Harper Government Supports the Development of Young Canadian Orchestral Musicians
HAMILTON, February 19, 2013 - David Sweet, Member of Parliament (Ancaster–Dundas–Flamborough–Westdale), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced an investment from the Government of Canada in the Brott Music Festival for its National Academy Orchestra arts training program. This support will enable the National Academy Orchestra to continue to operate and provide high-calibre arts training.
The National Academy Orchestra aims to assist young orchestral musicians from across Canada in preparing for professional orchestral careers. The program runs for 18 weeks each summer during the Brott Music Festival in Hamilton, Ontario.
“Through this support, we are pleased to contribute to the success of the Brott Music Festival—a longstanding tradition in Hamilton, named after a celebrated Hamilton conductor,” said Mr. Sweet. “This program builds on the legacy of Boris Brott by inspiring young musicians. Over 1,000 students have graduated into the profession since the program’s founding in 1989.”
“Today’s announcement demonstrates that our Government is serious about supporting organizations that not only enrich Canada’s cultural life, but also strengthen its economy,” said Minister Moore. “We are proud to invest in arts training organizations, like the National Academy Orchestra, that consistently give tomorrow’s professional artists the training they need to succeed in Canada and internationally.”
“On behalf of the participants and Board, we are grateful for this multi-year support, particularly in this 25th year of the National Academy Orchestra of Canada’s program,” said Boris Brott, National Academy Orchestra Founding Artistic Director. “We applaud the Government of Canada for its vital support of National Schools programs which underline the importance of the arts in Canadian society.”
The Government of Canada is providing total funding of $1,050,000 over two years (2013–2014 and 2014–2015) through the Canada Arts Training Fund. This fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage contributes to the development of Canadian creators and future cultural leaders of the Canadian arts sector by supporting the training of artists with high potential through institutions that offer training of the highest calibre.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca