by Scott Roos
photo by Julie Isaac (Julie Isaac Photography)
award graphic by Brian Snell
The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra (SSO) has been named the 2024 NSMZ Group of the Year, a prestigious recognition that celebrates their exceptional contributions to the musical landscape in Saskatchewan and beyond. The SSO’s commitment to artistic excellence, diverse programming, and community engagement have all played a pivotal role in earning them this well-deserved honour.
A key factor in the SSO’s success is its dynamic use of a variety of conductors, which brings fresh perspectives and unique interpretations to each performance. In 2024, the orchestra worked with a distinguished group of conductors, including Tania Miller, Melanie Leonard, Cosette Justo Valdés, William Rowson, Janna Sailor, Judith Yan, and Leslie Dala to name but a few. Their varied leadership allowed for a rich and varied year of concerts that delighted audiences with its range and energy.
One of the SSO’s standout offerings in 2024 was its innovative live-to-film performances, which provided audiences with the rare opportunity to experience beloved films accompanied by a live orchestra. The SSO featured The Lion King, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and Elf, creating a unique and immersive experience that bridged the worlds of film and orchestral music.
In addition to their bold programming, the SSO consistently brought world-class soloists to the stage. Highlights from the 2024 season included pianist Daniel Clarke Bouchard performing Rhapsody in Blue, clarinettist Kinaan Azmeh with his composition Suite for Improvisor and Orchestra, and pianist Sara Davis Buechner performing Tchaikovsky’s 3rd Piano Concerto. The orchestra also featured composer and cellist Cris Derksen in a performance of Controlled Burn, further enriching the season’s diverse repertoire.
The SSO also remained deeply committed to supporting local talent, showcasing Saskatchewan artists alongside international stars. The Sask Celebration concert featured violinist Véronique Mathieu and pianist Godwin Friesen, while the YXE Divas concert celebrated local performers like Eekwol, Falynn Baptiste, Elyse Evangelista, and many more, reflecting the SSO’s strong connection to the community.
The orchestra’s 2024 season was marked by several monumental performances, including an unforgettable rendition of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony in May. This breathtaking performance, featuring a mass community choir and outstanding soloists like Julie Nesrallah, Adam Lau, Ian Cleary, and Avery Lafrentz, celebrated the 200th anniversary of the piece. Another monumental moment came in April, when the SSO performed Bach’s Johannes Passion to mark the 300th anniversary of the work, conducted by Leslie Dala. The event was a testament to the orchestra’s dedication to both historic and contemporary works.
The SSO’s season also included intimate performances that highlighted its versatility and artistic depth. A memorable highlight was the collaboration with Julie Nesrallah at the Remai Arts Centre – Persephone Theatre, where the star vocalist joined the orchestra for an evening of jazz standards and torch songs, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Throughout the year, the SSO showcased works by Canadian composers and critically acclaimed Indigenous artists, continuing its tradition of promoting diverse voices in the classical music world. This commitment to inclusivity and representation added another layer of depth to an already remarkable season.
Finally, the SSO’s performance of Handel’s Messiah in December, conducted by Karl Hirzer, capped off the year in fine fashion. With a stellar lineup of soloists, including Casey Peden, Andrea Ludwig, Spencer McKnight, and Jayden Burrows, the performance of this beloved holiday classic was a fitting end to a spectacular season and a cherished tradition in Saskatoon since 1913.
With its exceptional programming, world-class performances, dedication to local talent, and bold vision for the future, the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra’s remarkable achievements in 2024 undoubtedly make it a deserving recipient of the NSMZ Group of the Year award. The SSO continues to be a driving force in the cultural life of Saskatoon and beyond, enriching the community with its innovative, inspiring, and inclusive approach to orchestral music.