Calgary Phil adds new resident conductor as search continues for music director

Ilan Kumaranayake Mendel will be the next resident conductor at Calgary Phil for the 2026-27 season.

The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra is welcoming Ilan Kumaranayake Mendel as its next resident conductor for the 2026-27 season. Hailing from Halifax, Mendel holds a diploma in trombone from The Glenn Gould School at The Royal Conservatory of Music and a Bachelor of Music in trombone performance from the University of Toronto. He previously served as the inaugural assistant conductor of the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra.

Mendel has also conducted the University of Toronto Contemporary Music Ensemble, the University of Toronto Trombone Choir, and has appeared as a guest conductor with the Nova Scotia Youth Wind Ensemble. This summer, he serves as an assistant conductor at the National Academy Orchestra of Canada. He’ll make his debut on Sept. 9 at a free orchestra concert at Alpine Park, followed by other appearances through the season.

“I am delighted to be joining the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and to join the remarkable work it does in the community,” said Mendel. “The opportunity to connect with the wonderful musicians of the orchestra and contribute to (its) artistic and outreach initiatives is truly exciting.” Calgary Phil is still on the hunt for its next music director following Rune Bergmann’s departure in 2025.

The orchestra has worked with a long list of guest conductors since, including principal guest conductor Karen Kamesek, who will continue in that role for the upcoming season. The resident conductor is an endowed chair supported by Mary Rozsa de Coquet, which provides an opportunity for early-career conductors to further develop their conducting and leadership skills. Mendel will work as an ambassador alongside the artistic team, leading some education, community, pops, and special programs.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ilan as resident conductor,” said Andrea Davison, director, artistic and education at the Calgary Phil. “He brings passion for orchestral music and vision for engaging audiences.”