Conductors

Conductors are responsible for the musical development of the orchestra, collaborating with the Artistic Director on musical decisions. They serve a dual role in leading ensemble practices from beginning to end. Furthermore, they are the face of the ensemble, and must project themselves professionally to both the audience and the members they are leading. Saint Cecilia's Youth Orchestra has been host to five conductors since its founding.

Carlos Restrepo
Length of Appointment: since September 2008 Baton of Choice: 12" Wood Instrument: Electric Bass Info: Carlos joined SCYO in 2005 and is currently studying music at York University in Toronto, Canada.

André Rigby
Length of Appointment: April 2008 – August 2008 Baton of Choice: 12" Rosewood Instrument: Bb Trumpet Info: André joined SCYO in 2003 as a trumpet player. He is currently pursuing a double major in Music Education and Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Western Ontario.

Julian Lam

Length of Appointment: 2006 – April 2008
Baton of Choice: 12" White Oak
Instrument: Saxophone

Info:
Julian has been a member of SCYO since its founding in 2003. In that time, he has witnessed the growth of the ensemble, from its humble beginnings. He went on a two-year hiatus to study Science at the University of Toronto, but rejoined SCYO when he realized his true calling in the field of music.

Julian is currently enrolled in the Music program at McMaster University, and is a candidate for a B. Mus. in Music Education.

Jennifer Cheung

Length of Appointment: 2005 – 2007
Baton of Choice: 12" Plastic
Instrument: Clarinet

Info:
Jennifer joined the orchestra in 2004 and played the role of clarinettist in the ensemble. Despite no experience in conducting, she volunteered to be an auxiliary conductor in 2005, eventually taking on the duties full-time.

Jennifer is currently on hiatus from the orchestra while she pursues post-secondary education in Business & Administration while at the University of Toronto.

Eva Leung

Length of Appointment: 2004 – 2005
Baton of Choice: Ball-Point Pen
Instrument: Piano

Info:
Eva joined SCYO as conductor for the 2004-2005 season, as the previous conductor was needed more importantly as a player. Sheer determination, will to learn, and dedication to SCYO were the reasons why Eva was able to become a seasoned conductor, despite no prior experience.

Eva studied Psychology at the University of Toronto.

Gabriel Chan

Length of Appointment: 2003 – 2005
Baton of Choice: Empty-Handed Way ("who needs a baton?")
Instrument: French Horn

Info:
Gabriel Chan has been a member of SCYO since its founding in 2003. He served as initial conductor and Chief Director, and practically singlehandedly promoted SCYO past its start-up phase. During this period, he doubled on the French Horn, and led SCYO to its first performances.

Gabriel studied Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo and currently works for a software company Thinkpanda.