NAC Orchestra with light show

CARREFOUR
Two emerging composers, an incredible opportunity

May 25, 2017

For composers, the opportunity to work with a great orchestra can be life changing. That’s why, in January, the Canada Council for the Arts and the National Arts Centre (NAC) launched a call for applications for Carrefour, a professional development residency for emerging, culturally diverse or Indigenous composers. It’s vital to nurture and mentor talent that will contribute to the long-term aesthetic and cultural diversity of orchestral and chamber music, and this initiative will provide support to new voices on the Canadian music stage.

Following a competitive selection process, we’re proud to announce the first 2 composers to take part in Carrefour:

Ian Cusson

Ian Cusson, Toronto
Ian Cusson is a composer of art song, opera and orchestral work. Of Métis and French Canadian descent, his work explores the Canadian Indigenous experience, including the history of the Métis people, the hybridity of mixed-racial identity, and the intersection of Western and Indigenous cultures.

Remy Siu

Remy Siu, Vancouver
Remy Siu is a composer and new media artist of Hong Kong / Chinese descent based in Vancouver. His work involves the construction of automated and variable performance apparatuses that use light, sound, software and the body.

About the residency

This residency is part of an exciting, 5-year partnership between the Canada Council and the NAC, which will highlight the national leadership role of both organizations and support professional development in composition for Canadian orchestras.

During their residency, the composers will work with and be mentored by Music Director Alexander Shelley, the NAC Orchestra musicians and administration, and will have access to its creative production and performance environment.

I feel very excited by our choices as they offer a real spectrum of compositional styles.

Alexander Shelley, Music Director, NAC Orchestra

This is an exciting partnership between the NAC and the Canada Council. Carrefour will have a definite impact on emerging composers, the orchestral community and audiences.

Simon Brault, CEO and Director, Canada Council for the Arts

Over a 2 year period, Ian and Remy will come to Ottawa 6-8 weeks per season. They will experience the day-to-day life of an orchestra, with access to rehearsals and concerts, as well as Canadian and international guest conductors and composers. In the first year, they will each write a work for chamber ensemble; and in the second year, a work for full orchestra. Congratulations to both!

Follow them online at #Carrefour2017

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