Music - Music News /music/channels_item/18 en Alexey Shafirov Wins the 2024–2025 Classical Concerto Competition /music/node/84687 <h2>The Schulich School of Music is thrilled to congratulate pianist Alexey Shafirov on winning the 2024–2025 Classical Concerto Competition!</h2> <p>For over a decade, the competition has showcased outstanding musical talent and given the first prize winner the distinguished opportunity to perform with the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra. Alexey will perform with the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra on <strong><a href="/music/channels/event/mcgill-symphony-orchestra-359247">April 5, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in Salle Pierre-Mercure</a>. </strong></p> Tue, 19 Nov 2024 21:03:21 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ’s Katarina Quartet take home top prizes from the Saint Paul Quartet Competition, now they’re Juilliard bound! /music/node/83586 <p>The <strong>Katarina String Quartet</strong>, consisting of violinists <strong>Jeanel Liang</strong> and <strong>Jérôme Chiasson</strong>, violist <strong>Celia Morin</strong>, and cellist <strong>Maya Enstad</strong>, have become forces to be reckoned with. Since winning VRƵ's 2022-2023 Chamber Music Competition, we have seen the young quartet participate in internationally renowned training programs, such as International Musicians Seminar (IMS) Prussia Cove and the VRƵ International String Quartet Academy (MISQA), as well as compete in international chamber music competitions in No</p> Wed, 29 May 2024 21:25:32 +0000 VRƵ Teaching Awards, Honorary Doctorate, Academic and Administrative Awards: Congratulations to this year’s recipients! /music/node/83580 <p>As many of our students prepare to graduate, let’s take a moment to appreciate the faculty members, student instructors, and administrators who helped guide them towards this momentous achievement. </p> Tue, 28 May 2024 15:25:00 +0000 VRƵ A major transformation begins in Pollack Hall /music/node/83451 <p>Pollack Hall, situated within the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ, is scheduled to close temporarily on May 1, 2024, to undergo extensive refurbishment of its facilities. The forthcoming major renovations aim to enhance the experience for both performers and audiences. As a prominent fixture in Montreal's cultural landscape, this hall pays tribute to the Canadian philanthropist of Ukrainian descent, Maurice Pollack. Inaugurated in 1975, the hall has not undergone significant renovations since 2000.</p> Mon, 15 Apr 2024 20:00:00 +0000 VRƵ Sara Schabas wins the 9th edition of the Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/83279 <h2>The Schulich School of Music is proud to announce soprano <strong>Sara Schabas</strong> as the winner of the 2023–2024 Wirth Vocal Prize! </h2> <p>Almost a decade after its establishment by Montreal philanthropist Elizabeth Wirth, the prize is awarded annually to a Schulich School of Music voice student who demonstrates exceptional talent, and significant promise for an international career. The grand prize includes a 14-karat gold pin, a concert during the Schulich school year, a private consultation with Boulev’Art Artists’ Management and a $25,000 cash award. </p> Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ Jazz Orchestra I around Montreal /music/node/83296 <p>Conductor Marianne Trudel and VRƵ Jazz Orchestra I are in and around Montreal to close out their season.  You have four more opportunities to see them perform! Follow the links below for more detail:</p> <p style="margin-left:40px">An annual collaboration with the Cégep Drummondville Big Band, enjoy three performances in one night:<br /> <strong><a href="/music/channels/event/mcgill-jazz-orchestra-i-spectacle-de-stage-band-356351">Drummondville | Cégep Drummondville | March 26, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.</a></strong></p> Mon, 25 Mar 2024 18:29:01 +0000 VRƵ Updated: Winners | Schulich at the Junos: here are our nominees! /music/node/83158 <p>And the winners are...</p> <h4>JAZZ ALBUM OF THE YEAR (SOLO) | ALBUM DE JAZZ DE L’ANNÉE (SOLO)</h4> <p>Day Moon <em><strong> (Winner)</strong></em><br /> <strong>Christine Jensen</strong> (BMus’94, MMus’06)</p> &;&;&;/&; <h4>CLASSICAL COMPOSITION OF THE YEAR | COMPOSTITION CLASSIQUE DE L'ANNÉE</h4> <p>Don't Throw Your Head in Your Hands <em><strong>(Winner)</strong></em></p> <p><strong>Nicole Lizée </strong>(Visiting Scholar, MMus '01)</p> &;&;&;/&; <p><em>Updated on April 10, 2024</em></p> Fri, 01 Mar 2024 18:03:12 +0000 VRƵ Updated: Winners | Congratulations to all the Schulich nominees for this year’s Prix Opus and GRAMMY awards! /music/node/82979 <p>And the winners are...</p> <h4><strong>27e Prix OPUS</strong></h4> <h4> </h4> <h4>Concerts de l’année - Musiques moderne, contemporaine</h4> <p><strong><em>Le Quatuor selon Berio (Winner)</em></strong></p> <p><strong>The Molinari Quartet - </strong>(Olga Ranzenhofer, violin; Antoine Bareil, violin; <strong><a href="/music/frederic-lambert" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Frédéric Lambert, viola</a></strong>; Pierre-Alain Bouvrette, cello)</p> &;&;&;/&; <h4>Musiques moderne, contemporaine</h4> <p><em><strong>Lumières nordiques (Winner)</strong></em></p> Thu, 01 Feb 2024 16:31:59 +0000 VRƵ David Montreuil wins first prize in the 2023-2024 Golden Violin Award competition! /music/node/82750 <p>Join us in congratulating violist <strong>David Montreuil</strong>, who won the first prize of $30,000 in the 2023-2024 Golden Violin Award competition!<br /> <br /></p> Thu, 14 Dec 2023 15:00:59 +0000 VRƵ A special welcome to our two newest oboe course instructors! /music/node/82643 <p>The Schulich School of Music is delighted to welcome Lindsay Roberts and Anna Petersen to our Department of Performance as oboe course instructors! These talented musicians have performed in orchestras across Quebec, Canada, and the world. We are honoured that they will share their incredible talents and expertise with our students!</p> Wed, 08 Nov 2023 15:46:11 +0000 VRƵ Six Schulich students and alumni are among CBC Music's top 30 musicians under 30 /music/node/81694 <p>CBC Music recently released its list of top 30 classical musicians under 30 years old. Six Schulich School of Music students and alumni were featured!<br /> These musicians were selected for their skill, discipline, and determination. Congratulations to the following exceptional performers and rising stars:</p> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 18:45:24 +0000 VRƵ These Schulich community members are basking in appointments and prizes this summer /music/node/81678 <p>Summer is in full swing! In addition to basking in the sun, several Schulich community members received prestigious appointments and competition prizes.</p> Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:58:02 +0000 VRƵ Mezzo-soprano Jingjing Xu wins the 2022 – 2023 Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/81677 <p>The Schulich School of Music is proud to announce that Jingjing Xu, mezzo-soprano, is the winner of the 2022 – 2023 Wirth Vocal Prize! Please join us in congratulating her on this monumental achievement.<br /> <br /> The Wirth Vocal Prize is one of the most prestigious and exclusive prizes awarded to young musicians in North America. It was established in 2015 by Montreal philanthropist Elizabeth Wirth and recognizes a Schulich School of Music voice student who demonstrates exceptional talent and significant promise for an international career.<br /> <br /></p> Thu, 13 Jul 2023 19:02:53 +0000 VRƵ The Schulich guide to the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal /music/node/81652 <p>The Schulich School of Music is well-represented at this year’s Festival International de Jazz de Montreal. Many of our students and faculty will take the stage in the heart of Montreal, contributing to an already stellar lineup of artists and musicians – and we couldn’t be more proud!</p> <p>The festival runs from June 29 to July 8, 2023. Don’t miss these Schulich performers:</p> Tue, 27 Jun 2023 13:30:02 +0000 VRƵ #ICYMI: A look back at the 2022 – 2023 season /music/node/81635 <p>Many of our students recently climbed the stage for their convocation. And after they received their degrees, smiled for the cameras, and headed back to their seats, they took their first steps into an exciting new chapter of their lives.</p> <p>If this past year was any indication, they will surely continue to make Schulich proud. The 2022 – 2023 season felt like a return to form since 2020, and our students, faculty, staff, and alumni truly brought music to life.</p> Sun, 18 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000 VRƵ Here are this year’s recipients of Schulich’s prizes in composition /music/node/81621 <p>The Schulich School of Music is proud to announce the recipients of several composition prizes from the 2022 – 2023 academic year. These awards recognize students who demonstrated excellence in composition and provide them with new opportunities to share their music widely.</p> Tue, 06 Jun 2023 16:27:32 +0000 VRƵ Mia-Lin Gromko wins the Governor General’s Silver Medal /music/node/81620 <div> <div> <p><span><span>Mia-Lin Gromko, a <span>Schulich School of Music <span>student <span>who is graduating from her<span> undergraduate degree this year, is the winner of the prestigious Governor <span>General’s <span>Academic <span>Silver Medal. <span>She <span>is the first<span>-<span>ever<span> Schulich<span> <span>student<span> to earn this recognition<span> at VRƵ<span>.<span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p></div></div> Tue, 06 Jun 2023 16:06:55 +0000 VRƵ Congratulations to this year’s recipients of the Schulich School of Music Teaching Awards! /music/node/81619 <p>As many of our students prepare to graduate, let’s take a moment to appreciate the faculty members and student instructors who helped guide them towards this momentous achievement.</p> <p>The Schulich School of Music is proud to have some of the best music scholars in North America among its educators. And, without a doubt, they all have immeasurably enriched the lives of our students through their passion, knowledge, and musicianship.</p> Tue, 06 Jun 2023 15:36:28 +0000 VRƵ Three new faculty members will join the Department of Performance in Fall 2023 /music/node/81577 <p>The Schulich School of Music is proud to announce that, starting in August 2023, three new faculty members will join its Department of Performance:</p> Tue, 16 May 2023 16:06:53 +0000 VRƵ Jazz vocalist Ranee Lee appointed Assistant Professor at Schulich, wins CALQ award /music/node/81564 <div> <p><span><span>The Schulich School of Music is proud to announce that <span>renowned jazz vocalist <span>Ranee<span> Le<span>e<span> <span>will <span>join<span> <span>its<span> <span>Performance Department <span>in a new role<span> as <span>Assistant Professor in the Jazz Area<span>. <span>Her <span>appointment begin<span>s<span> on August 1, 2023.<span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p></div> Thu, 11 May 2023 17:17:52 +0000 VRƵ 2023 Juno Awards: Schulich alumni among this year’s winners /music/node/81453 <h2>The Schulich School of Music was well represented at the 2023 Juno Awards!</h2> <p>Among the winners and nominees were several alumni and staff who exemplify what it means to <em>bring music to life</em>.  </p> <hr /> <h4><strong>Caity Gyorgy</strong> (MMus ‘22) </h4> <p><strong>Vocal Jazz Album of the Year for her album <em>Featuring </em></strong></p> Fri, 24 Mar 2023 16:46:11 +0000 VRƵ 2022-2023 Golden Violin Award Finalists Announced /music/node/80875 <h5>We are pleased to announce that the <strong>three finalists for the 2022-2023 Golden Violin Award</strong> are violist <strong>Gene Hotta</strong>, and violinists <strong>JuEun Lee</strong> and <strong>Frédéric Pouliot</strong>.</h5> <p>These string players were selected following an incredible semifinal round held on Friday, December 9, 2022 at Pollack Hall where seven semifinalists each performed a 30-minute program of music before only three were selected by a jury to continue through to the finals. </p> Sat, 10 Dec 2022 14:45:35 +0000 VRƵ A spotlight on composition: Prize winners and premieres! /music/node/80826 <p>In anticipation of three prize winning premieres, we thought we should mark the occasion in a celebration of our composition student successes.</p> Tue, 22 Nov 2022 03:45:21 +0000 VRƵ In Memoriam | Wayne Riddell, CM /music/node/80782 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of <strong>Wayne Riddell, CM</strong> on November 6, 2022.<br /> <br /> Wayne Riddell graduated from VRƵ with a Bachelor of Music in 1960, was a Faculty Member of the Schulich School of Music from 1968–1980, an Honorary Doctorate in Music recipient in 2014 and member of the Schulich School of Music Faculty Advisory Board for over 20 years. His impact was profound, and his legacy will not soon be forgotten.   </p> Fri, 11 Nov 2022 19:12:25 +0000 VRƵ Program to Support Graduate Conducting Students Announces Fall 2022 Recipient /music/node/80772 <p><b>Christopher Ducasse </b>is<b> </b>the <strong>Fall 2022 recipient </strong>of the<b> Program to Support Graduate Conducting Students in the Study and Performance of Music by Composers from Underrepresented Groups</b>. This 3-year pilot initiative is a collaboration between the Schulich School of Music, the Marvin Duchow Music Library and its Gertrude Whitley Performance Library.</p> Tue, 08 Nov 2022 14:14:07 +0000 VRƵ Alexis Hauser receives the Decoration of Honour in Gold for services to the Republic of Austria /music/node/80654 <p>On September 24, 2022, Prof. <strong>Alexis Hauser</strong> was honoured by his home country of Austria. Maestro Hauser received the <strong>Decoration of Honour in Gold for services to the Republic of Austria</strong> (<em>Das grosse Ehrenzeichen in Gold fuer Verdienste um die Republik Oesterreich</em>), presented by the <strong>Austrian Ambassador, Her Excellency, Magister Sylvia Meyer-Kajbic</strong>.  </p> Thu, 06 Oct 2022 15:38:09 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students make their mark at the 2022 Mathieu Duguay Early Music Competition /music/node/80044 <p>Congratulations to Early Music graduates <strong>Guillaume Villeneuve</strong> (Gr. Dip in Performance’20), <strong>Tristan Best</strong> (BMus’19, MMus’21), and <strong>Sébastien Mitra</strong> (BMus’18), who were awarded First Prize, Second Prize and Third Prize, respectively, at the <a href="https://www.festivalbaroque.com/en/?s=communique&amp;id=71"><strong>2022 Mathieu Duguay Early Music Competition</strong></a><strong> of the <a href="https://www.festivalbaroque.com/en/">Lamèque International Baroque Music Festival</a></strong> this July 2022.</p> Thu, 08 Sep 2022 17:55:37 +0000 VRƵ Brenda Ravenscroft Publishes New Volume on the Work of Women Composers /music/node/80158 <p>Professor of Music Theory and former Dean of the Schulich School of Music, <a href="/music/brenda-ravenscroft"><strong>Brenda Ravenscroft</strong></a> has recently published a new book entitled <em><strong><a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/analytical-essays-on-music-by-women-composers-concert-music-1900-1960-9780190236984?lang=en&amp;cc=ca#" rel="noreferrer noopener">Analytical Essays on Music by Women Composers: Concert Music, 1900–1960</a></strong></em> with editor Laurel Parsons.</p> Tue, 13 Sep 2022 16:38:24 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Stephen McAdams awarded Lifetime Achievement Award from Society for Music Perception and Cognition /music/node/79886 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Prof. Stephen McAdams</strong>, who was awarded the <strong>Lifetime Achievement Award</strong> from the <strong><a href="http://www.musicperception.org/">Society for Music Perception and Cognition</a></strong> (SMPC) on August 4, 2022. The Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates outstanding contributions from a researcher to the field of music perception and cognition, carrying with it a lifetime membership in the SMPC.  </p> Thu, 01 Sep 2022 19:02:37 +0000 VRƵ New Faculty Members join the Schulich School of Music this Fall /music/node/79887 <p>The Schulich School of Music welcomes <strong>Dr. Liliana S. Araújo</strong>, <strong>Dr. Ellen Bakulina</strong> and <strong>Dr. Isabelle Demers</strong> to the Faculty this Fall 2022. We look forward to the impact these three accomplished scholars and performers will make on the Schulich community in research and performance. Find out more about each of them when we were In Conversation.  </p> Thu, 01 Sep 2022 19:30:06 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in CBC Music's 2022 edition of “30 Hot Canadian Classical Musicians Under 30” /music/node/79784 <p>Congratulations to Schulich alumni India Gailey (MMus’19), Sarah Dufresne (MMus’19, GDP’20), Wilhelm Magner (BMus’22, GDP’22) along with Elisabeth Saint-Gelais (BMus’21, current MMus) and incoming student Brooklyn Wood who were featured as part of CBC Music’s 2022 edition of "30 Hot Canadian Classical Musicians Under 30"!  </p> Wed, 03 Aug 2022 17:30:46 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Teaching Award Winner: Stephen Hargreaves /music/node/79753 <p>Congratulations to Prof. <strong>Stephen Hargreaves</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2021-2022 Teaching Award in the full-time category. </p> Mon, 04 Jul 2022 20:32:16 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Teaching Award Winner: Brian Manker /music/node/79752 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Brian Manker</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2021-2021 Teaching Award in the Part-time category. </p> <p>Professor Brian Manker teaches Undergraduate, Master's, Graduate Diploma, Artist's Diploma and Doctoral students in Cello performance. He is dedicated to his students and to the art of teaching and passing on his love for music. Students cannot help but speak of his generosity in all things — time, talent, and even, on one occasion, his instrument.  </p> Mon, 04 Jul 2022 20:29:57 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Teaching Award Winner: Kiersten van Vliet /music/node/79751 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Kiersten van Vliet</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2021-2022 Teaching Award in the MUAR Teaching Assistant/Graduate Instructor Category. </p> Mon, 04 Jul 2022 20:28:27 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Teaching Award Winner: Tommy Davis /music/node/79750 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Tommy Davis</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2021-2022 Teaching Award in the Teaching Assistant/Graduate Instructor Category. </p> Mon, 04 Jul 2022 20:25:24 +0000 VRƵ Violist Wilhelm Magner has won the Prix d’Europe 2022 /music/node/79732 <p><strong>Violist Wilhelm Magner has won the Prix d’Europe 2022.</strong><br /> <br /> Contralto <strong>Rose Naggar-Tremblay</strong> and pianists <strong>Christopher Knopp</strong> and <strong>Felix Hong</strong> also win awards at the illustrious competition.  </p> Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:07:49 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ Conservatory Announcement /music/node/79730 <p>Over the course of more than a century, thousands of Montreal students have passed through the doors of the VRƵ Conservatory of Music - a community program of the Schulich School of Music that provides musical education through private music lessons to students of all ages. The Schulich School of Music is proud of this rich legacy, and of everyone who contributed their time and talents to advancing the musical educations of Montrealers.</p> Mon, 20 Jun 2022 20:33:46 +0000 VRƵ La SAMS Shares Music Beyond the Concert Halls /music/node/79669 <p>Trained as a bassoon player, <strong>Francoise Henri</strong> (MMus’98) has made it her mission to fill the lives of vulnerable people with music, and the pandemic isn’t slowing her down. Henri is the general and artistic director of the<strong> <a href="https://samsante.org/en/">Société pour les arts en milieux de santé</a></strong>, better known as <strong>La SAMS</strong>. La SAMS was founded in 2009 with the goal of bringing classical music to hospitals, long-term care facilities and nursing homes across Quebec.</p> Sat, 04 Jun 2022 15:00:00 +0000 VRƵ Gift to VRƵ and UdeM creates hub for collaborative piano in Montreal /music/node/79661 <p>A generous $2-million gift from the <strong>Azrieli Foundation</strong> to <strong>VRƵ</strong> and <strong>Université de Montréal </strong>(UdeM) has established a joint residency for high-level pianists that specialize in accompanying singers and instrumentalists.