Canada’s Orchestre Symphonique de Québec Appoints Next Music Director

German conductor Clemens Schuldt will assume the role for an initial four years as of the 2023/24 concert season

One of the oldest orchestras in Canada, the Orchestre Symphonique de Québec welcomes Clemens Schuldt as its 12th music director, succeeding Fabien Gabel, who held the position between 2012 and 2020. 

Born in Bremen, Germany, Schuldt first studied violin before completing his conducting studies in Düsseldorf, Vienna, and Weimar. In 2010, his international career began when he won first prize at the Donatella Flick Conducting Competition.

Subsequently, he served as assistant conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra, working with conductors including Sir Colin Davis, Sir Simon Rattle, and Daniel Harding.

From 2016 to 2022, he was the principal conductor of the Munich Chamber Orchestra, and in addition to his regular opera productions in Germany and England, he was invited to conduct concerts in Japan, the U.S., Europe, and Australia.

“It is a great pleasure and an honor for me to become the new music director…From the first minutes of our collaboration, I was impressed by the sound, sensitivity, flexibility and passion of each musician,” Schuldt said. “I am convinced that together we will accomplish great things, strengthening the reputation of the Orchestra in the region and far beyond.”

“I am more than happy that we have found the ‘rare pearl’ among our candidates, who has exceptional talent and dynamism,” said Britta Kröger, President of the Board of Directors. 

“Clemens Schuldt was not only unanimously accepted by our musicians and the selection committee, but also by all those who crossed his path during his visit to Quebec City,” Kröger continued. “A new chapter is opening for the Orchestre symphonique de Québec…A heartfelt welcome to Clemens!”