The Orchestre de la francophonie canadienne (OFC) was created in 2001 for the IVth Games of La Francophonie in Ottawa-Hull and quickly became a launching pad for young musicians wanting to pursue a professional career in classical music. The OFC is a stepping stone between university and a professional career where young musicians have the possibility to enhance their musical knowledge.

In the ensuing years, the OFC gained great acclaim while performing before hundreds of thousands of spectators on numerous concerts of which many have been broadcasted on Espace Musique. The OFC was nominated for the Classical Album of 2008 by l'ADISQ and for Concert of 2007 by Les Prix Opus. In January 2007, the OFC toured 11 Chinese cities giving 14 concerts. Two on these concerts were broadcasted on Chinese television to more than 8 million viewers. To date, the OFC has given more than 75 concerts including in concerts in Ottawa, Montreal, Stowe, Stratford, Beijing and Shanghai.

Next summer, 90 musicians from across Canada are being invited to participate in a brand new season of the OFC. The ideal candidates are young Canadian professional musicians with classical training, aged 18 to 30, who have completed or are about to complete their university studies. All symphony orchestra instrumentalists are required.

The selected candidates will participate in a 3-week residence program at the end of June and early July 2009 in Ottawa and Montreal where more than 15 professors will offer advanced training and master classes. This will be followed by a month-long concert tour of Quebec, Ontario and North-East USA.

Consider yourself invited. Accommodations, meals and travel expenses are provided, and members will receive a bursary for their participation in the OFC. The OFC will be holding auditions in many Canadian cities. To register CLICK HERE.

Pending grants.