</p> Thu, 26 May 2022 15:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Faculty, Alumni, and Students among the 2022 JUNO Award Winners /music/node/79650 <p>The <a href="https://junoawards.ca/" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022 JUNO Award</a> winners have been announced, and Schulich faculty, students, and alumni are among the talented list of nominees and winners! The Schulich community has won accolades in two categories this year: <strong>jazz vocal album of the year</strong> and <strong>classical album of the year</strong>. </p> Mon, 16 May 2022 20:20:12 +0000 VRƵ Hester Bell Jordan Awarded 2023 Alvin H. Johnson AMS 50 Dissertation Fellowship  /music/node/79598 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Hester Bell Jordan</strong>, current PhD Candidate in Musicology, named as a recipient of the American Musicological Society (AMS) <a href="https://www.amsmusicology.org/page/ams50" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alvin H. Johnson AMS 50 Dissertation Fellowship</a>. Awarded solely on the basis of academic merit, the Fellowship is a twelve-month stipend set at $24,000 for a current Doctoral Candidate pursuing a dissertation at a North American university.  </p> Wed, 04 May 2022 16:17:20 +0000 VRƵ In Memoriam | Boris Brott /music/node/79528 <p>It is difficult to imagine the musical landscape without <strong>Boris Brott</strong>. Through his tireless work, unending passion, and inspiring leadership, he has impacted the lives of countless musicians and audiences around the world.  <br />  <br /> Mr. Brott was at home in a concert hall, and we are pleased that he shared so many evenings in Pollack Hall with the VRƵ Chamber Orchestra (now the Orchestre Classique de Montréal) as well as our own VRƵ Symphony Orchestra and Opera VRƵ.  <br />  <br /></p> Wed, 06 Apr 2022 22:11:25 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Faculty wins at 64th GRAMMY Awards /music/node/79526 <p>The<strong> 2022 <a href="https://www.grammy.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">GRAMMY Awards</a></strong> took place on April 3, 2022, and Schulich Faculty have brought home the top prize!</p> <p>For his outstanding work as <strong>immersive mix engineer</strong> on the album (<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1168pCxg0HeTRqyutFf4o1" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Alicia</strong>)</a>, <strong>Prof. George Massenburg</strong> receives the GRAMMY for <strong>Best Immersive Audio Album</strong>. </p> Mon, 04 Apr 2022 17:40:22 +0000 VRƵ Dean Brenda Ravenscroft receives Influential Leader award from the SWAAC /music/node/79298 <p><strong>Brenda Ravenscroft, Dean of the Schulich School of Music,</strong> has received the <strong>2022 Angela Hildyard Recognition Award as an Influential Leader</strong> given by the <strong><a href="http://www.swaac.ca/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada (SWAAC)</a>.  </strong></p> Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:52:08 +0000 VRƵ News from the Brass Area /music/node/79293 <p><strong>Exciting news from the Brass Area! </strong><br /> <br /></p> Fri, 18 Mar 2022 19:46:55 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Alumni and Faculty in the 25th Edition of the Opus Awards /music/node/79278 <p>Congratulations to all who received prizes at the 25th edition of the <strong>Conseil québécois de la musique’s Opus Awards</strong>! With a number of laureates from the Schulich Community, we couldn't be prouder of our faculty and alumni. The ceremony celebrated the ongoing creativity of the Quebec music scene during the 2020-2021 season.</p> Mon, 14 Mar 2022 19:13:07 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Faculty, Alumni, and Students in the 2022 JUNO Award Nominations /music/node/79264 <p>The <strong>2022 JUNO Awards </strong>nominees have been announced! There are a number of Schulich Faculty, students and alumni featured, and we're are so proud to see our community’s achievements in the spotlight. From Vocal Jazz Album of the year to numerous Classical accolades, there is so much to celebrate. Congratulations to all our faculty, students and community members that help bring music to life with their accomplishments year after year. </p> <p>The<strong> 2022 JUNO Awards Ceremony</strong> takes place on <strong>May 15, 2022</strong> in Toronto, Ontario.</p> Thu, 10 Mar 2022 20:53:40 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Wirth Vocal Prize Winner Announced /music/node/79276 <p>Congratulations to soprano <strong>Elisabeth Saint-Gelais</strong>, winner of the 2021-2022 Wirth Vocal Prize! </p> Mon, 14 Mar 2022 14:17:51 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Wirth Vocal Prize Finalists Announced /music/node/79266 <p>We are pleased to announce that the three finalists chosen to compete for the <strong>2021-2022 Wirth Vocal Prize</strong> are soprano <strong>Alexis Reed</strong>, soprano <strong>Kelsey Ronn</strong>, and soprano <strong>Elisabeth Saint-Gelais</strong>. These singers were selected from the splendid semifinal round held on Thursday, March 10 at Pollack Hall.  <br />  <br /></p> Fri, 11 Mar 2022 04:18:26 +0000 VRƵ In Memoriam | Professor Iwan Edwards /music/node/79248 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of <strong>Professor Iwan Edwards</strong> on March 4, 2022. </p> Tue, 08 Mar 2022 19:18:30 +0000 VRƵ Professor Martha de Francisco is part of VRƵ's Bicentennial Digital Time Capsule  /music/node/79243 <p><strong><a href="/music/martha-de-francisco" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martha de Francisco</a></strong>, Associate Professor of Sound Recording in the department of Music Research at the Schulich School of Music, is a record producer and recording engineer specializing in Classical music. Her research interests include music recording with virtual acoustics, critical listening studies and the aesthetics of recorded music. </p> Sat, 05 Mar 2022 15:32:09 +0000 VRƵ Program to Support Graduate Conducting Students Announces Three 2022 Recipients /music/node/78843 <p><strong>Andrew Hon</strong>, <strong>Frédéric-Alexandre Michaud</strong>, and <strong>Will Myers</strong> are the first successful candidates in the inaugural round of the <strong>Program to Support Graduate Conducting Students in the Study and Performance of Music by Composers from Underrepresented Groups</strong>. This a 3-year pilot initiative is a collaboration between the Schulich School of Music, the Marvin Duchow Music Library and its Gertrude Whitley Performance Library.  </p> Thu, 20 Jan 2022 15:25:31 +0000 VRƵ Isabelle Demers joins Schulich Faculty  /music/node/79189 <p>We’re excited to announce that <strong>Dr. Isabelle Demers</strong> will be joining the Schulich School of Music as Associate Professor of Organ. </p> Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:26:06 +0000 VRƵ Appointment of new Dean of the Schulich School of Music /music/node/79018 <p>Professor <strong>Sean Ferguson</strong> has been appointed as the next Dean of the Schulich School of Music. Prof. Ferguson’s five-year, renewable term will begin on July 1, 2022, and end June 30, 2027. </p> <p>Prof. Ferguson is an experienced senior administrator with a deep understanding of the Schulich School of Music, having previously served as Dean from 2011 to 2016. Prior to this, he was Director of the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology (CIRMMT) from 2009-2011, and its Associate Director (Artistic) from 2006-09.  </p> Fri, 11 Feb 2022 20:30:43 +0000 VRƵ The Schulich School of Music at Faculty Matters /music/node/79015 <p>The Schulich School of Music was featured at the <strong>Faculty Matters</strong> discussion series on December 13, 2021 which was hosted by Angela Campbell, Associate Provost (Equity and Academic Policies).  </p> <p>A brief interactive discussion was had about the History of Jazz with <strong>Prof. and Dean Brenda Ravenscroft</strong> and <strong>Prof. Camille Thurman</strong> who provided her experience as musician and academic.  </p> Thu, 10 Feb 2022 21:47:21 +0000 VRƵ Anthony Tan Wins 2021 Jules Léger Prize /music/node/78850 <p><strong>Anthony Tan </strong>(MMus’09, PhD’15) is the winner of the 2021 <strong>Jules Léger Prize for New Chamber Music </strong>for his composition <em>Ways of Returning </em>(2020). An 18-minute-long piece for amplified string quartet and electronics, <em>Ways of Returning</em> was commissioned by Quatuor Bozzini and E27 musique nouvelles. </p> Thu, 20 Jan 2022 19:42:33 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Golden Violin Award Winner Announced /music/node/78634 <p>Congratulations to violinist<strong> Julia Mirzoev</strong>, winner of the <strong>2021-2022 Golden Violin Award</strong>! </p> <p>The award includes a $30,000 cash prize, as well as a smaller likeness of the violin in the form of a 14-karat gold lapel pin. In addition, the winner will perform in the upcoming Schulich concert season and receives 6 hours of career coaching sessions with Marie-Catherine Lapointe of Boulevart Artists’ Management in Montreal. </p> Mon, 20 Dec 2021 17:39:35 +0000 VRƵ 2021-2022 Golden Violin Award Finalists Announced  /music/node/78592 <p>We are pleased to announce that the <strong>three finalists</strong> for the <strong>2021-2022 Golden Violin Award</strong> are violinists <strong>Samuele Parrini</strong>, <strong>Julia Mirzoev</strong>, and <strong>Astrid Nakamura</strong>.</p> <p>These string players were selected following a terrific semifinal round held on Friday, December 17, 2021 at Pollack Hall where six semifinalists each performed a 30-minute program of music before only three are selected by a jury to continue through to the finals.</p> Sat, 18 Dec 2021 13:00:33 +0000 VRƵ The 2021-2022 Golden Violin Award is coming soon, with new prizes! /music/node/78495 <p>The <strong>Golden Violin Award</strong> was established in 2006 by businessman and philanthropist <strong>Seymour Schulich</strong>, a year after he donated $20 million to VRƵ’s Schulich School of Music. His unflagging support of our musicians has, through this award, seen nearly $400,000 given to top Schulich string players. For last year’s 15th edition, the winning prize increased from $25,000 to $30,000, and for this year’s 16th edition the Schulich Foundation has made another substantial investment in our young artists’ futures.  <br />  <br /></p> Thu, 09 Dec 2021 22:46:54 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Faculty and Alumni Featured on CBC’s “Canada’s top 21 classical albums of 2021” /music/node/78491 <p>Congratulations to Schulich faculty and alumni who have created beautiful, critically acclaimed works of music this past year. In a year-end round-up, the CBC singled-out a number of albums featuring Schulich community members. With stunning duets, solo albums, and choral recordings we’re loving <strong>CBC’s "Canada's top 21 classical albums of 2021</strong>," and we couldn’t be more excited to scroll through (and listen to!) all the offerings.</p> <p><b>Check out the albums featuring Schulich faculty and alumni from the list: </b></p> Tue, 07 Dec 2021 19:04:39 +0000 VRƵ Rose Naggar-Tremblay and Simone McIntosh Win First and Second Place in 2021 OSM Vocal Competition /music/node/78490 <p>Congratulations to mezzo-sopranos <strong>Rose Naggar-Tremblay</strong> (BMus’17) and <strong>Simone McIntosh</strong> (MMus'17, Wirth Vocal Prize Winner 2016-2017), who received first and second place respectively at the 82<sup>nd</sup> OSM Competition! The 2021 edition, held between September 13 and November 27, took place online enabling the public from coast to coast to access contestants’ performances.</p> Tue, 07 Dec 2021 18:11:33 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Faculty and Alumni in the 2022 GRAMMY Nominations /music/node/78394 <p>The 2022 <a href="https://www.grammy.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">GRAMMY Awards</a> Nominees have been announced, and we’re thrilled to see Schulich faculty and alumni among those named! Presented by the Recording Academy since 1958, the GRAMMYs are peer-based and represent a significant achievement in the music industry. Celebrating performances, engineering, visuals, album liner notes and more from the past year, it remains an incredible recognition of one's work. We are so proud of the numerous accomplishments of the Schulich Community and extend our biggest congratula</p> Thu, 25 Nov 2021 15:42:13 +0000 VRƵ Donny Kennedy wins Principal’s Prize for Excellence in Teaching: Course Lecturer  /music/node/78395 <p>During the Fall 2021 Convocation ceremonies, exceptional educators at VRƵ are awarded the <strong><a href="/tls/instructors/awards/university/ppet">Principal’s Prize for Excellence in Teaching</a></strong>. The award recognizes the commitment of outstanding teachers who create the renowned academic experience VRƵ provides to students year after year. <strong>Donny Kennedy</strong>, a dedicated educator in the Schulich Jazz Area, takes home the Principal’s Prize in the Course Lecturer category.</p> Fri, 26 Nov 2021 19:15:56 +0000 VRƵ Gohar Manvelyan receives the Hnatyshyn Foundation – Christa and Franz-Paul Decker Fellowship in Conducting  /music/node/78375 <p><strong>Gohar Manvelyan</strong> (MMus'14, DMus'19, current MMus in conducting) has been awarded the fourth annual <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/hnatyshyn-decker-fellowship" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Hnatyshyn Foundation – Christa and Franz-Paul Decker Fellowship in Conducting</a>!</p> Tue, 23 Nov 2021 14:06:41 +0000 VRƵ Opera VRƵ Wins NOA Opera Production Competition 2021-2022 /music/node/78369 <p><strong>Opera VRƵ takes First Place in Division III of the <a href="https://www.noa.org/competitions/opera-production.html">National Opera Association (NOA) Opera Production Competition 2021-2022</a> for their production of The Turn of the Screw by Benjamin Britten (libretto by Myfanwy Piper)! </strong></p> Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:28:13 +0000 VRƵ In Memoriam | Professor Dennis Miller /music/node/78299 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of <strong>Professor Dennis Miller</strong> on October 31, 2021.  </p> Fri, 05 Nov 2021 13:45:13 +0000 VRƵ National Day of Truth and Reconciliation Statement | September 30, 2021 /music/node/78227 <p>To mark <strong>Truth and Reconciliation Day</strong>, the Schulich School of Music would like to highlight the work of one of our graduate students in musicology, <strong>Linda Pearse</strong>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRJzX0crV2Q">This video</a> explores the performance she developed in collaboration with Wolastoq and Mi’kmaq musicians, as a way of finding bridges between different cultures, different ways of listening and making music.</p> Wed, 29 Sep 2021 21:26:27 +0000 VRƵ Johann Buis: Schulich Distinguished Visiting Chair in Music /music/node/78035 <p>We are delighted that <strong>Prof. Johann Buis </strong>from <a href="https://www.wheaton.edu/academics/faculty/johann-buis/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wheaton College, IL</a>, will be here for the duration of the 2021/22 academic year as a <strong>Schulich Distinguished Visiting Chair in Music</strong>. The Dean’s Chairs have a broad impact on the School, help the School progress in directions that have been identified as important, and interact with the community — and Prof. Buis is sure to do just that.  </p> Tue, 31 Aug 2021 16:18:00 +0000 VRƵ Meet the newest faculty members of Schulich: Camille Thurman, Ira Coleman, and Darrell Green /music/node/78032 <h5><strong>Camille Thurman, Ira Coleman, and Darrell Green join the Jazz Area and we can't wait to hear the impact these dynamic musicians have on our community. We invite you to get to know a bit more about each of them in our signature Q &amp; A.</strong></h5> <p><strong>Camille Thurman</strong>, Assistant Professor of Jazz, is a composer, vocalist and instrumentalist whose talent will help shape the next generation of jazz musicians. <a href="/music/article/camille-thurman-joins-schulich-faculty">Read her Q&amp;A here</a></p> Tue, 31 Aug 2021 03:52:11 +0000 VRƵ Reford Gardens hosting event on Bicentennial Special Stage /music/node/77802 <p>Celebrating VRƵ’s impact on Quebec society and the Lower St-Lawrence and Gaspesie regions, Reford Gardens will be hosting a two-part special event on the Bicentennial Special Stage on <a href="/education/channels/event/bicentennial-event-reford-gardens-332403">August 21, 2021 at 3:00 p.m</a>.</p> Wed, 18 Aug 2021 15:11:29 +0000 VRƵ Bicentennial Mini-Science 2021 Explores the Future of Music with Professor Marcelo M. Wanderley /music/node/77785 <p>Digital technology has radically changed the way music is enjoyed, performed, composed, produced and shared with the world. From streaming services to innovations in musical instruments, modern technology has created new styles and genres to explore.</p> Tue, 10 Aug 2021 17:15:29 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize Winners /music/node/77770 <p>The Schulich School of Music congratulates <strong>Justin Almazan</strong> (GrDipPerf'18, GrArtDip'20, MMus’21) and <strong>Samuel Hanna </strong>(MMus’21), winners of the 2020-2021 Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize for their project “Love Notes”!  </p> Wed, 04 Aug 2021 19:32:50 +0000 VRƵ Charles Chiavato Rambaldo wins at International Percussion Youth Competition Belgium 2021 /music/node/77768 <p>Percussionist <strong>Charles Chiavato Rambaldo</strong> (current BMus) wins <strong>First Prize in Marimba</strong> as well as the <strong>Second Prize in Snare</strong> at the <em>International Percussion Youth Competition Belgium 2021</em> (IPYCB).</p> <p>The third edition of the IPYCB took place simultaneously with the prestigious Universal Marimba Competition Belgium 2021 and received the High Patronage of Her Majesty Queen Paola — the first royal honour to be presented to a Percussion Competition abroad.  </p> Tue, 03 Aug 2021 14:54:18 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in CBC Music's 2021 edition of "30 hot Canadian classical musicians under 30" /music/node/77756 <p>Congratulations to former students Elisabeth Boudreault, Marie Nadeau-Tremblay (BMus'14, LMus'17, MMus'19), Gabrielle Gaudreault (BMus'14, DMus'20), Brandyn Lewis (BMus'17), Alexander Soloway (MMus'15), William Broverman (BMus'16), Charlotte Siegel (MMus'19, GrDipPerf'20), Ryan Davis (BMus'14), and incoming MMus student Ben Diamond who were all featured as part of the 2021 edition of CBC Music's annual list of "30 hot Canadian classical musicians under 30". The list includes musicians who have caught the CBC's attention over the past 12 months by winning competitions and awards, graduating </p> Wed, 28 Jul 2021 14:31:40 +0000 VRƵ Announcing the Recipient of the 2020-2021 Luba Zuk Piano Duo Composition Prize /music/node/77754 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Zhuosheng Jin</strong> (current DMus), winner of the 2020-2021 <strong>Luba Zuk Piano Duo Composition Prize</strong>! Zhuosheng’s composition is slated to premiere at the Schulich School of Music in 2022.  </p> <p>Studying composition with Philippe Leroux, he reflects the kind of creativity and exploration that fuels the composition area. </p> Mon, 19 Jul 2021 21:47:32 +0000 VRƵ Announcing the Recipient of the 2020-2021 Andrew Svoboda Prize for Orchestral Composition /music/node/77753 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Chelsea Komschlies</strong> (current PhD), winner of the 2020-2021 recipient of the <strong>Andrew Svoboda Prize for Orchestral Composition</strong>! Chelsea’s orchestral piece is slated to be premiered by the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra during the 2022-2023 season.  </p> <p>Studying composition with Jean Lesage, she is an ambassador for the kind of creativity and exploration that fuels the composition area.  </p> Mon, 19 Jul 2021 20:58:25 +0000 VRƵ Winners announced for the Andrew Svoboda Prize for Orchestral Composition and the Luba Zuk Piano Duo Composition Prize /music/node/77752 <p>The winners of the <strong>Andrew Svoboda Prize for Orchestral Composition</strong> and the <strong>Luba Zuk Piano Duo Composition Prize</strong> have been announced. </p> <p><strong>Chelsea Komschlies</strong> (current PhD) receives the Andrew Svoboda Prize for Orchestral Composition, and <strong>Zhuosheng Jin</strong> (current DMus) receives the Luba Zuk Piano Duo Composition Prize. </p> Mon, 19 Jul 2021 20:09:41 +0000 VRƵ Professor Edward Klorman is part of VRƵ's Bicentennial Digital Time Capsule /music/node/77746 <p>After 200 years of trail-blazing research and innovation, VRƵ continues to look towards the future. In the <a href="https://200.mcgill.ca/digital-time-capsule/?