Press Release
For immediate release
Montreal, December 17, 2025 — The Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation announces that Ms. Florence Junca Adenot has stepped down as Chair of its board of directors, effective December 15, 2025. A recognized leader in philanthropic and cultural governance, Ms. Junca Adenot contributed her strong vision, steadfast commitment, and deep belief in the role of music in young people’s development.
During her tenure as Chair, the Foundation reached several key milestones, including strengthening its philanthropic capacity, developing structuring partnerships, and implementing initiatives aimed at democratizing access to classical music for young people—especially those from underserved backgrounds. She also contributed to the success of the 75th anniversary celebrations of Jeunesses Musicales Canada and the Foundation’s 40th anniversary in 2024, as well as to the creation of a philanthropic fund that will enable 2,000 underserved children from Montreal and remote regions to access free musical and educational activities every year.
“Serving the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation over the past six years has been both an honour and a pleasure. Seeing the next generation thrive, implementing concrete initiatives to democratize access to classical music, building a lasting legacy for children from underserved backgrounds, and increasing the Foundation’s philanthropic capital represent, to me, the essence of what we can accomplish collectively”, declares Florence Junca Adenot.
The Foundation extends its warmest thanks to Ms. Junca Adenot for her leadership, dedication, and decisive contributions to the organization’s growth and reach.
Interim Transition and Next Steps
To ensure continuity and organizational stability, Christine Chan and Claude Gagliardi will serve as Acting Co-Chairpersons while the recruitment process for a new Board Chair is carried out. Mr. Gagliardi has served on the Board for over ten years, while Ms. Chan has been a Board member for a little over a year. Together, they will continue to support the Executive Director and oversee ongoing strategic priorities.
“Claude and I are delighted to be able to support a mission that will ensure the vitality of classical music for generations to come”, states Christine Chan.
The Foundation will release an update as soon as the official appointment of the new Chair has been confirmed.
About the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation
Because classical music has the power to transform lives and help build a more inclusive society, the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation supports Jeunesses Musicales Canada and accompanies emerging young artists through committed and sustainable philanthropy.
The Foundation directly holds over $9M and has helped create nearly $6M in additional endowed funds. The investment income generated by these funds—alongside donations and fundraising activities—helps ensure the long-term sustainability of Jeunesses Musicales Canada and supports the career development of young Canadian musicians.
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Media Contact:
Véronique Desjardins, Executive Director
Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation
fondation@jmcanada.ca | 📞 438-868-0853
