The TBSO has announced that Simon Rivard, the symphony’s conductor-in-residence, will be stepping down from his post, effective immediately. He will be replaced by the equally gifted and energetic MeĢlissa Biroun, who will assume duties as the interim conductor-in-residence.
Biroun is a graduate of the Conservatoire de Musique de MontreĢal in classical piano studying under Louise Bessette, and also a graduate of Vanier College in jazz piano under Eric Harding. After graduating, she pursued a Bachelorās degree in composition at the UniversiteĢ de MontreĢal. An accomplished student, Ms. Biroun won a bursary and two residencies. Her emerging career in composition led to writing jazz and popular arrangements and collaborating with a number of ensembles and dance companies.
Internationally, Biroun interned as conductor of the Mihail Jora Philharmonic Orchestra (Romania), the Adelphi Symphony Orchestra (New York), and has studied conducting under Dina Gilbert.
Since 2016, Biroun has worked as a music teacher at the ColleĢge Sainte-Anne de Lachine where she led the chorus, jazz combos, chamber orchestra and a vocal a cappella group. The ensembles have performed at various locales such as the Rialto Theatre and the International Congress. In 2017 Ms. Biroun was appointed Music and Artistic Director of the Harmonie Calixa- LavalleĢe de Sorel.
Concurrent with her position at the TBSO she will be completing her Masterās degree with Alain Cazes in wind orchestra conducting at the Schulich School of Music at the McGill University.
Citing his reasons for leaving, Mr. Rivard said, āit would be unfair to both the TBSO, the Toronto Symphony (where he is now the resident conductor), and to the other obligations that have arisen since my return to Canada this summer. I would simply be stretched too thin.ā Putting that into focus, Mr. Rivard spent time in the summer conducting at the prestigious Verbier Festival in Switzerland and will be auditioning for the music director position at Symphony Nova Scotia this season in addition to his duties with the Toronto Symphony.
Speaking to the changes, music director Paul Haas said, āThese are exciting times for the TBSO. Simonās success proves that our orchestra chooses some of the very best talents in the country. Good for you, Simon! And welcome aboard, MeĢlissa. Iām sure you are going to love Thunder Bayāand Thunder Bay is going to love you!ā
Ms. Biroun will make her first appearance leading the orchestra on Sunday, October 28, for TBSOās Halloween Spooktacular at Grassroots Church which is proudly sponsored by The Walleye.
For more information visit tbso.ca.