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=wn_June%201_unknown&amp;utm_source=whatsnewstaff&amp;utm_term=VRƵ-researchers-awarded-%241M" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Digital Time Capsule</a>, some of VRƵ’s top researchers craft their own answers to the question: <em>What will be the biggest change in your field over the next 25 years?  </em></p> Thu, 15 Jul 2021 16:29:31 +0000 VRƵ Marcelo Wanderley is the Most Cited Author in the first 20 years of the NIME Conference /music/node/77740 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Prof. Marcelo Wanderley</strong> on his accomplishment as the most cited author over the entire lifetime of the New Interfaces in Musical Expressions (NIME) conference. With students and colleagues, he has co-authored 48 NIME papers presented at 17 conferences which had a total of 1,391 citations over 20 years [Fasciani &amp; Goode, 2021. p. 24]. In addition, Wanderley has also co-authored the first- and third-most-cited articles in the history of NIME.</p> Mon, 12 Jul 2021 20:23:14 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 International Grant Winner (Master's Category — Music Research): Chooi Chong /music/node/77711 <p><strong>Congratulations to Chooi Chong, winner of the 2020-2021 International Grant Writing Competition for master's students — Music Research</strong></p> <p><br /> Chooi Chong received $5,000 towards her graduate studies for her grant proposal, "<strong>The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra in Postcolonial Context</strong>."</p> <p>Curious to learn more about Chooi and her research, we asked some questions over email...</p> <hr /> <p><strong>How has being a Schulich student influenced you and your research? </strong></p> Fri, 18 Jun 2021 20:22:52 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 International Grant Winner (Master's Category — Performance): Christopher Keach /music/node/77712 <p><strong>Congratulations to Christopher Keach, winner of the 2020-2021 International Grant Writing Competition for master's students — Performance</strong><br /> <br /> Trumpeter Christopher Keach received $5,000 towards his graduate studies for his grant proposal, "<strong>Trumpet Music by Women Composers: A Detailed Database to Promote Greater Diversity in Trumpet Repertoire</strong>."</p> <p>Curious to learn more about Christopher and his research, we asked some questions over email...</p> <hr /> <p><strong>What made you choose Schulich for your studies?</strong></p> Fri, 18 Jun 2021 20:41:03 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 International Grant Winner (Doctoral Category — Music Research): Hester Bell-Jordan /music/node/77713 <p><strong>Congratulations to Hester Bell-Jordan, winner of the 2020-2021 International Grant Writing Competition for doctoral students — Music Research</strong></p> <p><br /> Hester Bell-Jordan received $11,000 towards her doctoral studies for her grant proposal, "<strong>'Notorious ladies' and 'charming daughters': Gender and Work in Piano Making and Music Publishing around 1800</strong>."</p> <p>Curious to learn more about Hester and her research, we asked some questions over email...</p> <hr /> <p><strong>How has being a Schulich student influenced you and your research?</strong></p> Fri, 18 Jun 2021 20:56:25 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 International Grant Winner (Doctoral Category — Performance): Alicia Choi /music/node/77689 <p><strong>Congratulations to Alicia Choi, winner of the 2020-2021 International Grant Writing Competition for doctoral students — Performance</strong></p> <p><br /> Violinist Alicia Choi received $11,000 towards her doctoral studies for her grant proposal, "<strong>The String Quartet Seminar: An Underutilized Course Format in Higher-Education</strong>."</p> <p>Curious to learn more about Alicia and her research, we asked some questions over email...</p> <hr /> <p><strong>What led you to this particular topic?</strong></p> Wed, 09 Jun 2021 12:54:34 +0000 VRƵ Percussionist David Therrien Brongo (current DMus) wins at the Prix d’Europe 2021  /music/node/77707 <p>Percussionist <strong>David Therrien Brongo</strong> (current DMus) wins at the Prix d’Europe 2021.</p> <p>The 109th edition of the prestigious Concours Prix d’Europe took place June 6 – 11, 2021 at the Chapelle historique du Bon-Pasteur in Montreal, bringing together top musical talent. The jury was comprised of renowned artists soprano Marie-Danielle Parent (Prix d’Europe 1980), cellist Carole Sirois, musicologist and oboist Michel Duchesneau, pianist Michel Franck (Prix d’Europe 1977), and orchestral and choral conductor Louis Lavigueur, C.Q..</p> Wed, 16 Jun 2021 21:44:46 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Teaching Award Winner: Max Henry /music/node/77687 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Max Henry</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2020-2021 Teaching Award in the Teaching Assistant/Graduate Instructor Category.</p> <p>As Teaching Assistant for MUAR 392 (Popular Music after 1945), Max showed an eagerness to support the instructor and students in whatever way. he could. Whether it be by assisting in the “live” classroom by monitoring the chat, responding directly to students, reading their questions/comments out loud, or participating in classroom dialogue, it was clear that he was there to help.  </p> Tue, 08 Jun 2021 17:25:05 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Teaching Award Winner: Jennifer Messelink /music/node/77675 <p>Congratulations to<strong> Jennifer Messelink</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2020-2021 Teaching Award in the MUAR Teaching Assistant/Graduate Instructor Category.</p> <p>Throughout the past year teaching MUAR 392 (Popular Music after 1945) — her third time leading the course — Jennifer has proven to be an engaging and knowledgeable instructor with a commitment to and command of the material. Though students are immersed in popular culture on a daily basis, she strives to help them make sense of the vast amount of popular music accessible at their fingertips. </p> Wed, 02 Jun 2021 15:34:47 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Teaching Award Winner: Donny Kennedy /music/node/77678 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Donny Kennedy</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2020-2021 Teaching Award in the part-time category. </p> <p>A dedicated educator in the Jazz Area since 2004, saxophonist Donny has been the small ensemble coordinator since he started, organizing 20-25 combos annually, as well as teaching Jazz Arranging. Students remark on his leadership, experience, and understanding in fulfilling his responsibilities for a host of undergraduate and graduate courses as well as for the design and development of the curriculum for music education or performance majors.</p> Fri, 04 Jun 2021 15:00:39 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Teaching Award Winner: John Hollenbeck /music/node/77686 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Prof. John Hollenbeck</strong>, winner of Schulich's 2020-2021 Teaching Award in the full-time category.</p> Tue, 08 Jun 2021 17:02:03 +0000 VRƵ Schulich community recognized among the 2021 Juno Award Nominees and Winners /music/node/77306 <p>The <a href="https://junoawards.ca/">2021 Juno Award</a> winners have been announced, and Schulich faculty, students, and alumni can be found on the list of nominees and winners.  From Vocal Jazz Album of the year to various Classical Albums of the Year, the Schulich community has appeared in a number of different award categories.</p> <p>Congratulations to all who contributed to creating and sustaining music and the recording industry in Canada — here's to continued successes <strong><em>bringing music to life</em></strong>!</p> Tue, 16 Mar 2021 16:51:13 +0000 VRƵ Jennifer Stephenson featured as an Unsung Hero of VRƵ /music/node/77665 <p>One of the Signature projects of the VRƵ Bicentennial office is to celebrate and recognize the contributions of staff (academic and faculty) of the University, past and present. <br /> <br /> As part of the Bicentennial Celebrations, staff and faculty members were asked to nominate the Unsung Heroes in their department — the less-recognized faculty and staff who have shaped the community and made a lasting impact.<br />  <br /></p> Tue, 01 Jun 2021 15:30:52 +0000 VRƵ Jean-Sébastien Vallée named new Artistic Director of Toronto Mendelssohn Choir /music/node/77664 <h5>Chair of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir (TMC) Board of Directors, Denny Young,  announced that Jean-Sébastien Vallée has been appointed as the TMC’s eighth Artistic Director</h5> <p><strong>The Toronto Mendelssohn Choir</strong> is one of Canada’s oldest, largest, and best-known choral ensembles. Founded in 1894 by Augustus Vogt, the Choir presented its first concert in Massey Hall, as part of the hall’s inaugural season, on January 15, 1895.<br /> <br /></p> Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:42:08 +0000 VRƵ Ranee Lee has a scholarship named in her honour at MusicFest Canada /music/node/77652 <p><strong>MusicFest Canada</strong> began in 1972 with a handful of Canadian musicians who created the country’s first jazz band festival. Now, in its 49th year, this small group has grown to embrace 4 Festival Divisions, the original Canadian Stage Band Festival Jazz Division, the Choral/Vocal Jazz Division(1981) the Concert Band Division (1986) and the Orchestra/String Division (2008).  MusicFest Canada — “The Nationals” — brings thousands of students and educators from across the country together, over a one-week period, to celebrate excellence in musical performance.  <br />  <br /></p> Fri, 21 May 2021 20:28:22 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Golden Violin Award Winner Announced /music/node/77647 <h3>Congratulations to violinist Russell Iceberg, winner of the 2020-2021 Golden Violin Award!</h3> Mon, 17 May 2021 21:03:44 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Wirth Vocal Prize Winner Announced /music/node/77646 <h3>Congratulations to soprano Emily Richter, winner of the 2020-2021 Wirth Vocal Prize! </h3> <p>On Sunday, May 16, three finalists filled Pollack Hall with songs and arias spanning three centuries of music. Soprano<strong> Jacqueline Woodley</strong> with pianist with<strong> Jennifer Szeto</strong> and lutenist <strong>Sylvain Bergeron</strong>, tenor <strong>Wesley Harrison</strong> with pianist <strong>Esther Gonthier</strong> and soprano <strong>Emily Richter</strong> with pianist <strong>Rebecca Klassen-Wiebe</strong> lit up the stage with their talent and skill.  </p> Mon, 17 May 2021 17:40:52 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Golden Violin Award Finalists Announced /music/node/77635 <p>We are pleased to announce that the three finalists chosen to compete for the 2020-2021 Golden Violin Award are violinists <strong>Russell Iceberg</strong>, <strong>Alicia Choi</strong>, and <strong>Astrid Nakamura</strong>. These string players were selected from a stellar semi-final round held on Saturday May 15, 2021 at Pollack Hall.  <br />  <br /></p> Sun, 16 May 2021 02:42:09 +0000 VRƵ 2020-2021 Wirth Vocal Prize Finalists Announced /music/node/77634 <p>We are pleased to announce that the three finalists chosen to compete for the 2020-2021 Wirth Vocal Prize (in performance order) are soprano <strong>Jacqueline Woodley</strong>, tenor <strong>Wesley Harrison</strong>, and soprano <strong>Emily Richter</strong>. These singers were selected from the stunning semi-final round held on Friday, May 14, 2021 at Pollack Hall.  <br /> <br /></p> Sat, 15 May 2021 02:11:05 +0000 VRƵ In Conversation with Golden Violin Award Winners /music/node/77633 <h3>The 2020-2021 Golden Violin Award will be given out to one extraordinary string player this weekend.</h3> <h5>Semi-Final: <a href="/music/channels/event/golden-violin-award-2020-2021-semi-final-330292" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Saturday, May 15, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. (Webcast from Pollack Hall)</a> </h5> <h5>Final: <a href="/music/channels/event/golden-violin-award-2020-2021-final-329487" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Sunday, May 16, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. (Webcast from Pollack Hall)</a> </h5> <hr /> Wed, 12 May 2021 04:46:30 +0000 VRƵ In Conversation with Wirth Vocal Prize Winners /music/node/77631 <h3>The 2020-2021 Wirth Vocal Prize competition takes place this weekend and will forever change the life of one young singer from the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ. </h3> <ul> <li> <h5>Semi-Final Round: <a href="/music/channels/event/wirth-vocal-prize-2020-2021-semi-final-330294">Friday, May 14, 2021, 7:00 PM (Webcast from Pollack Hall)</a></h5> </li> <li> <h5>Final Round:<a href="/music/channels/event/wirth-vocal-prize-2020-2021-final-329486"> Sunday, May 16, 2021, 2:00 PM, (Webcast from Pollack Hall) </a></h5> </li> </ul> Tue, 11 May 2021 15:07:43 +0000 VRƵ In memoriam — Joel Chadabe /music/node/77606 <h5>CIRMMT's former Directors Marcelo Wanderley and Isabelle Cossette, pay hommage to an unforgettable man. </h5> <p><strong>Joel Chadabe</strong>, CIRMMT's lifetime member and member of the Centre's International Advisory Board, passed away on Sunday, May 02. He was 82. </p> Thu, 06 May 2021 17:49:00 +0000 VRƵ The Schulich School of Music is recreating the feeling of being on stage /music/node/77570 <h5>Writer Sarah Lebeau explores how technology is transforming musical practice at the Schulich School of Music. </h5> Thu, 29 Apr 2021 17:43:32 +0000 VRƵ Schulich's Opus Award Winners 2019-2020 /music/node/77099 <p>Congratulations to all who received prizes at the 24<sup>th</sup> edition of the Conseil québécois de la musique’s Opus Awards! Many of the laureates were from the Schulich Community, and we couldn't be prouder. The ceremony celebrated the inspired resilience of the Quebec music scene during the 2019-2020 season, which included musical projects presented both before and since the pandemic began.</p> Sun, 14 Feb 2021 17:15:13 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Faculty and Alumni in 2021 Grammy Nominations /music/node/76943 &;&;&;/&; <p>The <strong>2021 <a href="https://www.grammy.com">GRAMMY Awards</a> Nominees</strong> have been announced, and we are delighted to see Schulich faculty, former colleagues and alumni represented! As music's only peer-recognized distinction, the GRAMMY awards honour and celebrate artistic excellence across the entire music industry, and to see the accomplishments of the Schulich community included on the list is always a thrill.</p> <p>We are so proud of the many achievements of our faculty, students, and alumni and send a hearty congratulations to all.</p> Wed, 09 Dec 2020 17:51:13 +0000 VRƵ Prof. John Rea wins Medal for Exceptional Academic Achievement /music/node/76827 <p> <a href="/music/john-rea">John Rea</a>, Professor Emeritus at the Schulich School of Music was honoured during our Fall 2020 Convocation ceremony as one of three winners of the Medal for Exceptional Academic Achievement. </p> &;&;&;/&; <p><strong>About John Rea </strong></p> Fri, 06 Nov 2020 21:14:07 +0000 VRƵ Q&A with guests Ari Agha and Laura Hynes /music/node/76825 &;&;&;/&; <p>We are pleased to welcome special guests Ari Agha and Laura Hynes to the Schulich School of Music to discuss their project “<a href="https://keyoft.com/" target="_blank">The Key of T: Exogenous Testosterone and the Transgender Singing Voice</a>” November 17th at 10 am as part of <a href="/music/channels/news/mcgill-choral-studies-presents-revoice-324573">ReVoice</a>. This event is open to all Schulich students.</p> <h4> </h4> &;&;&;/&; Thu, 05 Nov 2020 22:06:34 +0000 VRƵ In memoriam of E. Noël Spinelli, C.M., C.Q. /music/node/76785 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of E. Noël Spinelli on October 16, 2020. A dynamic entrepreneur as well as a visionary and philanthropist, Mr. Spinelli played an important role in building many Montreal musical institutions. He was a devoted supporter of the Schulich School of Music and was a member of the Faculty Advisory Board for many years. A lover of opera and vocal music, he established the E.</p> Wed, 28 Oct 2020 20:47:07 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students and alumni win SOCAN Foundation Awards /music/node/76774 <p>This year’s recipients of the <a href="https://www.socanfoundation.ca/">SOCAN Foundation</a> Young Composer Awards and Emerging Screen Composer Awards include several members of Schulich’s community!</p> <p>Congratulations to: </p> Fri, 23 Oct 2020 14:20:08 +0000 VRƵ Q&A with visiting guest Dr. Tammy Kernodle /music/node/76731 <p>The Schulich School of Music is proud to welcome back Dr. Tammy Kernodle as a special guest in our Jazz Area’s <b>Jazz History Series. </b><a href="/music/channels/event/jazz-forum-presents-dr-tammy-kernodle-325483">She will present on Melba Liston, Alice Coltrane, and Mary Lou Williams on October 30 from 1-3 pm</a>. This event is open to all Schulich students.</p> Fri, 16 Oct 2020 20:53:39 +0000 VRƵ Barbara Hannigan to speak with Schulich’s Voice Area /music/node/76714 <p>The award-winning Canadian soprano and conductor <a href="https://www.barbarahannigan.com/">Barbara Hannigan</a> is slated to virtually visit Schulich’s Voice Area! An artist at the forefront of creation, Hannigan is known for her performances of contemporary opera. She has shown a profound commitment to the music of our time and has performed premieres of over 85 new works.</p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:27:22 +0000 VRƵ ReVoice guest Alexander Lloyd Blake discusses inclusive and authentic choral programming /music/node/76706 <p>We are pleased to virtually welcome conductor, composer/arranger, vocal contractor, singer, and musical activist <a href="https://alexanderlblake.com/">Dr. Alexander Lloyd Blake </a>to the Schulich School of Music as a ReVoice guest lecturer to discuss the <a href="https://www.blackvoicesmatterpledge.org/" target="_blank">Black Voices Matter Pledge</a> he co-authored as well as programming considerations in choral music.</p> Mon, 05 Oct 2020 19:47:15 +0000 VRƵ Brittany Rae wins first place at the Eckhardt-Gramatté Competition /music/node/76677 <p>Congrats to soprano <a href="https://www.brittanyraesoprano.com/">Brittany Rae</a> (Grad Dip ’18) and pianist Jesse Plessis (Current DMus) for winning this year’s <a href="https://www.e-gre.ca/">Eckhardt-Gramatté National Music Competition</a>. The duo performed works by Canadian composers Jocelyn Morlock, Gordon Fitzell, Ana Sokolovic, and Claude Vivier.  </p> <p>On her recent win Brittany wrote: </p> Wed, 23 Sep 2020 19:55:18 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students and alumni win AES 2020 Awards /music/node/76669 <p>This year’s AES educational grant recipients include several members of Schulich’s sound recording program! </p> <p>Congratulations to:  </p> Tue, 22 Sep 2020 15:15:23 +0000 VRƵ Shawn Mativetsky’s new book RUDIMENTAAL /music/node/76623 <p>Prof. <a href="/music/shawn-mativetsky">Shawn Mativetsky </a>has released ’RUDIMENTAAL’, a collection of rudimental snare drum pieces inspired by the tabla drumming of North India. By bridging together two principal percussion instruments and their respective musical traditions, the book works as a gateway into North Indian drumming for drummers and percussionists from all backgrounds.</p> Tue, 15 Sep 2020 13:28:47 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ Choral Studies presents ReVoice /music/node/76621 <p>When VRƵ announced that Fall 2020 activities will be offered predominantly through remote delivery, Schulich’s professors went to work preparing innovative new courses that would temporarily replace most large and small ensembles. In this article, we highlight Prof. Jean-Sébastien Vallée’s plans for VRƵ Choral Studies, including the launch of ReVoice.