Former Calgarian Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser leads National Youth Orchestra of Canada

A former Calgarian is now the music director of the National Youth Orchestra. Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser speaks with CTV News Calgary's Ian White.

A former Calgarian says he will be able to influence musicians from coast to coast to coast in his new role.

“The traditions of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada are influencing what Canadians are hearing in the concert halls all over the country,” Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser told CTV News.

“All across Canada, our orchestras are filled with laureates of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada. It’s a rite of passage.”

Bartholomew-Poyser, a graduate of William Aberhart High School and the University of Calgary, has been appointed music director of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada for its 2026 and 2027 seasons.

He has already conducted several high-profile orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and a Hollywood Bowl performance of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

“When you turn around and you see, literally, a city of people listening to you, and then you turn around again and you see the musicians of the L.A. Phil in front of you—musicians that you’ve been listening to your whole life—it’s a lot!” said Bartholomew-Poyser.

Bartholomew-Poyser has taken a unique path to conducting.

He started in bands as a tuba player.

“I’m tired of sitting at the back of the orchestra. So, now I stand at the front,” said Bartholomew-Poyser, who has also studied cello, piano and clarinet in recent years.