"It's remarkable how well we've been able to integrate our new music director into our season— literally, at the very last moment," Calder said. "He and our programmers worked quickly together in a way that promises great things for the future, with stimulating ideas and excitement flowing in both directions."

Among other programs, Eddins will lead a season-opening performance of Beethoven, Respighi, and Copland and season-ending concerts featuring Edmonton-based composer John Estacio's Spring's Promise. In January 2006, he will lead Vivaldi's The Four Seasons from the harpsichord.

Guest conductors include Franz-Paul Decker, Bruce Hangen, Yannick N_zet-S_guin, and Alain Trudel. Soloists include pianist Marc-Andr_ Hamelin and violinist Chantal Juillet.