Manitoba Chamber Orchestra

About

The MCO is “Canada’s tiny, perfect chamber orchestra” (Toronto Star).

We tour widely, commission often, embrace a diverse repertoire, and collaborate regularly with the world’s leading solo­ists.

The orchestra, boasting a roster of some of the finest orchestral musicians in Canada, has been praised for its “satiny sound … dynamic subtlety, and an impeccable sense of ensemble” (Ottawa Citizen) and called “an excellent string ensemble conducted with crispness and verve by Anne Manson” (San Francisco Chronicle).

Established in 1972, the MCO presents an annual concert series in Winnipeg, featuring guest soloists and an accessible, eclectic repertoire ranging from the mega-hits of the tradition to exciting new premieres. We have extensive eucation and community engagement programming that includes touring, workshops, masterclasses, and classroom visits. We're libraries, classrooms, and community events across Winnipeg and around the province.

In 1995, the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra became the first North American orchestra to release a record with Sweden’s prestigious BIS label. Since then we've recorded eight albums, two of which have earned Juno nominations (So Much To Tell with Measha Brueggergosman and Troubadour & the Nightingale with Isabel Bayrakdarian). Our  2013 recording of Philip Glass music has enjoyed international acclaim.

Anne Manson is the Music Director of the MCO.