News

Toronto Summer Music announces today the departure of Artistic Director Jonathan Crow, at the conclusion of the 2025 Festival, which runs July 10– August 2, 2025.  

“It is with deep gratitude that I announce my decision to step down as Artistic Director of Toronto Summer Music (TSM) at the end of the 2025 Festival. My time with TSM has been one of the most fulfilling periods of my professional life. 

Since my appointment in 2016, together, we have celebrated many milestones with breathtaking performances by world-renowned artists such as pianists Angela Hewitt and Vadym Kholodenko, vocalists Ben Heppner, J’Nai Bridges and Dame Sarah Connolly, and celebrated ensembles like the St. Lawrence, Rolston, Dover, Pacifica, and Miró Quartets. Our family has grown significantly over the past eight years. We have come to expect standing-room-only audiences at all our main venues, with this year’s sold-out Opening Night performance by Les Arts Florissants being a particular highlight. The TSM Academy has experienced significant growth in both the number and talent level of applicants, and I am proud that during my tenure, the TSM Academy has earned an international reputation as a premier training program. This success is evidenced by the fact that 94.4% of alumni from the past five years have continued to advance their careers in music. Additionally, we have seen the substantial expansion and success of our innovative Community Program. This year, we are proud to welcome the largest group of passionate amateur musical enthusiasts in our history! 

I am incredibly grateful for the support and collaboration of the board, staff, artists, and our passionate audience. Our shared dedication has grown TSM to new heights and I am proud of the vibrant, inclusive musical community we have cultivated. In our community, we count our diversity as a strength, bringing together established performers, emerging artists, and amateur musicians, while our audience ranges from classical music aficionados to first-time concertgoers. Our innovative programming continues to expand the realm of classical chamber music by fusing it with different genres and musical heritages, reflecting the rich diversity of our community. 

As I embark on new personal and professional endeavours, I carry with me cherished memories and a deep appreciation for my TSM Family. This was not an easy decision to make, but I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and confident in the organization’s bright future, especially as we look forward to 2025’s, 20^th Anniversary Festival. 

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. The board and staff’s unwavering commitment ensure that TSM will continue to flourish and inspire. I encourage our wonderful community to keep supporting TSM with the same enthusiasm and passion as TSM transitions to new artistic leadership.  

Though I will no longer be at the helm, my connection to TSM remains strong, and I look forward to witnessing its continued success. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this extraordinary journey.” 

-Jonathan Crow 
Artistic Director, Toronto Summer Music