When Alexa Haynes-Pilon returns to Saskatoon this month, she won’t simply be returning as a cellist. She’ll be coming home to an orchestra at her fingertips – conducting, performing, and sharing a Baroque concert she’s dreamed up for the city where her own musical journey began.

I treat it like training for a marathon

Haynes-Pilon will take the stage with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra in The Elements. Preparing to for double duty, playing the cello and conducting at the same time, is no small feat. For months, Haynes-Pilon has been training on an elliptical with her cat Lily strapped to her in a sling.

“I treat it like training for a marathon. You can’t just strap a cello on and then stand for two hours, have to prepare your body for the experience,” explains Haynes-Pilon. “Lily always wants to be attached to me and she’s the same weight as the cello so it’s perfect.”

It’s quirky and really takes you on twists and turns

The Elements promises to challenge some of the assumptions audiences may have about Baroque music. Forget the idea of something restrained, delicate, or safely tucked away in the 18th century. Haynes-Pilon has gathered music filled with storms, rushing water, fire, and wind in this program.

“It’s quirky and really takes you on twists and turns,” she says. “I love the chaos of Rebel’s Les Élémens, it’s such a trip, and Durante’s Madness is definitely not the usual. It’s a really cool piece.”

I thought the Vivaldi piece was the perfect opportunity to join forces

As a specialist in early music, Haynes-Pilon travels the globe performing but coming home to Saskatoon holds a special place in her heart as she reconnects with teachers and musicians she grew up with.

“I’ve known Stephanie Unverricht (SSO principal bassoonist) since we were in diapers. We grew up in the same circles,” says Haynes-Pilon. “I thought the Vivaldi piece was the perfect opportunity to join forces. I can’t wait to play with her again.”

For Haynes-Pilon this concert marks another chapter in a relationship with the orchestra and the city that helped shape her. For the audience, Haynes-Pilon hopes the performance offers a chance to discover that Baroque music isn’t as old and formal as they think; it can roar, it can rage, it can be modern, and sometimes, it can bring you home.

The Elements

Saturday Sept. 12

7:30p.m.

St. John’s Cathedral

In-person Tickets $46 – $53 (SOLD OUT)

Online via ConcertStream.tv  $22

For all the information follow this link.