Dear Community Members, Listeners, and Supporters,

My name is Jason Doell, and I am the new Executive Director of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.

In the nearly five months that I’ve been here, it has been a genuine privilege to learn how deeply this organization is woven into the cultural life of this region. I’ve heard from many people whose lives have intersected with the Symphony in meaningful ways, and those stories have given me a real sense of the care and connection that surrounds this work.

I’m writing to share a brief update as we continue rebuilding following the organization’s bankruptcy, and simply to let you know that the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony is active—presenting concerts and reconnecting with the community.

This season has marked our organization’s return to the stage. In November, more than 1,400 people joined us at the Centre in the Square for Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, “Resurrection”. We’ve presented concerts across the region, including performances at St. Matthews Centre and the return of our Baroque series to Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph. For me, these have been powerful early glimpses into the artistry and commitment of the musicians and the depth of connection with audiences.

What has stood out just as much has been the response from the community. Audience members, partners, volunteers, and supporters have shown up with a great deal of care and encouragement. It has been a meaningful reminder of how much this organization has mattered—and continues to matter—to so many people.

At the same time, I want to be transparent that this is still a period of transition. Rebuilding after bankruptcy takes time, and we are approaching that work deliberately. Our focus right now is on putting in place a strong and stable foundation—one that can support the orchestra’s future in a responsible and sustainable way.

There has been encouraging progress. At our recent Annual Meeting, Treasurer Paul Ross reported that the KWS finished its 2025 fiscal year with a healthy surplus. We are currently ahead of our financial expectations for the season, and the response from those who have chosen to re-engage has been heartening. Our Board set a fundraising goal of $480,000 for this fiscal year, and we have currently raised 93% of that amount. At the same time, we remain very aware that rebuilding trust and stability is ongoing work, and we are committed to doing that carefully and openly.

If we haven’t yet met, I would genuinely welcome the opportunity. I am usually at our concerts—often near the front of house—and would be glad to connect. I would especially value hearing about your own history with the Symphony, if you’re open to sharing it.

And if you have any questions about where things stand, or would like more detail about any aspect of the organization, or want to share a story from your personal history with KWS, please feel free to reach out to me directly at any time at executive.director@kwsymphony.com.

Thank you for the role you have played in the life of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. It is not taken for granted.

Best wishes,

Jason Doell

Executive Director,

Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony