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Former longtime leader of the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra has died – Kelowna News

Posted on by Gerres
Former longtime leader of the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra has died – Kelowna News

Leonard Camplin, former longtime conductor of the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, has died at the age of 96.

The symphony orchestra announced his death on October 14 on Friday. He took over as music director and conductor of the OSO in 1964, working for over thirty years before retiring in 1996.

During this time, Camplin oversaw the OSO’s transformation from a regular orchestra to a professional orchestra and was responsible for raising the profile of the orchestra, program, guest soloists and operations.

“Leonard had a great vision and had a multi-faceted artistic impact on the Okanagan for 31 seasons. I think of him fondly and will miss him. He was a mentor for me and thanks to him I learned this profession,” said concertmaster Denis Letourneau.

“I first met Leonard Camplin at the Banff Center in 1976, where I was studying at the time. He was extremely fit, extremely charismatic and impressive, and we talked for a long time.”

Letourneau recalls that Camplin invited him to an audition, and Camplin responded by offering him two tickets to an evening performance by the Canadian Chamber Orchestra.

According to Letourneau, Leonard enjoyed the performance and asked him if he would like to join him as the CSO’s chief deputy.

“He said that at that time the orchestra consisted mainly of amateur musicians, and some positions were started to be filled by professionals. He told me that on the ground floor I would be helping to build a professional team. How could I refuse?”

Taking advantage of the offer, the two worked together from 1978 until his retirement in 1996.

Leonard’s last trip to the OSO took place in February 2020 for a concert celebrating the 60th anniversary of its founding.

“We are saddened by his death and offer our sincere condolences to Janet, his entire family and everyone who knew and worked with this incredible musician. “His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who experienced his leadership and love for the performing arts,” the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra said in a statement.

A celebration of life for Leonard is scheduled for November 16, 2024 in Chilliwack.