Remembering Jocelyn Morlock: A Gifted Composer and Music Educator

It is with heavy hearts that we at NYO Canada learned of the passing of the incredibly talented composer Jocelyn Morlock. Her unwavering dedication to music composition was recognized internationally, and her works have been performed and admired by audiences around the world. As we prepare to perform her composition “My Name is Amanda Todd” this summer, we are privileged to honour her remarkable talent and contribution to the music world.

Jocelyn Morlock’s legacy in Canada’s music industry is undeniable. She was not only a gifted composer but also a dedicated music educator who deeply cared for her students and the community. Her passion for music was evident in her compositions, which were known for their intricate melodies, evocative harmonies, and innovative use of sound. Her unique style and creative approach to composition earned her numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her reputation as one of Canada’s most respected composers.

At NYO Canada, we are grateful for the opportunity to perform “My Name is Amanda Todd,” one of Jocelyn Morlock’s beautiful compositions. This piece, inspired by the story of Amanda Todd, a Canadian teen who experienced bullying, speaks to the power of music as a medium for storytelling and advocacy. Through her compositions, Morlock brought attention to important social issues and created meaningful connections with audiences around the world.

Beyond her accomplishments as a composer, Jocelyn Morlock was known for her generosity, kindness, and unwavering support for the music community. She was deeply committed to fostering the next generation of musicians and composers, and her impact as an educator and mentor will be felt for years to come. Her passion for music and her ability to inspire others will always be remembered fondly by those whose lives she touched.

As we mourn the loss of Jocelyn Morlock, our thoughts go out to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her music. Her passing is a great loss to the music community, but her indelible mark on Canadian music will forever be cherished. Her compositions will continue to captivate audiences and inspire future generations of musicians and composers. We are grateful for the opportunity to perform her music and to honour her legacy, and we will carry her memory in our hearts as we continue to pursue our passion for music. Rest in peace, Jocelyn Morlock, and thank you for your immense contributions to the world of music.

Jocelyn Morlock: Solace / Shelley • Canada's National Arts Centre Orchestra

We are mourning the loss of Jocelyn Morlock, a beloved composer and a bright light for contemporary music in Canada. Her work was celebrated by many, including the NAC Orchestra and Alexander Shelley, who commissioned her piece My Name is Amanda Todd.Jocelyn Morlock was an incredibly gifted composer and her talent was recognized nationally when My Name is Amanda Todd went on to win the JUNO Award for Classical Composition of the Year in 2018. We also performed this work during our 50th Anniversary European Tour and on tour in Canada.Her first commission from the NAC Orchestra was Cobalt, a concerto for two violins and orchestra, in 2009. In October 2020, we performed Jocelyn’s work Solace in the first-ever #NACOLive broadcast. You can watch the full concert on our website: nac-cna.ca/en/event/27450Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time. We hope that they find comfort in knowing how much Jocelyn was respected and admired by all who knew her and her music.

Posted by National Arts Centre Orchestra | l'Orchestre du Centre national des Arts on Tuesday, March 28, 2023