Hess honored by CMC

John Hess, a Don Wright Faculty of Music professor, was named one of Canada's top 50 outstanding musicians who have shaped the country's music scene and reputation. 

The Canadian Music Centre wrote of the performers and conductors: "It is their collaboration with Canadian composers that brings new music to life. We honour their commitment to bringing the works of these composers to both national and international audiences and we are grateful for their outstanding contributions to Canadian music. The CMC is delighted to recognize their talent and dedication to the new music community."

The Canadian Music Centre celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. In recognition of this historic event, the CMC recognized 50 outstanding Canadian performers and conductors who have played exceptional roles in shaping the Canadian music scene and raising the profile of Canadian music. The recognition was given at an event Nov. 9 at the National Arts Centre with its orchestra performing a special concert.

John Hess is the recognized authority on contemporary opera and song in Canada and is Co-Artistic Director of Toronto’s Queen of Puddings MusicTheatre. He has been involved with the creation of many new productions for the Canadian Opera Company and has collaborated with virtually every contemporary opera company in Canada. At the Banff Centre for the Arts, he served as Associate Artistic Director of the 20th Century Opera and Song program.

John is equally in demand as a vocal coach and pianist. He works regularly with Ben Heppner in Canada and other recent performances of note include recitals with Measha Brüeggergosman, Jane Archibald and Wendy Nielsen. John is heard regularly on CBC Radio and has recorded numerous CDs, including the complete vocal works of Canadian composer Harry Somers with singers Valdine Anderson, Jean Stilwell and Ben Heppner. As a member of the music faculty at the University of Western Ontario, John directs the first master's program in Collaborative Piano in Canada. He holds a Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Michigan where he was a fellowship student with pianist Martin Katz.

Complete list of honorees at http://musiccentre.ca/50th/CMC-ambassadors.html