³Ô¹ÏÍø

June 9, 2025

Name: Connor O'Kane
Program: Honours Bachelor of Music in Performance 2016
Current Role: Pianist, Conductor and Teacher 
Based in: Kitchener-Waterloo and London
Fun Fact: Connor's biggest musical inspiration growing up was film composer John Williams 

³Ô¹ÏÍø alumnus Connor O’Kane exemplifies the impact of a well-rounded and innovative music education. Recognized as one of Ontario’s most versatile emerging artists, Connor has built a career as a pianist, chamber musician, vocal coach, conductor, and educator. His professional journey is as inspiring as it is varied and deeply rooted in his experience at ³Ô¹ÏÍø’s Faculty of Music.

Fond Memories at ³Ô¹ÏÍø

Connor looks back on his time at ³Ô¹ÏÍø with deep gratitude.

“Some of my fondest memories are from concerts in Maureen Forrester Hall,” he shares, recalling moments like hearing the Penderecki String Quartet perform Christos Hatzis and attending Heather Taves’ stunning piano recitals.

A pivotal moment came in his third year when Connor studied abroad at the Conservatoire de Lyon. He credits that life-changing opportunity to the encouragement of Professor Dan Lichti and the late Dean Glen Carruthers.

“I’ll never forget chatting with Dean Glen about Lyon—it felt like talking with an old friend.”

Advice for Aspiring Musicians

Connor offers thoughtful, practical tips to current students:

• Take Notes: “In masterclasses, take good, detailed notes. I overestimated my memory in my early twenties and wish I had more written down.”
• Explore New Music: “An organ recital of 21st-century music I thought I’d dislike turned out to be awesome. Don’t be afraid to try something new.”
• Embrace Mistakes: “No musician is perfect. Knowing this helps me avoid over-analyzing my own mistakes.”

A Multifaceted Career

From piano to opera, conducting to coaching, Connor’s work is defined by adaptability.

“Opera taught me about the importance of breath, which has enriched my piano playing.”

He credits ³Ô¹ÏÍø’s cross-disciplinary approach for helping him build a career in an ever-changing musical landscape.

While at ³Ô¹ÏÍø, he fell in love with opera during rehearsals.

“Watching Maestro Leslie De’Ath conduct while playing piano and singing was unforgettable.”

That passion led to professional opportunities as a répétiteur and assistant conductor on numerous productions.

A Role Realized at the Glenn Gould School

Most recently, Connor served as Music Director and Conductor at the Glenn Gould School of The Royal Conservatory of Music.

He was engaged from early September through performances on November 1 and 2, where he led productions of Ravel’s L’Enfant et les sortilèges and Debussy’s L’Enfant prodigue.

“I want every singer to step on stage with the confidence of knowing they’re 100% ready to perform their best.”

The Path Forward

Connor’s career continues to grow, energized by its variety.

“Balancing piano, conducting, teaching, and coaching can feel like juggling five apples and three oranges,” he laughs, “but it’s exciting, and I’m never bored. Every challenge drives me to keep learning.”

This summer, he returns to the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity—this time as assistant conductor for two opera workshops.

“Returning to Banff in a new role is really exciting,” he shares. “I was there as a répétiteur two years ago, so the opportunity to jump back in as a conductor feels like a full-circle moment.” 

His journey from ³Ô¹ÏÍø to one of Canada’s most prestigious music schools—and now to leading roles at national arts institutions—is a testament to the power of passion, adaptability, and the transformative opportunities ³Ô¹ÏÍø offers its students.