Additional Information
At the dawn of its fifth anniversary of foundation (21-22 season), the Obiora Ensemble is taking a new step in its existence by appointing its first “regular” conductor. Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser will hold the title of “Principal Guest Conductor” and will give his first concert in this capacity (he has given others in the past, but simply as a guest) on January 31 in Montreal. Bartholomew-Poyser was also appointed a few months ago as Music Director of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada. Born in Montreal but raised in Calgary, the conductor will lead an eclectic program at this concert in the Pierre-Mercure Hall, consisting of a symphony by Haydn, a short piece by the colourist Jacques Ibert, the seductive Pulcinella by Stravinsky, and two contemporary works that reflect the orchestra’s mission: a piece by the excellent American Caroline Shaw and a creation by the Canadian of Iranian origin Saman Shahi, Then the sky was amber for alto and orchestra. I discussed this appointment and the upcoming concert with the Co-founder, General and Artistic Director Allison Migeon.
PAN M 360: Hello. What is the significance of the title “Principal Guest Conductor” awarded to Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser?
Allison Migeon (Ensemble Obiora): We have always been committed to working with many directors (from diverse backgrounds), for the good reason that we love the possibility of making as many as possible known to the public. But over time, we see a disadvantage with this method: it is more difficult to create a coherent sound for the whole. We found this formula, which ensures us a regular presence of Daniel for the next three years, with one concert per year, in addition to representation activities and a presence in the community.
PAN M 360: What convinced you in Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser’s application?
Allison Migeon (Ensemble Obiora): His understanding of the orchestra’s mission, his vision for development, and his relevant experience elsewhere. He sees very well where to go, and it will take us somewhere other than what we had envisioned while remaining very complementary.
PAN M 360: For example?
Allison Migeon (Ensemble Obiora): He is committed to combining the interpretation of niche repertoire, based on diversity (composers and performers of non-European white origin, women, etc.), with more “traditional” repertoire, but not necessarily ultra-well-known. For example, Haydn’s Symphony No. 1, which we will play on January 31. His very first! It’s rare that it is played in concert.
PAN M 360: His presence will also have the advantage of putting a regular face on the orchestra.
Allison Migeon (Ensemble Obiora): Indeed. He really wants to get involved in the community and connect with Montrealers.
PAN M 360: He is a native of Montreal, but grew up in Calgary. It’s a return home for him. Did that play a role in your respective decisions?
Allison Migeon (Obiora Ensemble): It’s a bonus, indeed. When we found out, it gave it even more meaning. He is also very excited and touched by the idea of coming back to Montreal regularly.
PAN M 360: On January 31, you will play Haydn, Ibert, Stravinsky, Caroline Shaw, and a creation by Saman Shahi. What is the common thread that connects the elements of this program?
Allison Migeon (Obiora Ensemble): Daniel’s idea is to show how capable the orchestra is of excelling in all styles, from the colourism of Stravinsky and Ibert, the formal and very European classicism of Haydn, to the accessible modern language of Shaw and Shahi. He wants to show that Obiora is a very complete orchestra, and that we can play new music, inspired by diversity, without throwing the great tradition away.
PAN M 360: Tell me more about this creation by Saman Shahi, a concerto for viola titled Then the sky was amber.
Allison Migeon (Obiora Ensemble): Saman was inspired by the power of nature, particularly the meteorological phenomena that build into storms. We hear the changing colours in the sky and everything that leads to the storm.
PAN M 360: What type of project would you like to undertake in the coming years?
Allison Migeon (Ensemble Obiora): We would like to make a recording. We have a lot of requests about this.
PAN M 360: We wish you that with all our hearts. Thank you
