Highlights of This Season’s Classical and Crossover Music Performances in Toronto

Toronto’s classical music scene is showcasing a vibrant and diverse lineup this season. Eric Abramovitz, Principal Clarinet of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO), emphasizes the authenticity and human artistry of live orchestral performance, which stands apart from artificial or digitally manipulated music. The TSO spring season features several noteworthy concerts. Joe Hisaishi, renowned Japanese composer and conductor, returns with original compositions including Viola Sara and a co-commissioned Concerto for Orchestra. The Masterworks program will present Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 alongside the world premiere of Indigenous composer Cris Derksen’s Still Here, created in collaboration with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Abramovitz also highlights She’s Got Soul, a lively pops concert celebrating R&B and soul classics with Capathia Jenkins. The Toronto Summer Music festival celebrates its 21st year under new artistic director William Fedkenheuer, featuring Baroque ensemble Les Arts Florissants, a Golden Age opera showcase, and performances by top Canadian and international musicians including pianist Élisabeth Pion and harpist Emmanuel Ceysson. Fedkenheuer will also appear in Two Sides of the Same Fiddle, a creative concert blending classical and country music. Overall, the season offers a mix of classical masterpieces, innovative premieres, and crossover experiences, providing audiences with authentic, live musical artistry.