Toronto Summer Music has announced that Artistic Director Jonathan Crow will be departing from his position, effective on the conclusion of the festival in 2025. Next year, Toronto Summer Music will run from July 10 to August 2.
“It is with deep gratitude that I announce my decision to step down as Artistic Director of Toronto Summer Music (TSM) at the end of the 2025 Festival. My time with TSM has been one of the most fulfilling periods of my professional life,” Crow says in a statement.
Jonathan Crow
Jonathan is a graduate of the Bachelor of Music in Honours Performance from McGill University. On graduation, he joined the Montreal Symphony Orchestra as Associate Principal Second Violin.
He would go on to become Concertmaster of the MSO from 2002 to 2006. At the time, he was the youngest musician to hold the position of concertmaster in any major North American orchestra. Jonathan has been the Concertmaster of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra since 2011. As a soloist, he’s performed with orchestras across Canada.
He also teaches at the Schulich School of Music at McGill University as an Associate Professor of Violin since 2010.
Highlights
TSM has become a showcase for chamber music through a diverse lens that incorporates elements and influences that mirror the city itself.
In his statement, Crow goes on to acknowledge the many landmark performances at TSM since his appointment back in 2016, including appearances by internationally recognized artists like pianists Angela Hewitt and Vadym Kholodenko, vocalists Ben Heppner, J’Nai Bridges and Dame Sarah Connolly, and ensembles like the St. Lawrence, Rolston, Dover, Pacifica, and Miró Quartets.
“Our family has grown significantly over the past eight years,” he continues. “We have come to expect standing-room-only audiences at all our main venues, with this year’s sold-out Opening Night performance by Les Arts Florissants being a particular highlight.”
The TSM Academy, as he notes, has grown during his tenure, including the number of applications received, and the level of talent of potential candidates. More than 94% of the alumni from the last five years have continued to grow as professional musicians. The Community Program has also experienced growth and expansion, welcoming the largest cohort of amateur musicians this summer in 2024.
Looking Forward
“As I embark on new personal and professional endeavours, I carry with me cherished memories and a deep appreciation for my TSM Family. This was not an easy decision to make, but I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and confident in the organization’s bright future, especially as we look forward to 2025’s, 20th Anniversary Festival.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. The board and staff’s unwavering commitment ensure that TSM will continue to flourish and inspire. I encourage our wonderful community to keep supporting TSM with the same enthusiasm and passion as TSM transitions to new artistic leadership.”
Call for Applications
Toronto Summer Music is on the hunt for a new Artistic Director, a part-time, contractual position.
The Artistic Director takes a leadership role, setting the tone and vision for the annual summer classical music festival, including curating and overseeing programming. There is also a public/community role, including mentoring younger artists. Naturally, a true passion for classical music, along with a dedication to diversity and inclusion, are crucial to the position.
- You’ll find the full job description here.
- The deadline for applications for this pivotal role is October 31, 2024.
- Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, a cover letter, and a statement of artistic
philosophy to Robert W. Beattie (chair@torontosummermusic.com), Board Chair.
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