The Schulich 2021-2022 season has begun, and Friday, September 24 marks the very first McGill Symphony Orchestra (MGSO) concert of the year.
At the helm is Maestro Alexis Hauser, conducting a programme of Johann Strauss II, Sergey Prokofiev, Grażyna Bacewicz, and Franz Schubert.
Conductor, artistic director and teacher, Alexis Hauser has established an international conducting career with numerous appearances in Europe, North and South America, and the Far East, and we're grateful that he's found a home at the Schulich School of Music. This season marks the beginning of his 20th year leading the MGSO and our students in their development as orchestral players, leaders, and collaborative musicians.
Prior to the start of the Fall Semester, we got in touch with the Maestro over email and he shared with us about love for orchestral music, how he still sees himself as a student, and what he's most looking forward to at his first rehearsal!
What are you most looking forward to at your first rehearsal?
After more than one-and-half years, to be again in direct contact with my musicians and young colleagues in music making.
What are 3 things you love about orchestral music?
1. The breathing and performing together of a large collective,
2. The variety of multiple sound colours which only an orchestra can provide!
3. The constantly shifting eye-contact between the conductor and the musicians during the performance.
If you had a mantra/philosophy/phrase for where you are right now, what would it be?
I am still a student in search for answers, trying to learn and understand more every day, with the goal to pass it on to my fellow musicians and to the public.
What would a goal of yours be for this year?
My goal is what it always was: to achieve professional performances of highest possible standard PLUS presenting every work with the freshness and the risk-taking excitement of a world premiere.
What MGSO program is not to be missed this year?
NONE!