</p> Mon, 14 Sep 2020 20:19:12 +0000 VRƵ Carissa Klopoushak appointed Interim Artistic Director of the Ottawa Chamberfest /music/node/76544 <p><a href="http://www.carissaklopoushak.com/">Carissa Klopoushak</a> (MMus'08, DMus'13) has been appointed Interim Artistic Director of the Ottawa Chamberfest! <br />  <br /> Currently a member of the National Arts Centre Orchestra, and the Ironwood Quartet, she also serves as co-Artistic Director of both the Ritornello and Classical Unbound chamber music festivals. Carissa performs on a Vuillaume violin on loan from the Canada Council Musical Instrument bank and officially started her new role at the Ottawa Chamberfest on August 17, 2020. <br />  <br /></p> Mon, 31 Aug 2020 15:28:05 +0000 VRƵ Kelly Lin receives the Hnatyshyn Foundation – Christa and Franz-Paul Decker Fellowship in Conducting /music/node/76543 <p><strong>Kelly Lin </strong>(BMus '18, MMus '20, MMus '22) has been awarded the third annual <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/hnatyshyn-decker-fellowship"><strong>Hnatyshyn Foundation – Christa and Franz-Paul Decker Fellowship in Conducting</strong></a>!</p> Mon, 31 Aug 2020 14:39:51 +0000 VRƵ Bo-rum Hammond and Jarred Dunn recognized in CFMTA National Essay Competition /music/node/76506 <p>A large congratulations to Bo-rum Hammond (current MMus) and Jarred Dunn (current DMus), who have won first and second prize respectively in the “University Graduate” category of the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association (CFMTA)’s annual National Essay Competition! This competition invites submissions of essays on topics related to music teaching, pedagogy, or performance practice. Entries are judged by nationally recognized scholars in the fields of music pedagogy and performance and winning essays are published in the CFMTA magazine and website.</p> Thu, 20 Aug 2020 15:49:35 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in CBC Music's 2020 edition of "30 hot Canadian classical musicians under 30" /music/node/76479 <p>Congratulations to Aaron Chan (BMus'20), Francis Choinière (BMus'19, current MMus and featured in this article's image), Marcel d’Entremont (ADip '18, GDip '19), Spencer Klymyshyn (current BMus), Bryn Lutek (BMus ’16), Hillary Simms (BMus'16), Elizabeth Skinner (MMus'15, DMus'20), and Tyler Song (current BMus), who were featured in the 2020 edition of CBC Music's annual "30 hot Canadian classical musicians under 30" roundup.</p> Wed, 05 Aug 2020 15:21:45 +0000 VRƵ Schulich community discusses COVID-19 and music with La Scena Musicale /music/node/76465 <p>Members of Schulich’s community were recently interviewed to discuss their perspectives on how COVID-19 is influencing music, performance, and education.</p> <p><a href="https://myscena.org/la-scena-musicale-team/making-do-student-perspectives-on-remote-learning/?fbclid=IwAR0VDYceoXW199TWLave_4G96lIHhOa_rBMJfJJr45L2aVhFlJR2bdK74r4">Making Do: Student Perspectives on Remote Learning</a></p> Mon, 27 Jul 2020 19:02:49 +0000 VRƵ Simon Rivard named new Associate Conductor of Toronto Mendelssohn Choir /music/node/76463 <p>Conductor Simon Rivard (MMus '17) has been named Associate Conductor of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir! </p> Thu, 23 Jul 2020 22:27:05 +0000 VRƵ Carl Mayotte named Révélation Radio-Canada Jazz! /music/node/76460 <p>Twenty-six-year-old bassist, composer, and arranger <a href="https://carlmayotte.com/">Carl Mayotte</a> (MMus ’19) has been named this year’s <a href="https://www.icimusique.ca/articles/21621/revelations-2020-2021-jazz-carl-mayotte">Révélation Radio-Canada in the jazz category</a>! Performing at various events and bars since the age of 16, Carl has travelled with his art through Quebec and France as a solo artist, as well as alongside other musicians and bands of all kinds.</p> Wed, 22 Jul 2020 14:46:07 +0000 VRƵ Schulich community among winners of JM Canada Contest /music/node/76457 <p>The results of JM Canada Foundation’s Do Mi Si La Do Ré (Home Sweet Home) Contest are in and we are pleased to see members of the Schulich alumni represented among the list of winners! Congratulations to:</p> Tue, 21 Jul 2020 15:25:03 +0000 VRƵ Analytical Essays on Music by Women Composers wins Pauline Alderman Award /music/node/76435 <p><b>Analytical Essays on Music by Women Composers: Concert Music, 1960–2000</b> by <b>Laurel Parsons </b>and<b> Dean Brenda Ravenscroft</b> has won the <a href="https://iawm.org/pauline-alderman-awards-winners"><b>2017 Pauline Alderman Award for Outstanding Scholarship on Women in Music</b></a><b> </b>in the book category! An adjudicator of the award praised the book for its incredible and necessary research and was specifically impressed with the original and rigorous analysis of music by women composers.</p> Tue, 30 Jun 2020 18:32:00 +0000 VRƵ Spring Convocation 2020 featured a virtual choral rendition of Hail, Alma Mater /music/node/76424 <p>This year’s Virtual Convocations took place June 17-18. As is customary in VRƵ’s traditional graduation ceremonies, these virtual convocations featured short musical performances including a recording of VRƵ’s <i>Hail, Alma Mater</i>, a song that has been sung by the late Prof. Winston Purdy, Prof. Tracy Smith Bessette, and now, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhQ_Ef-78LY&amp;feature=youtu.be">the Schulich Singers with soloist Jenny Ivanovna and Artistic Director Jean-Sébastien Vallée</a>.</p> Thu, 18 Jun 2020 19:35:35 +0000 VRƵ 2019-20 Teaching Award Winner: Claire McLeish /music/node/76422 <p>Congratulations to <b>Claire McLeish</b>, winner of <a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards"><b>Schulich’s 2019-20 Teaching Award</b></a> in the graduate instructor award!</p> Wed, 17 Jun 2020 15:57:34 +0000 VRƵ 2019-20 Teaching Award Winner: Hannah Darroch /music/node/76421 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Dr. Hannah Darroch</strong>, winner of <a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards">Schulich’s 2019-20 Teaching Award</a> in the graduate instructor category!</p> Wed, 17 Jun 2020 15:29:51 +0000 VRƵ 2019-20 Teaching Award Winner: Jerry M. Cain /music/node/76418 <p>Congratulations to <b>Dr. Jerry M. Cain</b>, winner of <a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards"><b>Schulich’s 2019-20 Teaching Award</b></a> in the part-time category!</p> Tue, 16 Jun 2020 15:04:49 +0000 VRƵ 2019-20 Teaching Award Winner: Patrick Hansen /music/node/76405 <p>Congratulations to <b>Professor Patrick Hansen</b>, winner of <b>Schulich’s 2019-20 </b><a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards"><b>Teaching Award</b> </a>in the full-time category!</p> Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:19:58 +0000 VRƵ 2019-20 Teaching Award Winner: Nicole Biamonte /music/node/76404 <p>Congratulations to <b>Professor</b> <b>Nicole Biamonte</b>, winner of <a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards"><b>Schulich’s 2019-20 Teaching Award</b></a> in the full-time category!</p> Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:16:37 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music Student Award Winners 2019-20 /music/node/76350 <p>Over the past few weeks, several of our students have received awards for their exciting research projects. Follow the links to read more about each winner's exciting projects.</p> <p><a href="/music/article/student-research/introducing-winners-2020-international-grant-writing-competition-doctoral-students"><strong>International Grant Writing Competition at the doctoral level</strong></a></p> <p>James Donaldson: Topics and Formal Process in Post-Tonal Music<br /> Shulamit Sarid: Welcome to the Jungle – 2Cellos and the Genre-Audience Relationship</p> Thu, 14 May 2020 14:49:56 +0000 VRƵ Omer Barash, winner of the 2019-20 Andrew Svoboda Memorial Prize for Orchestral Composition /music/node/76349 <p>Congratulations to <b>Omer Barash</b>, winner of the 2019-20 <b>Andrew Svoboda Memorial Prize for Orchestral Composition</b>. Omer’s orchestral piece will be premiered by the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra in the 2021-2022 season.</p> Thu, 14 May 2020 13:54:43 +0000 VRƵ Cathy Martin receives a 2020 VRƵ Library Excellence Award /music/node/76285 <p>A huge congratulations are in order for Cathy Martin, Coordinator and Liaison Librarian at the <a href="/library/branches/music">Marvin Duchow Music Library</a>, on being awarded VRƵ’s 2020 Librarian Excellence Award! This annual award recognizes outstanding contributions to the Library, its users, and its mandate.</p> Mon, 27 Apr 2020 16:11:47 +0000 VRƵ In memoriam of Professor Kenneth Gilbert /music/node/76284 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Kenneth Gilbert on April 16, 2020.</p> <p>A world-famous harpsichordist and scholar – and the founder of the Early Music Program at VRƵ – Prof. Gilbert maintained a long and distinguished association with our faculty as a professor from 1964 to 1972 and then again as an Adjunct Professor from 1999 to 2015; he was awarded an honorary doctorate from VRƵ in 1981.</p> Mon, 27 Apr 2020 15:43:10 +0000 VRƵ Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize 2019-20: Martin Daigle and Omar Miranda /music/node/76278 <p>The Schulich School of Music is pleased to announce that this year’s <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/eleanor-stubley-recording"><strong>Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize</strong></a> will go to <strong>Martin Daigle</strong> (MMus '20) and <strong>Omar Miranda</strong> (M.Mus. '21) for their project “Mossy Cobblestone”.</p> Wed, 22 Apr 2020 19:41:47 +0000 VRƵ Launch of the Hearing Care Platform /music/node/76141 <p>On the occasion of World Hearing Day, the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ and the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology (CIRMMT) are pleased to announce the launch of their Hearing Care Platform (HCP). Conceived in partnership with the NSERC-EERS Industrial Research Chair in In-Ear Technologies (CRITIAS) at the École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), this project is designed to assess the noise exposure experienced by VRƵ music students.</p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:28:52 +0000 VRƵ Article from Vox Humana: John Grew and French Organ Music /music/node/76116 <p><em>Vox Humana</em>, an affiliate publication of the American Guild of Organists, featured Professor Emeritus in Organ and Church Music <strong>John Grew</strong> in an interview about French Classical performance practice in Canada. In this interview, Prof. Grew discusses how his passion for French art and music first developed out of his affinity for the Normandy area of France, as well as how French Classical organs faciliate the production of true characteristic sound.</p> Wed, 26 Feb 2020 21:32:57 +0000 VRƵ Schulich's represented in this year's Juno Award Nominees and Winners /music/node/76114 <p>The 2020 <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/music/junos/news/alessia-cara-and-tory-lanez-lead-the-2020-juno-nominations-1.5436386?cmp=SEM_junos2020">Juno Award Nominees </a>have been announced, and we are thrilled to see so many Schulich faculty, students, and alumni represented! From Vocal Jazz Album of the year to various Classical Albums of the Year, the Schulich community has appeared in six different award categories. Congratulations to all, and we are so proud of all of the achievements our faculty, students, and alumni continue to accomplish each year.</p> Wed, 26 Feb 2020 20:46:10 +0000 VRƵ Jenny Ivanovna wins the 2019-20 Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/75950 <p>This Sunday, February 9, three Schulich vocalists gave outstanding performances to a packed house for the final round of the <strong>Wirth Vocal Prize</strong> in Pollack Hall. Deliberations took place immediately afterwards, and at the end of the afternoon, judges announced <strong>Jenny Ivanovna</strong> as the competition winner. Accompanied by collaborative pianist <strong>Jennifer Szeto</strong> presented a captivating program featuring works by Ruperto Chapi, Xavier Montsalvatge, Manuel de Falla, Felix Mendelssohn, Léo Delibes, Francis Poulenc, and Gioachino Rossini.</p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:41:00 +0000 VRƵ In conversation with 2018-19 Wirth Vocal Prize winner: Marcel d'Entremont /music/node/75928 <p>In anticipation of the fifth edition of the <strong>Wirth Vocal Prize</strong>, we caught up with previous winners. In this article, we speak with <strong>Marcel d'Entremont</strong>, winner of the 2018-2019 edition of the Wirth Vocal Prize, to hear about what life has been like since winning the Prize.</p> <p><strong>Where are you currently based?</strong></p> <p>I am currently still based in Montreal!</p> <p><strong>How has the Wirth Vocal Prize influenced your career and your development as an artist?</strong></p> Fri, 07 Feb 2020 15:46:45 +0000 VRƵ In conversation with 2017-18 Wirth Vocal Prize winner: Anna-Sophie Neher /music/node/75924 <p>In anticipation of the fifth edition of the <strong>Wirth Vocal Prize</strong>, we caught up with previous winners. In this article, we speak with <strong>Anna-Sophie Neher</strong>, winner of the 2017-2018 edition of the Wirth Vocal Prize, to hear about what life has been like since winning the Prize. </p> <p><strong>Where do you call home right now?</strong></p> <p>I’m lucky enough to have two places I call home: Toronto and Montréal!</p> <p><strong>Tell us about an accomplishment since you won the Wirth Vocal Prize that you are particularly proud of.</strong></p> Thu, 06 Feb 2020 22:00:12 +0000 VRƵ In conversation with 2016-17 Wirth Vocal Prize winner: Simone McIntosh /music/node/75923 <p>Mezzo-soprano <strong>Simone McIntosh</strong> (MMus ‘17) won the second annual <strong> <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/wirth-vocal-prize">Wirth Vocal Prize</a></strong> in 2017. Born in Vancouver, McIntosh first received her Bachelor of Music in Opera from the University of British Columbia, and later completed her Master of Music here at Schulich with Dominique Labelle.</p> Thu, 06 Feb 2020 21:40:20 +0000 VRƵ In conversation with 2015-16 Wirth Vocal Prize winner: Chelsea Rus /music/node/75922 <p>Soprano<strong> Chelsea Rus</strong> (MMus ‘16) was the winner of the inaugural <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/wirth-vocal-prize"><strong>Wirth Vocal Prize</strong></a> in 2016. After putting together a unique program that showcased her singing prowess and expertise, Rus impressed the jury with masterful works by Puccini, Massenet, Gounod, and Strauss.</p> Thu, 06 Feb 2020 20:55:58 +0000 VRƵ alcides lanza appointed as Member of the Order of Canada /music/node/75823 <p>Among this year’s new appointments to the Order of Canada was Schulich School of Music’s Professor alcides lanza. lanza was named as a Member of the Order of Canada for his “decades-long contributions to the contemporary music scene and for championing Canadian music here and abroad”. Renowned composer, conductor and pianist specializing in avant-garde repertoire, lanza was a Professor of Composition at VRƵ from 1971 to 2014, as well as the director of the Electronic Music Studio at VRƵ from 1974 to 2003.</p> Thu, 30 Jan 2020 18:06:13 +0000 VRƵ 8 Reasons to See Street Scene /music/node/75821 <p>Opera VRƵ is proud to present Kurt Weill’s Street Scene. From January 31 to February 2, you can catch Opera VRƵ students, accompanied by VRƵ Symphony Orchestra musicians, at the gorgeous Monument National. Under the direction of Patrick Hansen and lead by conductor Brian DeMaris, our students bring Elmer Rice’s Pulitzer-winning play of the same name to life with true dramatic and musical spectacle. You won’t want to miss Street Scene, and here are 8 reasons why!</p> Tue, 28 Jan 2020 17:19:59 +0000 VRƵ Schulich's Opus Award winners /music/node/75815 <p>Congratulations to the many members of the Schulich community who brought home prizes from the twenty-third edition of the Opus Awards! The annual Gala was held this Sunday, January 19, 2020, and once again testified to the many contributions made by Schulich musicians to Quebec’s diverse and vibrant music scene.</p> Wed, 22 Jan 2020 21:41:43 +0000 VRƵ Pinchas Antal: Winner of the 2019-20 Classical Concerto Competition /music/node/75749 <p>Eighteen-year old Pinchas Antal is a third-year Bachelor of Music student currently studying piano performance in the class of Ilya Poletaev here at the Schulich School of Music. He began his piano studies at the age of ten with Vladimir Krassov, while also studying advanced theory and composition with Professor Alexander Posdynakov. During this brief time, he has amassed a large repertoire, given numerous recitals, and has had the opportunity to perform for Professor Valeri Sigalevitch and Dr. Indrek Laul, and audition for Maestro Zubin Mehta.</p> Wed, 15 Jan 2020 19:21:09 +0000 VRƵ De retour à Québec : Choeur de chambre Schulich de l’Université VRƵ /music/node/75748 <p>Le prestigieux <b><i>Chœur de chambre Schulich de l’Université VRƵ</i></b> sera à nouveau de passage à Québec le <b><a href="/music/fr/channels/event/choeur-de-chambre-schulich-message-moi-meme-quebec-299220">vendredi 31 janvier 2020 à 19 h 30</a> à la Chapelle du Musée de l’Amérique francophone</b>. Ce chœur de 35 chanteurs et chanteuses est sous l’habile direction de maestro <b>Jean-Sébastien Vallée</b>, une vedette montante sur la scène internationale.</p> Wed, 15 Jan 2020 18:40:44 +0000 VRƵ Tyler Song to perform Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto masterpiece /music/node/75746 <p>Originally from Vancouver, Tyler Song is a passionate musician who has performed with numerous ensembles such as the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra, the UBC Symphony Orchestra and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestral Institute Orchestra. He has had the pleasure of performing under the batons of conductors such as Otto Tausk and Bramwell Tovey and has also been the recipient of numerous awards and scholarships, including the Brunold Award for Classical Music Making, the J. Wesley Foster Memorial Scholarship and the Norah Mansell Music Scholarship.</p> Tue, 14 Jan 2020 20:10:19 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Prix Opus nominees /music/node/75275 <p>The nominees for the 23rd Prix Opus were announced last week, and Schulich students, faculty, and alumni are everywhere on the list of finalists! Not only are they well represented in orchestras, choirs, and young artist programs in Montreal and across the province, but many appeared as featured artists on nominated performances, and a number of Schulich-founded and Schulich-led ensembles have been singled out as well.</p> Wed, 20 Nov 2019 20:49:05 +0000 VRƵ Aaron Chan wins the 2019-2020 Golden Violin Award /music/node/75245 <p>Congratulations to violinist Aaron Chan, who won the  2019-2020 Golden Violin Award  on Friday evening following a standout 40-minute performance in Pollack Hall alongside collaborative pianist Felix Hong. Played before a five-person jury and enthusiastic audience, Aaron’s winning program for the final round included  Edvard Grieg's Sonata for Piano and Violin in C minor, Op. 45, and Henryk Wieniawski’s Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 15.</p> Sat, 16 Nov 2019 03:00:52 +0000 VRƵ Rebecca Henry joins Dallas Opera’s Hart Institute for Women Conductors /music/node/75215 <p>Rebecca Henry (MMus 2012) enjoys an active career as both conductor and mezzo-soprano across North America. Her conducting spans opera, operetta, orchestral, and contemporary repertoire, and she recently completed the Linda and Mitch Hart Institute for Women Conductors at The Dallas Opera. Designed to further the careers of distinctively talented female conductors, the Institute is celebrating its 5th year with faculty Emmanuel Villaume, Carlo Montanaro, and Nicole Paiement.</p> Mon, 11 Nov 2019 20:13:03 +0000 VRƵ Francis Choinière receives the Hnatyshyn Foundation – Christa and Franz-Paul Decker Fellowship in Conducting /music/node/75196 <p>Francis Choinière has been awarded the second annual Hnatyshyn Foundation – Christa and Franz-Paul Decker Fellowship in Conducting! Launched in 2017 in honour of the late conductor Franz-Paul Decker and his wife, Christa, this $15,000 fellowship is the result of a collaboration between the Schulich School of Music, the Decker family, and the Hnatyshyn Foundation, a charity founded by Canada’s twenty-fourth Governor General to support the development of young artists.