The Artistic Director of the Elora Festival and Singers, Noel Edison, has been appointed to the Order of Ontario.
The order is the highest honour bestowed upon individuals by the province and recognizes excellence in any field of endeavour. Nominations are made by members of the general public. An advisory council reviews the nominations and makes recommendations to the Lieutenant Governor in council regarding appointments. Edison is one of 28 appointed in 2009.
Edison co-founded the Elora Festival as Three Centuries Festival in 1979, and became the Artistic Director in 1983. In 1997, he became the Artistic Director of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir with the Elora Festival Singers being the professional core. In addition, he serves as Organist and Choirmaster of St. John’s Anglican Church in Elora, one of the few all-professional choirs in Canada.
Jurgen Petrenko, general manager of the Elora Festival and Singers, was thrilled with Edison’s award.
"To be recognized like this is a wonderful tribute to Noel’s hard work and dedication to the Elora Festival and Singers over the past 30 years. That this comes on the eve of the festival’s 30th anniversary is truly an honour, and speaks volumes to his artistic vision."
Warren Winkler, Chief Justice of Ontario and Chairman of the Order of Ontario advisory council said, "The Order of Ontario is a wonderful opportunity to honour people who have made an outstanding contribution to our province. The recipients exemplify the diversity of strengths and interests of the people of Ontario."
Edison will be conducting his first concert as a recipient on Jan. 25 at St. John’s Church. After a lunch at 1:30pm, Cross Border Shopping will showcase the works of American and Canadian composers, with Eleanor Daley, Peter Tiefenbach, and Howard Dyck.
Tickets are $35 ($25 for the concert only) and can be purchased at the Festival office, 33 Henderson St., Elora; by phone at 519-846-0331 or toll free, 1-888-747-7550, or online at www.elorafestival.com.
