The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra pays homage to their longtime executive director in a special concert on Tuesday, June 29. Before the show, Trudy Schroeder was on Morning Light to reflect on her time at the WSO.



After 13 years at the helm of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, executive director Trudy Schroeder’s tenure came to a close last month on May 31. 

“It’s been shockingly busy,” says Schroeder on the newfound time away from the office. “Not quite as leisurely as I had anticipated for the first month of not being in regular full-time workplace.” 

Given the tireless energy and steadfast commitment exhibited for more than a decade at the WSO, this lack of leisure time shouldn’t come as a surprise. 

After serving in a similar role at the Winnipeg Folk Festival, Schroeder arrived as Executive Director of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra in 2008 during a period which she calls a “crisis zone.”  

“The first week that I walked into the office my assistant said to me: ‘Welcome here, I’m Laurie… I’ve been here for 8 years and you’re my 14th executive director.’” 

Since then, Schroeder’s leadership provided not only stability to the organization but also growth and tremendous opportunity. The accomplishments are many: operating surpluses in all but one year — the year of a global pandemic; increased revenue and ticket sales; the creation of new programming and community partnerships; tours to the National Arts Centre and Carnegie Hall. 

On Tuesday, June 29, the WSO and other community leaders honour Schroeder’s impact on the orchestra and the legacy she leaves on the city’s arts and culture sector. In a special event 30 minutes prior to the Concerto for Two Cellos concert, A Tribute for Trudy shares stories, musical performances and more! 

In the full conversation with former Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Trudy Schroeder, learn more about some of the organization's major accomplishments, items not quite crossed off the to-do list, and a special message for arts and music lovers in the city.