It’s a crisp September day, the kind that hints at autumn’s embrace, and for music lovers, it signals something truly special: the start of a new season for the National Arts Centre Orchestra (NACO). This year, the air is particularly charged, with a program dedicated to the rich, passionate worlds of Johannes Brahms, Robert Schumann, and Clara Schumann. It’s a lineup that promises depth, emotion, and a profound connection to the heart of classical music.
I remember writing about NACO back in May for a music column, a piece titled "Paradise of Music ~ The Other Side of Canada." Even then, with spring just beginning to paint Ottawa in vibrant hues, the orchestra felt like a vital pulse in the city’s cultural landscape. Ottawa, often seen primarily as a political hub, truly blossoms with natural beauty, especially along the Rideau Canal. But beyond the picturesque scenery, there’s this incredible artistic force that enriches life immeasurably.
For those perhaps less familiar with NACO, especially outside of Canada, it’s worth taking a moment to trace its journey. Ottawa itself, while Canada’s capital, is the fifth-largest city, a fact that sometimes surprises people. Canada, as a nation, is relatively young, and Ottawa’s selection as its capital in 1857 by Queen Victoria was strategic – a nod to its location and distance from the U.S. border, even then a small timber trade hub.
The real turning point for Ottawa’s cultural identity, and for NACO, arrived with Canada’s centennial celebrations. In 1964, Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson envisioned a National Arts Centre, a landmark to be built on the scenic Rideau Canal. Designed by Fred Lebensold, a Polish immigrant who became a significant figure in Canadian architecture, the centre was a modern marvel. Though construction ran a little past the 1967 centennial, it finally opened its doors in 1969, a stunning glass complex housing performance halls, rehearsal spaces, and more. And at its core, the National Arts Centre Orchestra was born – a young orchestra in a young capital, for a young nation.
From its inception, led by the esteemed Canadian musician Jean-Marie Beaudet, NACO has been a source of immense pride. It’s not just the local community that has championed it; the federal government’s support has been crucial in its growth. A significant leap occurred in 1991 when, under the baton of the internationally acclaimed Trevor Pinnock, performing on period instruments, NACO transcended its local identity to become truly "Canada's Orchestra." This was a pivotal moment, elevating its stature on the global stage.
Then came Pinchas Zukerman in 1999. His 16-year tenure as music director was transformative. A world-renowned violinist and conductor, Zukerman meticulously honed the orchestra’s skills, fostered a vibrant recording presence, and firmly established NACO as one of the finest ensembles internationally.
In 2015, Alexander Shelley took the helm as the seventh music director. Born in London to pianist parents, Shelley, a cellist and conductor trained at the Royal Academy of Music, was appointed at just 36, a testament to his extraordinary talent. He’s a conductor known for his boundless creativity, constantly pushing the boundaries of classical performance. One of his early, impactful initiatives was the "Life Reflected" project. It was a deeply moving exploration of contemporary Canadian identity, using music to portray the lives of four remarkable women: Nobel laureate Alice Munro, Mi'kmaq poet Rita Joe, astronaut Roberta Bondar, and the tragically young Amanda Todd, whose story brought to light the devastating impact of online abuse. It was a project that resonated deeply, showcasing NACO’s commitment to telling stories that matter, stories that reflect the diverse tapestry of Canada.
As the 2023-2024 season unfolds, with its focus on the profound works of the Schumanns and Brahms, it’s clear that NACO continues to build on this legacy. It’s an orchestra that doesn’t just play music; it connects, it reflects, and it inspires, proving that even in a young capital, a rich artistic tradition can flourish and reach the world.
