IN MEMORY OF YEHONATAN BERICK (1968-2020)
Yehonatan was a frequent performer and Artistic Advisor for the series since 2011. We miss his infectious energy and humour, and his brilliant artistry.
Prizewinner at the 1993 Naumburg competition and a recipient of the 1996-97 Prix Opus, Yehonatan Berick was a soloist, recitalist, chamber musician, and pedagogue. Performances as soloist include Quebec, Winnipeg, Windsor, Ann Arbor, Jerusalem and Haifa Symphonies, and the Israeli, Cincinnati, Montreal and Manitoba Chamber Orchestras, Thirteen Strings and Ensemble Appassionata. Recital offerings included the complete Paganini Caprices, and the complete Solo Sonatas and Partitas by Bach. He collaborated with many of the world's most renowned artists. Festival and chamber series including Marlboro, Ravinia, Seattle, Ottawa, Great Lakes, and Music@Menlo. He toured extensively worldwide, in the world's most important venues, including Carnegie Hall and Wigmore Hall. On CD, Berick recorded for the Acoma, Albany, Centaur, Equilibrium, XXI-21, Gasparo, Summit, and Helicon labels. On video, he can be seen on a BluRay dvd Paganini: 24 Caprices and his recordings won rave reviews in the press. Equally sought after as violin teacher and chamber music mentor, Berick served as Professor of Violin at the University of Ottawa from 2013-2020, as well as the University of Michigan and McGill Schulich School of Music. He was invited as teacher and artist-in-residence at many festivals, and featured in masterclasses worldwide. His students hold leading positions in major orchestras, ensembles, and music schools. Yehonatan played a 1761 violin by Carlo Ferdinando Landolfi, generously on loan from the University of Ottawa, as well as violin by Honoré Derazey Père from 1852, and a viola by Stanley Kiernoziak from 2003. www.yehonatanberick.com
Yehonatan was a frequent performer and Artistic Advisor for the series since 2011. We miss his infectious energy and humour, and his brilliant artistry.
Prizewinner at the 1993 Naumburg competition and a recipient of the 1996-97 Prix Opus, Yehonatan Berick was a soloist, recitalist, chamber musician, and pedagogue. Performances as soloist include Quebec, Winnipeg, Windsor, Ann Arbor, Jerusalem and Haifa Symphonies, and the Israeli, Cincinnati, Montreal and Manitoba Chamber Orchestras, Thirteen Strings and Ensemble Appassionata. Recital offerings included the complete Paganini Caprices, and the complete Solo Sonatas and Partitas by Bach. He collaborated with many of the world's most renowned artists. Festival and chamber series including Marlboro, Ravinia, Seattle, Ottawa, Great Lakes, and Music@Menlo. He toured extensively worldwide, in the world's most important venues, including Carnegie Hall and Wigmore Hall. On CD, Berick recorded for the Acoma, Albany, Centaur, Equilibrium, XXI-21, Gasparo, Summit, and Helicon labels. On video, he can be seen on a BluRay dvd Paganini: 24 Caprices and his recordings won rave reviews in the press. Equally sought after as violin teacher and chamber music mentor, Berick served as Professor of Violin at the University of Ottawa from 2013-2020, as well as the University of Michigan and McGill Schulich School of Music. He was invited as teacher and artist-in-residence at many festivals, and featured in masterclasses worldwide. His students hold leading positions in major orchestras, ensembles, and music schools. Yehonatan played a 1761 violin by Carlo Ferdinando Landolfi, generously on loan from the University of Ottawa, as well as violin by Honoré Derazey Père from 1852, and a viola by Stanley Kiernoziak from 2003. www.yehonatanberick.com
HEIDI ELISE BEARCROFT, HARP
Harpist Heidi Elise Bearcroft is considered one of the most outstanding solo, chamber, and orchestral musicians of her generation, her playing described as having a “wonderful sense of phrasing, balance, and musical sense” (The Globe and Mail). She has performed solo recitals everywhere from New York to Los Angeles, Vancouver to Vienna, and has collaborated with many world-class musicians in music festivals such as the Aspen Music Festival, Tanglewood, and St. Barth’s Music Festival (French West Indies). Principal Harp with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra since 2011, Heidi previously performed as a member of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (with which she has also appeared as a soloist). She has been a member of the Sun Valley Summer Symphony since 2001. Heidi is the winner of many competitions, including first prizes at the 2009 American Harp Society National Competition and the 2004 American String Teachers Association National Solo Competition. She released Genetic Harps, a recording of harp duets with her mother, Gretchen Van Hoesen.
Harpist Heidi Elise Bearcroft is considered one of the most outstanding solo, chamber, and orchestral musicians of her generation, her playing described as having a “wonderful sense of phrasing, balance, and musical sense” (The Globe and Mail). She has performed solo recitals everywhere from New York to Los Angeles, Vancouver to Vienna, and has collaborated with many world-class musicians in music festivals such as the Aspen Music Festival, Tanglewood, and St. Barth’s Music Festival (French West Indies). Principal Harp with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra since 2011, Heidi previously performed as a member of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (with which she has also appeared as a soloist). She has been a member of the Sun Valley Summer Symphony since 2001. Heidi is the winner of many competitions, including first prizes at the 2009 American Harp Society National Competition and the 2004 American String Teachers Association National Solo Competition. She released Genetic Harps, a recording of harp duets with her mother, Gretchen Van Hoesen.
Caitlin Boyle, viola
A Hamilton based violin and viola performer and pedagogue, Caitlin Boyle is a member of the Isabel String Quartet, Sinfonia Toronto, the Niagara Symphony Orchestra, and teaches at the Hamilton Suzuki School of Music. Her passion for music education has led her to teach at the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto, Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts, Taylor Academy at the Royal Conservatory of Music, Festival of the Sound Music Scores Program, Toronto District School Board, Central Okanagan School District, in addition to having taught students across the US, Spain, UK, Italy, and the UAE. She currently coordinates and coaches the chamber music program at Mooredale Youth Orchestras. A JUNO-nominated performing artist, Ms. Boyle concertized extensively for thirteen years with the Cecilia String Quartet. She has won several international awards including Banff, Bordeaux, and Osaka String Quartet Competitions.