</p> Mon, 04 Nov 2019 21:40:41 +0000 VRƵ Charles Richard-Hamelin and Andrew Wan honoured in 2019 ADISQ Gala /music/node/75165 <p>Congratulations to pianist Charles Richard-Hamelin (BMus 2011), who won two different awards as part of this year's ADISQ Gala—one for a recording with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal and the other with Schulich professor Andrew Wan:</p> <p><strong>Album de l’année - Classique / Soloiste et petit ensemble</strong><br /> <a href="https://www.analekta.com/en/albums/beethoven-violin-sonatas-6-7-8/" target="_blank">Beethoven: Sonates pour violon et piano no. 6, 7 et 8</a> (Analekta) - Charles Richard-Hamelin / Andrew Wan </p> &;&;&;/&; Mon, 28 Oct 2019 19:59:26 +0000 VRƵ Martha de Francisco remembers Jessye Norman /music/node/75070 <p>Over the past few weeks, performers, listeners, teachers, and professionals in the worlds of opera and classical music have been united in mourning the death of soprano Jessye Norman (1945 - 2019). Born in Augusta, Georgia (USA), she remains one of the world's most powerful and moving dramatic sopranos. She was one of the first and only Black singers to rise to international stardom in the opera and recital world, and she inspired several generations of young performers.</p> Thu, 17 Oct 2019 19:44:16 +0000 VRƵ Q&A with Alain Cazes: Banding together /music/node/74780 <p>Principal tuba of the Orchestre Métropolitain and co-founder of the Philharmonie des vents du Québec, Alain Cazes is a Professor of Brass and Conducting at the Schulich School of Music. In addition to performing, conducting, teaching, and composing, he directs the VRƵ Wind Orchestra, which will join the Royal 22e Régiment Band on September 27 for a free concert as part of <i><a href="https://www.journeesdelaculture.qc.ca/en/activities/orchestre-a-vent-de-mcgill-avec-la-musique-du-royal-22e-regiment-2">Les journées de la culture</a>.</i></p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:28:52 +0000 VRƵ 14 Schulich-connected nominees in ADISQ Galas 2019 /music/node/74756 <p>A highlight of the Quebec cultural scene, the <a href="https://adisq.com/" target="_blank"><em>Association québécoise de l'industrie du disque</em></a> (ADISQ) Gala honours artists and music industry professionals who released standout recordings or were involved in remarkable productions over the last year. In advance of the main ADISQ Gala taking place on October 27, 2019, read below for a list of all nominees with a Schulich connection. Congratulations to all!</p> &;&;&;/&; <p><strong>Album de l’année - Classique / Orchestre et grand ensemble </strong></p> Fri, 20 Sep 2019 15:22:50 +0000 VRƵ Three Schulich alumni to join the Toronto Symphony Orchestra /music/node/74703 <p>Beginning this season, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) welcomes three Schulich School of Music alumni into their esteemed ensemble: <b>Victor Fournelle-Blain</b> (ADip ’15) as Principal Violist, <b>Rémi Pelletier </b>(LMus ‘04) as Associate Principal Violist, and <b>Yolanda Bruno </b>(BMus ’11) as Section Violinist! On their new appointments,<b> </b>Interim Artistic Director Sir Andrew Davis writes, “We are delighted that these wonderful musicians have chosen the TSO to be their home for the coming season.</p> Mon, 16 Sep 2019 16:01:33 +0000 VRƵ Peter Schubert awarded The Gail Boyd de Stwolinski Prize for Lifetime Achievement in Music Theory Teaching and Scholarship /music/node/74652 <p>Congratulations to <a href="/music/peter-schubert" target="_blank">Prof. Peter Schubert</a>, who was recently awarded the the Gail Boyd de Stwolinski Prize for Lifetime<br /></p> Tue, 10 Sep 2019 19:30:28 +0000 VRƵ Schulich professors inducted into the Royal Society of Canada /music/node/74651 <p>Prof. John Rea and Prof. Hank Knox are among the latest inductees into the <a href="https://rsc-src.ca/en" target="_blank">Royal Society of Canada (RSC)</a>, which includes nine VRƵ researchers and professors among the total of 93 new Fellows. Fellows in the RSC's Academies of Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, and Science are elected by their peers for outstanding achievements in their fields — an extremely high honour. </p> Tue, 10 Sep 2019 16:23:06 +0000 VRƵ Lara Deutsch (BMus ’12, MMus ’14) wins $125,000 Mécénat Musica Prix Goyer 2019-2020 /music/node/74640 <p>Flutist <a href="http://laradeutsch.ca/">Lara Deutsch</a> is this year’s recipient of the <a href="https://www.mecenatmusica.com/prix-goyer-en">$125,000 Mécénat Musica Prix Goyer 2019-20 Award for Collaborative Emerging Artist</a>! Presented biennially in honour of Jean-Pierre Goyer and his contributions to music, arts, and culture in Montreal and the rest of Canada, the Mécénat Musica Prix Goyer is Canada’s largest classical music prize for emerging young artists.</p> Mon, 09 Sep 2019 13:51:02 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in the OFF Jazz Festival 2019 /music/node/74633 <p>Now coming up on its 20th edition, the OFF jazz festival has been a mainstay of the Montreal jazz scene by featuring local artists and their creative projects. The festival runs from October 3 - 12, 2019 and will feature many groups with Schulich students, faculty, and alumni — read below for a list of events with a Schulich connection.</p> <p><u>Thursday, October 3</u></p> <p>- <a href="https://www.lofffestivaldejazz.com/soiree-d-ouverture-joel-miller-unstoppable" target="_blank">Joel Miller: UNSTOPPABLE</a>, 8 p.m. at le Gesù</p> <p><u>Friday, October 4</u></p> Thu, 05 Sep 2019 17:30:56 +0000 VRƵ Schulich composers win the Generation2020 composition contest /music/node/74621 <p>Since 1994, the Ensemble contemporain de Montréal's biennial <em>Generation</em> composition contest has given 61 Canadian composers the opportunity to define their voices and connect with audiences across Canada. This year, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/gabduflap">Gabriel Dufour-Laperrière (DMus ’19)</a> and <a href="https://ecm.qc.ca/media/G20_PressReleaseWinners_final4.pdf">Matthew Ricketts (BMus ’09)</a> are two of four <em>Generation2020</em> winners selected from more than 50 applicants.</p> Tue, 03 Sep 2019 16:13:42 +0000 VRƵ Dorian Komanoff Bandy joins Schulich faculty /music/node/74339 <p>We're excited to welcome Dorian Komanoff Bandy to Schulich's faculty, where he will beginning a position in historical performance practice and musicology, held jointly between the School's departments of Performance and Music Research.</p> Mon, 05 Aug 2019 19:49:40 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students make their mark at the Mathieu Duguay Early Music Competition /music/node/74227 <p>Two Schulich Early Music graduates, violinist <strong>Marie Nadeau-Tremblay</strong> (BMus ’14, LMus ’17, MMus '19) and trumpeter <strong>Duncan Campbell </strong>(BMus ’14, GDip ’17, LMus ’19) were recently awarded first and second prize respectively at the <strong>Mathieu Duguay Early Music Competition</strong> of the <a href="http://www.festivalbaroque.com/en/index.cfm?s=le-festival">International Lamèque Baroque Music Festival</a>. Both offered stellar performances accompanied by the Mission Saint-Charles Orchestra, conducted by Hank Knox.</p> Mon, 29 Jul 2019 15:50:55 +0000 VRƵ Daniel Mills (B.Mus ’10) named Executive Director of Kamloops Symphony /music/node/74226 <p><strong>Daniel Mills</strong> (B.Mus ’10) has been named the new <strong>Executive Director of the Kamloops Symphony</strong>!</p> <p>Born and raised in Calgary, Daniel Mills is an emerging arts leader with a background in performance and administration. His previous position at Arts Commons, Calgary’s major performing arts centre, included overseeing individual giving programs and donor stewardship at Arts Commons. Daniel has also held administrative positions at the Honens International Piano Competition, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, and One Yellow Rabbit Performance Theatre.</p> Mon, 29 Jul 2019 15:04:21 +0000 VRƵ Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize 2018-2019 /music/node/73796 <p>The winner of this year’s <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/eleanor-stubley-recording">Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize</a> is soprano Elodie Bouchard (MMus ’19), who will collaborate with recording engineer Ephraim Hahn (MMus '19) and lutenist Anthony Harvey on the project “17<sup>th</sup> century music for lute and voice”.</p> Wed, 10 Jul 2019 20:10:19 +0000 VRƵ Wayne Riddell Interview: 'A Legacy that Sings' /music/node/73766 <p>Choral conductor Wayne Riddell has long been an important figure in the Montreal and VRƵ music communities, holding positions such as the chorus master of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and professor at the Schulich School of Music. Riddell has established a bequest that will support choral students at VRƵ through two separate funds -- the Wayne Riddell Choral Award, and the Norman Beckow Choral Excellence Endowment Fund (named after his late partner).<a href="/giving/" target="_blank"> </a></p> Thu, 04 Jul 2019 18:35:14 +0000 VRƵ Saxophonist Jacob Do wins first Oliver Jones Award from the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal /music/node/72748 <p>Congratulations to saxophonist Jacob Do (BMus 2021), who won the <a href="https://www.montrealjazzfest.com/fr-CA/About/Prix" target="_blank">Festival International de Jazz de Montréal's inaugural Oliver Jones Award</a> on June 26, 2019. Created as part of the Festival's 40th anniversary, the award is given as part of a competition open to selected Quebec university student musicians identifying as part of a visible minority.</p> Thu, 27 Jun 2019 15:50:13 +0000 VRƵ Brian Cherney honoured in Canadian University Music Society's Intersections /music/node/72747 <p>In 2017, Prof. Brian Cherney was the subject of an entire issue of <em>Intersections</em> (a publication by the <a href="https://www.muscan.org/en/" target="_blank">Canadian University Music Society</a>) after a <a href="/cherney75/" target="_blank">conference held in his honour at VRƵ</a>. Available online for the first time, the issue features essays by many Schulich faculty members on Cherney and his music, including writings by Prof. Chris Paul Harman, Prof. Christoph Neidhöfer, and Cherney himself.</p> Tue, 25 Jun 2019 20:59:34 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Community in the Festival Montreal Baroque /music/node/72740 <p>Looking to attend the <a href="https://www.montrealbaroque.com/index.php?vLangue=en" target="_blank">Festival Montreal Baroque</a> this year for your fix of music from the Baroque and Renaissance periods? Read on to see a list of many of the festival's performances involving Schulich alumni, students and faculty members.  </p> &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; Thu, 20 Jun 2019 21:19:55 +0000 VRƵ Gabriel Dufour-Laperrière is awarded the 2019 “Prix d’Europe in Composition” /music/node/72722 <p><strong>Gabriel Dufour-Laperrière</strong> has been awarded the 2019 <strong>“<a href="https://www.prixdeurope.ca/concours-2019.html">Prix d’Europe in Composition</a>”</strong> from l’Académie de musique du Québec!</p> Wed, 12 Jun 2019 19:35:50 +0000 VRƵ Schulich at the Festival international de Jazz de Montréal /music/node/72641 <p>As always, Schulich faculty, alumni, and students are heavily involved in the <a href="https://www.montrealjazzfest.com/" target="_blank">Festival international de Jazz de Montréal</a>. From June 26 to July 6, 2019, take in some music at one of the festival's many sites as part of its 40th edition—the list below highlights a collection of Schulich-related acts performing this year organized by venue, several of which feature free admission.</p> Fri, 10 May 2019 15:17:38 +0000 VRƵ Ben Duinker wins the 2018-19 Teaching Award in the TA/graduate instructor category /music/node/72683 <p>Congratulations Ben Duinker, one of two winners of Schulich’s 2018-19 Teaching Awards in the teaching assistant/graduate instructor category!</p> Thu, 30 May 2019 17:00:47 +0000 VRƵ Michael Turabian wins the 2018-19 Teaching Award in the TA/graduate instructor category /music/node/72682 <p>Currently a PhD student in musicology, Michael has been teaching at Schulich for the past two years. His enthusiasm for the material is obvious and contagious and even students who were not in his class have reached out to him based on their friends’ recommendations. With his passion for teaching so easily seen within his thoughtful preparation of lesson plans and syllabi, classroom engagement, and student rapport, it’s no wonder Michael is being honoured for this award.</p> <p>In celebration of this achievement, we asked Michael to elaborate on his teaching approach over email.</p> Thu, 30 May 2019 16:57:11 +0000 VRƵ Call for Proposals for LGBTQ2I+ History Month Presentations /music/node/72681 <p>We are pleased to invite Schulich faculty, staff, students, and alumni to submit proposals for presentations for inclusion in an LGBTQ2I+ History Month event. Scheduled for 28 September 2019 (7:00 p.m., Wirth Opera Studio), the event aims to highlight the accomplishments of LGBTQ2I+ musicians and music researchers past and present, while displaying the breadth and scope of work within the broader field of music. Presentations may take the form of a research paper, musical performance, new composition, or combination of these.</p> Thu, 30 May 2019 14:46:08 +0000 VRƵ Andrew Wan wins the 2018-19 Teaching Award in the part-time category /music/node/72676 <p>Equally comfortable in a teaching environment as he is performing a solo in front of thousands, Andrew Wan’s accolades are numerous. In the classroom, Andrew’s students compliment him for his unwavering and inspiring enthusiasm as well as for his ability to tailor his teaching approach to each student’s needs. His motto, “with structure comes freedom”, guides his students towards achieving artistic spontaneity and creativity within an organized plan.</p> Tue, 28 May 2019 13:38:30 +0000 VRƵ Edward Klorman wins the 2018-19 Teaching Award in the full-time category /music/node/72674 <p>Congratulations <strong>Edward Klorman</strong>, winner of <strong>Schulich’s 2018-19 Teaching Award</strong> in the full-time category!</p> Mon, 27 May 2019 16:14:30 +0000 VRƵ Philippe Macnab-Séguin, winner of the 2018-19 Andrew Svoboda Memorial Prize for Orchestral Composition /music/node/72672 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Philippe Macnab-Séguin</strong>, winner of the 2018-19 <b>Andrew Svoboda Memorial Prize for Orchestral Composition</b>. Philippe’s orchestral piece will be premiered by the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra in the 2020-2021 season.</p> Fri, 24 May 2019 13:30:24 +0000 VRƵ Marina Thibeault to join the UBC School of Music as Assistant Professor of Viola and Chamber Music /music/node/72626 <p><u><a href="https://www.marinathibeault.com/#">M</a></u><a href="https://www.marinathibeault.com/#"><u>arina Thibeault</u></a> (MMus '16, current DMus) will join the <a href="https://music.ubc.ca/blog/2019/4/29/introducing-marina-thibeault?fbclid=IwAR0xfDtrwEGlJxyQjBsa2UhshhzuRms3ksQXpmTJdEUSLlBAg6rCimXlPHg"><u>UBC School of Music</u></a> as Assistant Professor of Viola and Chamber Music beginning in the 2019-20 academic year! Here, her duties will include viola instruction, chamber music coordination and coaching, and strings curriculum development.</p> Mon, 06 May 2019 16:05:02 +0000 VRƵ Award for Equity and Community Building presented to Schulich’s Juanita Marchand Knight, Patrick Hansen, and Opera VRƵ /music/node/72596 <p>The Schulich School of Music is pleased to announce that two of its members have been presented an <a href="http://www.mcgill.ca/equity-community-award/"><b>Award for Equity and Community Building</b></a>: <b>Juanita Marchand Knigh</b>t in the Administrative and Support Staff category and <b>Patrick Hansen and Opera VRƵ </b>in the Team category.</p> <p><b><i>Juanita Marchand Knight</i></b></p> Wed, 01 May 2019 13:47:24 +0000 VRƵ Matthew Ricketts (BMus ’09) receives 2019 Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship /music/node/72587 <p>We are pleased to share that alumnus and composer Matthew Ricketts (BMus ’09) has been awarded a 2019 Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship! Intended for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional capacity for productive scholarship or exceptional creative ability in the arts, the prestigious fellowship provides fellows condition-free funding to work on their creative projects. <a href="https://www.gf.org/fellows/all-fellows/matthew-ricketts/?fbclid=IwAR2u48Cc06ToDGV77ChohaSu0typlLi7bIt7AfGgQwoHShAanF2OnvsiGZc" target="_blank">Learn more about the fellowship here.</a></p> Mon, 29 Apr 2019 20:01:42 +0000 VRƵ Dean's Essay Prize Winners Announced /music/node/72583 <p>Congratulations to Schulich students Shulamit Sarid and Laurence Willis for being awarded this year's Dean's Essay Prize! Awarded each year to two students, the Dean's Essay Prize was established to promote excellence in the art of writing about music and music research.</p> <h3><strong>Shulamit Sarid (First Prize)</strong>: </h3> <p><img src="/music/files/music/shulamit_sarid_photo_1_0.jpg" style="width:232px; height:348px; float:left; margin:10px 15px" /></p> Fri, 26 Apr 2019 18:54:32 +0000 VRƵ Pat Metheny to receive Honorary Doctorate of Music /music/node/72564 <p>Since beginning his international career in 1974, guitarist Pat Metheny has garnered widespread critical acclaim, demonstrated astonishing versatility as an artist, and has consistently been at the forefront of music technology. On May 29, 2019, his accomplishments will be recognized by VRƵ through <a href="/newsroom/channels/news/mcgills-honorary-degree-recipients-spring-convocation-2019-296322" target="_blank">his reception of an Honorary Doctorate of Music at the Spring Convocation</a>.</p> Tue, 16 Apr 2019 16:43:06 +0000 VRƵ Rachelle Jenkins’ Audition Playbook /music/node/72559 <p>Rachelle Jenkins (MMus ’13) published the Audition Playbook, a two-part guide and workbook for optimal planning and preparation of orchestral auditions, in May of 2018. Designed for musicians of all levels and instruments, the Audition Playbook helps readers carefully and effectively create, implement, and follow their own plans from start to finish. </p> Mon, 15 Apr 2019 15:05:41 +0000 VRƵ NECMT Annual Meeting hosted by VRƵ this month /music/node/72543 <p>This month VRƵ is hosting the 34th Annual Meeting of the <a href="http://www.necmt.org/">New England Conference of Music Theorists (NECMT)</a> – the first time the event has ever been held in Montreal. NECMT’s main purpose is to foster the development of music theory, and provide a forum for exchanging ideas between music theorists.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2019 15:56:36 +0000 VRƵ World Hearing Day at the VRƵ Schulich School of Music: Presentation of the Hearing-Care Platform /music/node/70761 <p>On the occasion of <strong>World Hearing Day (WHD)</strong> on March 3, the <strong>Schulich School of Music of VRƵ</strong>, in collaboration with the <strong>Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology (CIRMMT)</strong>, presents the <strong>Hearing-Care Platform</strong>: A practical and accessible set of tools for the self-assessment of noise exposure, which are particularly aimed at young musicians and youths in general.</p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:28:41 +0000 VRƵ Nick Squire wins Grammy for Best Engineered Album, Classical /music/node/70677 <p>Congratulations to Nick Squire (MMus 2008), who recently won the Grammy Award for <a href="https://www.grammy.com/grammys/awards/61st-annual-grammy-awards">Best Engineered Album, Classical</a> for his work on <em>Shostakovich: Symphonies Nos. 4 &amp; 11 </em>by Andris Nelsons and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. This win brings his Grammy count up to a total of four, as he was credited as a recording engineer on album which won Grammys for Best Orchestra Performance in 2015, 2016, and 2018.</p> Tue, 26 Feb 2019 15:47:00 +0000 VRƵ Andrew Crust named Assistant Conductor of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra /music/node/70644 <p>Congratulations to <a href="http://andrewcrust.com/" target="_blank">Andrew Crust</a> (MMus 2012), who was recently appointed as the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra's Assistant Conductor! Beginning in September 2019, Andrew will conduct a large variety of programming with the VSO, including subscription concerts, concerts for children, Pops, and more. </p> Fri, 15 Feb 2019 15:49:51 +0000 VRƵ Francis Choinière: A Clear Midnight /music/node/70645 <p>Next Tuesday marks the beginning of the Schulich Singers’ three-day tour, with concerts in <a href="/music/channels/event/schulich-singers-288272">Montreal</a>, <a href="/music/channels/event/ottawa-schulich-singers-tour-294483">Ottawa</a> and <a href="/music/channels/event/toronto-schulich-singers-tour-294484">Toronto</a>. Featuring music from over six centuries, these concerts will include composer-in-residence Francis Choinière’s new work “A Clear Midnight’.