Music Degree Programs at Colleges and Universities in Alberta

Traditionally, a career in music centered around teaching and performance. Now, there is a growing number of careers in music, from recording arts to jazz and popular music. These seven colleges and universities in Alberta have responded to this development by offering diverse degree programs and diplomas in music.

From Bachelor to Doctorate of Music at the University of Alberta

Established in 1908, the University of Alberta boasts an enrolment of over 37,000 students (2009/10 figures). U of A has a well-recognized reputation worldwide. It's computing science program was ranked third in Canada and 55th in internationally in 2010, while its School of Business ranked 89th.

U of A offers three undergraduate music programs: Bachelor of Arts (Honours) with a Music Major, Bachelor of Music and, like the University of Lethbridge, a combined Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education. Students can major in composition/theory, history, performance or world music. The Faculty of Music also offers a post-degree in music.

Students gain invaluable ensemble-playing experience by joining one of U of A's 13-plus music ensembles. These range from the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra to the Madrigal Singers and the Indian Music Ensemble.

The University of Alberta also offers a Masters in Music, Masters in Arts (in Music) and Doctorate in Music. Graduate students can specialize in academics, applied music, choral conducting or composition.

A Music Degree and a Christian Education at Ambrose University College

Ambrose University College's history is rooted in several older post-secondary institutions, including the Canadian Nazarene College, the Canadian Theological College and the Alliance University College. Founded in 1921 as the Calgary Bible Institute, the institution focused on educating young adults to serve in the church or overseas missions. It received university accreditation in 1999 and in 2007, began operating as a single entity called Ambrose University College.

Located in Calgary, Alberta, AUC boasts one of the largest private academic libraries in Western Canada and has received a Government of Alberta Award for Educational Travel. With an enrollment just over 600, Ambrose's faculty-to-student ratio guarantees small classes.

Ambrose University College offers a four-year Bachelor of Music program, as well as a three- and a four-year Bachelor of Arts program (Music Major). Students receive lessons on their primary instrument, music theory, aural training and performance.

Students gain valuable ensemble experience by joining the Chamber Singers, College Singers, Community Singers, Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Brass Ensemble or Guitar Ensemble. The programs offer some flexibility in area of study as well as various leadership development opportunities (e.g. practicum and conducting).

Jazz and Contemporary Popular Music at MacEwan University

MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta, was founded in 1971 as Grant MacEwan College. The school has over 42,000 students. MacEwan U offers over 60 programs, including applied degrees, undergraduate degrees, certificates, continuing education, corporate training and diplomas. It 2009, MacEwan College became an accredited university.

In 2011, MacU unveiled a new Bachelor of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Popular Music program. It is the first post-secondary institution to offer a university degree that combines jazz and contemporary popular music. Students study basic techniques, history and music theory. They can focus on one or two of the following concentrations in their final two years of education: composition, performance, recording arts and comprehensive (combining two majors).

As with all music programs at the post-secondary level, students must participate and perform in a musical ensemble, such as the jazz ensemble, showcase band, jazz combo, jazz choir, guitar ensemble or percussion ensemble. The faculty also offers a two-year Music Diploma and four-year Bachelor of Music.

Study Classical and Jazz Music at Mount Royal University

Located in Calgary, AB, Mount Royal University was founded in 1911 as a college. Today, it boasts an enrollment of 14,000 credit students and offers bachelor’s degrees, applied degrees, university transfer courses, diplomas and certificates. MRC became MRU in 2009.

Mount Royal U offers two music performance diploma programs, the Classical Diploma and Jazz Diploma. Both streams focus on honing students' performance skills while providing a solid foundation in music history, theory, composition and improvisation.

There are several ensembles at Mount Royal including the Kantorei Choir, guitar ensembles, jazz combos, flute ensembles, percussion chorus and jazz vocal ensemble. The MRU Conservatory also has several youth ensembles. Many of its ensembles perform throughout western Canada. Distinguished alumni include opera singer Daniel Okulitch, the composer for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, David Pierce and violinist Andrew Dawes.

As of April 2013, the MRU Jazz Program is one of the post-secondary programs on the chopping block in response to the drastic cuts to education in the Alberta 2013 budget. Efforts to save the program are well underway. Please visit Save our Fine Arts for updates.

Red Deer College's Music Diploma and Music Preparatory Program

Established in 1964, Red Deer College offers over 75 programs, including degrees, diplomas and university transfer programs. According to “Universities in Canada” on Study in Canada's website, Red Deer College has over 10,000 students enrolled.

RDC offers a two-year Diploma in Music that provides students a solid foundation in ear training, music history, music theory, performance ensembles, private music instruction and recording technology. Like MRU, students can concentrate on the classical stream or contemporary genres. They may also do a combination of both streams.