YOLANDA BRUNO, VIOLIN
Yolanda Bruno is one of the hottest young musicians in Canada (CBC Music says so!) She’s won a slew of awards and competitions, has performed as a soloist all over Europe and North America and joined the Toronto Symphony Orchestra in 2019. Yet her most memorable musical experiences have happened in unexpected places - playing for children in a parking lot in South-East London, giving a concert in a high-security penitentiary, playing in parks, subways, hospitals. She believes deeply in the power of music to break down barriers of all kinds - personal, cultural, even political. Yolanda grew up in Ottawa and music was part of life before she was even born. Her mom went into labour while playing a concert, and became Yolanda’s first, and probably most important, teacher. After studies at McGill and the Guildhall School in London, she returned to Canada and launched a whirlwind professional career full of musical adventures. With pianist Isabelle David she recorded “The Wild Swans”, an album featuring music by 11 women composers, spanning ten centuries, including several world premieres. During the pandemic, she gave over 50 free performances as part of a project she calls “Music for Your Blues”. It was all about helping people feel connected during an exceptionally isolating time. For Yolanda, music isn’t just a career. It’s a way of sharing an intense devotion to beauty and companionship with anyone who inhabits our increasingly fragile world, with anyone who cares to listen. She performs on a 1737 Domenico Montagnana violin on generous loan from Groupe Canimex Inc. in Drummondville, Quebec. www.yolandabruno.com
Yolanda Bruno is one of the hottest young musicians in Canada (CBC Music says so!) She’s won a slew of awards and competitions, has performed as a soloist all over Europe and North America and joined the Toronto Symphony Orchestra in 2019. Yet her most memorable musical experiences have happened in unexpected places - playing for children in a parking lot in South-East London, giving a concert in a high-security penitentiary, playing in parks, subways, hospitals. She believes deeply in the power of music to break down barriers of all kinds - personal, cultural, even political. Yolanda grew up in Ottawa and music was part of life before she was even born. Her mom went into labour while playing a concert, and became Yolanda’s first, and probably most important, teacher. After studies at McGill and the Guildhall School in London, she returned to Canada and launched a whirlwind professional career full of musical adventures. With pianist Isabelle David she recorded “The Wild Swans”, an album featuring music by 11 women composers, spanning ten centuries, including several world premieres. During the pandemic, she gave over 50 free performances as part of a project she calls “Music for Your Blues”. It was all about helping people feel connected during an exceptionally isolating time. For Yolanda, music isn’t just a career. It’s a way of sharing an intense devotion to beauty and companionship with anyone who inhabits our increasingly fragile world, with anyone who cares to listen. She performs on a 1737 Domenico Montagnana violin on generous loan from Groupe Canimex Inc. in Drummondville, Quebec. www.yolandabruno.com
CHRISTOPH CHUNG, VIOLA
Born in Toronto, Christoph started to learn the violin when he was 5, under the tutelage of Mr.Tak-Ng Lai. When he turned 14, he began studying the viola with Mr. Tak-Ng Lai. He now attends the University of Ottawa with Professor Michael van der Sloot where he has won the Concerto Competition of 2021. He has attended music festivals like le Domaine Forget, the uOttawa String Summer Academy and Centre Stage Strings with Michael van der Sloot, and the Senior Young Artists Program in Ottawa with Pinchas Zukerman.
Born in Toronto, Christoph started to learn the violin when he was 5, under the tutelage of Mr.Tak-Ng Lai. When he turned 14, he began studying the viola with Mr. Tak-Ng Lai. He now attends the University of Ottawa with Professor Michael van der Sloot where he has won the Concerto Competition of 2021. He has attended music festivals like le Domaine Forget, the uOttawa String Summer Academy and Centre Stage Strings with Michael van der Sloot, and the Senior Young Artists Program in Ottawa with Pinchas Zukerman.
Rachel Desoer, cello
Rachel Desoer is a cellist from Hamilton, Ontario. She studied at the Juilliard School, Oberlin College,
McGill University and the Banff Centre. She graduated from Oberlin in 2008 with a Bachelor of
Music degree. Rachel was the cellist of the Cecilia String Quartet from 2010 to 2018. In this ensemble Rachel toured extensively around the world, recorded 4 albums on the Analekta label and taught chamber music at the University of Toronto. Touring has brought Rachel to inspiring venues such as Wigmore Hall, The Concertgebouw (Amsterdam), Konzert Haus Berlin and many more. The Cecilia Quartet also made educational programming a priority and performed hundreds of presentations for schools. In 2014 the quartet created a concert series called Xenia concerts specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum and their families. Exemplifying their commitment to the equal representation of women in music, Rachel spearheaded the commissioning of 4 string quartets by Canadian women composers in 2016. Throughout her schooling and career Rachel has also played recitals and concertos with orchestra. She has also worked in other orchestras, most notably, the National Arts Centre Orchestra and the Canadian Opera Company. Rachel plays the 1929 Carlo Guiseppe Oddone cello generously on loan to her from an anonymous donor. She is currently the acting principal cellist of Symphony Nova Scotia.
McGill University and the Banff Centre. She graduated from Oberlin in 2008 with a Bachelor of
Music degree. Rachel was the cellist of the Cecilia String Quartet from 2010 to 2018. In this ensemble Rachel toured extensively around the world, recorded 4 albums on the Analekta label and taught chamber music at the University of Toronto. Touring has brought Rachel to inspiring venues such as Wigmore Hall, The Concertgebouw (Amsterdam), Konzert Haus Berlin and many more. The Cecilia Quartet also made educational programming a priority and performed hundreds of presentations for schools. In 2014 the quartet created a concert series called Xenia concerts specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum and their families. Exemplifying their commitment to the equal representation of women in music, Rachel spearheaded the commissioning of 4 string quartets by Canadian women composers in 2016. Throughout her schooling and career Rachel has also played recitals and concertos with orchestra. She has also worked in other orchestras, most notably, the National Arts Centre Orchestra and the Canadian Opera Company. Rachel plays the 1929 Carlo Guiseppe Oddone cello generously on loan to her from an anonymous donor. She is currently the acting principal cellist of Symphony Nova Scotia.
