Opera Nova Scotia (ONS) was co-founded in 2000 by Jason Parkhill and John Rapson under the name, Nova Scotia Opera Association. John Rapson served as its Music Director, and Jason Parkhill served as its Artistic and Managing Director. ONS was established initially as the ''Opera Department of the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts (MCPA),'' and has since expanded into its own entity, although the two organizations still maintain a very close relationship. ONS was formally incorporated as a 'not-for-profit' Association with the Government of Nova Scotia in May of 2000 and received formal charitable tax status with Canada Customs and Revenue Agency in October of that year. more... See more text