NUMUS Concerts at 40 – Can you believe it?  Last season was a massive success and I hope that you will be equally inspired by our roster for 2025 2026.  As I curated this season I continued to consider our world, conflict, politics and social challenge.

The concerts this year address continued Indigenous learning, the process of artistic creation, Queerness and Feminism, the paths to beauty, our reality and existence, iconic and mythological female figures, and eccentricity.

Loon Calls (Sep 27) “is an immersive journey into the living language of the land, brought to life through music, story and spoken word.  Mezzo-soprano, Rebecca Hass (Georgian Bay Métis, European) bridges her Western classical training with the heartbeat of kitchen parties and drum circles.” Rebecca has shared much wisdom with me and I am confident that this Premiere creation will guide us all.

The Notebook Project (Oct 17 and 18-21) is a collaborative project initiated by KW arts champion, painter, media artist, writer and producer, Isabella Stefanescu.  This interactive project, image-sound-interface, was first presented in 2006. I am enthusiastic about the remount and  perspective it brings to our artistic practice and process.  Nick Storring, Composer.

Unbecoming (November 15) is “a bold celebration of queer selfhood and artistic play”.  Featuring coloratura soprano/composer Danika Lorèn, singing their own compositions AND in garments of their own creation with pianist Stéphane Mayer – and YAY – me too.  Danika says we will “reimagine classical art song as a space for transformation, defiance and joy”.  This event will feature a mini exhibition of six paintings by local multidisciplinary visual artist, Faten Al Hariri.  Faten’s work is thoughtful, sometimes provocative, while imbued with images of equality, diversity and human rights.

Senderos (January 10) NUMUS welcomes the Canadian superstar duo of Cameron Crozman and Meagan Milatz .  I have been inspired by their incredible, reactive and instinctive performances.  Here, they have built a program that ultimately addresses comprehension of our emotional and physical landscape.  Graham Campbell’s Suite for Cello and Piano, infused with jazz rhythms and sweeping landscapes, and Daniel Alvarado Bonilla’s Senderos anchor the concept.

Inspirations; Echoes From the Sea (February 7) Combining repertoire from his premiere recording and a recent world premiere, Daniel Ramjattan promises to engage us in deep reflection about our place in the world, the meaning of life and our very existence.  Daniel has been rocking International stages recently and has generously agreed to perform for us.

Emerging Canadian Curator Competition (March 22). You will notice I have added “Canadian” here.  I am passionate about building opportunity for Canadian artists, composers, creatives.  This Ontario Arts Council Feature Event will create a spectacular showcase opportunity for a deserving winner.

Finding HER Voice (April 18) explores iconic historic and mythological female figures.  Beverley Johnston, O.C., brings us a powerful concert experience.  It has been my great honour to perform with Beverley for a number of decades.  I am always amazed by her artistry and the messages she chooses to share.  I know that you will be too.

The Eccentrics (May 30) The Collaborators, Penderecki String Quartet, Cheryl Duvall and Guy Few shall join to present a concert addressing the interconnection between Beethoven, Schoenfield and Fats Waller, their renowned eccentricity and spirit.  “Crazy ‘Bout my Baby” will be re-imagined for the PSQ, Cheryl Duvall and Guy by Kelly-Marie Murphy.  The Collaborators will explore sound and space, pre-concert in the lobby.  I am super excited about this program as it is all about context.  You know – that’s my thing.

In the quest for understanding I have grown through the guidance of so many inspiring people.  I thank my board members, general manager and social media manager, Indigenous wisdom sharers, DEI leaders, Arts community path breakers, past Artistic Directors, volunteers and those who share ideas at concerts and gatherings. You help NUMUS to improve and flourish. My gratitude to Local, Provincial and National funding organizations.  Your financial support and counsel keeps contemporary music front and centre in Kitchener Waterloo.

And to all who value NUMUS Concerts – please consider supporting NUMUS through Canada Helps.

See you soon!