Ottawa

MUSIC: The conductor who’s becoming a household unpronounceable name

The New York Times marks Yannick Nézet-Séguin’s first New York appearance the way a lot of newspapers around the world have been covering his appearances — ahead of time, with eager anticipation. In a long, rhapsodic Sunday feature profile, the Times explains why YNS’s Mostly Mozart debut this week is the hottest ticket in the Big Apple.

I have written about the diminutive 34-year-old conductor here occasionally, so that when Nézet-Séguin becomes as well-known as he certainly will, you might have some hope of recognizing what the fuss is about. The Times piece points out, diplomatically, that fame has been faster to catch up to him on the road than in Canada: “Though hardly the biblical prophet without honor in his own country, Mr. Nézet-Séguin is a much greater celebrity in London and Rotterdam than he is at home.” That will change as early as this coming winter, when he brings his Rotterdam band on a North American tour that includes several Canadian cities.

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