What elements of the program did you particularly enjoy?
The performance program offers you so much time to simply focus on your technique, artistry and all around musicianship. The academics are catered to your personal growth. For me, the program offered the perfect balance of performance time, practice time and academic challenge. It is a true gift in the Canadian post-secondary music institutions.
What makes the Schulich School of Music a great choice for prospective students?Â
First is the city. Montreal is a perfect place to spend time in school. You learn and grow in a culturally incandescent city, and the French language is a great challenge for those unfamiliar with the language. It is an ideal time to challenge yourself - as a performing musician you must be okay with living (in some way or another) outside of your comfort zone. Montreal is a city that will provide you that challenge, while constantly kindling a feeling of home.Â
Secondly is the feeling of community and camaraderie that you feel throughout the faculty. I always felt welcome and humbled to be among such amazing minds in faculty and student body alike.
What are some highlights of your time at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ?Â
Performing Le Nozze di Figaro with my best friends. It was a challenge, but so rewarding to be among such amazing musicians. Learning La voix Humaine - one of the greatest challenges of my musical career - but Patrick Hansen always pushed me to be better. That is rare in an educator.
What advice would you give an incoming student?
Take this time to know yourself, push yourself and ground yourself within whatever art form you are pursuing. It may not be your life's career, but there is a reason you're here studying music, and I hope it's your life's passion. The Schulich School of Music is a remarkable and special place. Stay curious and ambitious - everyone there wants you to succeed - so why not give it your best?
Article originally published in Winter 2016