Red Deer is the only college in Alberta to offer a one-year preparatory program in Music, geared towards musicians with either little or no formal music training. Students learn the basics in listening, performing and composing music. After completing this program, students must audition into the diploma program.

Doctoral, Bachelor and Masters Degree Programs in Music at the University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is one of Canada’s top seven research universities in Canada. Established in 1966, U of C offers over 100 undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees and boasts an enrollment of over 29,000 students.

The University of Calgary Department of Music offers undergraduate and masters degree programs in Music. At the undergraduate level, students can enroll in the Bachelor of Arts (Music Major), Bachelor of Music (majoring in Composition, History and Theory of Performance) and a Bachelors of Music in Integrated Studies (combination of two disciplines).

Students can study composition, musicology, performance and telemedia arts in U of C's masters degree program. The U of C also offers a PhD program in Musicology or Composition.

The achievements of U of C's ensembles include touring throughout North America, airing on CBC Radio and performing at the Honens International Piano Competition and Festival. Notably, the Wind Ensemble has performed at the CBDNA National Conference and the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE) Conference.

Digital Audio Arts and Combined Degrees in Music at the University of Lethbridge

Founded in 1967, the University of Lethbridge offers 150 undergraduate and graduate programs and serves nearly 7,000 students. This institution prides itself on its liberal arts education programs. Students can study a combined degree, graduating with two degrees within five years.

U of L offers several undergraduate music programs, including a four-year Bachelor in Music, B. Mus. in Digital Audio Arts, Bachelor of Arts (Music Major) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Students may also combine their music degree with another, such as a business management or education degree, in a five-year combined degree program.

Students can also enroll in a two- or three- year post-diploma B. Mus. Program. U of L's Masters Degree in Music and Master of Arts in Music is offered in voice, piano, collaborative piano, French horn, violin, conducing and composition.

Notably, University of Lethbridge's Bachelor of Music in Digital Audio Arts is the first degree program of its kind in western Canada. Its audio school combines academic courses with hands-on experience in first-class audio studios and labs.

Admission Requirements for Studying Music at the Post-Secondary Level

Music students not only need to meet the general admission requirements for university or college, but also the audition requirements to be accepted into a music program. Therefore, prospective students in music should speak with their music teacher and school guidance counselor as early as junior high to prepare.

A high level of performance is expected. The requirements differ from one instrument to another, but they are fairly similar when comparing music schools. For instance, at U of C, it is expected that pianists and vocalists be at Grade 10 (Royal Conservatory, Conservatory Canada or similar institution) or higher. Other instrumentalists should be at Grade 8 or higher.

Auditions are usually generally scheduled in the winter and spring. Alternatively, prospective students can submit their audition on DVD.

Music students have more options available to them at colleges and universities. Jazz and popular music, digital audio arts, music teaching and composition are just a few of the music programs available at universities and colleges in Alberta. Regardless of where a student plans to study music, he or she should thoroughly research various programs and admission requirements and speak with his or her guidance counselor and music teacher to ensure that all requirements will be met well before the audition.

Originally published April 2, 2011. Updated April 30, 2013. All rights reserved by Rhona-Mae Arca.

Summer Music Camps in Alberta for Children, Youth and Adults

Summer music camps enable musicians to hone their skills, learn new techniques and explore new styles. A look at five summer programs in Alberta.

Some people attend summer hockey camp, while others go to Tech Camp. For musicians, there's summer music camp.

Music camps are typically day camps that run for one to two weeks. They generally involve private lessons, ensemble work, and master classes with leading teachers, conductors, and performers. Many offer seminars on various aspects of performing, such as:

• accompanying

• improvisation

• memorization

• movement

• musical interpretation and style

• performance anxiety

• proper technique

The programs often conclude with a performance. Some also feature performances by faculty members.

Here is a look at five Alberta-based summer music camps for students of various ages and abilities. These programs attract students from across Canada and the northwestern United States.

Singspiration Singing Camp for Youth Singers

Singspiration was established in 2000 for youths in Grades 4 through 12. Campers sing in a choir, learn handbells, attend art classes, and enjoy some outdoor activities. In 2006, Singspiration received the Patricia Cook Memorial Award from the the Alberta Choral Federation for its service to advocacy in arts education in Alberta. Singspiration is held at Concordia University College.

Band, Choir, Piano and Musical Theatre for Youth at Music Camp Alberta

Music Camp Alberta has been offering summer music programs since 1957. Seven summer programs are offered, which are held at Red Deer College:

1. David J. Peterkin Symphonic Band Camp: For high school students with at least three years experience on their instrument.

2. Piano Workshop: For high school students with at least their Grade 5 piano through the Royal Conservatory of Music (or equivalent).

