Program overview
This internationally renowned program is a course-based, professional training program designed for musicians who wish to develop the skills required in the music recording and media industries. It is based on the German Tonmeister program and offers extensive, hands-on opportunities to record a broad spectrum of solo recitals, large opera, and symphonic repertoire with soloists and choirs, and complex Jazz Band and pop idioms. Â The program also has close ties with industry that facilitate opportunities for internships.
The program must be completed in two consecutive years due to the precise scheduling of class times and studio hours.  Approximately 8 students are admitted to this highly competitive program each year. Program pre-requisites may be acquired through a qualifying year and subsequent application.
Requirements
A Bachelor of Music degree is required to apply for the masters in sound recording. Similar degrees may also qualify, such as a B.A. with Music Major, or Conservatory training with substantial performance experience. Evidence of formal music training must be supported through the submission of academic transcripts.
Prerequisites (27 credits)
If you did not complete the prerequisites for this program during your undergraduate studies, you may apply for a one-year qualifying program as a special undergraduate student. Contact the Sound Recording Area Chair for further information.
Faculty
Faculty includes prominent researchers as well as award-winning recording engineers and producers in the fields of music production, television, and film sound familiar with cutting-edge technologies and new developments.
Resources & Opportunities
McGill’s professional-quality facilities provide state-of-the-art equipment for research and the recording of any size of ensemble in high-resolution multichannel audio and high-definition video, and include:
- Audio recording studios equipped for surround recording and virtual acoustics
- Four concert hall recording spaces
- An opera studio
- Post-production and editing suites
Awards
Audio Engineering Society Awards, Graduate Student Recording Project Competition, MIDAS internships, Schulich Scholarships, Low Beer Award and other Faculty scholarships.
Careers
Graduates are leaders in the field working in highly respected studios around the world and they win both creative and scientific international competitions.
