Women in Musical Leadership

Redefining leadership in classical music: a three-year conducting program designed to cultivate the next generation of women and non-binary conductors

Women in Musical Leadership (WML) is a three-year program designed to collectively develop the next generation of women and non-binary conductors and music directors in Canada.

Led by Tapestry Opera with lead partner Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the program addresses a historic gender inequity on the podium by providing women and non-binary conductors active mentorship with leading conductors in the field, deep and varied experience with professional companies and a robust artistic network.

The Leadership Gap in Canadian Orchestras

A visual look at the drop in representation from graduation to the podium.

59%

Arts Graduates Women in visual and performing arts programs.

25%

Titled Positions Women in titled roles at major orchestras ($5M+).

10%

Music Directors Women in top leadership at major orchestras ($5M+).

*In smaller orchestras ($500k+), women hold 20% of titled positions and 17% of Music Director roles.

WML Conductors in motion:

The Reach 111,240 Kilometers traveled to podiums across the country.

The Growth 1,045 Total hours of professional mentorship & experience.

The Presence 190 Direct hours on the podium leading the ensemble.

WML allows conductors to assist, observe, conduct, and build experience within various organizations in symphonic, chamber, operatic, and contemporary repertoire. This gives conductors the professional expertise and training that will enable them to take the podium anywhere in the world.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Don’t miss the opportunity to see WML Conductors in action.

Monica Chen with Regina Symphony Orchestra
CHEN, CHENG & BEETHOVEN
One of Canada’s most beloved pianists, Angela Cheng, takes center stage in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1.
DATE: April 25, 2026
TIME: 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
LOCATION: Darke Hall 2255 College Ave
Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 0S9

Details

Women in Musical Leadership builds pathways to success for exceptional women and non-binary music leaders for generations.

This program is a philanthropic endeavour. Your support can help drive national change in the music sector.

Support Women in Musical Leadership