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last mo.

Alexander Shelley to Conclude National Arts Centre Orchestra Tenure in 2026

The acclaimed music director will end his 11-season leadership with a final concert in July 2026 before transitioning to the Pacific Symphony.

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NAC Orchestra musical director Alexander Shelley looks around Southam Hall — a place he's called home for the last 10 years.

Overview

  • Alexander Shelley will step down as music director of the National Arts Centre Orchestra after an 11-season tenure, with his final concert scheduled for July 2026.
  • His contract with the orchestra will officially conclude on August 31, 2026, marking the end of a transformative era for the ensemble.
  • Shelley will serve as music director designate for the Pacific Symphony in 2025-26 and assume full leadership in the 2026-27 season.
  • Under Shelley’s leadership, the NAC Orchestra gained international recognition through major tours, livestreams, and award-winning recordings.
  • In the coming months, Shelley will lead the orchestra on tours to South Korea and Japan, marking its debut in Korea and first return to Japan in four decades.