Marina Thibeault is a Canadian violist who has gained international recognition for her exceptional talent and artistry. Born in Quebec City in 1994, Thibeault began playing the viola at the age of six. She was inspired by her mother, who was a violinist, and her father, who was a music lover and collector. Thibeault's parents encouraged her to pursue music, and she quickly showed a natural aptitude for the viola. Thibeault studied at the Conservatoire de musique de Québec, where she received her Bachelor's degree in 2015. She then went on to complete her Master's degree at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where she studied with Kim Kashkashian, one of the world's leading violists. Thibeault has also participated in masterclasses with renowned musicians such as Yuri Bashmet, Tabea Zimmermann, and Antoine Tamestit. Thibeault's career as a professional musician began to take off in 2013, when she won first prize at the Canadian Music Competition. This was followed by a series of other awards and honors, including the Prix d'Europe in 2015, which is one of the most prestigious awards for young musicians in Canada. Thibeault has also been a finalist in several international competitions, including the Primrose International Viola Competition and the Tokyo International Viola Competition. Thibeault has performed as a soloist with many orchestras, including the Orchestre symphonique de Québec, the Orchestre Métropolitain, and the Boston Pops Orchestra. She has also given recitals and chamber music performances in Canada, the United States, Europe, and Asia. Thibeault is known for her passionate and expressive playing, as well as her ability to connect with audiences through her music. One of the highlights of Thibeault's career was her performance at the 2017 Montreal International Violin Competition, where she was the only violist to be invited to perform as a soloist. Thibeault's performance of the Bartók Viola Concerto was widely praised by critics and audiences alike, and she received a standing ovation at the end of the performance. Thibeault is also a passionate advocate for contemporary music, and she has premiered several new works for the viola. In 2018, she released her debut album, Toquade, which features works by Canadian composers such as Ana Sokolović and François Dompierre. The album received critical acclaim and was nominated for a Juno Award, which is Canada's highest honor for music. In addition to her performing career, Thibeault is also a dedicated teacher and mentor. She has taught at several music schools and festivals, including the Domaine Forget International Music and Dance Academy and the Orford Music Festival. Thibeault is committed to inspiring the next generation of musicians and helping them to develop their own unique voices. Thibeault's success as a musician is a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft. She has become one of the leading violists of her generation, and her performances continue to captivate audiences around the world. With her passion for music and her commitment to excellence, Thibeault is sure to continue making a significant impact on the classical music world for many years to come.

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