The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra has announced the death of composer Jocelyn Morlock, who was its composer-in-residence from 2014 to 2019. Originally from Winnipeg, Jocelyn Morlock was a Juno winner and taught at the University of British Columbia.
Jocelyn Morlock was known for her compositions inspired by birds and nature. His best-known work is inspired by the tragic fate of Amanda Todd, a teenager who killed herself in 2012 following cyberbullying.
My Name is Amanda Toddcreated in May 2016, is part of the large multidisciplinary cycle Life Reflected designed by Alexander Shelley at the National Arts Center and was performed as part of the NAC Orchestra’s Canada 150 Tour, which also presented it in 2019 as part of the 50th anniversary European tour ‘together.
“It is far too soon that this brilliant, caring, empathetic, fun and charming artist that is Jocelyn Morlock has left us,” said NAC Orchestra Music Director Alexander Shelley. “I can’t help but smile at the thought of her charm, her distinctive sense of humor, her generosity, her quick and sharp wit, and the amazing insight she displayed throughout our collaboration,” said he added. The CNA will fly its flag at half-mast in memory of the deceased.
The Canadian Music Center lists a large number of scores by Jocelyn Morlock and when we sort his works by popularity, a score for vocal ensemble with solo cello comes first, Exaudifollowed by a collection of melodies, Involuntary Love Songs. There is also an arrangement for alto flute and harp from Tomb of Couperin by Ravel.
My Name is Amanda Todd will be on the program for the Orchester Métropolitain’s “Elegance à la Kerson Leong” concert on April 28. OM decided to dedicate the concert to his memory.