Whether from the podium surrounded by the swell of musical notes brought to life by an ensemble of artists in front of her or in the rehearsal hall exploring and honing possibilities fully alongside an ensemble of musicians or kneeling in conversation with a young audience member who sees in her, the possibility of a future as a musician, even a conductor, Cosette Justo-Valdéz inspires. My recent conversation with her was nothing short of joy, because joy is the language Cosette speaks; and perhaps it is through joy that she inspires most powerfully.

Born and raised in Cuba, the daughter of amateur musicians, Maestra Valdéz has been surrounded by music all her life. After witnessing a symphony orchestra for the first time at the age of 18, she knew immediately that she was born to conduct. She picked up the baton as a student in 2003 and her journey began, eventually leading her away from her homeland to pursue a Master’s degree in Mannheim, Germany. From there, a career has opened doors for her to lead and inspire orchestras across the globe. She currently serves as the Resident Conductor of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Artistic Director of the Vancouver Island Symphony in Nanaimo, where I was fortunate to have her join me in conversation.