Canada’s Université de Sherbrooke Orchestra Conductor is Arrested for Sexual Misconduct

François Bernier has been charged with sexual offences involving a minor and another case of sexual exploitation 

François Bernier, 51, who served as conductor of the Université de Sherbrooke orchestra, in Quebec, has been arrested by the Sherbrooke police. He is currently facing more than one count of sexual misconduct involving a minor.

According to CTV News, court records show that Bernier is being charged for one count of sexual assault and another count of sexual exploitation of a teenager “when he was in a position of authority or trust.” 

The offences were allegedly committed between 2002 and 2003. The victim is said to have been 14 years old at the time. Sherbrooke police explained that investigators were first alerted to the criminal complaint a few weeks ago. 

“He could have claimed other victims over the years,” said Martin Carrier, a spokesperson for the Sherbrooke Police Department. “The individual is involved in the symphony orchestra and music industries.”

Bernier founded the Université de Sherbrooke School of Music orchestra in 2003 and has been “active” with youth orchestras in Quebec. Alongside teaching at the university, he was also appointed the conductor of the youth orchestras of Joliette, Sherbrooke, and Shawinigan between 2001 and 2006.

Following the accusations against Bernier, the Sherbrooke Wind Orchestra and the University of Sherbrooke Cultural Centre recently canceled concerts with him in April. Likewise, the Victoriaville Wind Ensemble announced that its May 4 performance will not be taking place.

The Sherbrooke Wind Orchestra added that Bernier will no longer work for the organization in order to preserve the trust of musicians, the public and partners, saying that “these allegations, which we take very seriously, go against the values ​​of respect, integrity and security that we defend.”

“[We] will not issue any comments, in order to respect and not hinder the ongoing legal process,” added the University of Sherbrooke in an email.

“The Stentors Board of Directors has learned with amazement of the accusations against Mr. Francois Bernier for actions allegedly made in 2002,” the Les Stentors de Sherbrooke training group posted on Facebook. “Mr. Bernier was not employed with the Stentors’ agency at that time. We are wholeheartedly with the alleged victim and await the judicial conclusions in this case … We immediately terminate his employment here and provide support for those who need it.”

Bernier has since been released from arrest on several conditions. The case will return to court on June 13, 2025.