FAQs

George worked in medicine for over twenty years in Matheson, Ontario. He held prominent leadership positions including Medical Director, Chief of Staff, and Active Staff Emeritus at Bingham Memorial Hospital. In 2008, he won the Canadian Physician of the Year Council Award from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. He has also received honours from the Canadian Medical Association and the Northern School of Medicine.

Before studying medicine, George completed a BA in Fine Arts in Romania, with a specialization in classical music. He later graduated with top honours from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj, Romania. After moving to Canada in 1985, he obtained his medical license in Montreal.

George retired from full-time medical practice in 2017, after serving the Northern Ontario community for 25 years. During his tenure, he provided emergency, acute, and geriatric care, as well as private clinic services.

George is trained in multiple instruments, including violin, piano, and trombone. Throughout his music career, he performed primarily on trombone with the Timmins Symphony Orchestra and added saxophone while playing with the Timmins All Star Big Band.

As a student in 1973, George was selected to perform with the Romanian Youth Orchestra at the International Festival of Youth Orchestras in Scotland. This led to a performance with the World Youth Orchestra in London. Several years later, in 2003, he appeared as a Red Carpet Guest of Honour while leading the Canadian Youth Orchestra to that same international festival. He was also a board member for Orchestras Canada.

Travel is one of George’s lifelong passions. He has travelled through North America, Europe, and several international destinations. Beyond leisure, his global travels often intersect with his cultural involvement, medical experiences, and philanthropic efforts.

Exploring different cultures has fueled George’s artistic views and helped him become more connected to international heritage. His travels have inspired both his musical collaborations and his involvement as a cultural ambassador connecting Canadian and international organizations.

George supports healthcare organizations, food banks, museums, and youth education. He provides bursaries for student musicians and athletes. He also supports Orchestras Canada and is a recognized Fellow and Benefactor of the Metropolitan Opera in New York.

In 2013, the Government of Romania and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs awarded Dr. Freundlich the International Humanitarian, Philanthropist and Cultural Ambassador Award. The honour recognized his lifelong contributions in healthcare, the arts, and cross-cultural advocacy.