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RIMOUSKI, APRIL 24, 2025 — Concert aux Îles du Bic, a cherished chamber music festival proudly celebrating its 24th anniversary in the picturesque Lower St. Lawrence region, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Thibault Bertin-Maghit as its new Artistic Director. This marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first artistic director to succeed James Darling, the festival’s co-founder and artistic director since its inception in 2002, marking an exciting new chapter for the festival.
“Our beloved audience had the pleasure of meeting Thibault at last year’s festival, where he showcased his talents as both a double bassist and the artistic director of collectif9,” remarked outgoing artistic director James Darling. “It brings me immense joy to pass the festival’s reins to such a capable and visionary artist. I am confident that Thibault will elevate this festival to new heights with his unwavering dedication and remarkable talent.” In 2025, Mr. Bertin-Maghit was honored with the Opus Award for Artistic Director of the Year for his work with collectif9, which also won a Juno in March for Classical Album of the Year in the small ensemble category.
“I am both humbled and overjoyed to accept the position of Artistic Director at Concerts aux Îles du Bic, an organization I deeply admire for its artistic excellence and its remarkable ability to unite the community. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to James Darling, who is passing the torch to me after generously sharing his passion for over 24 years, establishing this festival as an integral part of Quebec’s music landscape. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the dedicated festival team and engaging with the Rimouski community to continue presenting inspiring and unique musical experiences in a spirit of togetherness,” said Mr. Bertin-Maghit.
Concerts aux Îles du Bic thanks its valued partners, namely the governments of Canada (including the Canada Council for the Arts) and Quebec (including the CALQ and Tourisme Québec), the Ville de Rimouski, Tourisme Bas-Saint-Laurent, and Hydro-Québec, the presenting partner. The musical season is, in part, possible with their support.
Concerts aux Îles du Bic is the largest chamber music presenter in Eastern Quebec. Founded in 2002 by Élise Lavoie and James Darling, the festival unites both established and emerging artists for unforgettable concerts. Musicians form ephemeral chamber music ensembles, delivering performances of celebrated and previously unpublished works amidst the enchanting backdrop of the islands of Bic and Bas-Saint-Laurent. As one of Quebec’s premier chamber music festivals, it combines the allure of talented performers with the breathtaking splendor of its natural surroundings. Join us on May 21 for the reveal of the Festival’s 24th season, set to take place from August 2 to 10, 2025.
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