SHEILA JAFFE, VIOLIN
Sheila Jaffé was born into a family of musicians and was fascinated by classical music from a young age. Born in Montreal and raised in South Florida, she returned to her native Quebec at the age of thirteen to live and study with her second cousin Catherine Dallaire, concertmaster of the Orchestre Symphonique de Québec and professor of violin at the Conservatoire de Musique de Québec. After completing high school as part of the arts intensive program at l'École Secondaire Pierre-Laporte in Montreal, Sheila completed her Bachelor's degree in violin performance at the Université de Montréal. Over the course of her years in Montreal, it became clear that chamber music and orchestral playing were at the core of her musical passions. She co-founded the Alaya String Quartet, performed in numerous chamber music concerts in the city, and kept herself impossibly busy with every kind of ensemble she could put together. In the summers, she participated in orchestral, chamber music and masterclass festivals such as Schleswig-Holstein Orchester, Domaine Forget, International Musicians Seminar and Open Chamber Music at Prussia Cove, Orford Arts Centre, Aurora Music in Sweden, and several others. Sheila continued her studies in Berlin, Germany with a Master's program at the Hanns Eisler Hochschüle für Musik, during which she also was accepted into the Deutsche Symphonie-Orchester Akademie for a one-year position. During this time she also co-founded the Alondra String Quartet, who were invited to the International Musicians Seminar Prussia Cove as well as the Toronto Summer Music festival. The members of this quartet are now in leading orchestras around the world. In 2013, at the Rosebud Chamber Music Festival in Alberta, Canada, she co-founded the Rosebud String Quartet (RSQ), with whom she currently performs regularly. Sheila is also the violinist and violist of the Array Ensemble, specializing in new music. In 2015, Sheila joined the Canadian Opera Company as a violist while continuing to nurture her love of chamber music on the violin with her string quartet as well as other chamber ensembles and various solo performances. She has also recently been appointed as principal viola of the National Ballet of Canada Orchestra. Her first album, featuring works by Franck, Elgar and Britten in collaboration with Welsh pianist Huw Watkins, is due to come out in 2022. Sheila Jaffé plays on a Francesco Gobetti (1710-15) violin and Raymond Schryer (2001) viola on generous loan from Canimex.
Sheila Jaffé was born into a family of musicians and was fascinated by classical music from a young age. Born in Montreal and raised in South Florida, she returned to her native Quebec at the age of thirteen to live and study with her second cousin Catherine Dallaire, concertmaster of the Orchestre Symphonique de Québec and professor of violin at the Conservatoire de Musique de Québec. After completing high school as part of the arts intensive program at l'École Secondaire Pierre-Laporte in Montreal, Sheila completed her Bachelor's degree in violin performance at the Université de Montréal. Over the course of her years in Montreal, it became clear that chamber music and orchestral playing were at the core of her musical passions. She co-founded the Alaya String Quartet, performed in numerous chamber music concerts in the city, and kept herself impossibly busy with every kind of ensemble she could put together. In the summers, she participated in orchestral, chamber music and masterclass festivals such as Schleswig-Holstein Orchester, Domaine Forget, International Musicians Seminar and Open Chamber Music at Prussia Cove, Orford Arts Centre, Aurora Music in Sweden, and several others. Sheila continued her studies in Berlin, Germany with a Master's program at the Hanns Eisler Hochschüle für Musik, during which she also was accepted into the Deutsche Symphonie-Orchester Akademie for a one-year position. During this time she also co-founded the Alondra String Quartet, who were invited to the International Musicians Seminar Prussia Cove as well as the Toronto Summer Music festival. The members of this quartet are now in leading orchestras around the world. In 2013, at the Rosebud Chamber Music Festival in Alberta, Canada, she co-founded the Rosebud String Quartet (RSQ), with whom she currently performs regularly. Sheila is also the violinist and violist of the Array Ensemble, specializing in new music. In 2015, Sheila joined the Canadian Opera Company as a violist while continuing to nurture her love of chamber music on the violin with her string quartet as well as other chamber ensembles and various solo performances. She has also recently been appointed as principal viola of the National Ballet of Canada Orchestra. Her first album, featuring works by Franck, Elgar and Britten in collaboration with Welsh pianist Huw Watkins, is due to come out in 2022. Sheila Jaffé plays on a Francesco Gobetti (1710-15) violin and Raymond Schryer (2001) viola on generous loan from Canimex.
YOSUKE KAWASAKI, VIOLIN
Yosuke Kawasaki currently serves as Concertmaster of Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra. His versatile musicianship allows him to pursue a career in orchestra, solo and chamber music. His orchestral career began with the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra and soon led to Mito Chamber Orchestra, Saito Kinen Orchestra and Japan Century Orchestra all of which he led as Concertmaster. His solo and chamber music career spans five continents, collaborating with artists such as Seiji Ozawa, Pinchas Zukerman and Yo-Yo Ma and appearing in the world's most prestigious halls such as Carnegie Hall, Suntory Hall and The Royal Concertgebouw. Kawasaki's current regular ensembles are Trio Ink and the Arkas String Quartet. His passion for chamber music led to his appointment as Music Director to the Affinis Music Festival in Japan. He is also an artistic advisor to a brand new chamber music festival in Bulgaria called Off The Beaten Path. As an educator Kawasaki has given masterclasses and performed side by side with students in schools across Canada. Well versed in the string quartet literature he was entrusted by Seiji Ozawa as the youngest faculty member of the Ozawa International Chamber Music Academy at the age of 26. He is currently an adjunct professor of violin at the University of Ottawa School of Music. Mr. Kawasaki began his violin studies at the age of six with his father Masao Kawasaki and continued with Setsu Goto. At the age of ten he was accepted into The Juilliard School Pre-College Division and further continued his education and graduated from The Juilliard School in 1998 under the tutorship of Dorothy DeLay, Hyo Kang, Felix Galimir and Joel Smirnoff.
