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February 18, 2026
WINDSOR – An extensive search is underway for a new Music Director for the Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO).
“We are excited about the interest from over 100 candidates who have applied to be the musical and artistic lead of the WSO,” says search committee chairperson, Deborah Severs.
Severs, past chair of the WSO board, is leading a 14-member committee consisting of stakeholders including musicians, WSO board members, donors, patrons, partners and community members. The job posting for the role closed on February 15.
“We have embarked on a very thorough and comprehensive process to fill this significant role. We are confident that this will result in the best possible outcome for our symphony,” Severs says. “It is an exciting process.”
The WSO lost its Music Director, Robert Franz, to a battle with cancer last September. Since then, guest conductors have been leading WSO concerts.
The committee will review candidate packages and proceed through a rigorous screening process. Once shortlisted, candidates will conduct a concert in the 2026-2027 season with the intention of having a successful person in place for the 2027-2028 season. The 2027-2028 season will also be the orchestra’s 80th birthday.
Shortlisted candidates will also spend a week in Windsor rehearsing with the orchestra, school visits, receptions, meeting the search committee, media visits and interviews with board, staff, and musicians.
The Music Director provides visionary artistic leadership; conducts orchestra rehearsals and concerts; develops program repertoire and selection of guest artists; participates in fundraising, community outreach and public relations activities; participates in strategic planning and implementation; presents music/artistic conversations with concerts and reports monthly to the WSO Board of Directors.
Founded in 1947, the WSO is a professional regional orchestra. It has a national reputation for its innovative programming with a strong commitment to Canadian performers, repertoire, and composers. The WSO’s home base is in downtown Windsor’s historic Capitol Theatre.
For more information contact:
Patti Lauzon
Executive Director, WSO
[email protected]
