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[email protected] DATE: October 14, 2015 Yannick Nézet-Séguin Named Musical America’s 2016 Artist of the Year (Philadelphia, October 14, 2015)—Musical America, the venerable print and online publication utilized by performing arts organizations worldwide for nearly 120 years, today announced the winners of their annual Musical America Awards, recognizing excellence and achievement in all realms of the arts. Yannick Nézet- Séguin, described as the “greatest generator of energy on the international podium,” (Financial Times) has been named the 2016 Artist of the Year, voted on by a panel of his peers. As music director of The Philadelphia Orchestra, the Orchestre Métropolitain, and the Rotterdam Philharmonic, Nézet-Séguin is recognized worldwide as a musical leader of the highest caliber, maintaining his strong sense of musicianship, dedication, and charisma. “I am deeply and sincerely honored to accept this prestigious honor,” said Nézet-Séguin. “In truth, this goes to all of the musicians I conduct, in Philadelphia, Rotterdam, and Montreal, and throughout the world. These are the people creating the magic that connects audiences to the music, spreading messages of hope and joy.” “Yannick is a musician of extraordinary breadth and depth in all facets of music-making,” said Philadelphia Orchestra President and CEO Allison Vulgamore. “From the Baroque to the contemporary, from chamber music to grand opera, his versatility and curiosity extends authentically, through his work onstage and off. He performs in front of millions yet projects an intimacy that connects him on the most genuine level with musicians and audiences alike.