When Karen Donnelly travelled from Regina to join NYO Canada in 1992, she was a curious young musician looking for something bigger. What she found was an experience that would shape her musical life for decades to come. 

“Three things stand out,” she recalls. “Lessons and sectionals with Mr. Cichowicz, getting to play incredible music with Akiyama, and finally—making lifelong friends.” 

That summer wasn’t just inspiring—it was transformative. The intense experience gave her momentum that’s still with her today. 

“I still have notes from my NYO time,” Karen shares. “I refer to them when I’m looking for inspiration. That summer gave me fuel that has lasted decades. Plus, I made friends and contacts at NYO who are still some of my closest friends—and also members of my own orchestra!” 

Now Principal Trumpet of the National Arts Centre Orchestra—a role she’s held since 1999—Karen continues to bring that same curiosity and enthusiasm to every rehearsal, performance, and lesson. Her early days with NYO helped lay the foundation for a rich career performing across North America and teaching the next generation of brass musicians. 

“I have always been curious, and always asked questions on how to get better at the trumpet,” she says. “So that lines up pretty well with teaching. It has been a very important part of my career, providing lots of challenges as well as victories.” 

That sense of collaboration is key to her approach in the studio. “There is nothing better than helping a student to overcome some kind of a roadblock on the instrument,” she adds. “I also find I learn so much from the students themselves. We travel through their ups and downs together, learning new things together—it’s very rewarding.” 

One piece she particularly enjoys working on with students is the Haydn Trumpet Concerto. 

“It’s one of our most important pieces,” Karen says. “While we must follow the stylistic path, there is still a lot of room for personality and ideas from the individual. It’s really fun!” 

As for what advice she wishes she’d received earlier in her career? 

“Try not to compare yourself to others,” she says. “Of course, that’s very hard because we are in a competitive world, but just remember—you are on your own path. Stay in your own lane and just keep working on your own growth. Be curious. Don’t be afraid to try new things, even if it’s something weird or wacky.” 

That sense of openness and joy is something Karen brings into every space—whether on stage, in rehearsal, or in a trumpet studio. “I always love sharing my latest practice tip or tool—it’s so nerdy!” she laughs. “I am always looking for ways to make my practice system more efficient and inclusive. Looking for balance in the way, and the how, and I guess the why we are practicing. 

When asked about a defining moment in her career, she doesn’t hesitate: “Winning that first job. What a thrill!” 

From her beginnings in a school band program in Regina to a leadership role at the National Arts Centre Orchestra and in the global brass community, Karen Donnelly’s journey is proof of where hard work, curiosity, and support can lead. 

To the incoming musicians of 2025, and to the old friends following along: Karen’s story is a reminder that inspiration can start with a single summer—and that music has a way of connecting us, for a lifetime.