One of the most sought-after conductors in the Pacific Northwest, French conductor Christophe Chagnard is an all-around musician acclaimed for his finely-etched performances and charismatic approach to music. Mr. Chagnard was appointed Music Director of the Lake Union Civic Orchestra in 2000 and has since built it into a highly dedicated and skilled orchestra known for its broad repertoire, passionate and precise interpretations and lush sound.
As co-founder of the Northwest Sinfonietta, in a few short years Mr. Chagnard has built the “finest chamber orchestra” in the Northwest and performs regularly with some of the biggest names in music such as Richard Stoltzman, Lynn Harrell, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Awadagin Pratt and Lara St. John. Mr. Chagnard is also Director of Orchestras at the University of Puget Sound. Most recently, Mr. Chagnard received the 2006 Outstanding Achievement in the Arts Award bestowed by Arts Fund.
A gifted communicator, Mr. Chagnard draws audiences into a piece of music with a direct approach that is compelling and distinctly his own. He has been praised by The News Tribune as an “intensely musical conductor given sometimes to attempting unconventional performances.” With a repertoire that cuts across the symphonic, opera, ballet and choral repertories, Mr. Chagnard brings the finely-honed sensibilities of the chamber musician to orchestral performance. A commitment to music of our time, a keen interest in mentoring and encouraging young musicians, and an easy manner in front of audiences help make him the complete musician.
