MEDIA RELEASE: Sudbury Symphony Orchestra Introduces RBC Apprentice Program

Sudbury Symphony Orchestra Introduces RBC Apprentice Program

SSO & RBC Foundation team up to bring professional experiences to budding musicians

The audience at the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra’s first concert on September 28, witnessed a vibrant and energetic violin section hard at work. Beyond the instruments and musicians wowing the crowd with their classical performances, a new initiative was quietly taking off.

“We’ve invited young people who are just starting their orchestral careers to perform as apprentices of the orchestra,” Geoff McCausland, Principal Second Violionist for the Symphony, said. “This type of experience and opportunity is invaluable as they make a decision to pursue a career in orchestral music on a full time basis.”

The program, the first of its kind in Northern Ontario, is made possible by a unique partnership between the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra and the RBC Foundation and encourages young orchestra members to participate in a minimum of three concerts per season. In addition to the opportunity to perform with the professional and community members of the Sudbury Symphony, the apprentices also participate in outreach activities, and receive mentorship from the Orchestra’s Music Director and visiting artists. It’s all under the guidance of Principal Second Violinist Geoff McCausland, who faced similar crossroads not long ago.

“We at RBC are so proud of our partnership with the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra,” shared RBC Regional Vice-President Bill Bray. “We recognize the important role this program will play in helping young people make the transition from the academic to the professional through meaningful mentorships.”“There are a limited number of orchestras in Northern Ontario, and as such, opportunities are limited.” Geoff McCausland added, “We want to make sure that young people have the opportunity to explore what a career in orchestral music is like, while simultaneously encouraging them to develop their craft.”

This partnership with the RBC Foundation comes at an exciting time for the Sudbury Symphony, as it continues to bring in younger audiences. New, lower ticket prices for those ages 29-and-under were recently announced, allowing music lovers to experience the orchestra for as little as $13 a concert. Flex passes allow patrons to “Compose their own” series for the same price per ticket as subscribers (3 or more concerts). The Sudbury Symphony performs at Glad Tidings (1101 Regent Street, Sudbury). For concert details and to purchase tickets, please visit www.sudburysymphony.com. 

About the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra:  Performing a 6 concert season annually, the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra is recognized as one of Sudbury’s leading performing arts institutions and a leader in orchestral music in Northern Ontario. Tickets are available online at sudburysymphony.com or by phoning the box office at 705.673.1280. Founded in 1953, the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra’s mission is to increase the awareness and appreciation of music in the Sudbury Region and surrounding area by providing the opportunity for the public to attend a stimulating program of concerts and by encouraging artistic excellence, commitment and education. The Season Presenting Sponsor is Petryna Advertising. The Amped Up! Program is presented by Vale. The SSO is grateful for the support of its government funding partners: The Ontario Arts Council and the City of Greater Sudbury.