3. Youth Contemporary Choir Workshop: For high school students with choral experience to study acoustic vocal jazz techniques and learn about contemporary music genres.

4. Intermediate Band Camp: For students in Grades 8 - 10 with at least two years' experience on their instrument.

5. MusicCamp Girls' Choir: For girls aged nine to 14.

6. MusicCamp Boys' Choir: For boys with unchanged voices.

7. Musical Theatre for Young Singers: For students aged nine to 14.

Fine Arts Camps for Children, Youth and Adults at the Calgary Arts Summer School

The Calgary Arts Summer School (CASS) is an inter-disciplinary summer arts school established in 1993. CASS currently offers seven camps:

1. Musical Theatre Showtime: For students aged nine to 19. Students plan, produce and present a scripted musical production.

2. Exploring the Arts Camp: This camp offers students an introduction to music, drama, movement and art. For students aged 4 to 10. No previous experience is necessary but is welcome.

3. Play Writing Camp: For students aged seven to 12. Students create, rehearse and perform their own unique play in five days.

4. Adult Piano Camp: For adult pianists of various levels.

5. Piano Camp: For pianists aged 10 to adult, intermediate to advanced. Students also explore choir, art, improvisation, the Alexander Technique, and more.

6. Jazz Keyboard Workshop: For all instrumentalists aged 13 through adult. Students will exploring comping, solo and listening techniques.

7. Piano Pedagogy Workshop: For music teachers as well as advanced music students.

CASS also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Check CASS' website for camp locations and registration information.

Guitar, Drums, Recording and Jazz at Alberta College

Alberta College at Grant MacEwan University offers seven summer music programs on the Alberta College campus:

1. Guitar Basics: For beginners to provide an introduction to the guitar.

2. Guitar/Drum Workshop: For beginner to advanced level guitarists.

3. Studio Recording Techniques: Explores the techniques involved in the operation of studio recording equipment. Students receive a combination of instruction and studio time.

4. MacEwan Summer Jazz Workshop: For students aged 13 to 20. Students explore improvisation, jazz styles through working in combos and big-bands.

5. All that Jazz - Jazz Appreciation: Students will explore musicians and major influences in jazz using A/V examples and basic musical analysis.

6. Vocal Workshop: Students will develop their skills in vocal production, music reading, harmonization and improvisation as they perform in solo and ensemble situations.

7. Musical Theatre: Students aged seven to 16 years of age will learn singing, acting and movement.

Complete Vocal Experience at The University of Lethbridge

The Southern Alberta Vocal Experience is open to students aged 13 - 20 years of age. Students will explore choral repertoire and creative movement.

They will receive private lessons, and master classes. Students will perform in a vocal recital featuring works for vocal solo and piano as well as an ensemble oriented performance, featuring operetta and musical theatre repertoire. Both performances are open to the public.

Registering for a Summer Music Camp

Summer music camps do fill up quickly. Check the camp websites for detailed registration information. Some offer scholarships and bursaries for those who require financial assistance.

Musicians can research the summer programs available in their area. Young musicians should discuss with their music teacher and parents which program is most suitable for them.

Whether the goal is to learn a new skill, keep those musician fingers nimble, continuing education, or improve one's performance savvy, summer music camps are a wonderful way to further one's musical development. They also offer the valuable opportunities of making new friends and working with world-class musicians, teachers and conductors.

Originally published on Suite101 on April 16, 2010. Information updated on March 10, 2013. All rights reserved by Rhona-Mae Arca.

Summer Music Programs around Alberta

Parents, if you're looking for a summer activity for the young artist in your life, check out some of these summer music programs throughout Alberta:

1. Calgary Arts Summer School Association: Now in its thirteenth year, CASSA is enjoying steady growth and a long list of happy campers. The Piano Camp is fully booked but there are still spaces available in the Musical Theatre Showtime; Music, Drama, Movement & Art; Music Theory Workshop and Piano Pedagogy Workshop.

2. Mount Royal College - The Conservatory: The Conservatory is offering: a Drumset Educational Program, Head Start Band Program, Intermediate Band Program, Kodaly Musicianship, Morningside Music Bridge, Music with Your Baby, Organ Academy International Summer School, Summer Jazz Workshop and Summer String Academy.

3. University of Lethbridge: Summer programs offered in Kindermusik, Drama, Art and more!

4. Red Deer College: RDC offers MusiCamp Alberta, for students age 10 and up. Students can experience fiddling, piano, choir, band, Adult Concert Band and musical theatre.

5. Macewan College: offers summer workshops in music, art and new media.

If you hear of any arts related summer programs that you think should be added to the list, please let me know.

(c) 2006 by Musespeak(tm), Calgary, AB, Canada. All rights reserved.