Hamilton, ON – The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra (HPO) has appointed Lance Ouellette as Associate Concertmaster. Ouellette performs as Associate Concertmaster for the first time at Sci-Fi Spectacular on March 21, 2015.

Raised in Saint John, New Brunswick Ouellette first embarked on his musical journey at the age of five when he began learning the violin and piano, while also taking singing lessons. While attending the University of Toronto and Wilfrid Laurier University he was awarded top prizes in the Canadian Music Competition and the Federation of Canadian Music Festivals.

Ouellette most recently appeared with the HPO in November 2013 as guest Concertmaster and has served as second Associate Concertmaster with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony since 2003. He brings a wealth of musical knowledge and experience to his new role with the HPO. Oullette’s versatility as an orchestral musician has allowed him to perform in various positions with orchestras including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra London Canada, G27 and Esprit Orchestra. While touring with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Ouellette also performed at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City. As an adjudicator, Ouellette has toured extensively throughout Canada and has worked with students in the Canadian Music Competition and the Federation of Canadian Music Festivals. Ouellette served as music instructor at Conrad Grebel College at the University of Waterloo since 2014. As a solo violinist and chamber musician Ouellette performed onstage in Canada and abroad and has been featured on several high profile broadcasts including Showtime, CBC Radio, CTV and NPR.

When asked about his new role Ouellette says, “I’m happy to be joining the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra as Associate Concertmaster and I look forward to many energetic concerts in the years to come.”

As Associate Concertmaster, Ouellette serves alongside HPO Concertmaster Stephen Sitarski, leading the orchestra in a supporting role.


Media Contact:
Diana Weir, Director, Communications and Development | Tel: 905.526.1677 x230 | Email: dweir@hpo.org

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in 1884 as The Hamilton Orchestral Society and grew to become one of Canada’s major professional orchestras. Today, the HPO is a leader in Hamilton’s robust arts community where it provides professional orchestral services and music education programs to address the needs of the community. The HPO continues to commission and premiere works and is one of the artistic jewels of the Hamilton area. The combined musical talents of its artists continue to enrich the community and enhance the quality of life for its residents.