Throughout high school, Jonathan took private lessons with Sydney Humphreys, Head of the Strings department at the Conservatory for over thirty years. As a teacher, Sydney mentored Jonathan to realize his unique potential.
In April 2019, we asked Jonathan about his time studying at the Victoria Conservatory of Music.
- Name: Jonathan Crow
- Instrument: Violin
- Professional Title: Concertmaster, Toronto Symphony Orchestra; Associate Professor of Violin, University of Toronto
- What years did you study at the VCM? 1992-1995
- What program/instructors did you study with at the VCM? Private lessons during high school with Sydney Humphreys
- Have to been back to teach/perform at the VCM since studying here? Many times!
- How has your VCM experience prepared you for what you are doing today? The VCM gave me the chance to learn from some of the world’s greatest professional musicians- Sydney Humphreys in particular was a huge influence, and shaped my development as a violinist. The VCM also gave me performance opportunities and helped me connect with professionals in the industry who have been wonderful supporters of my career ever since.
- What are some of the accomplishments you are most proud of in your career so far? I’ve been lucky to perform with some of the world’s conductors, both as a soloist and orchestral players, as well as collaborating with amazing world-class musicians in chamber music settings. I feel like I’ve managed to find a great mix of everything I love about music!
- If you could offer one piece of career advice to students, what would it be? Make decisions in music and be committed to what you are doing at the moment. But- always be willing to change your mind, as you are going to have the chance to learn from so many different people in life, and each of these interactions will help shape what you want to do with your career; be open to everything!