Toronto Symphony Orchestra facts for kids
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) is a famous Canadian orchestra. An orchestra is a large group of musicians who play different instruments together, like violins, flutes, trumpets, and drums. The TSO performs for about 400,000 people every year! You can also often hear their concerts on CBC Radio 2.
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra was started a long time ago, in 1922. For many years, they played their concerts at a place called Massey Hall. But since 1982, they have performed in the beautiful Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto. The orchestra also travels a lot, going on tour to different places, and many famous people have been their conductors.
What is a Conductor?
A conductor is like the leader of the orchestra. They stand in front of the musicians and use their hands and a small stick called a baton to guide the music. They make sure everyone plays together, at the right speed, and with the right feeling. Many talented conductors have led the Toronto Symphony Orchestra over the years.
Past Conductors of the TSO
Here are some of the conductors who have led the TSO:
- Luigi von Kunits (1922-1931)
- Sir Ernest MacMillan (1931-1956)
- Walter Susskind (1956-1965)
- Seiji Ozawa (1965-1969)
- Karel Ančerl (1969-1973)
- Sir Andrew Davis (1975-1988)
- Günther Herbig (1988-1994)
- Jukka-Pekka Saraste (1994-2001)
- Peter Oundjian (2003-)
The Concertmaster
The concertmaster is a very important musician in the orchestra. They are the leader of the violin section and often help the conductor. They are usually the first violinist to walk onto the stage. The TSO's concertmaster is currently Jacques Israelievitch.
Images for kids
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Then-Music Director Peter Oundjian posing with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra in Roy Thomson Hall before a concert on January 18, 2012
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Peter Oundjian conducts Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto, June 2014
