\u0022Boris Brott was the beating heart of the Orchestre classique de Montréal,\u0022 the ensemble said of its artistic director.
Hamilton police said they received a 911 call just after 10 a.m. reporting a vehicle driving on the wrong side of the road and asked all patrol officers to look out for the vehicle. Brott was hit around 10:20 a.m. He was brought to a hospital, where he died of his injuries.
“The entire OCM family is in a state of disbelief,” the OCM wrote in a statement. “Boris Brott was the beating heart of the Orchestre classique de Montréal, a renowned leader in the world of classical music in North America and beyond, a mentor to countless young musicians, and a very dear friend to so many. His sudden passing thus leaves a deep void in our musical community, and a profound sadness in our personal lives.
“The OCM remains dedicated to the highest musical ideals of its founders, Alexander and Lotte Brott, ideals that were furthered with passion and determination by our dearest Maestro Brott. We will continue to make great music and to touch people, inspired by Boris’s standards of excellence, by his indomitable spirit, by his dedication to sharing his musical gifts with people from all walks of life, and by his love for humanity.