</p> Fri, 15 Feb 2019 23:24:11 +0000 VRƵ Memorial Tribute for Dr. Daryl Robert Gibson /music/node/70599 <p>In honour of his passing on October 31, 2018, the family is planning a remembrance on <strong>February 17, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. (Evensong service) at Christ Church Cathedral (635 Saint-Catherine St. W.).</strong> At the request of the family, donations may be made in his name to St. Mary’s Hospital Cancer Care Fund.</p> <p>------------------------</p> <p>It is with great sadness that we honour the passing of Dr. Daryl Robert Gibson (1939-2018), a retired Full Professor of the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ.</p> Mon, 11 Feb 2019 14:47:29 +0000 VRƵ Richard Stoelzel: new Interim Music Director of the Lakeshore Concert Band /music/node/70583 <p>Professor <a href="https://richardstoelzel.com">Richard Stoelzel</a> has been appointed as the new Interim Music Director of the <a href="https://www.lakeshoreconcertband.ca/home">Lakeshore Concert Band</a>! In a recent email exchange, Prof. Stoelzel writes, "I have had the pleasure of conducting the LCB as a guest conductor in numerous rehearsals and in concert. I am now thrilled to be appointed their interim music director. It is an honour to work with this terrific group of musicians in this new capacity and to continue to be a part of the legacy of the Lakeshore Concert Band."</p> Fri, 08 Feb 2019 21:28:48 +0000 VRƵ In Memoriam: Sanford Sylvan /music/node/70538 <p><em>To honour Sanford’s devotion to his students and his love of music, the Sanford Sylvan Fund has been established at VRƵ to provide financial support to talented voice students at the Schulich School of Music. Donations can be made <a href="/seedsofchange/project/memorial-sanford-sylvan">here</a></em>.</p> Wed, 06 Feb 2019 15:57:30 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in the 22e Prix Opus /music/node/70510 <p>Congratulations to the many Schulich staff, faculty and alumni who brought home awards in the 22nd edition of the Prix Opus. Read below for a list of Schulich-related winners, which covers a wide variety of categories and genres! Not listed are the many faculty members and alumni who perform in the highlighted orchestras.</p> Mon, 04 Feb 2019 21:46:46 +0000 VRƵ Review: Opera VRƵ's Die Zauberflöte a "renewed vision" /music/node/70500 <p>In a review of Opera VRƵ's production of Mozart's <em>Die Zauberflöte </em>(The Magic Flute), <a href="https://www.ludwig-van.com/montreal" target="_blank">Ludwig van Montreal</a> praised the costumes, the projections and the performances of the cast. Congratulations to all of those involved! </p> <p>"Le metteur en scène tout comme les interprètes se sont approprié l’univers mozartien avec allant, justesse et surtout plaisir offrant ainsi un spectacle délicieux et réjouissant, tellement… mozartien !"</p> Mon, 04 Feb 2019 16:38:46 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in the 2019 Juno Awards /music/node/70491 <p>Following the announcement of the nominees for the 2019 Juno Awards earlier this week, we're proud to announce that Schulich faculty and alumni appear in four different awards categories. Congratulations to all Schulich faculty, alumni and students who continue to release music year after year! Visit the links in our list below to learn more about the nominees.</p> <p><u><strong>2019 Juno Nominees</strong></u></p> Fri, 01 Feb 2019 20:40:43 +0000 VRƵ Alexander Freund: Never Stop Learning /music/node/66514 <p>As doctoral trumpet student Alexander Freund (D.Mus, year 3) puts it, an essential part of being an artist is the “never-ending search for growth.” In Freund’s case, this search led him to a long association with the <a href="http://metalesm5.com/">M5 Mexican Brass</a> and a teaching position for 11 years at the Conservatorio de las Rosas in Morelia, Michoacán. In the past few years however, he moved to Montreal to study at Schulich under Prof. Richard Stoelzel, and most recently, he’s acquired a new position as professor of trumpet at Atlanta’s Georgia State University.</p> Mon, 28 Jan 2019 14:10:24 +0000 VRƵ Violinist Simos Papanas joins Schulich for a week long residency /music/node/70350 <p>We are excited to welcome the uniquely versatile Greek violinist, composer, and mathematician <strong><a href="http://www.kalifonia.eu/index.php/artists/violinists/85-papanas-simos">Simos Papanas</a></strong> to the Schulich School of Music for a week-long <strong>Catherine Thornhill Visiting Artist</strong> Residency!</p> Mon, 21 Jan 2019 21:59:23 +0000 VRƵ Allyson Rogers on Eldon Rathburn's "amazing versatility" and more /music/node/70296 <p>Despite being one of Canada’s most prolific composers in the twentieth century, Eldon Rathburn (LMus 1937) still remains somewhat unknown. Over the course of his 75-year musical career, Rathburn churned out hundreds of remarkable film scores that provided the soundtrack for a wide variety of productions, in addition to many orchestral and chamber pieces. With such an extensive catalogue of noteworthy works, Rathburn certainly deserves a prominent place in the Canadian musical canon.</p> Mon, 14 Jan 2019 18:47:33 +0000 VRƵ John Rea appointed as Member of the Order of Canada /music/node/70242 <p>At the end of December, Governor General Julie Payette <a href="https://www.gg.ca/en/media/news/2018/governor-general-announces-103-new-appointments-order-canada">announced many new appointments to the Order of Canada</a>, one of the country's highest honours. Among these is Prof.</p> Thu, 03 Jan 2019 16:26:30 +0000 VRƵ Alumnus Francis LaPorte to perform in the London Symphony Orchestra /music/node/70196 <p>Before the age of 24, trumpeter Francis LaPorte (BMus 2018) will have already performed with two of the world’s biggest orchestras: the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) and L’Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM). For Francis, this is only the beginning of his life-long ambition to pursue trumpet professionally.</p> Wed, 26 Dec 2018 23:08:11 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Faculty and Alumni in 2018 Grammy Nominations /music/node/69785 <p>Presented annually, the<a href="https://www.grammy.com/"> Grammy Awards</a> are awarded by the <a href="https://www.grammy.com/recording-academy/membership/recording-academy/about/chapters/recording-academy">Recording Academy</a>, the world's leading society of music professionals. As music's only peer-recognized distinction, the Grammy awards honour and celebrate artistic excellence across the entire music industry, and are considered one of the most prestigious achievements in the arts.</p> Tue, 11 Dec 2018 20:42:01 +0000 VRƵ Marika Galea: Taking the Long View /music/node/69776 <p>According to Deniz Ucbasaran of the Warkwick Business School, leaders of jazz ensembles have a lot to teach us about how to innovate as entrepreneurs. Looking at iconic figures in jazz such as Miles Davis, Art Blakey and Duke Ellington, Ucbasaran’s <a href="https://digitalknowledge.babson.edu/fer/vol31/iss10/2/" target="_blank">award-winning paper</a> presented many standout concepts applicable to the business world at large that were revealed through investigating how these artists ran their groups.</p> Tue, 11 Dec 2018 18:25:23 +0000 VRƵ Marcel d'Entremont wins the 2018-2019 Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/69526 <p>On Sunday, November 25, Pollack Hall was host to several outstanding performances as part of the final round of the Wirth Vocal Prize. At the end of the evening, tenor <strong>Marcel d'Entremont</strong> was announced as the competition’s winner, having sung an exceptional program with collaborative pianist <strong>Dakota Scott-Digout</strong>, that included works by Verdi, Duparc, Schubert, Tchaikovsky, Quilter and Copland</p> Mon, 26 Nov 2018 14:44:28 +0000 VRƵ Takuto Fukuda's Convergence /music/node/69469 <p>The <strong><a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/svoboda-memorial-composition-prize">Andrew Svoboda Prize for Orchestral Composition</a></strong> was created in memory of Andrew Svoboda (BMus’00, MMus’04), a promising composer who passed away suddenly in 2004.</p> Fri, 23 Nov 2018 14:18:43 +0000 VRƵ Elie Boissinot wins the 2018-2019 Golden Violin Award /music/node/69129 <p>Huge congratulations are in order for cellist <b>Elie Boissinot</b>, who won the <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/golden-violin" target="_blank">2018-2019 Golden Violin Competition</a> on Sunday afternoon with an exemplary 30-minute performance before a four-person jury and enthusiastic audience. Accompanied by collaborative pianist <b>Wei-Tang Tuang</b>, Elie’s winning program included <i>Variations concertantes, Op.</i></p> Sun, 28 Oct 2018 22:31:03 +0000 VRƵ Chilly Gonzales on his Schulich roots /music/node/69118 <p>In a recent interview with <a href="http://plus.lapresse.ca/">La Presse +</a>, pianist <a href="https://www.chillygonzales.com/">Chilly Gonzales</a> (also known as Jason Beck offstage) explained how his time at Schulich in the 1990s influenced his current style of music.</p> Thu, 25 Oct 2018 14:42:41 +0000 VRƵ Naama Neuman to perform Ibert's Concerto for Flute and Orchestra /music/node/69060 <p>Known for her engaging and lively performances, Israeli-born flutist <a href="https://www.naamaneuman.com">Naama Neuman</a> has played first flute in the <a href="https://www.komische-oper-berlin.de"><em>Komische Oper Berlin</em></a> and the <a href="https://www.sinfonieorchester-wuppertal.de">Wuppertal Symphony Orchestra</a>, and has performed under the baton of numerous world-renowned conductors such as Zubin Mehta, Kiril Petrenko, Gustavo Dudamel, Valery Gergiev, and more.</p> Thu, 18 Oct 2018 14:04:00 +0000 VRƵ Strathcona's Piano: Icon of the Times /music/node/68902 <p>While the Schulich School of Music houses over 70 grand pianos, a unique, 130-year-old Steinway is tucked away in neighbouring Royal Victoria College, a VRƵ residence hall. Hailed in 1887 by <i>The Decorator and Furnisher </i>magazine as “the most beautiful concert grand ever designed,” this one-of-a-kind instrument was commissioned from Steinway by Sir Donald Smith (also known as Lord Strathcona), who wanted the finest piano around to complete his parlour’s décor.</p> Fri, 12 Oct 2018 20:14:28 +0000 VRƵ Violinist Teresa Wang wins Peter Mendell Award /music/node/68773 <p>We would like to congratulate violinist Teresa Wang (BMus ’17), who was recently awarded the 2018 Peter Mendell Award. This award includes a $2500 scholarship and a private recital opportunity. Peter Mendell, a prominent lawyer at Davies Ward Philips &amp; Vineberg as well as an avid cellist, created the award in 2005 to recognize and foster the development of musical talent amongst full-time string students pursuing studies in classical music programs at Quebec universities and conservatories.</p> Fri, 05 Oct 2018 20:16:56 +0000 VRƵ Schulich alumni recognized in 2018 Montréal SOCAN Awards /music/node/68720 <p>The 29th edition of the <a href="http://www.socan.com/">Montréal SOCAN awards</a> were held at <a href="http://tohu.ca/en/">La Tohu</a> on Tuesday night (Oct. 2), and several Schulich alumni stood out among the winners, including:</p> <p><strong>Jean-Olivier Bégin</strong> (BMus 2003), Screen Composer of the Year<strong>; Chet Doxas</strong> (BMus 2004, MMus 2008), Hagood Hardy Award<b>; </b><strong>James O'Callaghan</strong> (MMus 2014), Jan V. Matejcek Award; and <strong>Marc Ouellette</strong> (BMus 1993), Film Music Award.</p> Thu, 04 Oct 2018 16:09:16 +0000 VRƵ Jen Shyu: Artistic Evolution, Learning and Passing Down Wisdom /music/node/68568 <p>A true innovator, <a href="http://jenshyu.com/">Jen Shyu</a>’s artistic output encompasses so many categories that the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/13/arts/music/best-albums-of-2015.html">New York Times has hailed her</a> as a “new kind of improviser-composer-ethnomusicologist hybrid.” While creating music that features her multilingual vocals and performances on a variety of instruments, Shyu taps into her extensive study of the traditional songs of East Timor, Taiwan, Indonesia and more.</p> Fri, 28 Sep 2018 16:46:45 +0000 VRƵ Thomas Daudlin awarded Hnatyshyn Foundation Developing Artist Grant /music/node/68564 <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu-mAHNJWWt_mxnTJsbS4Gw">Saxophonist Thomas Daudlin</a> (B.Mus 2019) was recently recognized by the Hnatyshyn Foundation as <a href="http://www.rjhf.com/programs/developing-artists/2018/recipients.php">the recipient of the Oscar Peterson Grant for Jazz Performance</a>, valued at $10,000. Open to applications from nominated post-secondary students across Canada in the penultimate or final year of their program, the grants were established to "foster excellence in new talent."</p> Thu, 27 Sep 2018 16:08:58 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in l'ADISQ 2018 Nominations /music/node/68415 <p>Every year, <a href="https://adisq.com/">l'Association québécoise de l'industrie du disque, du spectacle et de la vidéo (ADISQ)</a> puts on an awards gala to highlight musicians and music industry professionals in Québec. Included in this year's nominations for <strong>Jazz Album of the Year</strong>, <strong>Classical - Large Ensemble Album of the Year</strong> and <strong>Classical - Small Ensemble Album of the Year</strong> are many Schulich faculty, alumni and students, which we've highlighted in our list below. </p> Mon, 17 Sep 2018 15:12:36 +0000 VRƵ Ilya Poletaev on Chopin: "The kinetic, the musical, and the emotional are all one" /music/node/68394 <p>Well-known for his focus on the works of George Enescu (recordings of which the <i>American Record Guide </i>proclaimed to be some of the <a href="https://www.naxos.com/reviews/reviewslist.asp?catalogueid=8.572691&amp;languageid=EN">“finest readings” of the music</a>), as well as for his versatility and expertise on period instruments, pianist <a href="/music/ilya-poletaev">Prof. Ilya Poletaev</a> is equally at home interpreting the music of other master composers.</p> Fri, 14 Sep 2018 19:21:55 +0000 VRƵ Schulich at TUJF and l'OFF Jazz festivals /music/node/68323 <p>Jazz festivals don't only happen in the summer, and our faculty, students, and alumni are still keeping busy with appearances at different events in the fall. Two such upcoming festivals, the <a href="http://www.tujazz.com/home/">Toronto Undergraduate Jazz Festival</a> and <a href="https://www.lofffestivaldejazz.com/">l'Off Jazz</a>, feature a significant number of Schulich-related artists as group leaders or bandmembers, which we've compiled in two lists below. </p> <hr /> <p><b>Toronto Undergraduate Jazz Festival (Sept. 4 – 8)</b></p> Thu, 06 Sep 2018 15:11:47 +0000 VRƵ CBC/VRƵ Intership 2018-19 Announced /music/node/68322 <p>Students at the Schulich School of Music can apply for an internship with <a href="https://www.cbcmusic.ca/">CBC Music</a>, where they'll get the chance to work with CBC Montreal's music team on broadcast recording projects, online editorial pieces and more for optional credit. The deadline to apply is September 22, 2018! Read below for full information.</p> <hr /> <p><strong>INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY WITH CBC MUSIC 2018-2019</strong></p> <p>POSITION: unpaid internship in music production and journalism (for optional credit)</p> <p>LOCATION: Montreal, QC</p> Wed, 05 Sep 2018 21:03:39 +0000 VRƵ Elie Boissinot awarded Hnatyshyn Foundation Developing Artist Grant /music/node/68232 <p>Congratulations to cellist Elie Boissinot (B.Mus 2020), who was recently awarded a <a href="http://www.rjhf.com/programs/developing-artists/">Hnatyshyn Foundation Developing Artist Grant</a> valued at $10,000! Open to post-secondary students across Canada in their penultimate or final year, the grants were established to "foster excellence in new talent." About this success, Elie said "It is a great privilege and honour to be selected to receive such a prestigious grant!</p> Fri, 31 Aug 2018 15:35:02 +0000 VRƵ L'alto au féminin selon Marina Thibeault /music/node/68153 <p>Nommée <strong>Révélation Radio-Canada</strong> pour la saison 2016-2017, l’altiste virtuose <a href="http://marinathibeault.com/"><strong>Marina Thibeault</strong></a> se produira deux fois cette fin de semaine dans le cadre de la <a href="http://www.osm.ca/fr/vireeclassique/"><strong>Virée classique</strong></a>: une fois en récital et une fois au sein de l’Ensemble de la Virée. Dans un récent entretien avec La Presse, elle discute de l’influence des grands altistes de l’histoire moderne sur l’évolution du répertoire de l’instrument.</p> Thu, 30 Aug 2018 14:56:23 +0000 VRƵ In memoriam of Professor Kenneth Woodman /music/node/68039 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Kenneth Woodman (1938-2018) after a long battle with cancer.</p> Wed, 22 Aug 2018 14:38:28 +0000 VRƵ Schulich professors receive SSHRC Insight Grants /music/node/68028 <p>Congratulations to several of our professors who recently received <a href="http://www.sshrc-crsh.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx">Social Science and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)</a> Insight Grants to fund a wide variety of fascinating research projects!</p> <p>According to the SSHRC, the Insight program was established with the goal to “support and foster excellence in social sciences and humanities research intended to deepen, widen and increase our collective understanding of individuals and societies, as well as to inform the search for solutions to societal challenges.”</p> Tue, 21 Aug 2018 21:32:11 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in CBC Music's "30 hot Canadian classical musicians under 30" /music/node/67991 <p>Congratulations to violinist Amy Hillis (B.Mus 2012, current D.Mus) and bassoonist Kristy Tucker (M.Mus 2017), who were featured in CBC Music's annual "30 hot Canadian classical musicians under 30" roundup. The list highlights some of the most promising young musicians from across Canada, acting as an annual shortlist of the country's brightest new talents in classical music. </p> <p><a href="https://www.cbcmusic.ca/posts/20081/30-hot-canadian-classical-musicians-under-30-2018">Read CBC Music's full article here</a>.</p> Thu, 16 Aug 2018 14:54:36 +0000 VRƵ 2018-2019 Season is Announced /music/node/67874 <p>We are very excited to launch our 2018-2019 season, with several brand new additions to the program as well as the usual favourites. Over 600 performances by members of Schulich’s vibrant musical community are on offer, presentations by our world-class researchers as well as visiting guests, masterclasses by international guest artists, a new concert series, and a new composition competition to add to our long-established list of student competitions. </p> Fri, 10 Aug 2018 19:03:28 +0000 VRƵ Schulich alumni celebrate two years of jazz nights in St. Henri /music/node/67872 <p>Jam sessions have long been a cornerstone of jazz communities in cities around the world. In addition to offering playing and networking opportunities for the participants, they also act as a chance for anyone who shows up to celebrate the music they love.</p> <p>In Montreal, there were three main jams for many years – Monday’s session at Upstairs Jazz Bar &amp; Grill, Diese Onze on Tuesday nights, and Grumpy’s Bar on Wednesdays. These events mostly took place around downtown Montreal, so there was an opportunity for a jam to open up in another of the city’s neighbourhoods.</p> Thu, 09 Aug 2018 19:46:06 +0000 VRƵ Dean Brenda Ravenscroft profiled in the VRƵ Reporter /music/node/67850 <p>In a recent profile by the<a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/"> VRƵ Reporter</a>, Dean Brenda Ravenscroft discusses her efforts over the past year at the Schulich School of Music, including establishing a <a href="/music/about-us/accessibility">diversity mandate</a>.</p> Mon, 06 Aug 2018 15:38:16 +0000 VRƵ Shanti Nachtergaele: The Birth of Modern Double Bass Playing at the Prague and Paris Conservatories /music/node/67474 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Shanti Nachtergaele</strong>, a current PhD student in the musicology program, who was awarded a <a href="http://www.vanier.gc.ca/en/scholar_search-chercheur_recherche_2018.html"><strong>Vanier Scholarship</strong> through the <strong>Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council</strong></a> for her project <strong>“The Birth of Modern Double Bass Playing at the Prague and Paris Conservatories.”