Kent Nagano
For his artistry and outreach as Music Director of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal.
Maestro Nagano has been the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) Music Director since 2006. During this time, he has simultaneously led leading opera houses in Munich and Hamburg and guest conducted the world’s leading orchestras.
Under his leadership, the OSM saw a revival of critically acclaimed recordings and touring activities, combined with visionary initiatives that have ensured the attainment of its full artistic potential, while reaching out to the Montreal and Quebec community. More than ever before, the OSM is known and respected internationally for its distinctive character.
Nagano is known for the clarity, elegance, depth and intelligence of his interpretations, which span a vast repertoire from baroque to contemporary creation. He has successfully broadened the audience for classical music by challenging the status quo through uncompromising quality, and creative programming.
Under his watch, the OSM has performed at the Bell Centre to celebrate the Canadiens’ 100th anniversary, conceived, built and opened the new Maison symphonique de Montréal, built and inaugurated the Pierre Beique organ, formed the new OSM Chorus, and started the OSM Classical Spree, which has become one of the largest urban classical music festivals on the continent.
Maestro Nagano also inaugurated La musique aux enfants, a music education initiative that aims to introduce preschool children to intensive music learning and contribute to their academic success over the long term.
Among his many honours is the Governor General of Canada’s Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division), which he received last year.