Yosuke Kawasaki currently serves as Concertmaster of Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra. His versatile musicianship allows him to pursue a career in orchestra, solo and chamber music. His orchestral career began with the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra and soon led to Mito Chamber Orchestra, Saito Kinen Orchestra and Japan Century Orchestra all of which he led as Concertmaster. His solo and chamber music career spans five continents, collaborating with artists such as Seiji Ozawa, Pinchas Zukerman and Yo-Yo Ma and appearing in the world's most prestigious halls such as Carnegie Hall, Suntory Hall and The Royal Concertgebouw. Kawasaki's current regular ensembles are Trio Ink and the Arkas String Quartet. His passion for chamber music led to his appointment as Music Director to the Affinis Music Festival in Japan. He is also an artistic advisor to a brand new chamber music festival in Bulgaria called Off The Beaten Path. As an educator Kawasaki has given masterclasses and performed side by side with students in schools across Canada. Well versed in the string quartet literature he was entrusted by Seiji Ozawa as the youngest faculty member of the Ozawa International Chamber Music Academy at the age of 26. He is currently an adjunct professor of violin at the University of Ottawa School of Music. Mr. Kawasaki began his violin studies at the age of six with his father Masao Kawasaki and continued with Setsu Goto. At the age of ten he was accepted into The Juilliard School Pre-College Division and further continued his education and graduated from The Juilliard School in 1998 under the tutorship of Dorothy DeLay, Hyo Kang, Felix Galimir and Joel Smirnoff.
EMILY KISTEMAKER, VIOLIN
Emily Kistemaker is a professional violinist currently residing in Gatineau, Quebec. She has
received an Honours Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from Wilfrid Laurier
University, and is currently attending the University of Ottawa to receive her Masters
degree in Violin Performance. While at Laurier she won both of it's concerto competitions, and
as a result performed as a soloist with both the Laurier Orchestra, as well as with the
Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. Outside of performing as a soloist, Emily is also an experienced
orchestral musician, and has completed both her ARCT exams in violin and piano performance.
Emily Kistemaker is a professional violinist currently residing in Gatineau, Quebec. She has
received an Honours Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from Wilfrid Laurier
University, and is currently attending the University of Ottawa to receive her Masters
degree in Violin Performance. While at Laurier she won both of it's concerto competitions, and
as a result performed as a soloist with both the Laurier Orchestra, as well as with the
Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. Outside of performing as a soloist, Emily is also an experienced
orchestral musician, and has completed both her ARCT exams in violin and piano performance.
Csaba Koczó, violin
Hungarian-born violinist Csaba Koczó began his studies in Yugoslavia and then continued in Hungary at the Richter Conservatory in Gyor and the Béla Bartók Conservatory in Budapest. After attaining his bachelor’s degree with distinction at the College of the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, he continued his studies in Toronto with Lorand Fenyves and Erika Raum at the Glenn Gould School and the University of Toronto, where he was the recipient of the H. Carter scholarship. Mr. Koczó enjoys a prolific career as a chamber musician and soloist both in Canada and abroad. He has shared the stage with such illustrious musicians as Mayumi Seiler, Steven Isserlis, Scott St.John, Douglas McNabney, Yehonatan Berick and the St. Lawrence String Quartet. As a soloist, he has been featured with the Sandor Frigyes Chamber Orchestra and has also had the opportunity to perform the Beethoven Violin concerto and Vivaldi's Four Seasons. As a founding member of the Banff Competition prizewinning and Dora award nominated Tokai String Quartet, Mr. Koczó has toured across Canada and the US and some of his performances have been broadcast on the CBC and the Hungarian National Radio. He has performed at the Ottawa Chamber Music Festival, and the Toronto Summer Music Festival where he has worked with Ian Swensen and the Leipzig String Quartet. Mr. Koczó has taught at the Universities of Stanford, Toronto, Kingston, Halifax and Acadia in Wolfville NS, and spends every summer as a faculty member of Music at Port Milford in Picton, ON. In addition, Mr. Koczó was one of the founding members of the Via Salzburg Chamber Orchestra, and is currently Assistant Principal Second Violin of the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, and holds a position with the Canadian National Ballet Orchestra where he has been Acting Concertmaster.
www.tokaiquartet.com
www.tokaiquartet.com
EMILY KRUSPE, VIOLIN
Toronto-born violinist Emily Kruspe is a winner of the Glenn Gould School’s Concerto Competition and the University of Toronto Concerto Competition, is a recipient of the Orford String Quartet Scholarship, and was previously a CBC Young Artist. An avid chamber musician, Ms. Kruspe was a member of the Rolston String Quartet from 2018-2020 and performed extensively around North America and Europe. Emily has performed with the Toronto-based ARC Ensemble, and regularly plays section violin with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra and the National Ballet Orchestra of Canada as an extra. She was also named one of CBC’s hot Canadian classical musicians under 30 in 2018. Emily completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto under Erika Raum, obtained an Artist Diploma at the Glenn Gould School under Paul Kantor and Barry Shiffman, and studied at the Colburn School with Martin Beaver. She was also a 2017-18 Rebanks Fellow of the Rebanks Family Fellowship and International Performance Residency Program at the Royal Conservatory in Toronto. Emily currently performs on a 1900 Stefano Scarampella violin, generously on loan from the Canada Council for the Arts Musical Instrument Bank.
