Announced today, Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s Principal Double Bass Jeffrey Beecher has been named Co-Artistic Director of the renowned Silk Road Ensemble.

Beecher will join Nicholas Cords and Shane Shanahan in guiding the eclectic chamber ensemble to promote the advancement of multiculturalism through music.

“It is with great honor and humility that we take up the leadership of Silkroad. Working together, we feel ready to meet the many adventures ahead. See you along the way!” reads a statement on the Silkroad website.

Dear Friends,

Silkroad turns twenty next year. Like a teenager approaching adulthood, we are exploring our purpose in the world. For us, this means thinking about how to share what we have learned to build a more hopeful future. One thing we have discovered is the joy and significance of working as an ensemble, and at this turning point, we are formalizing a new approach to leadership that celebrates that collaborative spirit.

To this end, I am thrilled to hand over the artistic direction of Silkroad to Jeffrey Beecher, Nicholas Cords, and Shane Shanahan, three extraordinary colleagues who have taught me so much about collaboration, music, and friendship. Together with Silkroad’s executive director, Eduardo A. Braniff, these inaugural co-artistic directors will shape the next chapter of Silkroad, bringing the passion and curiosity that we have developed to new communities and inspiring the radical cultural collaboration that is essential to creating a better world.

It is a journey that I will be privileged to share with them, and with all of you, as a cellist and a member of the Silkroad Ensemble. Please read their vision for Silkroad and join us.

With warmest wishes,
Yo-Yo Ma

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Michael Vincent

Michael Vincent is the Founder and General Manager Ludwig Van. He publishes regularly and writes occasionally. A specialist in digital media for over 20 years, he has worked as a senior editor and is a former freelance classical music critic for the Toronto Star. Michael holds a Doctorate in Music from the University of Toronto.

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