</strong></p> Tue, 24 Jul 2018 13:28:19 +0000 VRƵ Dominique Labelle to receive a 2018 Opera Canada Award /music/node/67473 <p>We are proud to announce that Prof. Dominique Labelle will be among the three honourees receiving the 2018 Opera Canada Awards! First announced in 2000 by Opera Canada's magazine, “The Rubies” were created to honour the achievements of Canadians making a significant impact in the opera world. </p> Tue, 24 Jul 2018 13:16:19 +0000 VRƵ Robert Hasegawa named a William Dawson Scholar /music/node/67250 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Robert Hasegawa</strong>, Associate Professor of Music Theory, who has been named a <a href="/apo/deans-and-chairs-guide/jmp-wds"><strong>William Dawson Scholar</strong></a>, one of VRƵ’s most prestigious internal awards! This award recognizes a scholar who is becoming an outstanding and original researcher of world-class caliber and is poised to become a leader in their field. He will hold the award for a five-year term.</p> Wed, 13 Jun 2018 19:48:34 +0000 VRƵ Zarin Mehta receives Honorary Doctorate at Schulich’s Spring Convocation /music/node/67242 <p>Two weeks ago, the <strong>Schulich School of Music </strong>had the honour in presenting <strong><a href="/music/channels/news/zarin-mehta-receive-honorary-doctorate-music-286994">Zarin Mehta</a> </strong>with the degree of <strong>Doctor of Music, honoris causa. </strong></p> Wed, 13 Jun 2018 15:49:56 +0000 VRƵ Vanessa Blais-Tremblay wins the 2017-18 Teaching Award in the TA/graduate instructor category /music/node/67192 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Vanessa Blais-Tremblay </strong>(BMus ‘09, PhD forthcoming), winner of Schulich’s <strong>2017-18 <a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards">Teaching Award</a> </strong>in the teaching assistant/graduate instructor category!</p> Wed, 06 Jun 2018 18:29:36 +0000 VRƵ Simon Rivard named TSO Resident Conductor & TYSO Conductor /music/node/67175 <p>After distinguishing himself in a nationwide search that ended in a live audition earlier this spring, Simon Rivard (MMus '17) has been appointed the new <a href="https://www.tso.ca/news-release/simon-rivard-named-tso-resident-conductor-tsyo-conductor">Resident Conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) and Conductor of the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra</a> (TSYO). This announcement follows a wave of other recent successes by Simon, including his inclusion on CBC’s list of “<a href="https://www.cbcmusic.ca/posts/18752/30-hot-canadian-classical-musicians-under-30-2017">30 Hot Canad</a></p> Fri, 01 Jun 2018 16:27:30 +0000 VRƵ Three Schulich vocalists win Ottawa Choral Society’s New Discoveries Auditions /music/node/67136 <p>Congratulations to Simone McIntosh (MMus ’17), Jonah Spungin (BMus ’16, MMus ‘18) and Anna-Sophie Neher (MMus ’18) for winning first, second and third prize respectively in last week’s <a href="http://ottawachoralsociety.com/nd_results">New Discoveries Auditions by the Ottawa Choral Society</a>. Held every other year, the New Discoveries Auditions provides emerging vocal artists with a professional platform, broad audience exposure and career development opportunities.</p> Tue, 29 May 2018 19:50:17 +0000 VRƵ Obituary: Barbara Whitley /music/node/67121 <p>The Schulich School of Music is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Barbara Whitley, a long-time friend and supporter of the School. Dr, Whitley received her BA from VRƵ in 1940 and an Honorary Doctorate in Arts in 1992, and was an accomplished actor, philanthropist and volunteer. She had just celebrated her 100th birthday this past April.</p> Thu, 24 May 2018 20:42:38 +0000 VRƵ Standout singer Nana Mouskouri appears in Schulich masterclass /music/node/67120 <p>On May 20, 2018, Schulich students had a rare chance to get direct feedback from a singing legend – Nana Mouskouri. </p> <p><span>Ryan Nauta (tenor), Jonah Spungin (baritone), Jessica Burnside (soprano) and Elie Manousakis (soprano) performed as part of in a masterclass in Tanna Schulich Hall where Mouskouri (DLitt 2013) offered guidance based on a wealth of experience from her 60-year career.</span></p> Thu, 24 May 2018 20:39:31 +0000 VRƵ Matt Haimovitz named inaugural John Cage Fellow at the Mannes School of Music /music/node/67113 <p>Earlier this year, cellist and Schulich professor Matt Haimovitz was appointed as the first-ever John Cage Fellow at the New School's <a href="https://www.newschool.edu/mannes/">Mannes School of Music</a>. As part of this artist-in-residence program, Haimovitz will be actively involved in Mannes activities, including acting as an ensemble coach, teaching private lessons, and engaging in joint endeavors with Schulich.</p> Wed, 23 May 2018 20:48:08 +0000 VRƵ Dominique Labelle wins the 2017-18 Teaching Award in the performance area /music/node/67102 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Dominique Labelle</strong>, winner of Schulich's <strong>2017-18 <a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards">Teaching Award </a></strong>in the performance area.</p> Wed, 16 May 2018 13:42:11 +0000 VRƵ Richard King wins the 2017-18 Teaching Award in the research area /music/node/67101 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Richard King</strong>, winner of Schulich's <a href="/music/people-research/honours/teaching-awards"><strong>2017-18 Teaching Award</strong></a> in the research area. </p> Wed, 16 May 2018 13:31:31 +0000 VRƵ Amy Hillis wins 2018 E-Gré National Music Competition in Strings /music/node/66927 <p>Congratulations to Amy Hillis (D.Mus 2019), who won the 41st <a href="https://e-gre.ca/">Eckhardt-Gramatté National Music Competition in Strings</a> this past weekend for her stunning final-round performance with collaborative pianist <a href="https://www.katherinedowling.com/">Katherine Dowling</a>. As the first-prize winner, Hillis received an award totalling $15,000, including a $8000 cash prize, a residency and recital at Italy's <a href="http://www.casalmaggiorefestival.com/">Casalmaggiore Interntional Music Festival</a> this summer and a multi-city Canadian tour in the fall.</p> Thu, 10 May 2018 20:18:31 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ alumn launches transcription app Frettable /music/node/66924 <p>In January of this year, Greg Burlet (MA 2013) launched <a href="https://www.frettable.com/">Frettable</a>, a mobile app that makes music transcription easier than ever. Using artificial intelligence, the app analyzes audio played from guitar, voice, brass or woodwinds and turns it into sheet music. Adopted by thousands of users since launch, the app is available on the iTunes app store and Google Play in a free or subscription-based model. </p> Thu, 10 May 2018 19:38:10 +0000 VRƵ Moe Touizrar: Winner of the John Rea Travel Award in Composition /music/node/66814 <p>This year’s<strong> <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/rea-travel-composition">John Rea Travel Award</a></strong> has been awarded to doctoral candidate <strong>Moe Touizrar</strong>. Established in 2016 by Prof. John Rea, the prize is awarded each year to a student in composition who is travelling during the summer to broaden their cultural experience and depth of knowledge.</p> Tue, 08 May 2018 15:13:36 +0000 VRƵ Richard Stoelzel: Building a Legacy /music/node/66512 <p>Prof. Richard Stoelzel, Professor of Trumpet and Brass Area Chair at the Schulich School of Music, recently released his latest record – <em>Horizon</em>. This newest release features many works for trumpet and orchestra that Stoelzel commissioned specifically for the release, and sees him joined by the Polish Camerata Chamber Orchestra. In light of this exciting new disc, we spoke to Prof. Stoelzel about the album, performing as a soloist and more in a recent email exchange.</p> Fri, 04 May 2018 13:00:00 +0000 VRƵ Zarin Mehta to receive Honorary Doctorate of Music /music/node/66509 <p>Among <a href="/newsroom/spring-2018-convocations-honorary-degree-recipients">13 other outstanding individuals</a> slated to receive honorary doctorates from VRƵ is Zarin Mehta, who will be presented with a Doctor of Music at the music convocation ceremony on May 30, 2018. Always passionate about music, <span>Mehta began his career as a chartered accountant at Coopers and Lybrand before stepping into the role of Managing Director of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) in 1981.</span></p> Wed, 02 May 2018 19:37:14 +0000 VRƵ Kaiya Smith Blackburn: Winner of the 2018 Dean’s Essay Prize /music/node/66388 <p>Congratulations to <strong><a href="https://www.kaiyacade.com">Kaiya Smith Blackburn</a></strong>, a current masters student in the musicology program, who was awarded 1st place in the <strong><a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/deans-essay-prize">2017-18 Dean’s Essay Prize</a></strong> for her project <strong>“Black Israelites, Social Justice, and Kendrick Lamar: Meditations on a Rhetorical Branch of African American/Jewish Relations.”</strong></p> Mon, 30 Apr 2018 20:20:53 +0000 VRƵ The upcoming projects of jazz drummer Valérie Lacombe /music/node/66223 <p>Blog post by Chris Maskell.</p> <p><em>Jazz drummer Valérie Lacombe (BMus ’18) is an active musician and leader in Montreal who has worked with many of the city’s most celebrated musicians. Having had just finished up her graduating recital on Monday, we interviewed Valérie over email about her experience here at Schulich as well as her upcoming projects.</em></p> <p><strong>How does the BMus jazz program influence your development as an artist?</strong></p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:28:41 +0000 VRƵ Taylor Donaldson: Promoting and Preserving Canadian Jazz /music/node/66187 <p><span>Trombonist, composer and arranger Taylor Donaldson (MMus 2011) has been actively involved in the Montreal music scene for almost a decade, performing in jazz ensembles of all sizes, with symphony orchestras, chamber ensembles, choirs and more.</span></p> Thu, 26 Apr 2018 20:52:23 +0000 VRƵ Schulich at the Montreal International Jazz Festival /music/node/66135 <p>The Schulich School of Music is well represented this year at the <a href="http://www.montrealjazzfest.com/en-CA">Montreal International Jazz Festival</a>, with our students, faculty and alumni appearing in a variety of concerts throughout the festival's program. Some of these performances include:  </p> Wed, 25 Apr 2018 20:49:17 +0000 VRƵ Kristin Franseen: Winner of Schulich's International Grant Competition /music/node/65709 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Kristin Franseen</strong>, a current doctoral candidate in musicology, who was awarded $10,000 in the <strong><a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/international-grant">International Grant Writing Competition</a> </strong>for her grant application <em>“Ghosts in the Archive: The Queer Knowledge and Public Musicology of Vernon Lee, Rosa Newmarch, and Edward Prime-Stevenson.”</em> Kristin also won second place in the <strong><a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/deans-essay-prize">Dean’s Essay</a></strong></p> Wed, 18 Apr 2018 20:22:20 +0000 VRƵ Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize 2017-18 /music/node/65698 <p>Through a unanimous agreement, the winner of this year’s <strong><a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/eleanor-stubley-recording">Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize </a></strong>is Sarah Rossy (BMus ’17, MMus ’19) who will work together with <a href="http://www.jennifernulsen.com">Jennifer Nulsen</a> (MMus ’18) on the project <em>“Jazz in the Balance: Exploring Music Making and Creation in Gender and Genre-Balanced Teams and Environments.”</em></p> Wed, 18 Apr 2018 15:26:32 +0000 VRƵ Matthew Ricketts to compose a new opera for the OSM’s 85 season opening /music/node/65697 <p>To open the <a href="http://www.osm.ca/en/concerts/rite-spring-ravels-bolero-open-85th-season-osm/">Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal’s 85th season</a>, composer <a href="https://matthewricketts.com">Matthew Ricketts</a> (BMus ’09) has been commissioned to write a new chamber opera. Titled “Chaakapesh, The Trickster’s Quest,” this work showcases two singers, narrator, and orchestra, in three scenes. To celebrate this exciting opportunity, we asked Matthew a few questions in a recent email exchange.</p> <p><strong>How did you become involved with this project?</strong></p> Wed, 18 Apr 2018 15:13:43 +0000 VRƵ Kit Soden, winner of the 2017-18 Andrew Svoboda Memorial Prize for Orchestral Composition /music/node/65388 <p>Congratulations to current PhD candidate <a href="http://www.kitvaughansoden.com">Kit Soden</a>, winner of the 2017-18 <strong>Andrew Svoboda Memorial Prize for Orchestral Composition</strong>. </p> Thu, 12 Apr 2018 15:09:21 +0000 VRƵ Hannah Darroch: Vagues se brisant contre le vent /music/node/65304 <p>Flutist <a href="https://www.hannahdarroch.com">Hannah Darroch</a> (DMus '19) is set to perform Canat de Chizy's <em>Vagues se brisant contre le vent, for Flute and Ensemble </em>with the <a href="/music/channels/event/mcgill-contemporary-music-ensemble-269156">VRƵ Contemporary Ensemble</a> Friday, April 13, 2018 at 7:30 pm in Pollack Hall. A piece not often heard in the concert hall, we spoke with Hannah to learn more about what listeners can expect to hear.</p> <p><strong>What is Edith Canat de Chizy’s piece about?</strong></p> Wed, 11 Apr 2018 15:52:54 +0000 VRƵ Gavin Goodwin: Rhapsody for Orchestra and Saxophone /music/node/65171 <p>Saxophonist <a href="http://www.gavingoodwin.ca">Gavin Goodwin</a> (GDip '18) will be performing Debussy's <em>Rhapsody for Orchestra and Saxophone </em>with the VRƵ Contemporary Ensemble <a href="/music/channels/event/mcgill-contemporary-music-ensemble-269156">Friday, April 13, 2018 at 7:30 pm in Pollack Hall</a>. We caught up with Gavin in a recent email exchange to learn more about his upcoming performance.</p> <p><em><strong>Why did you choose to attend Schulich?</strong></em></p> Tue, 10 Apr 2018 14:31:50 +0000 VRƵ David Braid performs at Schulich this week /music/node/63654 <p><em>(Blog post by Nick Walshe and Chris Maskell)</em></p> <p><em>Recent Juno-award winning jazz composer and pianist David Braid will be visiting the Schulich School of Music this week to collaborate with jazz faculty and student improvisers in <a href="/music/channels/event/schulich-concert-david-braid-269133">concert</a>. Chris Maskell caught up with him in this recent interview to learn more about his music and his approach to improvisation.</em></p> Mon, 26 Mar 2018 15:51:29 +0000 VRƵ Professor David Brackett wins the Irving Lowens Book Award for his book Categorizing Sound: Genre and Twentieth-Century Popular Music /music/node/62982 <p>We are proud to announce that Professor <a href="/music/david-brackett"><strong>David Brackett</strong></a> recently won the <a href="http://www.american-music.org/awards/LowensBook.php"><strong>Irving Lowens Book Award</strong></a>, for his book <em>Categorizing Sound: Genre and Twentieth-Century Popular Music</em> (University of California Press). This award is given annually by the <a href="http://american-music.org/"><strong>Society of American Music</strong></a> for a book that makes an outstanding contribution to American music studies.</p> Mon, 19 Mar 2018 16:45:28 +0000 VRƵ Alumn Eric Abramovitz appointed associate principal clarinet of Toronto Symphony Orchestra /music/node/62742 <p><span>Congratulations to Eric Abramovitz (B.Mus 2016), who was recently appointed as the associate principal/Eb clarinet of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO). We spoke to him in a recent email exchange about how studying at Schulich prepared him for this position.</span></p> <p><strong>How did the Schulich School of Music prepare you for life as a professional musician?</strong></p> Tue, 13 Mar 2018 18:33:35 +0000 VRƵ Critically acclaimed violinist Jinjoo Cho to join the Schulich School of Music string faculty /music/node/62140 <p>The Schulich School of Music is pleased to announce that violinist <strong>Jinjoo Cho</strong> will be joining the string faculty as Assistant Professor, beginning August 1st, 2018.</p> Sun, 04 Mar 2018 17:13:26 +0000 VRƵ Launch of a pilot project assessing noise exposure experienced by Schulich School of Music students /music/node/62137 <p>On the occasion of the <strong>World Hearing Day</strong>, the <strong>Schulich School of Music of VRƵ</strong>, in collaboration with the <strong>Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology (CIRMMT)</strong>, announces the launch of a pilot project assessing noise exposure experienced by Schulich School of Music students.</p> Sat, 03 Mar 2018 21:21:51 +0000 VRƵ Students & Guest Artists from four continents convene at the Schulich School of Music at VRƵ for Musical Chairs 2018 /music/node/61724 <p>The Schulich School of Music at VRƵ welcomes an international array of guest artists and student ensembles for the <strong>Musical Chairs Chamber Music Festival</strong>, two packed weeks of workshops, masterclasses, and performances – all open to the public. Inspired by a passion for chamber music and the unique musical experiences it offers, Musical Chairs brings <strong>10 guest artists and 6 guest student ensembles from 4 continents together with 52 students and 12 professors</strong> from the Schulich School. Events take place between February 25 and March<br /></p> Fri, 23 Feb 2018 22:26:53 +0000 VRƵ Dean Brenda Ravenscroft on women, diversity and accessibility in music /music/node/61550 <p>In November 2017, Dean Brenda Ravenscroft won the the <a href="https://societymusictheory.org">Society for Music Theory</a>'s 2017 Outstanding Multi-Authored Publication Award for the first volume of <a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/analytical-essays-on-music-by-women-composers-concert-music-1960-2000-9780190236861?lang=en&amp;cc=ca"><em>A</em></a><em><a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/analytical-essays-on-music-by-women-composers-concert-music-1960-2000-9780190236861?lang=en&amp;cc=ca">nalytical Essays on Music by Women Composers</a></em> (in collaboration wit</p> Mon, 19 Feb 2018 22:29:41 +0000 VRƵ Schulich's Brazilian Jazz Workshop Unites the Montreal Music Community /music/node/61544 <p>Every week, the Schulich School of Music sees musicians from all over Montreal come together to learn about the music of Brazil. In a ten-week free workshop directed by guitarist Rodrigo Simões (through support of Schulich's Jazz Performance and Music Education areas), a group of over 20 participants has the chance to learn the ins-and-outs of <span>samba, Baiaõ and maxixe on their main instruments, as well as perform supporting roles on a variety of percussion instruments.</span></p> Sat, 17 Feb 2018 04:05:51 +0000 VRƵ Simone McIntosh to appear in Vancouver Opera lead role /music/node/61539 <p>Simone McIntosh (M.Mus 2017) continues her streak of successes with an upcoming appearance singing the title role in Rossini's "La Cenerentola." The production, which will be put on by Vancouver Opera in the spring, will be McIntosh's first mainstage appearance in a lead role.</p> <p>After graduating from Schulich (where she won the 2016 Wirth Vocal Prize), she has gone on to work in the Canadian Opera Company's Studio Ensemble for the 2017/18 season, among other notable national appearances.</p> Wed, 14 Feb 2018 21:27:19 +0000 VRƵ Maestro Kent Nagano to conduct VRƵ Symphony Orchestra /music/node/61523 <p><em>Article from the VRƵ Reporter</em></p> <p>It’s a first and only for one night: The Schulich School of Music’s VRƵ Symphony Orchestra (MGSO) will perform under the baton of Orchestre symphonique de Montréal Music Director Maestro Kent Nagano on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Maison symphonique.</p> Fri, 09 Feb 2018 21:18:04 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Winners for the 21e Prix Opus /music/node/61515 <p>The winners of the <a href="http://www.cqm.qc.ca/1252/Laureats_an_21.html">Conseil québécois de la musique's 21e Prix Opus</a> have been announced and many faculty members and alumni took home awards this year! </p> <p>Read here for a list of artists that have a connection with Schulich. Not listed are the many faculty members and alumni who perform in the many nominated orchestras.</p> <p><strong>Concert de l'année - Montréal</strong><br /> Yannick Nézet-Séguin (honorary doctorate) for <em>Une page d'histoire: Yannick Nézet-Séguin dirige le sublime Parsifal</em></p> Thu, 08 Feb 2018 23:27:39 +0000 VRƵ Schulich in the Junos 2018 /music/node/61514 <p>The Schulich School of Music is well-represented in the 2018 Juno Awards, with nominees appearing in three different categories. Congratulations to all of our alumni, faculty and students who released music this past year!