Toronto-born violinist Emily Kruspe is a winner of the Glenn Gould School’s Concerto Competition and the University of Toronto Concerto Competition, is a recipient of the Orford String Quartet Scholarship, and was previously a CBC Young Artist. An avid chamber musician, Ms. Kruspe was a member of the Rolston String Quartet from 2018-2020 and performed extensively around North America and Europe. Emily has performed with the Toronto-based ARC Ensemble, and regularly plays section violin with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra and the National Ballet Orchestra of Canada as an extra. She was also named one of CBC’s hot Canadian classical musicians under 30 in 2018. Emily completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto under Erika Raum, obtained an Artist Diploma at the Glenn Gould School under Paul Kantor and Barry Shiffman, and studied at the Colburn School with Martin Beaver. She was also a 2017-18 Rebanks Fellow of the Rebanks Family Fellowship and International Performance Residency Program at the Royal Conservatory in Toronto. Emily currently performs on a 1900 Stefano Scarampella violin, generously on loan from the Canada Council for the Arts Musical Instrument Bank.
JESSICA LINNEBACH, VIOLIN
Appreciating the importance of versatility in today’s world, Jessica Linnebach has successfully built a multi-faceted career. Best known for her “burnt caramel sound, utterly fearless virtuosity...and romantic lyricism” (Artsfile), she has distinguished herself among the next generation of classical artists being lauded on concert stages around the world for her artistry and passion. Jessica made her soloist debut at the age of seven, shortly followed by acceptance to the world-renowned Curtis Institute of Music at the age of ten. She remains one of the youngest Bachelor of Music graduates in the history of the school. While there, Jessica’s primary teachers were Aaron Rosand, Jaime Laredo and Ida Kavafian. At the age of eighteen, she received her Master of Music degree from the Manhattan School of Music in New York City where she studied with Pinchas Zukerman and Patinka Kopec. Jessica has been a member of Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra since 2003, and was named their Associate Concertmaster in April 2010. She was also a founding member of the Zukerman ChamberPlayers, a string quintet led by Pinchas Zukerman, and toured extensively for almost a decade throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia and New Zealand. Currently, she is a member of the Ironwood String Quartet, with whom she shares her strong passion for discovering new and exciting chamber works while performing in more intimate and interactive spaces, allowing her to have a closer connection with her audience. Jessica plays a circa 1840 Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume (Guarnerius del Gésu 1737) violin and bows crafted by Ron Forrester and Michael Vann.
Appreciating the importance of versatility in today’s world, Jessica Linnebach has successfully built a multi-faceted career. Best known for her “burnt caramel sound, utterly fearless virtuosity...and romantic lyricism” (Artsfile), she has distinguished herself among the next generation of classical artists being lauded on concert stages around the world for her artistry and passion. Jessica made her soloist debut at the age of seven, shortly followed by acceptance to the world-renowned Curtis Institute of Music at the age of ten. She remains one of the youngest Bachelor of Music graduates in the history of the school. While there, Jessica’s primary teachers were Aaron Rosand, Jaime Laredo and Ida Kavafian. At the age of eighteen, she received her Master of Music degree from the Manhattan School of Music in New York City where she studied with Pinchas Zukerman and Patinka Kopec. Jessica has been a member of Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra since 2003, and was named their Associate Concertmaster in April 2010. She was also a founding member of the Zukerman ChamberPlayers, a string quintet led by Pinchas Zukerman, and toured extensively for almost a decade throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia and New Zealand. Currently, she is a member of the Ironwood String Quartet, with whom she shares her strong passion for discovering new and exciting chamber works while performing in more intimate and interactive spaces, allowing her to have a closer connection with her audience. Jessica plays a circa 1840 Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume (Guarnerius del Gésu 1737) violin and bows crafted by Ron Forrester and Michael Vann.
JETHRO MARKS, VIOLA
Vancouver-born violist Jethro Marks was appointed Principal viola of the National Arts Center Orchestra in Spring 2011. He has performed as soloist and chamber musician throughout the United States, China, Mexico, Europe, and Canada, and is a frequent collaborator with many artists and ensembles. Jethro is first violist of the Zukerman ChamberPlayers, a string ensemble led by Pinchas Zukerman that has completed highly acclaimed tours of festivals in Canada, the U.S., Europe, China, South America and New Zealand. The ensemble released its fourth CD in 2008. An avid chamber musician, has collaborated with some of the most illustrious artists and chamber groups of our day including Leon Fleisher, Lynn Harrell, Gary Hoffman, Jaime Laredo, Michael Tree, Itzhak Perlman, Yefim Bronfman, Emanual Ax, and the Orion Quartet, and has participated in festivals around the world including the Verbier Festival, Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, Festival de musique de St. Barthelemy, Banff Festival of the Arts, Lanaudière Festival, Agassiz Festival, Ravinia Festival, Aspen Music Festival, Tanglewood Festival, Musica Mundi in Belgium, Schleswig-Holstein in Germany, and Mostly Mozart, as well as the 92nd St. Y, Jupiter and Lyric Chamber Music Societies in New York City. Jethro is frequently featured in chamber music concerts in the National Arts Centre MFASA series, as well as the Ottawa Chamber Music Festivals. His solo debut with the National Arts Centre Orchestra was in 2004 playing Harold in Italy and in 2007 he premiered the Steven Gellman Viola Concerto with the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra. In 2014 he performed the Malcolm Forsyth concerto with cellist Amanda Forsyth. He is a frequent collaborator with Ottawa pianist Mauro Bertoli, and play numorous recitals throughout Canada. He joined the faculty of the University of Ottawa in Sept. 2015.
