Before each Masterpiece performance in the Cape Symphony Orchestra’s 2024/25 concert season, I’ll introduce our guest conductor and Music Director candidate here in the Concertmaster’s Corner. Today we got to know Dina Gilbert, who will conduct “Beethoven: The Revolutionary” on April 5 & 6, 2025.
As you know, the search for Cape Symphony’s next Music Director is well underway. Our Search Committee of musicians, Trustees, Symphony staff, and a community representative narrowed a field of over 200 applicants to a few outstanding finalists who will each conduct a concert in our 2024/25 season. Our Masterpiece repertoire features warhorses from the Western canon chosen to showcase the talent and skill of these fine conductors.
Acclaimed for her energy, precision, and versatilty, Dr. Gilbert has conducted the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, the Orchestra métropolitain, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Hamilton Philharmonic, and the Orchestre symphonique de Québec, and is frequently invited to conduct in Europe and the United States. She currently serves as Principal Conductor of the Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal, Music Director and Conductor of the Walla Walla Symphony, and Music Director of the Kamloops Symphony.
Jae Cosmos Lee: Welcome, Dina, and thank you for the opportunity to help our audience get to know you. There’s nothing like starting at the beginning: What was your original instrument as a musician, and how did you start conducting?
Dina Gilbert: I played both piano and clarinet with equal passion until I realized that conducting was truly where I was meant to be. I feel fortunate to have had early opportunities to conduct, such as leading a children's choir and conducting a wind symphony band in the air cadets as a teenager. Growing up in a small town with no orchestra, the idea of becoming a conductor felt as distant as becoming an astronaut—how could someone from my background ever get there? While studying in Montreal, I received my first formal conducting lessons. It was through the enthusiastic encouragement of my professor that I realized I had both the skills and the personality to pursue a Master’s and Doctorate in Conducting.
JCL: What led you to apply to be our Music Director?
DG: I was inspired by the high level of musicianship, the incredible team, and the wide range of concerts and educational opportunities the Cape Symphony offers to its community. Additionally, the chance to be part of a vibrant city that I had the pleasure of visiting as a child made me realize this was an opportunity unlike any other.
JCL: How do you approach working with a new orchestra and getting to know a new community?
DG: When I work with a new orchestra, I like to start by immersing myself in the city. I take time to understand its rhythm, pace, unique characteristics, and the interests of its community. This helps me connect with the broader cultural context. During the rehearsal process, I approach it with a sense of curiosity and excitement, eager to get to know the musicians. I focus on finding the best ways to communicate and collaborate musically, so we can deliver a compelling performance of the music we love.
JCL: What’s special to you about the pieces you’ll conduct on the Cape Symphony stage?
DG: This concert is a true immersion into the world of one of the greatest composers of all time—Beethoven. While both musicians and audiences are likely familiar with his works, I believe that the humanity, depth, and sheer excitement that come from sharing his music remain ever-relevant. Each performance is an opportunity to rediscover these timeless pieces, exploring new layers of emotion and meaning that resonate with us all, no matter how many times we've experienced them.
JCL: Conducting is hard work! What are your favorite foods to eat after a concert?
DG: It’s usually the perfect moment to have dinner as I am usually not eating too much before a concert. This time, I will love eating some fries and mussels or some seafood!
JCL: What entertains and inspires you? Do you have favorite movies, books, sports?
DG: I’m constantly inspired by the people I meet, the cities I discover, the cultural events I attend, and the nature that surrounds me. While I’ve never played hockey, I’m a huge fan of the Canadiens de Montréal. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching the coordination of a team on the ice and witnessing those perfect goals. To me, it’s a reflection of how each member of an orchestra brings a unique set of qualities that contribute to the success of the entire "game" or concert.
JCL: What do you like to do outside of work?
DG: It all starts with spending time with my favorite people: my daughter and my partner David. We love to travel, discover new restaurants, and attend as many cultural events and Habs games as we can!
JCL: Thanks for helping the Cape Symphony community get to know you. We look forward to seeing you at the concert hall!
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The public is invited to observe Dina Gilbert in rehearsal with the Cape Symphony Orchestra from 6:30 – 8:30 PM on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at the Barnstable Performing Arts Center. There is no charge to attend.
Beethoven: The Revolutionary ticketholders may also attend a preconcert Q&A session with Dr. Gilbert, led by Assistant Conductor Joe Marchio one hour before showtime.
