LEANDRO CARDOSO
Conductor
Listening to the works conducted by Maestro Leandro Cardoso, audiences are immediately captivated by his expressiveness, sensitivity, and understanding of the music, imbued with a unique and distinctive sound.
Leandro Cardoso is a Brazilian symphonic conductor based in Canada, recognized for his human-centered leadership, energetic podium presence, and strong artistic vision. His work is distinguished by a collaborative approach to music-making and a commitment to compelling concert experiences that connect orchestras with their communities.
His repertoire centers on the core symphonic tradition while reflecting a deep artistic affinity with Latin American music, which he approaches with stylistic insight and authenticity. In addition to his conducting activities, Leandro is an active arranger, creating chamber ensemble arrangements that are performed by musicians and ensembles internationally.
He currently serves as Assistant Conductor in Residence with the Orchestre symphonique de Québec, where he works closely with Music Director Clemens Schuldt and collaborates with one of Canada’s leading orchestral institutions. In this role, he assists in orchestral preparation, rehearsals, and artistic projects while gaining extensive experience within a major symphonic organization.
Alongside this position, Leandro is Music Director of the Cercle Philharmonique de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and the Orchestre symphonique des jeunes de Joliette. In these roles, he provides artistic leadership, develops concert programming, and fosters ensemble cohesion through thoughtful rehearsal processes and engaging performances.
Leandro holds a Doctor of Music in Orchestral Conducting from McGill University, where he received the prestigious Excellence Award scholarship. He also earned a Master of Music in Conducting from the University of Kansas.
His artistic development has been shaped through participation in internationally recognized conducting programs including the Monteux School and Music Festival, the Domaine Forget International Music and Dance Academy, and the Cabrillo Music Festival, where he worked with distinguished conductors such as Yannick Nézet-Séguin and Cristian Măcelaru.
He is also regularly invited to serve as an adjudicator for Canadian music festivals, reflecting his growing recognition within the country’s musical community.
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Concert on April 5, 2026 at Théâtre Maisonneuve: Gala of the 22nd AOJQ Festival
Message from our conductor Leandro Cardoso:
"Congratulations to all the participants of the @festivalaojq, a fantastic experience for young Quebec musicians. A very special thank you to conductors @adamjohnson.live, @andrei_feher, and @simonrivardconductor who inspired our musicians. And of course, bravo to the orchestras and all the musicians who participated in this exceptional learning weekend!"
