In the heart of Canada’s capital, the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra is rewriting the rules of classical music. Once known for formal concert halls and reserved audiences, the symphony is now embracing a new era — one defined by creativity, inclusivity, and a bold effort to attract younger listeners who might otherwise feel disconnected from orchestral tradition.
The change began quietly in 2022, when artistic director Paul Samson launched the “Open Ears” initiative. The project introduced shorter, more interactive performances in unconventional venues — from breweries to public parks. “We wanted to take music out of its box,” Samson explains. “When audiences see a cello next to a coffee bar, it changes how they experience sound.”
Attendance soared. Social media buzz and word-of-mouth quickly turned the symphony’s “Beer & Beethoven” nights into local favourites. The combination of masterful musicianship and casual atmosphere helped demystify classical music, making it feel less like an event for elites and more like a celebration for everyone.
The orchestra has also begun collaborating with local artists, integrating visual projections, spoken word, and dance into traditional performances. At a recent show at Lansdowne Park, a full house watched as dancers moved alongside musicians performing Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite. “We’re creating multisensory experiences,” says conductor assistant Nadine Cho. “It’s not about replacing the classics — it’s about reimagining them.”
Education plays a crucial role in the orchestra’s revival. The Symphony in Schools program brings small ensembles into classrooms, where students can touch instruments and learn how compositions come to life. “It’s one thing to hear Mozart online,” notes violinist Sarah Kim, “but it’s another to feel the vibration of the strings right in front of you.”
Funding for these outreach efforts comes from a blend of government grants and private sponsorships, but much of the momentum relies on community support. Local businesses have offered rehearsal spaces, and a growing number of volunteers help manage events and youth workshops. “It’s really become a collective effort,” says Samson. “The music belongs to everyone.”
Critics have praised the orchestra for its willingness to adapt without compromising quality. The Ottawa Citizen described recent performances as “bold, heartfelt, and refreshingly human.” Many longtime patrons say they’ve rediscovered their love for live concerts, while newcomers appreciate the balance between innovation and respect for tradition.
The orchestra’s digital reach has expanded as well. Livestreamed performances and behind-the-scenes documentaries attract thousands of online viewers each month. Interactive Q&A sessions with musicians further bridge the gap between stage and audience, turning passive listening into a shared dialogue.
Some purists remain skeptical, fearing that informal concerts could dilute the gravitas of classical repertoire. But for the Ottawa Symphony, evolution is essential. “If Beethoven were alive today,” says Cho, “he’d probably be collaborating with electronic artists. He was the original innovator.”
As the final notes of each performance fade, it’s clear that something larger than music is unfolding. The Ottawa Symphony’s reimagining isn’t just about drawing crowds — it’s about redefining culture. By inviting new generations to listen differently, the orchestra ensures that the classics not only survive but thrive in a modern, ever-changing world.