Meet Our Team

Carlos Bastidas

     Francisca Figueroa

Ann Nguyen

Music Director and Conductor

Social media and marketing

Graphic and Web Designer

Maestro Carlos Bastidas is an internationally celebrated conductor recognized for his artistry, innovation, and inspiring leadership. With a career defined by excellence and inclusivity, he has become a prominent figure in the global classical music community.
Maestro Bastidas currently serves as the Music Director of the Ontario Pops Orchestra, where his dynamic leadership has transformed the ensemble into one of Canada’s most vibrant and inclusive orchestras. He also holds the title of Emeritus Conductor of the Durham Chamber Orchestra, reflecting his lasting contributions to its artistic growth.
Maestro Bastidas studied bassoon, composition, conducting, and chamber music at the University of Ottawa, where he developed the multifaceted foundation that has shaped his distinguished career. His expertise and passion have propelled him to international acclaim, including a celebrated guest-conducting engagement with the Matanzas Symphony Orchestra in Cuba.
In addition to his live performances, Maestro Bastidas has reached global audiences through his widely followed YouTube channel, featuring numerous concert recordings that bring the beauty of classical music to listeners around the world. His critically acclaimed CD, Breaking Barriers, further showcases his dedication to exploring diverse musical traditions and creating meaningful connections with audiences.
Maestro Bastidas’s achievements have been widely recognized. In 2019, he received the Transformation Institute’s Transformation Award for Heritage for his contributions to cultural preservation and innovation. That same year, he was named one of TD’s 10 Most Influential Hispanic Canadians, underscoring his impact as a cultural ambassador and advocate for inclusivity.
Testimonials highlight his exceptional talent and influence:

• “Carlos Bastidas is a conductor whose performances are both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant. He is a true visionary in the world of classical music.” – Canadian Arts Review, 2021
• “Maestro Bastidas’s passion for music and his ability to inspire musicians and audiences alike make him a standout figure in the classical music scene.” – U.S. Classical Music Journal, 2022

With a commitment to championing both classical masterpieces and contemporary works, Maestro Carlos Bastidas continues to redefine the concert experience, uniting communities and transcending boundaries through the universal language of music.

Francisca Figueroa, Marketing professional with a bachelor’s in marketing and a Postgraduate Certificate in Global Business Management - marketing focused.
 
She collaborates with the Ontario Pops Orchestra by coordinating Social Media and Email Marketing campaigns. She assists with the content creation, the edition of videos, and the development of new ideas.
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Ann Nguyen is a graphic designer and digital artist from Mississauga. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media from York University and has since worked on advertisements for the Ontario Pops and other local Toronto festivals. Ann has been with the Ontario Pops Orchestra since 2016, and plays piano in her spare time. 

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Music Director, Carlos Bastidas
Social Media and Marketing,  Francisca Figueroa 
Graphic Design and Website Design, Ann Nguyen