Ontario Pops Orchestra releases debut album

"Breaking Barriers"

Music includes concertos and symphonic works by Mozart, Bach, and Vivaldi conducted by Music Director Carlos Bastidas

One of the most diverse professional orchestras in Canada, OPO highlights work of women and BIPOC composers/instrumentalists

On March 31, 2023 the Ontario Pops Orchestra (OPO) releases its debut CD, Breaking Barriers. The album was released on digital platforms in Fall 2022. Three Black women are spotlighted as soloists: violinists Tanya Charles Iveniuk, Yanet Campbell Secades and bassoonist Marlene Ngalissamy. The recording includes concertos by Bach and Vivaldi alongside Holst’s St. Paul’s Suite, and "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" and Symphony No. 40 by Mozart, all led by OPO founder, conductor, and music director Carlos Bastidas.

Inspired by watching broadcasts of the Boston Pops Orchestra as a youngster in his native Colombia, Bastidas founded the OPO in 2014 to foster musicianship in a positive, inclusive and supportive environment. One of the most diverse professional orchestras in Canada, the Toronto-based orchestra performs classical and popular music, provides musicians with performance and professional development opportunities, and highlights the work of women and BIPOC composers and instrumentalists.

The album release will be celebrated with a concert on March 31, 2023 at 8 pm at Toronto's Trinity St. Paul Music Centre (427 Bloor St. W). Tickets are $20-$30 CAD