After 16 years at the Orchestra’s helm, Kent Nagano has left an invaluable legacy of magnificent concerts, but also of remarkable achievements such as helping to make the Maison symphonique project a reality. He was key in the OSM’s acquisition of the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique and of its three octobasses, led numerous award-winning recordings, established the Classical Spree festival, bringing the OSM closer to a broader, more diverse public, directed several memorable concerts on the Olympic Park’s Esplanade and conceived La musique aux enfants, an educational program so dear to his heart. He masterfully fulfilled the OSM’s tradition of major tours, showcasing the Orchestra on several continents and solidifying its international reputation. Confident that music is a medium for dialogue, peacemaking, and friendship, he twice brought the OSM to communities in the Northern Quebec region to perform the new opera Chaakapesh, a product of the OSM’s collaboration with Inuit and First Nations creators.
For the exceptional relationship he has forged and sustained with the OSM, its musicians, Montreal and the entire province, Kent Nagano is forever part of Quebec’s cultural life. In appointing him Emeritus Conductor, the Orchestra clearly shows its commitment to preserving its privileged connection with the Maestro, well beyond his term as Music Director.
