Step behind the scenes of the Orchestre symphonique de Gatineau (OSG) at the Canadian Museum of History and enjoy a unique opportunity to meet the artists who bring each concert to life.

More than simply a series of musical performances, this cultural mediation activity invites you to discover the fascinating universe of a symphony orchestra: how it works, the different families of instruments, each person’s role, and how dozens of musicians unite their listening, breath and sensitivity to create a single voice. Led by the OSG’s musical director, Yves Léveillé, embark on an interactive journey of musical performances, demonstrations and discussions with OSG artists and musicians.

The journey starts with the woodwind instrument family. The OSG’s principal flutist, Pascale Margely — who is also a teacher at the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau and an internationally renowned soloist — will explore the world of the flute with you as well as the role of wind instruments in the orchestra, through demonstrations and musical excerpts.

The spotlight then turns to the guitar. While this instrument isn’t part of a traditional symphony orchestra, a guitarist is sometimes present at the very front of the orchestra as a soloist.

Winner of several top international prizes and the Governor General’s Medal, guitarist Marc-Étienne Leclerc will present the many facets of his instrument as well as playing techniques, tonal colours, repertoire, and the interaction between the principal, conductor and orchestra.

The audience will then discover a trio comprised of violin, cello and harp. Bringing together members of the OSG who are also a family trio, Brigitte Amyot, principal second violinist and orchestra staff manager, Aidan Fleet, OSG principal cellist, and Jessie Fleet, harpist, will share their passion and musical bond. Through performance, they’ll demonstrate the special features of their instruments, the fundamentals of the string family, and the unique role of the harp, while illustrating how collaboration, listening, trust and precision make it possible for several musicians to create a single voice!

Speaking of voice, the activity will conclude with the OSG Choir, conducted by Antonio Llaca and accompanied on piano. They’ll perform a selection of memorable works, offering the audience an opportunity to discover the voice as a collective instrument and its contribution to the symphonic repertoire.

An activity presented as part of the Journées de la culture 2026.