Are you dreaming of a career in music? The Department of Music at the University of Calgary could be your perfect launchpad! This department nurtures future performers, educators, composers, theorists, historians, and music critics, offering a wide array of opportunities to find your true calling. You can discover more about these incredible prospects on calgary1.one.
A Rich History
The University of Calgary, established in 1945, initially operated as an offshoot of the University of Alberta. By 1966, it gained autonomy, paving the way for a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
In 1959, the institution founded its Department of Fine Arts, with Frank Churchley at its helm as the inaugural chair. This department evolved into the Faculty of Fine Arts in 1968, under the leadership of its first dean, Richard Johnston. All existing music courses within the university, dating back to its inception, were then consolidated into the Department of Music within this new faculty. It’s worth noting that from 1966 to 1978, the Banff School of Fine Arts (Banff SFA) had a close affiliation with the University of Calgary, which acted as its steward during that period.
By 1990-1991, the Faculty of Music expanded its offerings, allowing students to pursue Bachelor of Education degrees, as well as Bachelor of Music degrees with specializations in school music (elementary and secondary), performance, theory and composition, and history and literature.
The department continued its growth, launching postgraduate studies in 1979. This included Master of Arts degrees in Musicology, Master of Music degrees (in school music and composition), and Master’s diplomas in Kodaly concept of music education and conducting. During the 1989-1990 academic year, the faculty boasted 165 students and a dedicated team of 47 instructors.
Department of Music: A Hub of Opportunity
Let’s take a closer look at the impressive facilities and opportunities offered by the University of Calgary’s Department of Music back in 1990:
- Two specialized concert halls that regularly hosted captivating performances.
- A comprehensive library, providing students with access to a wealth of musical literature and scores.
- The Music Resource Centre and Listening Lab, which housed a valuable collection of records from broadcaster Allan Sangster. This was a treasure trove for both students and researchers alike.
- An electronic music studio, a creative haven for experimenters and students keen on producing music with electronic tools.
- A dedicated computer music studio.
- The Canadian Music Centre, located in the university library tower since 1980.
At the time, the University of Calgary’s Department of Music boasted a highly developed infrastructure and was a hive of activity, ensuring a comprehensive educational and performance experience for its students.
A Vibrant Concert Scene
With such extensive resources, the University of Calgary became a dynamic hub for musical life. The institution regularly hosted concerts for students, faculty, and even welcomed renowned guest performers, enriching both the academic and cultural fabric of the university.
Students gained invaluable practical experience through a multitude of ensembles and choirs under the department’s umbrella, including chamber, women’s, and university choirs. From 1990 onwards, the University of Calgary was home to the University Solo Orchestra, the University Wind Ensemble, a symphony orchestra, and a camerata. Not to mention the two distinctive jazz ensembles: the “Blue Orchestra” and the “Red Orchestra.”
Vocal students also had ample opportunities to showcase their talents in numerous opera productions.
When delving into the history of the Department of Music at the University of Calgary, it’s impossible to overlook significant events from the 1990s. For instance, in April 1989, the university hosted the “Music in the Age of Galileo” festival and symposium. Then, in 1991, the 10th International Kodaly Symposium, dedicated to Zoltán Kodály’s pedagogical principles, was organized at the university.
Bachelor of Music at the University of Calgary
As mentioned, the Bachelor of Music program is a comprehensive pathway designed for students aspiring to professional careers in music. This degree allows for specialization in performance, composition, or integrated studies, which combine various musical aspects. If you’re a Calgary student also keen on teaching music, consider pursuing the combined Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education degree.
All programs within the University of Calgary’s Department of Music delve deep into performance and composition, music history and theory, and pedagogy. Students also engage in community events, broadening their horizons and gaining practical experience.
Beyond honing musical skills, students develop a strong artistic and theoretical foundation, cultivating creative thinking, research and analytical abilities, and both written and oral communication skills.
Career Pathways
Graduates from the Department of Music at the University of Calgary have a wide range of exciting career opportunities:
- Performance. Aspiring professional musicians can become soloists or join orchestras and ensembles.
- Music Education. Another fulfilling path is teaching music in schools, colleges, or offering private lessons. A notable example is Patrice Jégou-Oyewole, a retired Canadian figure skater who graduated from the university and is now an associate professor. She even won the Independent Music Award for Best A Cappella Song in both 2019 and 2020.
- Composition. Create original music for various media, operas, and concerts.
- Arts Administration. Take on administrative roles in cultural institutions, organizing concerts and festivals.
- Sound Design & Audio Production. Work as sound designers, producers, and audio engineers.
Earning a diploma from the Department of Music is an excellent stepping stone for pursuing graduate studies in music or even transitioning into other professional programs. Edmond Agopian, Head of the Department of Music Performance and conductor of the University of Calgary Orchestra, frequently emphasizes the extensive performance and learning opportunities available to students. These include inspiring masterclasses, collaborations with renowned organizations like the ProMusica Chamber Music Series, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Mount Royal Conservatory, as well as access to the acoustically acclaimed Rozsa Centre.
All these elements contribute to student success, fostering a supportive environment for both professional and creative growth. Future Calgary students can learn more about how to apply on the University of Calgary’s website. A great feature is the undergraduate student cost calculator, which helps prospective students estimate their first-year expenses.
The University of Calgary Music Program: Then and Now
The music program at the University of Calgary initially blossomed alongside the university’s overall growth. Music was taught as part of broader humanities and arts programs. However, as the student and faculty body expanded, so did the demand for specialized music education, leading to the establishment of a dedicated music department.
Today’s music education at the university offers a diverse range of courses covering all facets of music, including lessons, theory, history, composition, performance ensembles, music pedagogy, jazz, and music technology.
