In my tenth year living in Montreal, I received an unexpected and unintended gift. I had been singing for just over a year at St. Matthias when I subbed for my boss as a conductor over the Christmas break. I was skeptical, dubiously so, but also very willing. Why on earth he would choose me was totally immaterial - I love conducting and was happy to say yes.
Montreal – Part one
Montreal - my home now for 20 years - is one of Canada's gems. It is a marvelous place to encounter music and make friends and be involved in the arts on many levels. I've been very happy to live here this long - and I thought to share just a few snippits of what life was like in my first decade here.
A wonderful (and busy) year ahead.
What a great musical year it is shaping up to be. I'm going back and forth across the country several times this year, which will add come challenging elements to my life to be sure. In addition to my musical life in Montreal with St. Matthias and Ensemble Bellechose, I'll be guest conducting at the … Continue reading A wonderful (and busy) year ahead.
John Wiens, Conductor 