Toronto Symphony Orchestra Receives $1 Million Gift

The gift, from long-time donors Peter and Margie Kelk, will support new commissions for the next six seasons

The Toronto Symphony Orchestra has announced that its long-time patrons Peter and Margie Kelk have made a generous $1 million gift, which is specifically intended to support the commissioning of new orchestral works.

The TSO says the gift will cover commissioning for the next six seasons, with composers including Francisco Coll, Bekah Simms, and the 2025/26 NextGen Composers, Darren Xu, Jesse Plessis, and Sophie Dupuis being among those who will receive the chance to have their works premiered.

The commissioning of new music is a high priority for the TSO, and the orchestra runs several different programs to this end, including the RBC Affiliate Composer position, the NextGen Composers scheme, and Explore the Score. New works have also been commissioned and premiered at past initiatives such as the New Creations Festival.

The Kelks have been steadfast donors to the TSO over many years, and they support several contemporary composers, including former TSO RBC Affiliate Composer Alison Yun-Fei Jiang. Margie is a mixed-media artist, and Peter, who was previously President of George Kelk Corporation, is now President of the Amici Chamber Ensemble.

"Peter and Margie’s remarkable generosity is more than just a donation — it’s a powerful expression of their belief in the future of music and the role that the TSO plays in bringing people together," said Mark Williams, Beck Family CEO of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

"We are deeply grateful for their support, which will build on the TSO’s legacy as a champion of new composers and allow us to expand our art form through visionary commissions that will become the canonical works of the future. This gift ensures that the TSO continues to be a catalyst for creativity and a driving force in Toronto’s cultural life for years to come."

"Peter and Margie’s support is a profound commitment to the future of our art form," said Gustavo Gimeno, Music Director of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. "Their generosity fills me with gratitude and excitement, because it allows us to bring new music to life with the same passion and care we bring to the great masterworks. These commissions challenge and inspire our musicians, connect deeply with our audiences, and ensure that Toronto remains a city where orchestral music continues to grow, evolve, and thrive."