NYO Canada Celebrates Homecoming at Wilfrid Laurier University for 65th Anniversary

[Toronto,ON]October 8th, 2024 – The National Youth Orchestra of Canada (NYO Canada), the country’s premier training orchestra for young musicians, is excited to announce its return to Wilfrid Laurier University for its 2025 summer residency. From June 16th to mid-July, NYO Canada’s talented musicians will once again call Laurier home, honing their skills and showcasing their artistry at the university’s cutting-edge music facilities in the newly renovated Savvas Chamberlain Music building.

Under the baton of Music Director Naomi Woo, the residency at Laurier will encompass a dynamic program of orchestral rehearsals, chamber music concerts, masterclasses, and professional development workshops. NYO Canada musicians will have access to Laurier’s exceptional resources, including state-of-the-art practice facilities and performance spaces, as well as mental health and wellness support, fostering their artistic growth and preparing them for successful careers in music.

This homecoming is especially meaningful as NYO Canada extends its heartfelt gratitude to Queen’s University and the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts for their extraordinary support and hospitality, graciously hosting NYO Canada during Laurier’s renovations.

“We are immensely grateful to Queen’s University for their unwavering partnership over the past few years,” stated NYO Canada CEO Christie Gray. “Their generosity and commitment to the arts have enabled us to maintain our momentum and provide exceptional training opportunities for our musicians. We are thrilled to return to our roots at Laurier, where our musicians will thrive in an environment dedicated to their artistic growth.”

“It has been our privilege at the Isabel Bader Centre to support NYO Canada’s mission during Laurier’s renovations.” said Gordon Smith, director of the Isabel Bader Centre for Performing Arts.  “Witnessing the dedication and passion of these young musicians has been truly inspiring. We wish them all the best as they return to their home at Laurier, and we look forward to welcoming them back to the Isabel in the future for many more memorable performances.”

“Welcoming NYO Canada back to Laurier fills us with immense pride and excitement,” said Cynthia Johnston Turner, Dean of the Faculty of Music at Wilfrid Laurier University. “The return to our newly renovated building symbolizes a powerful homecoming for both NYO and Laurier. We’re thrilled to provide NYO Canada’s young musicians with an inspiring environment that will ignite their potential and propel them toward future success. Together, we are shaping the future of Canadian music.”

“Laurier’s dedication to providing a world-class learning environment for young musicians aligns perfectly with our mission,” added Gray. “We look forward to an inspiring and productive residency that will nurture the next generation of Canadian orchestral talent.”

For more information about NYO Canada and the 2025 summer residency, please visit nyoc.org/auditions/2025-preview/ or follow us on social media @nyo_can.

#NYOCanada #LaurierUniversity #classicalmusic

For Media Information
Christie Gray
CEO NYO Canada
cgray@nyoc.org

Mieke Kanmacher
Wilfrid Laurier University Faculty of Music Communication, Enrolment and Recruitment Coordinator
mkanmacher@wlu.ca

Gordon E. Smith
Director, Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts
gordon.smith@queensu.ca

About NYO Canada

The National Youth Orchestra of Canada (NYO Canada) is a full-scholarship training program for Canada’s most promising young classical musicians, ages 16 to 28, offering an immersive and transformative program that prepares them for distinguished careers as professional orchestral musicians.

Under the mentorship of our esteemed faculty—comprising world-renowned musicians and educators—orchestra members engage in a comprehensive program featuring the NYO Canada Chamber Concert Series, Orchestral Training Institute, masterclasses, professional development sessions, and mental and physical health supports. Their training culminates in a concert tour, with performances in Canada’s most prestigious concert halls and a professional recording session.

Functioning as the vital link between music education and a thriving musical career, NYO Canada envisions launching the next generation of Canadian orchestral musicians.

About Wilfrid Laurier University

Located in Waterloo, Ontario, Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Music is renowned for its commitment to artistic excellence, community engagement, and innovative investment in music education. Our cutting-edge undergraduate and graduate programs are designed to cultivate your unique talents while preparing you for diverse careers in the music industry.

Join us at Laurier, where artistic exploration meets career-ready programs. Experience the excitement of our concert season and discover how your music can shape our vibrant community. With ongoing investments in our state-of-the-art facilities, your music truly matters at Laurier’s Faculty of Music!

About Queens University and the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts

Queen’s University, located in Kingston, Ontario, is renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life. The Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, situated on the

picturesque shores of Lake Ontario, is a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression. This state-of-the-art facility, with its stunning architecture and world-class acoustics, hosts a diverse range of performances, from classical music concerts and theatrical productions to cutting-edge multimedia presentations. The Isabel Bader Centre serves as a cultural hub for both the university community and the wider Kingston region, enriching the lives of students, faculty, and residents alike.