Mentoring Program

Jacques-Martin

An immersive experience designed for young classical musicians who want to enrich their career, broaden their network and think concretely about the development of their career.

Cohort 2026

Amellie Gendron

A young Montreal violinist studying at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, Amellie Gendron is a passionate chamber musician, notably with Duo Alio and Quatuor Tana. Highlights of her recent career include serving as concertmaster of the OSCMM for the 2025-2026 season and winning the latest edition of the Conservatoire de Montréal's concerto competition.

IAN SABOURIN

A Canadian countertenor whose international career is rapidly ascending, a former artist-in-residence at the Opéra de Montréal's Atelier lyrique and winner of the Audience Award at the OSM Competition (2025), he has performed numerous leading roles in baroque and contemporary repertoire on stages across Canada and Europe. He created the role of one of the boats in Laurence Jobidon's Le Phare at the Opéra de Montréal and made his Italian debut in Vivaldi's L'Olimpiade with the Cini Foundation.

SARA SHABAS

Versatile and committed Canadian soprano Sara Schabas has distinguished herself in contemporary opera — with two Dora Award nominations and numerous world premieres for companies including Vancouver Opera and Pacific Opera Victoria — as well as in the classical repertoire. She works with Barbara Hannigan as part of her "Equilibrium Young Artists" program and is awaiting the release of two albums featuring her, as well as a duo album with pianist Isabelle David.

Arthur touly-berche

Arthur, a young, rising Montreal conductor, has forged a remarkable path: from the Jeune Académie of the Orchestre Métropolitain under the influence of Yannick Nézet-Séguin to his position as first assistant conductor of the Nouvel Ensemble Moderne alongside Jean-Michael Lavoie, all while founding and leading his own ensemble, Orchestre Nova.

samuel
lauzon-schnitkka

Winner of the 2025 Prix d’Europe and named one of CBC’s 30 top musicians under 30, Samuel is establishing himself as an orchestral soloist, a dedicated chamber musician alongside violinist Amélie Gendron, and an artist deeply rooted in his community, having performed more than 80 concerts in collaboration with SAMS since 2022.

Inspiring Encounters

Discussions with guest artists and key cultural figures visiting the Festival.

Career Development

Seminars on topics such as recording a debut album, artist agencies, branding, content creation, and financial management...

Festival Immersion

Access to concerts, some general rehearsals, and a privileged experience at the heart of the Lanaudière Festival.

Convenient Stay

Accommodation included in downtown Joliette, with some travel and meal expenses covered.

The Jacques-Martin Fund, supporting the development of emerging musicians

The Fund supports initiatives that support emerging classical musicians on their journey, by offering them mentoring activities, professional experiences and concrete development opportunities within the program. Donations contribute directly to the continuity and enrichment of these actions for young musicians.