boldly curated and performed by small ensembles.
Taking place in the Aperture Room, a light filled space on the top floor of a beautifully restored building just north of Yonge and Dundas Square, each COSE event will be as much a social gathering as it will be an opportunity for musical discovery.
Each concert will feature two 45 minute sets presented by new and established artists performing music rooted in different small ensemble traditions. Events will commence at 4 pm and conclude after 6 pm and will include short stretch and chat breaks between sets. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Celebration of Small Ensembles - April 6
SHHH!! Ensemble and Obsidiana Duo
Join us for a Celebration of Small Ensembles – ancient, classic and 21st century music boldly curated and performed by small ensembles.
Taking place in the Aperture Room, a light filled space on the top floor of a beautifully restored building just north of Yonge and Dundas Square, each COSE event will be as much a social gathering as it will be an opportunity for musical discovery.
Each concert will feature two 45 minute sets presented by new and established artists performing music rooted in different small ensemble traditions. Events will commence at 4 pm and conclude after 6 pm and will include short stretch and chat breaks between sets. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
St. Lawrence and Friends
Join members of the St. Lawrence Lesley Robertson, viola, Owen Dalby, violin, as they welcome long-time friends cellist Nina Lee (Brentano Quartet), pianist Stephen Prutsman and bass player Joel Quarrington to their Toronto home.
Hailed by The New Yorker “not simply for the quality of their music making, exalted as it is, but for the joy they take in the act of connection,” the acclaimed St. Lawrence continues its more than 30 year relationship with Music TORONTO.
David Fung
The first piano graduate of the prestigious Colburn Conservatory in Los Angeles, Australian-born David Fung also studied at the Hannover Hochschule für Musik and at Yale. Mr. Fung is on faculty at the University of British Columbia and curates the Spirio Piano Series at the Chan Center in Vancouver. A rising star in the international piano world, Mr. Fung is widely recognized for sterling technique, full control and great musicality. Mr. Fung regularly appears with the world’s premiere orchestras, in recital and in chamber music.
Ying Quartet
The Ying formed in 1988 and are thus the same generation as the St. Lawrence, who introduced the Ying to us in October 1997 when they played the Mendelssohn octet together as young quartets. The Ying also played for us in Nov. 2007 and Dec. 2009. Their return is long overdue.
Maria Thompson Corley
Pianist, composer, educator, writer, Jamaican-born Canadian Maria Thompson Corley holds a doctorate from Juilliard and enjoys an active career in all its facets. Her concert career as soloist and as collaborator, especially with vocal artists, has taken her around the world.
Verona Quartet
A string quartet for the 21st century, the Verona Quartet champions the rich breadth of the string quartet repertoire from the time-honoured canon through contemporary classics. Mentored by the Cleveland, Juilliard and Pacifica Quartets, the Verona Quartet captured top prize wins at the Wigmore Hall, Melbourne and Osaka Competitions, as well as the 2015 Concert Artists Guild Competition. In 2020 they won the prestigious Cleveland Quartet award. The Quartet serves on the faculty of the Oberlin College and Conservatory as the Quartet-in-Residence.
Gryphon Trio with Marion Newman Nege’ga (mezzo-soprano) & čačumḥi aaron wells (actor)
Echo - Memories of the World
In a world filled simultaneously with beauty and horror, the need for reparation and reconciliation has never been greater.
In collaboration with a global circle of Indigenous and non-Indigenous composers, poets, researchers, theatre artists and filmmakers, the Gryphon Trio and guest artists Marion Newman and Aaron Wells present Echo(s): Memories of the World. Transiting time and memory, this moving experience explores how history is erased, altered, and attacked. At the same time, it celebrates visionary artists resisting suppression and gives voice to works of enduring beauty.
Respecting the richness and complexity of our diverse human family empowers healing.
This performance is in honour of this.
Duo Turgeon
Born in Montreal and Toronto respectively, Canadian pianists Anne Louise-Turgeon and Edward Turgeon have been performing professionally since 1996. The Turgeons are graduates of the University of Toronto and Yale University. They appear throughout the world, and have released several CDs. Winners of major piano duo completions, they now serve as jurors for such events around the world. After many years as keyboard faculty and ensemble-in-residence at Florida Atlantic University, they are now artists-in-residence at Algoma University in Sault Ste Marie.
The National Post called them “two natural musicians who breathe, think and play as one.
Geoff Nuttall Haydn Celebration - FREE Event
Celebrating the inspiration of Geoff Nuttall (1965 - 2022) and his boundless energy, a program of all Haydn. The string quartets of Joseph Haydn had no bigger evangelist than Geoff Nuttall, founding violinist of the St. Lawrence String Quartet. He played the quartets with incredible passion and inspired decades of students with his commitment to active music-making.
Having presented Geoff and the St. Lawrence Quartet in Toronto for over 25 years Music TORONTO is honoured to host this gathering of St. Lawrence Quartet members past and present, colleagues and community music lovers of all ages, who will play side by side with students in a joyful tribute to Geoff.
Quatuor Danel
Quatuor Danel celebrated 30 years at the forefront of the European music scene in 2022. The Danel is known for its deeply personal interpretations of the string quartet cycles of Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, Shostakovich, and Weinberg, and its lively and fresh vision of traditional quartet repertoire. The Danel has championed the string quartets of Shostakovich and enjoyed rich collaboration with major contemporary composers. The quartet has been artist-in-residence at The University of Manchester since 2005.