Gemma New to step down as Music Director of the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra at the end of 2023/24 season

Gemma New takes a bow with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra (Photo credit: Scott Gardner)

For Immediate Release

Hamilton (November 4, 2022) – The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra announced today that its Music Director Gemma New will be leaving upon the completion of her third consecutive contract in June 2024, marking nine years with the HPO.

“Gemma has provided tremendous energy, musicianship and professionalism as artistic leader of the HPO,” says Board Chair Steve Lloyd. “We wish Gemma all the best as she continues to grow her international career. A new Music Director will build on the reputation Gemma and our musicians have achieved and the HPO looks forward to continuing its close relationship with Gemma as a guest conductor for years to come.” 

New’s commitment to artistic excellence and passion for the orchestra’s role in the community has been evident in her programming and performances at the HPO. During her tenure, New has grown the HPO artistically and expanded the number of core musicians, developed programs to include more 20th Century repertoire and increased the performance of contemporary music, especially highlighting Canadian talent. Under her leadership, the HPO welcomed James Ehnes, Janina Fialkowska, Cameron Crozman, Jeremy Dutcher and many more superb Canadian soloists to Hamilton. Over the past many years, New has deepened education and community collaborations with Hamilton-based organizations such as the Bach Elgar Choir, Hamilton Childrens’ Choir, Supercrawl, The Hamilton Music Collective and McMaster University.

“Since our very first time making music together, I have enjoyed an incredible warmth, ease and spark with our orchestra and community. I am grateful for the many deeply moving performances our musicians and audiences have inspired. We have experienced so much together! I would like to thank our HPO musicians, staff, board, our donors and patrons, our audiences and collaborators for your friendship and support, and for your love and passion for music. I look forward to cheering on the many future successes of the HPO, and it will always be a pleasure to return as an old friend,” says Gemma New.

The HPO Board of Directors has initiated the process to hire a new Music Director for the 2024-25 season. 

Read the full press release, click here.

Gemma New leading the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra (Photo credit: Dan Banko)