Jean-Claude’s leadership tenures have been characterized by growth, collaboration, inclusivity, and critical recognition. With the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, his work was defined by the strength of his rapport with the musicians and the high artistic standard he maintained across a wide range of programs – from subscription concerts to outreach initiatives and national broadcasts. Following one such performance, The Herald wrote:

“What a stonker of a concert the RSNO and Jean-Claude Picard turned out on Saturday. It took me back to square one; right back to where I started with my consuming passion for live music. You know something? On the rare occasions when you get a conductor and an orchestra locked in unity with a fabulous programme, and everybody delivering the goods at white heat, there is no sensation on God’s, or anyone else’s, earth quite like it. The whole experience was a life force.”

At Scottish Ballet, Jean-Claude led a period of artistic growth with the Company’s orchestra. Together with the musicians, he fostered a new orchestral sound and technique that significantly raised the ensemble’s standard. In parallel, his dedication to fully supporting the dancers led to a heightened degree of precision between music and movement in performance. This collaborative work was recognized by the Company, peers, audiences, and critics for their excellence, positively contributing to the artistic standards of the organization and making a constructive impact within the Scottish artistic landscape and beyond. Following a performance of The Scandal at Mayerling, The Edinburgh Guide noted:

“Every single step, especially en pointe, is intricately placed in perfect precision to each note of the lush, lyrical score by Franz Liszt. Jean-Claude Picard conducts the superb Scottish Ballet Orchestra with vivacious tempo and flowing fluidity.”

Appointed to the Orchestre symphonique de Trois-Rivières on the eve of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jean-Claude demonstrated unwavering dedication, contributing to the stability and continuity of the orchestra and the community by maintaining regular seasons despite exceptional artistic and organizational challenges. In recognition of this leadership and the 2020-2021 season’s artistic calibre, the organization received a nomination for an Opus Prize. He also contributed significantly to the orchestra’s artistic profile through thoughtful programming, acclaimed outreach activities, and a strong commitment to Canadian composers—founding the position of Composer in Residence and launching a yearly National Call for Scores. Additionally, he gave a voice to all orchestra musicians through the inauguration of artistic committees. Though he stepped down in 2021, Jean-Claude continued to serve as Principal Guest Conductor until 2023. Le Nouvelliste, reviewing his inaugural concert with the orchestra, wrote:

“You never get a second chance to make a good first impression, and Maestro Jean-Claude Picard has magnificently seized his by undoubtedly conquering the Trois-Rivières public. The audience gave a heartfelt standing ovation at the end of each of the two parts of this exciting concert, which marked Picard’s arrival at the helm of a vibrant and dashing OSTR in spectacular fashion.”