Just days ahead of opening night, the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony revealed that their 2023/24 concert season will not be going ahead as planned.
Over the weekend, the KWS published a post on their website announcing that all performances had been canceled, citing "financial challenges."
The orchestra promises to make additional announcements in the coming days "regarding the future of the Symphony."
One musician, cellist Kendra Grittani, says they are "heartbroken" and "so frustrated."
"What a scary time for the Canadian Orchestral community," writes Grittani, who also shared a portion of the email musicians received.
In addition to the Symphony's season, the email notes that the Youth Orchestra and other activities will "not be proceeding."
Founded in 1945 to accompany the Grand Philharmonic Choir, the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony has toured across Canada, Europe, South America and Asia, and presents more than 200 concerts a year in their local community.
Emerging from the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic have, seemingly, been felt by orchestras and arts organizations across the country.
Earlier this year, a joint letter requesting additional funding was signed by twenty arts organizations from across the Prairies, including the WSO, Manitoba Opera, RWB, RMTC, and sent to the federal government.
Fri, Apr 26, 5:07 PM
Skilled Trades, Full-time
Featured