Eric Paetkau

Eric Paetkau is a conductor, violist, and educator with more than three decades of experience in the classical music world. From 2015 to 2022 he served as Music Director of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, leading the orchestra through a period of artistic growth and innovation. He is also the founder and conductor of the Juno-nominated group of 27 Chamber Orchestra, an ensemble recognized for its bold programming, vibrant performances, and strong presence in the Canadian classical music scene.

As both guest conductor and violist, Eric has appeared with many of Canada’s leading ensembles, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Les Violons du Roy, the Canadian Opera Company, and orchestras across the country, as well as internationally with the Nuremberg Symphony Orchestra. These wide-ranging experiences have given him a deep and multifaceted perspective on orchestral music, from inside the ensemble to the view from the podium.

Eric has also been deeply involved in community engagement and education. With the Saskatoon Symphony, he championed outreach initiatives that brought orchestral music into schools, retirement communities, and public spaces, fostering connections between musicians and audiences of all ages. He has led numerous workshops, masterclasses, and side-by-side programs, helping to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians.

In addition to his live performances, Eric has contributed to recordings and broadcasts that highlight the diversity and vitality of Canadian music. His programming has often emphasized new Canadian compositions alongside the established classical repertoire, reflecting his belief in both honouring tradition and supporting contemporary voices.

My teaching style is built on three key principles: clarity, encouragement, and connection to the music itself. I believe that every student, regardless of level, learns best when lessons are structured, engaging, and tailored to their personal goals.

In conducting lessons, I emphasize a balance of technical foundation and musical expression. Students work on baton technique, score study, rehearsal strategies, and interpretation, always with a focus on how these tools serve the music. I draw on real-world rehearsal and performance experiences to give students insights that go beyond the page.

In music history lessons, I use a storytelling and context-based approach. We explore the major periods, styles, and composers, always connecting history to the sound of the music itself. Listening, discussion, and guided analysis help students not just memorize facts, but truly understand and appreciate the richness of the repertoire.

Above all, I strive to create a supportive and motivating environment where curiosity is encouraged, questions are welcomed, and students can build both confidence and artistry. My goal is for every lesson to feel meaningful, inspiring, and directly connected to the joy of music.