The Kawartha Youth Orchestra (KYO) has appointed Colin McMahon as its new executive director, with the Peterborough-based organization beginning a new season of music education for young people.
McMahon has spent the past three years as program manager and artistic director of Upbeat!, KYO’s subsidized after-school music education program.
“Since joining the KYO, Colin has proven his potential for leadership and demonstrated his passion for and ability to create exceptional music education programs,” said KYO board chair Bryce Porter in a media release.
“His understanding of KYO’s programs, relationships with faculty and families, and operational instincts make him an excellent choice to lead this next chapter of the organization.”
McMahon holds a doctorate in composition from the University of Toronto and has composed operas and chamber music. He has also produced two albums with folk band Lo & the High Road while working as a music educator and administrator.
“I have a deep love of community music-making — it brings people together like nothing else,” McMahon said.
“In my new role, I look forward to expanding the KYO’s exceptional range of programming and building a deeper relationship with Peterborough’s vast community of musicians for the benefit of our talented young musicians.”
A registered charitable non-profit organization, KYO provides music and orchestral training for students ranging from elementary school to post-secondary age from Peterborough and other communities across the Kawarthas.
Its orchestral program, led by lead conductor Murray Lefebvre, provides a progression from beginner to advanced musicians through junior, intermediate, and senior orchestras and group lessons. KYO also offers specialized programs including jazz and folk ensembles.
The organization describes its approach as centred on the belief that music should be accessible to everyone, with financial assistance, bursaries, and an instrument lending library intended to reduce barriers to participation.
One of KYO’s major accessibility initiatives is Upbeat!, which was launched five years ago as a barrier-free after-school program for children, with no previous musical experience required.
The program provides opportunities for young people to learn to play violin, viola, and cello while developing their skills in a group setting. More than 300 children have participated in Upbeat! since its launch.
According to KYO, demand for accessible music education has continued to increase, with the organization’s move to the New Canadians Centre last year providing additional space for its programs.
McMahon said the benefits of ensemble music extend beyond learning to play an instrument.
“I am so grateful that here at the KYO we can make a real measurable impact on young lives,” he said.
“Young folks today are up against many challenges. Increasingly, they struggle to focus, feel isolated, and are pessimistic about the future. Playing music in an ensemble offers the perfect antidote to these struggles and I see the positive effects every day.”
Porter said McMahon will also be responsible for strengthening the sustainability of the volunteer-driven organization, which is mainly supported by federal, provincial, and municipal grants as well as by community donors and sponsors.
“As executive director, Colin will continue strengthening KYO’s long-term organizational health and commitment to sustainability,” Porter said. “We know he will nurture a lasting love of music in young musicians, inspiring them to pursue their craft with ambition, expression, and pride.”
Registration for KYO’s 2026-27 season is underway, with auditions for its orchestras and ensembles still open.
More information is available at thekyo.ca.
