In Concert with Emotion: The Artful World of Geneviève Leclair

Photo Credit: Jane Pike

For conductor Geneviève Leclair, music is more than performance — it’s connection. A language that transcends form, genre, and even time itself. Whether working in ballet, symphony, or opera, Leclair brings a deep awareness to the space between movement and sound, shaping moments that feel both grounded and transcendent.

She has worked alongside esteemed conductors and creative teams at leading institutions like Houston Ballet, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, National Ballet of Canada, and Boston Ballet. Across stages in Canada and the U.S., she is known for her thoughtful approach, musical clarity, and respect for the collaborative process — qualities that make her a valued contributor to any production.

“There is nothing more exhilarating than a performance in which dancers and musicians connect, and a real exchange takes place,” she says. “Imagine the dark and silent house; the ballerina walks onstage and takes the pose… The music emerges and feeds the momentum of the ballerina. From that point, the energy flows both ways and overflows into the house.”

Photo Credit: Jane Pike

Beyond her technical brilliance, Leclair is known for her palpable connection with the artists with whom she collaborates. She effortlessly bridges the worlds of musicians and dancers, creating a dynamic interplay that elevates each performance. Esteemed figures in ballet recognize her as a dedicated ally in the pursuit of artistic excellence.

Leclair is equally at home in the orchestral world. Her credits span classical and contemporary works, including The [Uncertain] Four Seasons — a reimagining of Vivaldi’s score reflecting climate change — and the Québec premiere of As One, a chamber opera exploring gender identity. She is a recipient of the American Prize in Conducting and continues to champion projects with emotional and social resonance.

“As a conductor, I could spend my entire life in that moment, completely immersed in artistic truth,” she shares. “It’s not about decisions or absolutes; it’s about the artist’s intention, phrasing, movement, and the unique qualities of each performer. It’s about abandoning yourself to the moment, embracing a state of complete engagement where everyone feels truly alive.”

Photo Credit: Jane Pike

Throughout her career, Leclair has remained committed to music as a collaborative act — one that honors individual expression while building something greater together. She creates space for artists to feel seen, supported, and inspired. In doing so, she continues to shape performances that resonate deeply with audiences and fellow creatives alike.

In her artistic universe, dance and music do not merely coexist; they engage in a seamless dialogue, crafting ephemeral yet unforgettable moments — where artists and audiences alike feel connected, moved, and part of something greater.

Whether in Canada, the U.S., or abroad, catching a performance under Leclair’s baton is an experience worth seeking out. Every program she conducts becomes a moment of artistic connection — thoughtful, deeply felt, and not to be missed.

Connect with Geneviève Leclair on Instagram.

Disclaimer: Written in partnership with APG.

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