Role

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Conductor

 

Timothy Shantz is a Canadian conductor and choral musician who has gained international recognition for his work in the classical music industry. Born in Edmonton, Alberta in 1979, Shantz grew up in a musical family and began singing in choirs at a young age. He attended the University of Alberta, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance and a Master of Music degree in choral conducting. Shantz's career as a conductor began in 2003 when he founded the professional chamber choir Luminous Voices in Calgary, Alberta. The choir quickly gained a reputation for its innovative programming and high-quality performances, and Shantz's leadership was credited with much of its success. In 2007, he was appointed the artistic director of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra's chorus, a position he held until 2011. In 2012, Shantz was appointed the artistic director of the Vancouver Chamber Choir, one of Canada's most prestigious choral ensembles. Under his leadership, the choir has continued to push the boundaries of choral music, performing works by contemporary composers alongside more traditional repertoire. Shantz has also collaborated with other musicians and ensembles, including the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra, and the Canadian Opera Company. Shantz's work as a conductor has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. In 2014, he was named one of CBC's "30 Hot Canadian Classical Musicians Under 30." In 2016, he was awarded the Sir Ernest MacMillan Memorial Foundation Award for Choral Conducting, which recognizes outstanding contributions to choral music in Canada. In 2018, he was awarded the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest honors, for his contributions to the arts. One of the highlights of Shantz's career was his performance at the 2018 Edinburgh International Festival, where he conducted the Vancouver Chamber Choir in a program of works by Canadian composers. The performance was well-received by audiences and critics alike, with The Scotsman calling it "a revelation." Shantz is also known for his commitment to music education and outreach. He has worked with young musicians and choirs across Canada, leading workshops and masterclasses and mentoring emerging conductors. He has also been involved in initiatives to bring music to underserved communities, including the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra's "Music in the Morning" program, which brings live classical music performances to schools in the Vancouver area. In addition to his work as a conductor, Shantz is also an accomplished singer. He has performed as a soloist with numerous ensembles, including the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. He has also recorded several albums with Luminous Voices and the Vancouver Chamber Choir, showcasing his versatility as both a conductor and a performer. Overall, Timothy Shantz is a highly respected figure in the classical music world, known for his innovative programming, commitment to education and outreach, and exceptional conducting skills. His contributions to the Canadian music scene have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, and he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians and conductors.

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