BRANTFORD, Ontario – 25 October 2025 – Brantford Symphony Orchestra (“BSO”) announces the retirement of their Artistic Director and Conductor Philip Sarabura at the end of the 2025-26 concert season.
On October 25th, an announcement was made from the stage at the Ballroom Live! concert at the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts.
Philip, a highly accomplished conductor, violinist, and organist, has been with the BSO since 2008. Prior to that, he conducted numerous Canadian orchestras including the Hamilton Philharmonic, Orchestra London, Saskatoon Symphony, and the Canada Pops Orchestra.
Members of the BSO Board of Directors shared the following tributes to Philip:
“Maestro: Thank you for your artistic prowess and leadership at the helm of our orchestra. Philip, I am proud to have been President and that one of my final tasks in that capacity at the time was hiring you 17 years ago. Congratulations on your retirement as our Musical Director and Conductor at the end of this season … enjoy whatever you decide to do in going forward, but please make certain that it involves plenty of relaxation!” ~ Derek Bond
As Philip prepares to conclude his remarkable tenure with the Brantford Symphony Orchestra, we celebrate his many years of artistry, leadership, and dedication. His passion for music and his lasting influence on the orchestra will be felt for years to come. We wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement. – Peter Gray
My best wishes for a happy, healthy retirement, Phillip. It’s been a pleasure working with you to help plan the wonderful concerts you have shared with us for so many years. You will be missed. – Laurel Wells
Thank you to Philip for many years of musical magic in Brantford. Our patrons are fortunate to have had the privilege of experiencing top-notch, professional performances with you at the helm. You are leaving the BSO with the foundation and imagination to continue the artistic excellence you helped to establish here in Brantford. We wish you the very best for in your well-deserved retirement! – Melissa McGrath
The BSO is in the process of seeking a new Artistic Director to assume the helm in 2027-2028. They are inviting applicants to submit an expression of interest, indicating which concert they are available to conduct in 2026-2027. Applicants auditioning will all conduct a common piece, as selected in advance by the Board of Directors, and then be invited to take the lead in the artistic direction for the concert they will conduct.
For more information, please contact:
Aida Steenkist
Tel: +1.519.759.8781
Email: administrator@brantfordsymphony.ca
Website: https://brantfordsymphony.ca