Celebrating Excellence: Announcing the Senécal Prize Winner!

Oct 31, 20242 min read

We are happy to share this exciting news and upcoming event on behalf of The Ottawa Symphony Orchestra. The Ottawa Symphony Orchestra is excited to announce Justin Saulnier as the winner of the final year of the Senécal Prize competition! This talented young violinist will perform Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 4 at our upcoming concert in February. In addition to this incredible performance opportunity, Justin will also receive a $2,500 prize. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mme Nicole Senécal, a dedicated lover of classical music, for her generous sponsorship of this competition over the past five seasons.

Originally from Orléans, Ontario, Justin made his orchestral solo debut at age 12 with the Ottawa Chamber Orchestra and has since performed with several prestigious ensembles, including the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra. He has received numerous awards, including first prize in the Eckhardt-Gramatté and NACO Bursary Competitions, and was a finalist at the London Classic Violin Competition. Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree at McGill University with Andrew Wan, he is former concertmaster of the National Youth Orchestra and the Music Academy of the West Festival Orchestra. Justin plays on a 1680 Ruggeri from Cremona, and a Louis Gillet bow, generously loaned to him by Canimex Inc. from Drummondville.

Upcoming Event with The Ottawa Symphony Orchestra

Experience Berlioz’s “Symphonie Fantastique”, a Romantic Era masterpiece. Berlioz utilized innovative orchestral techniques, including expanded percussion and woodwinds, to vividly portray the narrative of this programmatic symphony. Join us for an unforgettable live orchestral performance!

DATE & TIME: Sunday February 9th, 2025 • 3:30 PM

VENUE:Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre

FEATURED ARTISTS: Jean-Michel Malouf, conductor Justin Saulnier, 2024 Senécal prize winner, violin

ON THE PROGRAM: