Another of the former Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony youth orchestras is set to continue practicing together as Conrad Grebel University College offers them rehearsal space amidst the symphony’s recent bankruptcy.  

Associate Professor and Chair of Music at Grebel and the University of Waterloo, Mark Vuorinen, was once a member of this very orchestra, and spoke to the importance of playing alongside other students at a high level. 

“When we learned that the youth orchestra program was also affected by the closure and bankruptcy of the KW Symphony, I began to think that perhaps there was a way for Grebel’s Music Department to lend a hand,” he said. “These young musicians are our next generation of performers, teachers, audience members, and music lovers. It is so important that this program continues and is nurtured. I am glad that Grebel can have a hand in that.” 

The space was offered to the younger orchestra division with hopes of allowing the young musicians to continue growing their talent and love for music. Last week, parents received the good news that the rehearsals would be held at Grebel for the remainder of the term. 

“My daughter was thrilled to hear that the orchestra program would be restored,” said Maisie Sum, mother and Grebel Music Professor. “The K-W Youth Orchestra provided a thriving space for our community’s young musicians and there is no other place to find that in the region. I am deeply grateful for the College’s support and the generosity of all orchestra staff during this challenging time.”  

Since the 1960s, Grebel has housed the University of Waterloo’s Music Department and has trained hundreds of music graduates, as well as internationally recognized musicians. As such, the campus is well equipped with large practice spaces to accommodate the young artists in the youth orchestra. With a strong emphasis on musical collaboration, the College is also known for its weekly Noon Hour concerts, ensemble concerts, end-of-term recitals, and a bi-yearly musical.  

Insolvency issues led to the K-W Symphony announcing the cancellation of their 2023-24 season just a few weeks ago. A statement from the Symphony said they would require $2 million in funding to facilitate unforeseen costs due to the pandemic. The K-W Symphony was the third largest orchestra in Ontario and was a pillar of the Kitchener-Waterloo community for 78 years. 

By Farhan Saeed