MSSO, or the Montreal Suzuki String Orchestra, is a talented group of young musicians led by Dragan Djerkic. Most of the students in the orchestra come from Institut Suzuki, a renowned school where Dragan Djerkic and Vera Mirkovic serve as principal teachers. While the majority of the students play violin or viola, there are also talented cello students who come from local Suzuki Cello teachers as well as non-Suzuki trained instructors.

 

MSSO is divided into two orchestras: MSSO Junior and Senior MSSO. MSSO Junior is comprised of students who are in Suzuki Books 3 to Book 5 or equivalent level in non-Suzuki programs. On the other hand, Senior MSSO is composed of students who have already surpassed Suzuki Book 6 or achieved an equivalent level in non-Suzuki programs. The age range of the students in this orchestra is between 12 and 20 years old.

 

The string orchestra program at MSSO started in 1990 and has become an integral part of the school's curriculum. In addition to individual and group lessons, participating in the orchestra is considered a highlight for every student. It provides them with the opportunity to collaborate with their fellow musicians, develop a sense of ensemble playing, and showcase their skills to a broader audience.

 

In recent years, MSSO has embarked on several international tours. In 2016, they joined forces with a group of Suzuki schools from Guelph and Kingston and toured China with the organization Culture Path. They performed numerous concerts in cities like Shanghai and Beijing, enchanting audiences with their musical talent.

 

Their next tour took them to Europe in 2018, where they participated in the prestigious Suma Cum Laude International Youth Festival. Alongside orchestras from China, Taiwan, Australia, the Philippines, and many other countries, MSSO competed in the International competition for string orchestras and proudly secured 3rd place.

 

In 2023, MSSO returned to Europe for another exciting tour. They performed at the Suma Cum Laude International Youth Festival once again and gave concerts in Prague, Vienna, and Bratislava. Participating in competitions held in Vienna and Bratislava, they showcased their skills and talent, impressing the judges and earning 1st place in Bratislava and 2nd place in Vienna.

 

Looking towards the future, MSSO has set its sights on performing at the Edeta Arts International Festival in Spain in 2025. This festival will offer them the chance to have concerts in Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid, where they will have the opportunity to captivate audiences with their remarkable musical ability.

 

MSSO's journey has been filled with incredible achievements and unforgettable experiences, and they continue to inspire and amaze audiences around the world with their passionate performances. The future holds even more exciting adventures for this talented group of young musicians.