Convocation 2014: meet honorary grad Jeanne Lamon
Published: November 18, 2014
The University of Toronto is recognizing Jeanne Lamon, praised by critics in Europe and North America for her virtuosity as a violinist and her excellent leadership as the music director of Tafelmusik (1981-2014), with an honorary degree.
Lamon, who recently ended a remarkable 33-year tenure at the helm of Tafelmusik, regarded as one of Canada’s most successful international performing arts organizations. She will receive a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa November 18 in recognition of her extraordinary achievements.
Under Lamon's direction, Tafelmusik achieved international stature and is considered “one of the world’s top baroque orchestras” according to Gramophone Magazine.
In addition to directing and performing with Tafelmusik, Lamon regularly guest directs symphony orchestras in North America and abroad. Recent engagements include the Detroit Symphony, Les Violons du Roy, l’Orchestre Métropolitain de Montréal, the Winnipeg Symphony, the Victoria Symphony, Symphony Nova Scotia and Orchestra London.
Described as “a toweringly influential figure in the musical life of Canada” by the Canada Council for the Arts, Lamon is also a passionate educator. She is an adjunct faculty member at U of T's Faculty of Music.
As well, she is the artistic director of the Tafelmusik artist training programmes, including its summer institute housed at U of T and its winter institute at Tafelmusik’s home at Trinity St. Paul’s United Church. In recognition of her outstanding leadership and contributions to music education in Canada, Lamon holds honorary doctorates from York University (1994) and Mount Saint Vincent University (2007).
Lamon will stay closely connected to Tafelmusik, where she is currently serving as chief artistic advisor until the new music director is in place. She plans to increase her teaching and to enjoy more time for her hobbies, which include painting, walking, cooking and reading.
A nature enthusiast, Lamon spends much of the summer at her cottage in the Kawarthas with her partner, cellist Christina Mahler. Looking out over the lake and paddling a canoe have provided the inspiration for many Tafelmusik programs as well as a welcome antidote to a busy concert and touring schedule.
