To mark the centennial of the birth of Harry Somers (b. Toronto 11 September 1925; d. Toronto 9 March 1999), one of Canada's most influential composers, a symposium will be held at the University of Toronto on Saturday, September 27th to bring together music scholars and performers for a program of reflection and exchange. The provisional schedule for the day's events can be found here.
Highlights include papers examining Somers's legacy and artistic contributions, a short recital, and a keynote address by Brian Cherney, the author of Harry Somers (1975) and the editor of Between Composers: The Letters of Norma Beecroft and Harry Somers (2024). This event invites participants to reflect on Somers's lasting impact on Canadian creative and intellectual life and to join a broader conversation about art, identity, and cultural memory. The events are in the Edward Johnson Building, Room 330, unless otherwise noted. All are welcome.
Date: Saturday, September 27th
Location: Edward Johnson Building, Room 330 (unless otherwise noted)
Registration & Tickets
- Complimentary catered lunch for all participants—please register here by September 18th.
- Evening concert tickets for University of Toronto Symphony Orchestra performance— get tickets here.
About Harry Somers
Harry Somers was one of Canada's most influential composers, known for his distinctive musical language and significant contributions to Canadian classical music. He combined contemporary compositional techniques with classical structures to create a unique voice.