This October, the classical music scene is buzzing with excitement, particularly surrounding the young Canadian pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko, who recently claimed First Prize at the prestigious Leeds International Piano Competition. Born in Salmon Arm, B.C., 24 years ago, Izik-Dzurko dazzled the jury with his performance of Brahms’s Piano Concerto No. 2 while accompanying the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra at St George’s Hall in Bradford, England. Following his win, he described the honor as “indescribable,” marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
A New Star in the Classical Music Scene
The Leeds International Piano Competition, established in 1963, is renowned as one of the world’s most distinguished music contests, occurring every three years. Izik-Dzurko is notably the second Canadian to take home the top honor, following in the footsteps of fellow British Columbian Jon Kimura Parker, who won in 1984. In addition to a cash prize of £30,000 (approximately $54,000), the competition’s award package includes exciting concerto engagements with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and a debut performance at London’s Wigmore Hall.
Before his London debut, Izik-Dzurko will take the stage for two previously scheduled concerts at Edmonton’s Winspear Centre, where he will perform Rachmaninoff’s notoriously challenging Piano Concerto No. 3. He will be accompanied by the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Jean-Marie Zeitouni. His performances are not to be missed and serve as a highlight in this month’s classical music offerings.
October Highlights in Classical, Opera, and Jazz
Canadian Opera Company: Verdi’s Nabucco
The Canadian Opera Company presents Verdi’s rousing third opera, Nabucco, which tells the biblical tale of Nebuchadnezzar II, the Babylonian king known for destroying Jerusalem. This production features a large cast of over 120 performers, including British baritone Roland Wood as the titular character and American soprano Mary Elizabeth Williams as Abigaille, the would-be queen. Performances run from October 4 to 25 at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto.
Pacific Opera Victoria: Mozart’s La clemenza di Tito
Mozart’s two-act opera, La clemenza di Tito, set in the Roman Empire, offers a narrative filled with political intrigue reminiscent of modern dramas. Despite its historical underappreciation, recent productions in Los Angeles and at the Metropolitan Opera have renewed interest. The performances are scheduled for October 16, 18, 20, and 22 at the Royal Theatre in Victoria.
Orchestre Métropolitain: Beethoven Marathon
Superstar conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin leads an ambitious series of concerts featuring the works of Beethoven. The marathon will include four themed concerts, each dedicated to the composer’s different musical styles—heroic, pastoral, fateful, and choral. Concerts take place on October 17, 18, and 20 at Montreal Symphony House.
Monty Alexander: 80th Birthday Celebration Concert
Celebrating his 80th birthday, Jamaican-American jazz pianist Monty Alexander will perform a concert at Koerner Hall in Toronto on October 19. The concert will feature tracks from his latest album, D-Day, which pays homage to wartime standards and original compositions.
Vancouver Recital Society: Tamara Stefanovich
Acclaimed pianist Tamara Stefanovich will present a program highlighting the works of French composer Olivier Messiaen on October 20 at the Vancouver Playhouse. Stefanovich, known for her devotion to both Bach and contemporary works, continues to push the boundaries of classical performance.
Celebration of Phil Nimmons
On October 23, a gathering will be held at Walter Hall in Toronto to honor the legacy of Phil Nimmons, a central figure in Canadian jazz. The celebration will feature musical tributes from his friends, family, and fellow musicians, paying homage to his impact on the jazz community.
Art of Time Ensemble: Sankofa: The Soldier’s Tale Retold
Igor Stravinsky’s 1918 theatrical work, L’Histoire du Soldat (The Soldier’s Tale), will be reimagined in a new libretto by poet Titilope Sonuga. The production explores themes of war, racism, and historical erasure, running from October 24 to 27 at the Harbourfront Centre Theatre in Toronto.
Conclusion
This October, the concert calendar promises a vibrant array of performances spanning classical, opera, and jazz genres. With talents like Jaeden Izik-Dzurko emerging on the international stage, audiences are in for an inspiring month filled with unforgettable musical experiences.
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