Since its inception in 1981, the Kanata Symphony has succeeded in providing the community with a rich heritage of orchestral concerts and events.
A typical season for the Kanata Symphony begins with the fall family concert. This event traditionally has a musical theme and provides the audience (both young and old) with not just an orchestral concert but an entertaining, enlightening and educational experience. The symphony also presents traditional Christmas, winter and spring classical concerts in which both professional and aspiring young musicians have performed as soloists with the orchestra.
Over the years, the orchestra has performed with various groups such as ballet, magicians, Kiwanis Clowns, Scouts, with themes such as Halloween, Celebrating Canada, International Music, and Dancing through the Ages. Guest performers have included Kanata mayors and members of the City Council.
Our members are from all ages and walks of life, from high school students to experienced amateurs to semi-professional and professional musicians.
Music Director: Yves Lacoursière
Well known and appreciated at first as a saxophonist, Yves has become a highly respected professor of music, a multi-instrumentalist, and a conductor.
He started his musical training at an early age during his stay in Peru with his family. Not only did he learn Spanish but he also developed a taste for the South American culture. Upon returning to Canada, he discovered the world of jazz and musical improvisation. In 1991, the Gatineau Conservatory recognized his talent and he was accepted in Noël Samyn’s saxophone class. During his studies, Yves participated on various competitions collecting prizes and grants, at the Canada Music Competitions. In 1999, he was honored to receive the prestigious « Prix en saxophone » from the Gatineau’s Conservatory. He then decided to pursue his musical training which led him to complete a Master's degree at Université de Montréal in orchestral conducting.
Yves has been conducting the Kanata Symphony Orchestra since 2004. He continues to perform very actively as a saxophonist and as the vocal and musical director of « Le Chœur de l’île », regional choir.
Concertmaster: Anna Klochkova
Anna holds a Master's of Music degree Glinka State Conservatory in Russia. She performed with the Nizhny Novgorod State Philharmonic Orchestra for several years as a first violinist and played with other orchestras which toured France, Germany, Belgium, Spain, and Scandinavia. She also taught violin to secondary school students.
Among the highlights of her artistic career are performances with M. Rostropovich and Y. Bashmet.
In Canada, Anna continues teaching at music schools, giving private lessons, and performing with the Pembroke Symphony Orchestra, Sinfonia Toronto, the Oshawa Symphony, the Brampton Symphony and the Kanata Symphony Orchestra among others.