Synergist: The Oakville Symphony’s vibrant young conductor looks forward to the new season.
By Adrienne Roman
A lifelong passion for the study of music has always fuelled Lorenzo Guggenheim’s spirit. But today, his musical and creative talents are blossoming into a number of unique and tangible transformations for his Oakville community. The Oakville Symphony, comprised of a diverse group of disciplined young artists, semi- and professional musicians, teachers, and volunteers, are busy rehearsing for the 2024/2025 concert series, filled with exceptional musical experiences.
At the young age of 23, Guggenheim’s unwavering ethic landed him a spot in a master class at the world-renowned Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, where he was chosen to conduct in 2014. Launching his career in front of thousands as part of the Interpretes Argentinos series, he went on to lead the National Symphony Orchestra of Chile.
With over 50 applicants for the position of conductor, Oakville Orchestra members and audiences were immediately enchanted with his fresh energy and welcoming personality, but ultimately it was Lorenzo’s unmistakable connection to both the music and the orchestra members themselves that enabled his rise above the competition when he performed in the 2021/2022 season.
After an extensive musical education overseas and in Canada, his energetic concerts have captured the hearts of audiences around the world, thanks to his innovative musical choices and natural-born dynamism. For Guggenheim, it all comes down to genuine collaboration and synergistic relationships. “The role of conductor is a curious one and often difficult to explain, but ultimately it’s a communication that goes beyond the notes. Composers make music for other people who are there to listen, and I’m just the messenger in between. With my transition from student to performer I’m now able to see beyond the technical in favour of a bigger picture.” His primary focus is the message of connection, the translation to his audience, and the magical moments when the music transcends the material, a place of true beauty where human emotions soar.
Guggenheim dedicates much of his time to studying scores and choosing music that he feels will unite the people. Orchestra audiences can often remain in a passive relationship as receivers, so he has stimulated interaction with Q&A sessions after his concerts, where audiences can actively engage in discussions.
He also founded the Campus Philharmonic Orchestra at the University of Toronto, an inclusive space for non-music majors to enjoy the experience of playing in an orchestra together.
Comprising people of all backgrounds with different levels of commitment, the orchestra’s musicians of diverse abilities have a place to form meaningful connections. Students, faculty and community members can collaborate, providing an outlet where they can collectively enjoy learning opportunities and pursue their diverse musical pursuits.
Today, Guggenheim works diligently to spearhead positive change, working on youth programs and highlighting progressive programming that features trailblazing women composers. The Oakville Symphony is also affiliated with the Oakville Symphony Youth Orchestra (OSYO), further demonstrating its commitment to nurturing young talent. “We’re an art form that began centuries ago, yet we’re still here for you now in this time and place.” For the current program, he says, “We are opening the space to showcase relevant female composers, presenting the Canadian premiere of Gabriela Ortiz’s Kauyumari and pieces by other living composers.”
Rich in culture and community, the Oakville Symphony is growing and looking to the future, opening its doors to vibrant up and coming talent, and embracing the art of storytelling in iconic and intriguing new ways.
Oakville Symphony Concert Season 2024/2025
February 1st and 2nd, 2025
Passionate: Timeless love stories
Guest artist Victoria Wong, featured in CBC’s 2023 Top 30 Under 30, will perform a vibrant Chopin’s Piano Concerto No.1 in E minor, and an exploration of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet by Prokofiev. Also featuring: a Suite of Love Themes by John Williams, with favourite music from Star Wars, Superman, Indiana Jones, and E.T. Also featuring Johannes Brahms: Intermezzo op. 118 No. 2 (arr. Tal Samnon, world premiere)
April 5th and 6th, 2025
Fearless: An ode to bravery and rebirth
Mississauga’s talented William Leathers, principal trumpet in the Nashville Symphony Orchestra and Santa Fe Opera, performs both Henri Tomasi’s trumpet concerto and Mozart’s piano concerto no.23 in A major, K.488.
Samuel Barber: Mutations: a rework of Bach’s chorale “Christe, du Lamm Gottes”
Igor Stravinsky: Firebird Suite, a mystical tale of redemption and triumph
May 3rd and 4th, 2025
Vibrant: A playlist inspired by music, movement, and dance
Local Soprano Ana Isabella Castro sings Puccini and Gounod, and Argentinian virtuoso Federico Linari dazzles audiences with the energetic Canadian premiere of Howard Levy’s Diatonic Harmonica Concerto. Enjoy Dave Brubeck’s Blue Rondo à la Turk (arr. L. Guggenheim) and Marquez’s lively Mexican Danzón No. 2.
Ludwig Van Beethoven: Symphony No. 8 in F major
Giacomo Puccini: Musetta’s Waltz & “O Mio Babbino Caro”
Charles Gounod: “Je veux vivre” from Roméo et Juliette
Ástor Piazzolla: Oblivion