JEFFREY MCFADDEN, GUITAR
Jeffrey McFadden has established a place among the most admired guitarists of his generation. Since his debut at the legendary 'Guitar ’87' festival he has performed across North and South America, and Europe. His debut recording followed a GFA silver medal and was the first in the Laureate Series on Naxos. He has made 10 highly acclaimed recordings since then exploring the works of Sor, Coste, Barrios and others. Jeffrey McFadden‘s doctoral dissertation formed the basis of his groundbreaking book, Fretboard Harmony: Common-Practice Harmony on the Guitar, which is used world-wide. He is Chair of Guitar Studies at the University of Toronto, one of the top 20 universities in the world. He was recognized as the 2018 ‘Teacher of Distinction’ by the Royal Conservatory of Music. He is also founder and artistic director of the Sauble Beach Guitar Festival.
www.jeffreymcfadden.com
Jeffrey McFadden has established a place among the most admired guitarists of his generation. Since his debut at the legendary 'Guitar ’87' festival he has performed across North and South America, and Europe. His debut recording followed a GFA silver medal and was the first in the Laureate Series on Naxos. He has made 10 highly acclaimed recordings since then exploring the works of Sor, Coste, Barrios and others. Jeffrey McFadden‘s doctoral dissertation formed the basis of his groundbreaking book, Fretboard Harmony: Common-Practice Harmony on the Guitar, which is used world-wide. He is Chair of Guitar Studies at the University of Toronto, one of the top 20 universities in the world. He was recognized as the 2018 ‘Teacher of Distinction’ by the Royal Conservatory of Music. He is also founder and artistic director of the Sauble Beach Guitar Festival.
www.jeffreymcfadden.com
Rachel Mercer, cello
Principal Cello of the NAC Orchestra in Ottawa and Artistic Director of the "5 at the First" Chamber Music Series in Hamilton, Canadian cellist Rachel Mercer has appeared as a soloist and chamber musician across five continents. Described as a "pure chamber musician" (Globe and Mail) creating "moments of pure magic" (Toronto Star), Rachel plays with the Mercer-Park Duo, and was a member of JUNO-winning Ensemble Made In Canada (2008-20), and the Aviv Quartet (2002-10). An advocate for new Canadian music, Rachel has commissioned over 25 works including a cello concerto by Stewart Goodyear recently premiered with the NAC Orchestra, and an album of Canadian women composers released on Centrediscs. Rachel plays a 17th century cello from Northern Italy.
www.rachelmercercellist.com
www.rachelmercercellist.com
PATRICK PARADINE, VIOLIN
Violinist Patrick Paradine, 21, is currently studying under Timothy Chooi at the University of Ottawa, as well as Olena and Sergei Vyhovskyi. He has worked closely with Yehonatan Berick, Shlomo Mintz, Violaine Melancon, and Anne Robert and has performed for Cho-liang Lin, Vadim Gluzman, Masao Kawasaki and Boris Garlitzky. Patrick has performed worldwide, touring Europe as a soloist and concertmaster of the De La Salle Orchestra under the direction of Jason Hutt, as well as playing in the Narva Symphony Orchestra and performing a solo recital in Tallinn. Above all, he aspires to bring more classical music to Canada.
Violinist Patrick Paradine, 21, is currently studying under Timothy Chooi at the University of Ottawa, as well as Olena and Sergei Vyhovskyi. He has worked closely with Yehonatan Berick, Shlomo Mintz, Violaine Melancon, and Anne Robert and has performed for Cho-liang Lin, Vadim Gluzman, Masao Kawasaki and Boris Garlitzky. Patrick has performed worldwide, touring Europe as a soloist and concertmaster of the De La Salle Orchestra under the direction of Jason Hutt, as well as playing in the Narva Symphony Orchestra and performing a solo recital in Tallinn. Above all, he aspires to bring more classical music to Canada.
Angela Park, piano
Angela Park has established herself as one of Canada’s most sought-after pianists. Praised for her “stunningly beautiful pianism” (Grace Welsh Prize, Chicago), “beautiful tone and sensitivity” (American Record Guide), and for performing “with such brilliant clarity it took your breath away” (Chapala, Mexico), Angela’s versatility as both soloist and chamber musician has led to acclaimed performances across Canada, as well as in the United States, Europe, Japan, and Mexico. She is a founding member of the award-winning Ensemble Made In Canada, the Mercer-Park Duo, the Seiler Piano Trio, and the AYR Trio, and has recorded solo albums, as well as collaborative discs with cellist Rachel Mercer, oboist Linda Strommen, and Ensemble Made In Canada, for labels including NAXOS Canadian Classics, Centrediscs, and Enharmonic Records. She is currently Artist-in-Residence with Ensemble Made In Canada and Assistant Professor of Piano at Western University.
www.angelapark.com
www.angelapark.com
JOEL QUARRINGTON, DOUBLE BASS
For over forty years, Joel Quarrington has served as the Principal Double Bassist of many ensembles including the Canadian Opera Company, The Toronto Symphony and Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra and most recently, the famous London Symphony Orchestra.
Born in Toronto, Joel Quarrington began his formal studies of the double bass when he was thirteen. Upon graduation from the University of Toronto, he was awarded the “Eaton Scholarship” as the school’s most outstanding graduate. Joel is a winner of the Geneva International Competition and the CBC Talent Competition, and has made solo appearances across Canada, the United States, Europe and China.
Joel teaches in the summers at the Orford Arts Centre in Quebec’s beautiful Eastern Townships where his master classes have attracted players from around the world. He is a professor at the Conservatoire de Musique de Montréal, and at the Royal Academy of Music in London where he is a “Visiting Artist”. He has performed with many of the world’s leading string quartets including the Orford, Vermeer, Cleveland, Colorado, St. Lawrence, Allegri, Artis, Leipzig and Tokyo Quartets as well as the Pinchas Zukerman Chamber Players. Their Sony recording of Schubert’s Trout Quintet with Yefim Bronfman became an instant classic. He is particularly honoured to have been a part of a 1982 recording session with the legendary Glenn Gould for the soundtrack of Timothy Findley’s The Wars. Written for solo cello and bass and based on Brahms’ Intermezzi, this turned out to be the last music composed by Gould before his untimely death. In April of 2005 he had the honour of playing the world premier of John Harbison’s Concerto for Bass with the Toronto Symphony and conductor Hugh Wolf. Joel has made several solo recordings that have made him famous at least in the bass world. His early Bottesini recordings on the NAXOS label are considered by many to be definitive. In April 2010, his recording, “Garden Scene”, won the 2010 Juno Award for Best Classical Recording and features music of Korngold, Gliere, M.Weinberg, J.C. Bach and Bottesini. June 2013 marked the release of his most recent recording “Brothers in Brahms”, which features music of Robert Fuchs, Robert Schumann and the 1st Violin Sonata in G op.78 by Johannes Brahms. He was very happy to collaborate with the remarkable young Canadian pianist, David Jalbert for this project and in February 2015 this recording won the prestigious “Prix Opus” as the Outstanding Romantic Classical Recording of the year in Quebec. Following its success, in 2017 they released “An die Musik”, an all-Schubert recording, which has been very warmly received. All of these recordings are available on the Modica Music label, and through Joel’s website. In 2011, he received a Special Recognition Award for Outstanding Solo Performance from the International Society of Bassists and in 2015 they awarded Joel the same award for Outstanding Orchestral Performance. He performs on an Italian bass made in 1660 by the Italian master Santo Maggini, and is an enthusiastic advocate of the historical practice of tuning the bass in fifths (CGDA, an octave lower than the cello) rather than the customary fourths. He believes fifths tuning leads to clearer and more accurate performance in all ranges of the bass, as well as greater tonal richness. www.joelquarrington.com
Born in Toronto, Joel Quarrington began his formal studies of the double bass when he was thirteen. Upon graduation from the University of Toronto, he was awarded the “Eaton Scholarship” as the school’s most outstanding graduate. Joel is a winner of the Geneva International Competition and the CBC Talent Competition, and has made solo appearances across Canada, the United States, Europe and China.
Joel teaches in the summers at the Orford Arts Centre in Quebec’s beautiful Eastern Townships where his master classes have attracted players from around the world. He is a professor at the Conservatoire de Musique de Montréal, and at the Royal Academy of Music in London where he is a “Visiting Artist”. He has performed with many of the world’s leading string quartets including the Orford, Vermeer, Cleveland, Colorado, St. Lawrence, Allegri, Artis, Leipzig and Tokyo Quartets as well as the Pinchas Zukerman Chamber Players. Their Sony recording of Schubert’s Trout Quintet with Yefim Bronfman became an instant classic. He is particularly honoured to have been a part of a 1982 recording session with the legendary Glenn Gould for the soundtrack of Timothy Findley’s The Wars. Written for solo cello and bass and based on Brahms’ Intermezzi, this turned out to be the last music composed by Gould before his untimely death. In April of 2005 he had the honour of playing the world premier of John Harbison’s Concerto for Bass with the Toronto Symphony and conductor Hugh Wolf. Joel has made several solo recordings that have made him famous at least in the bass world. His early Bottesini recordings on the NAXOS label are considered by many to be definitive. In April 2010, his recording, “Garden Scene”, won the 2010 Juno Award for Best Classical Recording and features music of Korngold, Gliere, M.Weinberg, J.C. Bach and Bottesini. June 2013 marked the release of his most recent recording “Brothers in Brahms”, which features music of Robert Fuchs, Robert Schumann and the 1st Violin Sonata in G op.78 by Johannes Brahms. He was very happy to collaborate with the remarkable young Canadian pianist, David Jalbert for this project and in February 2015 this recording won the prestigious “Prix Opus” as the Outstanding Romantic Classical Recording of the year in Quebec. Following its success, in 2017 they released “An die Musik”, an all-Schubert recording, which has been very warmly received. All of these recordings are available on the Modica Music label, and through Joel’s website. In 2011, he received a Special Recognition Award for Outstanding Solo Performance from the International Society of Bassists and in 2015 they awarded Joel the same award for Outstanding Orchestral Performance. He performs on an Italian bass made in 1660 by the Italian master Santo Maggini, and is an enthusiastic advocate of the historical practice of tuning the bass in fifths (CGDA, an octave lower than the cello) rather than the customary fourths. He believes fifths tuning leads to clearer and more accurate performance in all ranges of the bass, as well as greater tonal richness. www.joelquarrington.com
Theresa Rudolph, viola
Award-winning violist Theresa Rudolph is an active chamber musician, recitalist, and orchestral player. She has held the position of Assistant Principal Viola in the Toronto Symphony Orchestra since 2011, and is a member of the XIA Quartet . Theresa has performed on concert series in Toronto, Vancouver, Detroit, Ottawa, and throughout Eastern Canada, and has been featured several times on CBC Radio. In addition, she holds the position of Viola Coach of the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra, and has served on the faculty of York University. Hailing from Vancouver, Theresa was a student of Gerald Stanick. A recipient of a scholarship grant from the Canada Council for the Arts, she then obtained her Bachelor of Music degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying with Robert Vernon. As a member of the Brutini String Quartet, she attended the Isaac Stern Chamber Music Workshop in New York, performed in Carnegie Hall, and was a prizewinner at the prestigious Fischoff Competition. In March 2001, Theresa became the youngest member of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra at the age of 21. She also held the position of Assistant Principal Viola of the National Ballet of Canada Orchestra, and was a member of the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, where she frequently performed as Principal Viola. Theresa has also performed with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the Cleveland Orchestra.
