Canada outcry as much-loved maestro is killed crossing the road

We are shocked and distressed to report the death, in a hit and run incident, of the well-known Canadian conductor and artistic director Boris Brott.

Boris, who was 78, was crossing a road in Hamilton, Ontario, at ten in the morning when he was hit by a speeding vehicle that was driving on the wrong side. He was on his way to a hospital appointment.

The driver was stopped and arrested a short distance away.

The Montreal Classical Orchestra, where he was artistic director, said: ‘Boris Brott was the beating heart of the Orchestre Classique de Montréal, a renowned leader in the world of classical music in North America and beyond, a mentor to countless young musicians, and a very dear friend to so many.’

Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger said: ‘Boris was not only a giant in the classical music world, he was also a giant for promoting and building Hamilton and his efforts over decades helped lift our community to new heights.’ It was in Hamilton that Boris founded the National Academy Orchestra of Canada.

After a spell as Walter Susskind’s assistant at the Toronto Symphony, Boris made his career in 1960s England as conductor of the Northern Sinfonia and the Royal Ballet touring company.

In Canada he became music director of the Winnipeg Symphony and Symphony Nova Scotia. He also led New West Symphony in California, while fying often to Europe to guest conduct.

photo: Boris (l) with cellist brother Dennis