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JAN 2, 2025. MONCTON, NEW BRUNSWICK: Moncton-area residents will enjoy a concert of ‘titanic’ proportions when the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra celebrates its 60th anniversary season on Jan. 11 with a performance of Mahler's Symphony No. 1, a complex and epic piece of music usually played by adult and professional orchestras.
NBYO’s first concert of the New Year will start at 7 p.m. on Jan. 11 at Tidal Church in Moncton. Maestro Antonio Delgado, NBYO music director and conductor, revealed staff named this concert series ‘The Titan Project’ to emphasize the challenging musical achievement. He said New Brunswickers have a lot of reasons to feel proud about this historic made-in-N.B. success.
“This piece isn't usually played in small communities for the sheer number of musicians and the level required for its execution…. Mahler 1 is a truly epic, long symphony and complex (but enjoyable) piece, written by a composer that inspired current film composers like Hans Zimmer (Inception, The Dark Knight), Ennio Morricone (Once Upon A Time in America), Bernard Herrmann (Alfred Hitchcock’s movies), Erich Korngold (pioneer of Hollywood’s music) and of course the famous composer of Star Wars, John Williams,” Delgado said.
The Moncton concert is the second in ‘A Legacy of Excellence’ 60th anniversary series after a triumphant fall performance in Miramichi. Kenn Mainville, NBYO president and CEO, said response to the 60th anniversary celebrations have been incredibly positive.
“This milestone resonates deeply with our patrons and the public, reflecting decades of exceptional music and community impact. Audiences have expressed pride in being part of the NBYO journey and enthusiasm for our ongoing events, which showcase the talent and dedication of our young musicians. This anniversary is more than a celebration of history; it’s a tribute to the vibrant future of orchestral music in New Brunswick,” Mainville said.
The CEO said Moncton patrons are great supporters of NBYO concerts and events. The 115-member 60th Anniversary NBYO Roster includes 68 young musicians from Greater Moncton, Riverview, and Dieppe.
“People in the Moncton region have been a cornerstone of support for the NBYO, consistently providing enthusiastic audiences and a welcoming community for our events. Moncton’s strong commitment to the arts is evident in its unwavering support of our concerts, which have become a highlight for music lovers in the area. Moncton’s engagement underscores the importance of orchestral music as a cultural treasure in our province,” Mainville said.
The conductor said the young musicians are proving they are up the task and are eager to return to one of their favourite venues. In addition to Mahler's Symphony No. 1, the concert will feature performances of March Slave - Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Danzón No. 2 - Arturo Márquez.
“Through hard work and the guidance of excellent Sistema NB coaches they are achieving high levels of performance,” Delgado said. “The Tidal Church is one of the few stages in the province that has enough space to accommodate an orchestra of this size. Also, all the technical elements, screens and cameras, will remind you that this is being played by kids! Good parking and ample spaces are elements that make this venue an ideal one for these shows.”
Mainville said the Titan project is a testament to the remarkable skill, dedication, and artistry of New Brunswick’s young orchestral players.
“It highlights their ability to tackle ambitious and complex works with professionalism and passion. The project showcases not only their technical prowess but also their ability to convey deep emotion and connect with audiences. It’s a clear indication that our young musicians are among the best, representing the province with pride and excellence,” he said.
New Brunswickers will have two other opportunities to hear the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra perform Mahler's Symphony No. 1 - Feb. 9, in Saint John at the Imperial Theatre and March 23, in Fredericton at UNB's Richard J. Currie Center. Tickets for all concerts are available at NBYO Tickets.
