Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Departure in 2015 of National Arts Centre Music Director Pinchas Zukerman

OTTAWA, March 5, 2012 /CNW/ - The announcement by Maestro Pinchas Zukerman of his intention to step down as Music Director of the National Arts Centre Orchestra in 2015, at the end of his 16 year tenure, is an opportunity for me to acknowledge the outstanding contribution of this great violinist to the musical life of Canada and the world.

Mr. Zukerman, a world-renowned conductor, musician and teacher, has accomplished truly great things with the National Arts Centre (NAC) Orchestra. From the beginning of his tenure, in 1999, he has recruited exceptional musicians to the NAC. Under his leadership, the Orchestra has toured extensively across Canada and internationally, promoting the visibility of our culture.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to thank Mr. Zukerman for his unwavering commitment to music and to the NAC Orchestra over his many seasons as Music Director. I wish him every success in his closing years with the Orchestra.

For more information (media only), please contact:
Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788