SCOTT ST. JOHN, VIOLIN
Violinist Scott St. John, from London Ontario, is known for his joyful style of music-making and inspiring chamber music coaching. Scott is Concertmaster of the innovative ROCO Chamber Orchestra in Houston, Texas, and returns frequently to the summertime Marlboro Music Festival in Vermont. From 2018 to 2021 he was Director of Chamber Music at The Colburn School in Los Angeles. Early violin success with teacher Richard Lawrence in London Ontario gave Scott a path to the Curtis Institute in Philadelphia and the chance to work with David Cerone, Arnold Steinhardt and Felix Galimir. After winning the Alexander Schneider Competition and playing a Carnegie Hall debut, NYC pulled Scott into its orbit, where Young Concert Artists gave him fabulous opportunities for performance. In addition to a magical year of working at the Disney Store in Times Square, Scott has been Associate Professor at the University of Toronto, and Artist-in-Residence at Stanford University as part of the St. Lawrence String Quartet. Scott has received an Avery Fisher Career Grant and won a Juno Award for recording Mozart with his sister Lara St. John. He has founded two chamber music awards for students: the Felix Galimir Award at University of Toronto and the Ida Levin Award at the Colburn School. Scott loves chamber music, Dvorak, new music, music by less-known composers, and a great espresso. He has been to all the Canadian provinces, 49 of the United States, and would prefer to travel by train when practical. He is married to violist Sharon Wei and they have a 10-year-old daughter named Julia. www.scottstjohn.com
STEPHAN SYLVESTRE, PIANO
Stéphan Sylvestre ranks among the most sought-after Canadian pianists. Compared by critics to Artur Rubinstein for his natural talent and flawless technique (La Presse, Montreal), he has given performances in numerous countries throughout North and South America, Europe, the Middle East and Russia. He performed five solo recitals in the Concertgebouw (Amsterdam), he appeared with top Canadian orchestras and in Canada's leading international festivals, and played live for the BBC. One of Canada's most praised chamber musicians, he regularly collaborates with internationally acclaimed artists and ensembles such as James Campbell, James Sommerville, Ransom Wilson, Martin Beaver, Susan Hoeppner, Rivka Golani, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, the Penderecki, New Zealand, and New Orford string quartets, as well as with first chairs of the Israel Philharmonic, Toronto Symphony and Montreal Symphony orchestras. His recordings have been hailed by critics. His Brahms solo recordings were placed alongside Murray Perahia’s interpretations by WholeNote magazine, and the internationally famed Strad Magazine in the U.K. recently gave a stunning review of his recording of the works of Szymanovski for violin and piano with member of the Penderecki String Quartet, Jerzy Kaplanek. He regularly gives master classes around the world and he has sat on juries of prestigious competitions such as the Montreal International Piano Competition, the Montreal Symphony Competition and the Canadian Music Competition. He also regularly adjudicates for prestigious institutions including the Glenn Gould School and the Conservatoire de Montréal, among many others. Stéphan Sylvestre has been Associate Professor and head of keyboard studies at Western University Canada since 2005. He is one the most respected pedagogues of the new generation and highly sought-after by young pianists around the world. His teachers have included Leon Fleisher, John Perry, Marc Durand and Marek Jablonski. www.stephansylvestre.com
Stéphan Sylvestre ranks among the most sought-after Canadian pianists. Compared by critics to Artur Rubinstein for his natural talent and flawless technique (La Presse, Montreal), he has given performances in numerous countries throughout North and South America, Europe, the Middle East and Russia. He performed five solo recitals in the Concertgebouw (Amsterdam), he appeared with top Canadian orchestras and in Canada's leading international festivals, and played live for the BBC. One of Canada's most praised chamber musicians, he regularly collaborates with internationally acclaimed artists and ensembles such as James Campbell, James Sommerville, Ransom Wilson, Martin Beaver, Susan Hoeppner, Rivka Golani, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, the Penderecki, New Zealand, and New Orford string quartets, as well as with first chairs of the Israel Philharmonic, Toronto Symphony and Montreal Symphony orchestras. His recordings have been hailed by critics. His Brahms solo recordings were placed alongside Murray Perahia’s interpretations by WholeNote magazine, and the internationally famed Strad Magazine in the U.K. recently gave a stunning review of his recording of the works of Szymanovski for violin and piano with member of the Penderecki String Quartet, Jerzy Kaplanek. He regularly gives master classes around the world and he has sat on juries of prestigious competitions such as the Montreal International Piano Competition, the Montreal Symphony Competition and the Canadian Music Competition. He also regularly adjudicates for prestigious institutions including the Glenn Gould School and the Conservatoire de Montréal, among many others. Stéphan Sylvestre has been Associate Professor and head of keyboard studies at Western University Canada since 2005. He is one the most respected pedagogues of the new generation and highly sought-after by young pianists around the world. His teachers have included Leon Fleisher, John Perry, Marc Durand and Marek Jablonski. www.stephansylvestre.com
SARA TRAFICANTE, FLUTE
Sara Traficante is a versatile flutist who is in demand as a performer and recording artist for her creative approach across musical genres. Sara’s chamber music collaborations demonstrate a commitment to presenting classical music in an innovative context. Azuline Duo (with guitarist Emma Rush) actively perform throughout North America and have recently released their second album "Fandango". Trained as an orchestral flutist (Eastman School of Music, McGill University), Sara continues to perform with orchestras throughout Southern Ontario. No stranger to collaborations outside of classical music, Sara’s flutes and whistles are featured in the soundtrack of “Anne with an E” (CBC/Netflix), and she is a frequent collaborator with Finland's "Samurai of Prog". Sara is a compassionate and skilled music educator, with a vibrant private studio, and instructor at McMaster University and Redeemer University.
Sara Traficante is a versatile flutist who is in demand as a performer and recording artist for her creative approach across musical genres. Sara’s chamber music collaborations demonstrate a commitment to presenting classical music in an innovative context. Azuline Duo (with guitarist Emma Rush) actively perform throughout North America and have recently released their second album "Fandango". Trained as an orchestral flutist (Eastman School of Music, McGill University), Sara continues to perform with orchestras throughout Southern Ontario. No stranger to collaborations outside of classical music, Sara’s flutes and whistles are featured in the soundtrack of “Anne with an E” (CBC/Netflix), and she is a frequent collaborator with Finland's "Samurai of Prog". Sara is a compassionate and skilled music educator, with a vibrant private studio, and instructor at McMaster University and Redeemer University.
