Royal Conservatory Orchestra with conductor Laura Jackson

The Royal Conservatory Orchestra launches its fall season at Koerner Hall with a formidable program led by guest conductor Laura Jackson. Renowned for her passionate podium presence and innovative programming as Music Director of the Reno Philharmonic, Jackson brings her sharp musical insight to Toronto to direct the elite young artists of The Glenn Gould School.

The Program and Soloist The evening begins with Samuel Barber’s razor-sharp *Overture to The School for Scandal*, bursting with rhythmic vitality and cinematic charm. The centrepiece of the concert is Béla Bartók’s haunting *Viola Concerto*, performed by rising virtuoso Shyler Macaggi, winner of the 2026 Robert W. and G. Ann Corcoran Concerto Competition. The orchestra concludes the night with Johannes Brahms’ radiant *Symphony No. 2 in D Major*, a warm, pastoral masterpiece that showcases the full dynamic palette and lush string section of the ensemble. A student prelude recital takes place in the hall at 6:45 PM prior to the main concert.

The Orchestra and Acoustic Setting Composed of undergraduate and graduate fellows from The Glenn Gould School, the RCO is widely regarded as one of North America’s preeminent training orchestras, with alumni occupying principal chairs in major symphonies worldwide. Hearing them perform inside Koerner Hall—internationally celebrated for its acoustic warmth, undulating oak ribboning, and pin-drop clarity—offers an orchestral experience that easily rivals top-tier professional ensembles.

Getting There Koerner Hall is located within the TELUS Centre for Performance and Learning at 273 Bloor Street West, just steps from both St. George and Museum subway stations. Arrive early to enjoy a pre-performance drink in the airy Leslie & Anna Dan Galleria overlooking the Royal Ontario Museum and Philosopher’s Walk.