Polaris Music Prize Announces Partnership With Toronto Symphony Orchestra

Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Photo by Sian Richards

The Polaris Music Prize today announced a partnership with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO). This unique collaboration will see members of the TSO performing with some of the Short List nominees at the Polaris Gala, taking place September 21 at The Carlu in Toronto, with an opportunity for the winner of the 2015 Polaris Music Prize to perform their original works with the TSO at a concert at Roy Thomson Hall in 2016.

“We’re extremely flattered and honoured that that an organization with such an esteemed musical history wants to partner with Polaris-recognized artists in this way,” said Steve Jordan, Executive Director, Polaris Music Prize. “The idea of artistic collaboration is very dear to us, and we’re anticipating some musically thrilling results.”

At the TSO they’re also excited about the prospect of working with Polaris acts.

“The TSO is proud to partner with the Polaris Music Prize, one of Canada’s most notable music organizations that recognizes the creativity of our nation’s recording artists,” said Jeff Melanson, President and CEO, Toronto Symphony Orchestra. “We’re delighted to work with like-minded, innovative arts institutions to showcase the valuable role music plays in our cultural well-being, and the diversity of this year’s Short List provides an exciting backdrop for this powerful and worthwhile conversation.”

Confirmed performers at the Polaris Gala include Alvvays, Braids, Jennifer Castle, Tobias Jesso Jr., Buffy Sainte-Marie and Viet Cong. Fred Penner will host the Gala, which will be webcast live on Aux.tv.