The enchanting fusion of children, classical music, and chocolate created pure magic last weekend at Koerner Hall, where cellist Stéphane Tétreault and pianist Olivier Hébert-Bouchard captivated Toronto’s youngest music enthusiasts.
Music & Truffles Kids, now in its eighth season, continues to prove that classical performances needn’t be stuffy affairs reserved for adults. The Sunday afternoon concert transformed the typically formal venue into a vibrant space where children’s wonder took center stage.
“We’re breaking down barriers that have traditionally kept families away from classical concerts,” explains Shauna Rolston, artistic director for the series. “Children absorb this music so naturally when it’s presented in an engaging way.”
Tétreault, performing on the priceless 1707 “Countess of Stanlein” Stradivarius cello previously owned by Bernard Greenhouse, brought technical brilliance that even the youngest audience members could appreciate. His animated playing style—complete with expressive facial expressions—kept children leaning forward in their seats.
“I saw many wide eyes when Stéphane explained his cello is over 300 years old,” notes Emily Chen, music educator and regular attendee. “That historical connection made something abstract suddenly very real for them.”
The program cleverly balanced accessibility with artistic integrity. Selections included Saint-Saëns’ playful “The Swan,” alongside more complex pieces by Debussy and Schumann. Rather than diluting the repertoire, the musicians enhanced it with brief, engaging introductions that gave young listeners entry points into each piece.
What distinguishes Music & Truffles Kids from other family concerts is its interactive approach. During the Q&A session, hands shot up throughout the hall as children posed surprisingly sophisticated questions about technique, musical interpretation, and even the emotional content of specific passages.
Ten-year-old Zara Patel asked Tétreault how he makes his cello “sound like it’s crying” during emotional moments. His thoughtful response, demonstrating various bow techniques, exemplified the program’s commitment to treating young audiences with respect rather than condescension.
The Toronto Arts Council reports that early exposure to live classical music correlates with improved academic performance and emotional development. Music & Truffles Kids has served over 12,000 children since its inception, with many families returning season after season.
“We’ve watched some of these kids grow up attending our concerts,” says Mooredale Concerts executive director Neville Austin. “Now they’re bringing younger siblings, creating this wonderful cycle of music appreciation.”
True to its name, the afternoon concluded with Belgian chocolate truffles for all attendees—a sweet reward that organizers know creates positive associations with the concert experience.
Parents appreciate the concert’s thoughtful 60-minute duration—substantial enough to showcase significant works without testing young attention spans. The 1:30 p.m. start time accommodates nap schedules for the youngest music lovers while leaving the remainder of Sunday free for family activities.
The Royal Conservatory of Music, which houses Koerner Hall, has embraced this initiative enthusiastically. “Programs like Music & Truffles Kids represent the future of classical music in Toronto,” notes RCM spokesperson Janine Davidson. “They’re cultivating the next generation of concert-goers in a city already known for its diverse cultural offerings.”
Looking ahead, the series will welcome Canadian pianist Jan Lisiecki in February—another opportunity for children to experience world-class musicians in an environment designed specifically for them.
As families departed Koerner Hall on Sunday, many children clutched program books filled with newly collected autographs. Beyond the obvious enjoyment, something more profound was evident: the seeds of lifelong musical appreciation had been planted.
In a city where children’s entertainment options multiply daily, Music & Truffles Kids stands out by refusing to underestimate its young audience. The chocolate may be what initially attracts them, but it’s the music that keeps them coming back.