</p> <p><u><strong>2018 Juno Nominees:</strong></u></p> <p><strong>Classical Album of the Year (Vocal or Choral)</strong><br /> Philippe Sly (B.Mus 2011) &amp; John Charles Britton - Schubert Sessions: Lieder with Guitar<br /> Daniel Taylor (L.Mus 1992) with the Trinity Choir - The Tree of Life</p> Thu, 08 Feb 2018 22:04:37 +0000 VRƵ Opera VRƵ’s Lucia di Lammermoor a success! /music/node/61505 <p>Held January 26-29, 2018 at Monument-National, <strong>Opera VRƵ</strong> took to the highlands of Scotland for their latest production, <strong>Lucia di Lammermoor</strong>. On top of the talents of <strong>Opera VRƵ</strong> and the <strong>VRƵ Symphony Orchestra</strong>, the opera featured the work of director Patrick Hansen, conductor Stephen Hargreaves, set designer Vincent Lefèvre, costume designer Ginette Grenier, light designer Serge Filiatrault, make-up artist Florence Cornet, and hair stylist Réjean Forget.</p> Wed, 07 Feb 2018 22:10:28 +0000 VRƵ Alumna Claire de Sévigné in 'The Abduction from the Seraglio' /music/node/61496 <p>Congratulations are in order for Claire de Sévigné (B.Mus 2009), who will appear in the Canadian Opera Company's production of Mozart's <i>The Abduction from the Seraglio</i> as character Blonde. The coloratura soprano was <a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/music/the-highs-and-lows-of-coc-coloratura-soprano-claire-de-sevigne/article37791928/">profiled last week in the Globe and Mail</a>, where she outlines the demands of singing such a challenging role.</p> Tue, 06 Feb 2018 21:58:20 +0000 VRƵ L’oeuvre en marche de Rémi Bolduc /music/node/61461 <p><em>Article provenant de <a href="http://www.ledevoir.com/culture/musique/518481/billet-l-oeuvre-en-marche-de-remi-bolduc">Le Devoir</a>.</em></p> <p>« Le saxophoniste Rémi Bolduc est malin, dans le sens le plus intelligent, et non diabolique, du terme. Il est également appliqué. Très appliqué même. Toujours est-il qu’il est en train de se singulariser, de se distinguer ainsi : il construit patiemment et avec constance ce qu’il faut bien nommer une oeuvre. On précisera même, en ces temps de confusion esthétique, une oeuvre de jazz.  »</p> Fri, 02 Feb 2018 19:24:25 +0000 VRƵ Nicolas Ellis: le maestro des carrés rouges, six ans plus tard /music/node/61460 <p><em>Article provenant de <a href="http://www.lapresse.ca/arts/musique/musique-classique/201801/26/01-5151599-nicolas-ellis-le-maestro-des-carres-rouges-six-ans-plus-tard.php">la Presse.ca</a></em></p> <p>« Fondateur et directeur artistique de l'Orchestre symphonique de l'Agora, le jeune chef dirigera l'Orchestre Métropolitain dans l'interprétation des Planètes de Holst fin avril.</p> Fri, 02 Feb 2018 14:54:54 +0000 VRƵ "Women, Work and Song" at Marvin Duchow Library /music/node/61442 <p>An exciting new exhibit can be explored through the Marvin Duchow Library at VRƵ – "<a href="http://digital.library.mcgill.ca/fsm/index.php">Women, Work and Song in Nineteeth-Century France</a>."</p> <p>The exhibit explores the evolving role of women in the popular song industry of the era, and includes many pieces from the 19th-century French sheet music collection of the Library. </p> &;&;&;/&; Wed, 31 Jan 2018 22:12:42 +0000 VRƵ Lara Ciekiewicz on CBC Music /music/node/61441 <p>In a recent CBC Music feature article, Opera VRƵ alumni Lara Ciekiewicz (M.Mus 2008) discussed five pieces that influenced her, including pieces by Dvorák, Stephen Fearing and more. </p> <p>Those looking to hear Ciekiewicz live will soon have a chance, as she will make her debut performance as Tatyana in Calgary Opera's production of Tchaikovsky's <em>Eugene Onegin</em>, which begins February 3. </p> <p><a href="http://www.cbcmusic.ca/posts/19571/lara-ciekiewicz-5-pieces-that-changed-my-life">Read the full CBC article here.</a></p> Wed, 31 Jan 2018 21:06:06 +0000 VRƵ Obituary: Dr. Huntington Sheldon /music/node/61440 <p>Dr. Huntington (Skip) Sheldon (1930-2018) was an iconic figure in the history of the Schulich School of Music and VRƵ as a whole. In addition to a long teaching legacy in the Faculty of Medicine, he made significant contributions to the university as a philanthropist. <span>As a result of Dr. Sheldon's generous donations, the Redpath organ was constructed and installed, and the project to build the Elizabeth Wirth Music Building was launched. </span></p> <p>In addition, Dr. Sheldon served on the Music Facutly's advisory board for many years. </p> Wed, 31 Jan 2018 20:24:27 +0000 VRƵ Original and Happy Freaks /music/node/61431 <p><em>As part of our Schulich in Concert series, Professor Hank Knox will be performing a <a href="/music/channels/event/schulich-concert-original-and-happy-freaks-269129">concert</a> January 31st at 7:30 pm in Redpath Hall. To learn more about the background of the concert, we held an email interview with Hank.</em></p> <p><strong>What inspired the title of your concert, “Original and Happy Freaks”?</strong></p> Thu, 25 Jan 2018 21:48:10 +0000 VRƵ Bassoons, Elvis, and the Virée Classique /music/node/61422 <p>As part of the 6th annual <a href="http://vireeclassique.osm.ca/?lang=en"><strong>Virée Classique</strong></a> by the <strong>Orchestre symphonique de Montréal </strong>(OSM) on August 12, 2017, Schulich School of Music bassoon faculty members Stéphane Lévesque and Martin Mangrum took part in the world premiere of <strong>Simon Leclerc's 'Concerto Grosso for Five Bassoons, Contrabassoon, Strings and Timpani'</strong>, along with OSM bassoon colleagues and guest bassoonist Carlo Colombo of the<strong> Lyon Opera Orchestra</strong>.</p> Tue, 23 Jan 2018 15:59:06 +0000 VRƵ Renowned violinist Violaine Melançon to join the Schulich School of Music string faculty /music/node/61421 <p>The Schulich School of Music is delighted to announce that violinist Violaine Melançon will be joining the string faculty as Associate Professor, beginning August 1st, 2018.</p> Tue, 23 Jan 2018 13:45:11 +0000 VRƵ Students, alumni and faculty in Chile with Global Leaders Program /music/node/61382 <p>Currently, Dr. Lisa Lorenzino, Professor of Music Education, is in southern Chile with seven current and former Schulich School of Music Students as part of the Youth Orchestra of the Americas Global Leaders Program. After three days of seminars and meetings, the students have moved to a variety of locations throughout southern Chile to keep students active in free after-school music programs designed to empower youth. They will also be active as performers in the various communities.</p> Wed, 17 Jan 2018 21:26:48 +0000 VRƵ Pianist Timothy Ledger to perform Beethoven alongside guest conductor Jean-Marie Zeitouni /music/node/61380 <p><a href="https://www.timothymledger.com">Timothy Ledger</a>, a current doctoral student who won the 2017-18 Classical Concerto Competition back in November 2017, is set to perform with the <a href="/music/channels/event/mcgill-symphony-orchestra-269061">VRƵ Symphony Orchestra</a> under the baton of guest conductor Jean-Marie Zeitouni. To learn more about this opportunity, we spoke to Timothy in a recent email exchange.</p> Wed, 17 Jan 2018 16:37:25 +0000 VRƵ First Play: OSM Soloists, Beethoven, Strauss /music/node/61361 <p>Original article from <a href="http://www.cbcmusic.ca/first-plays/632/first-play-osm-soloists-beethoven-strauss">CBC Music</a>.</p> <p><em>"Over a year ago, the executives at Analekta Records approached Andrew Wan, concertmaster of the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal, to help them spearhead a three-year, three-album initiative that would focus a spotlight on OSM musicians in a chamber music setting."</em></p> <p>Read more <a href="http://www.cbcmusic.ca/first-plays/632/first-play-osm-soloists-beethoven-strauss">here</a>.</p> Fri, 12 Jan 2018 21:13:57 +0000 VRƵ Sixtrum's excellent end to 2017 /music/node/61298 <p>Since their founding in 2006, the percussion ensemble Sixtrum has been striving for <a href="https://sixtrum.com/en/about-sixtrum/the-ensemble">“excellence and the thrill of discovery in aims to become a reference in the percussion world of tomorrow.”</a> Made up of six virtuosic and multi-talented performers, Noam Bierstone (current Schulich DMus student in percussion), Joao Catalao, Julien Grégoire, Philip Hornsey, Kristie Ibrahim (Part-time Instructor at the Schulich School of Music) and Fabrice Marandola (Percussion Area Chair and Professor at the Schulich School of Music), the ensemble</p> Tue, 19 Dec 2017 15:09:45 +0000 VRƵ Schulich nominees for the 21e Prix Opus /music/node/61144 <p>Finalists for the <a href="http://www.cqm.qc.ca/1253/Finalistes_an_21.html">Conseil québécois de la musique's 21e Prix Opus</a> have officially been announced, and once again the Schulich community is well represented! Established in 1996 to highlight the excellence and diversity of Québec's musical offering, les Prix Opus delivers annually to artists throughout a variety of categories. This year's winners will be announced <a href="http://www.cqm.qc.ca/49/21e_Gala_des_prix_Opus.html">February 4, 2018 at Salle Bourgie</a>.</p> Wed, 13 Dec 2017 17:19:54 +0000 VRƵ Finding her voice: Anna-Sophie Neher wins Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/60991 <p><em>Excerpt taken from the <a href="http://publications.mcgill.ca/reporter/2017/12/finding-her-voice-anna-sophie-neher-wins-2017-wirth-vocal-prize/">VRƵ Reporter</a>.</em></p> Fri, 08 Dec 2017 15:41:33 +0000 VRƵ Nuné Melik: Hidden Treasures Projects /music/node/60990 <p>After several years of research into Armenian music, <strong>violinist <a href="https://www.nunemelik.com">Nuné Melik</a></strong>, a doctoral student at the Schulich School of Music, is making waves with her debut album <strong>Hidden Treasure: Classical Armenian Music for Violin and Piano</strong>. Born in Siberia, Melik has Armenian, Georgian and Jewish roots. After her move to Montreal in 2009, she began to explore the music of composers from her upbringing in her fight for inclusivity in classical music, "recording not what she knows will make her famous, but what she believes needs to</p> Fri, 08 Dec 2017 15:27:01 +0000 VRƵ Philippe Leroux: critique de son nouveau disque dans le Monde.fr! /music/node/60927 <p><em>Article provenant du site <a href="http://www.lemonde.fr/musiques/article/2017/11/24/selection-albums-philippe-leroux-aretha-franklin-flox_5220103_1654986.html">lemonde.fr</a></em></p> <p>« Deux disques publiés par le même label en moins d’un an ! C’est rare pour un compositeur d’aujourd’hui, mais Philippe Leroux (58 ans) n’est pas n’importe qui. Aussi éclairant que le CD paru en janvier, De la percussion, le programme interprété par le Meitar Ensemble donne une bonne idée de ce que constitue l’expérience Leroux pour l’auditeur. »</p> Wed, 06 Dec 2017 21:40:44 +0000 VRƵ Mezzo-Soprano Simone McIntosh Stays True To Her Growing Reputation /music/node/60926 <p>Original article from <a href="https://www.ludwig-van.com/toronto/2017/12/06/scrutiny-mezzo-soprano-simone-mcintosh-stays-true-to-her-growing-reputation/">Ludwig Van Toronto</a>.</p> <p>"Of the current crop of fresh young Canadian classical voices, mezzo Simone McIntosh has that rare quality that makes the listener sit up and take notice. She combines a beautiful, well focused, gleaming high mezzo with an innate theatricality that bodes well for the future.</p> Wed, 06 Dec 2017 21:25:23 +0000 VRƵ Tristan Longval-Gagné /music/node/60923 <p>Original article from <a href="http://myscena.org/marie-claire-fafard-blais/tristan-longval-gagne/">My Scena</a>:</p> <p>"Originally from Sherbrooke, pianist Tristan Longval-Gagné, fell into the “musical pot” early. In fact, his parents were both musicians and ran a music school in their home. He is now proudly a co-owner and teaches at the school. His first memories are therefore inevitably related to music and to his piano-teaching father, Tristan’s first teacher.</p> Wed, 06 Dec 2017 19:34:40 +0000 VRƵ Soprano Anna-Sophie Neher wins the 2017 Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/60918 <p>After a very exciting final round held on Saturday, December 2nd in Pollack Hall, we are excited to announce that soprano <strong>Anna-Sophie Neher</strong> is this year’s winner of the <strong>Wirth Vocal Prize</strong>. Alongside collaborative pianist <strong>Esther Gonthier</strong>, Anna-Sophie performed works by Mozart, Morlock, Poulenc, Wolf and Rossini to secure the title.</p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:28:35 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students participate in masterclasses with tenor Julian Prégardien /music/node/60913 <p>Hosted by the <a href="http://www.festivalbachmontreal.com">Montreal Bach Festival 2017</a> and presented at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, two public masterclasses were held November 29th to 30th with acclaimed tenor Julian Prégardien featuring students from le Conservatoire, Université de Montréal and the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ.</p> <p>Voice area chair Stefano Algieri describes:</p> Fri, 01 Dec 2017 20:49:49 +0000 VRƵ Schulich launches new conducting Fellowship /music/node/60863 <p><span>Thanks to an exciting initiative, graduate conducting students at the Schulich School of Music are now eligible to receive a substantial new award – the </span><a href="https://webadmin.mcgill.ca/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/hnatyshyn-decker-fellowship"><em>Hnatyshyn Foundation Christa and Franz-Paul Decker Fellowship in Conducting</em></a><em>.</em><span> Launched at Schulich in September 2017, the $15,000 Fellowship will be awarded to an exceptional Canadian graduate student at Schulich as of the 2018-19 school year.</span></p> Tue, 28 Nov 2017 12:03:00 +0000 VRƵ Mark Fewer: Music in the "Now" /music/node/60862 <p><em>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</em></p> <p><span>Violinist Mark Fewer is well-known for his ability to fit seamlessly into a variety of musical situations, from harpsichord duets to </span><a href="https://vimeo.com/27374810">Juno-winning jazz albums</a><span>. This Friday, December 1, Montreal audiences will be able to hear him in yet another setting as he appears as the soloist on Ligeti’s Concerto for Violin and Orchestra along with the VRƵ Contemporary Music Ensemble. We spoke to Fewer in a recent email exchange to learn more about this upcoming performance.</span></p> &;&;&;/&; Mon, 27 Nov 2017 21:29:50 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students and alumni shine at the OSM Manulife Competition /music/node/60861 <p>The results of the 2017 <a href="http://www.osm.ca/en/candidates-concours-osm-2017/">OSM Manulife Competition</a> are in!</p> Mon, 27 Nov 2017 21:27:05 +0000 VRƵ A conversation with Simone McIntosh: Life after winning the Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/60860 <p><em>(A blog post by Digital Ambassador Vanessa Croome)</em></p> <p><em>Photo by Gaetz Photography.</em></p> Mon, 27 Nov 2017 21:08:43 +0000 VRƵ Moe Touizrar: Sound and Meaning /music/node/60847 <p><em>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</em></p> Mon, 20 Nov 2017 21:52:03 +0000 VRƵ In memoriam of Professor Winston Purdy /music/node/60815 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the recent passing of acclaimed faculty member Winston Purdy. Winston has been an Associate Professor of the Voice Faculty at the Schulich School of Music since 1973.</p> Thu, 16 Nov 2017 16:15:35 +0000 VRƵ Nicolas Ellis remporte la Bourse de carrière Fernand-Lindsay d'une valeur de 50 000 $ /music/node/60681 <p><em>Article provenant du Ludwig van Montréal.</em></p> <p>« Le jeune chef d’orchestre Nicolas Ellis a remporté ce soir la Bourse de carrière Fernand-Lindsay, d’une valeur de 50 000 $, dans une décision unanime du jury. La soprano Samantha Louis-Jean et l’altiste Marina Thibeault ont remporté respectivement le deuxième et le troisième prix.</p> Fri, 10 Nov 2017 16:14:56 +0000 VRƵ 11 VRƵian candidates in OSM Manulife Competition 2017 /music/node/60660 <p>The <strong><a href="http://www.osm.ca/en/candidates-concours-osm-2017/">OSM Manulife Competition</a></strong> is upon us once again! Featuring woodwinds, brass and voice, the 2017 edition of the competition will take place from November 21st to the 25th, with cash prizes, scholarships, recordings and concert opportunities all offered to the winners. Since 1940, the OSM Manulife Competition has provided young Canadian artists with a point of departure for their international careers.</p> Thu, 09 Nov 2017 19:40:02 +0000 VRƵ Maïthéna Girault: Dreams come true with Golden Violin win /music/node/60611 <p><em>Original article from the VRƵ Reporter.</em></p> <p>"When Maïthéna Girault was announced as winner of the 2017-2018 Golden Violin Award on Oct. 29, it marked the end of one journey for her and the beginning of another.</p> Wed, 08 Nov 2017 20:40:56 +0000 VRƵ Brass Alumn Spotlight: William Broverman /music/node/60563 <p><span>Soon after completing his undergraduate degree at Schulich, bass trombonist William Broverman (B.Mus 2016) set out on a career path that tops the list of many music students – a full-time position in an orchestra. Now playing with the Yucatan Symphony Orchestra in Mérida, Mexico, the in-demand British Columbia native is putting his Schulich training to use in over 50 orchestral concerts a year, not to mention the other gigs filling his schedule. </span></p> Tue, 07 Nov 2017 21:41:59 +0000 VRƵ Canadian Brass at the Schulich School of Music: 5 masterclasses and 2 concerts in 2 days! /music/node/60527 <p>Through the Catherine Thornhill Steele Visiting Artist fund, the Schulich School of Music will have the great pleasure to welcome the renowned <a href="http://www.canadianbrass.com/">Canadian Brass</a> on November 13-14, as a part of Brass Days. <strong>Stéphane Lemelin</strong>, Chair of the Department of Performance, comments: “<em>We are thrilled to welcome the legendary Canadian Brass to the Schulich School of Music. Their presence on campus will be a tremendous source of inspiration for our students.</em></p> Tue, 07 Nov 2017 14:59:31 +0000 VRƵ Program Spotlight: Music Theory /music/node/60496 <p><span>As Prof. Edward Klorman describes it, the Schulich School of Music’s music theory program is a place of innovation and exploration.</span></p> Tue, 07 Nov 2017 12:00:00 +0000 VRƵ Marina Thibeault aux p'tits dimanches ensoleillés d'Azimut le 5 novembre /music/node/60456 <p><em>Article provenant de Les 2 Rives.</em></p> <p>Azimut diffusion présente Marina Thibeault dans le cadre de la série « Les p’tits dimanches ensoleillés » le 5 novembre à 11h à la salle Georges-Codling du Marché des arts Desjardins.</p> <p>Pour Marina Thibeault, l’année 2016-2017 a été marqué entre autre par sa nomination à titre de « Révélation Radio-Canada » ainsi que l’obtention d’un prix de la Fondation Sylva Gelber, mais surtout par la sortie de son premier opus et la venue au monde de son premier enfant.</p> Fri, 03 Nov 2017 19:33:04 +0000 VRƵ Maïthéna Girault, winner of the 2017-18 Golden Violin Award /music/node/60339 <p>We are thrilled to announce that violinist <strong>Maïthéna Girault</strong> is this year's winner of the Golden Violin Award, following an exciting public competition held Sunday October 29, 2017 in Pollack Hall. Girault, accompanied by Meagan Milatz, performed the Allegro from Beethoven's Sonata for Piano and Violin No. 5 in F major, Op. 24, the Allegro Molto from Fauré's Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 1 in A major, Op. 13 and finished with the virtuosic Ravel's Tzigane.</p> Mon, 30 Oct 2017 14:17:05 +0000 VRƵ Schulich student Alcée Chriss has won 1st place at the 2017 Canadian International Organ Competition /music/node/60177 <p>We are thrilled to announce that two of our current students have placed in the <a href="http://www.ciocm.org/blog/pub:70/The-2017-CIOC-winners-are">2017 Canadian International Organ Competition</a>: Alcée Chriss in 1st place and Nicholas Capozzoli in 3rd place.</p> Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:20:35 +0000 VRƵ Sixtrum honoured in 2017 META awards /music/node/60095 <p>Congratuations to the <a href="https://sixtrum.com/en" target="_blank">Sixtrum Percussion Ensemble</a>, who received the <a href="http://metas.ca/awards/2017-ceremony/" target="_blank">Montreal English Theatre Award (META)</a> for Outstanding Contribution to Theatre for their live soundtrack to <em>Angélique. </em>The production also netted the award for outstanding Professional Association of Canadian Theatres production – one of the most prestigious awards of the evening.</p> Tue, 24 Oct 2017 18:00:47 +0000 VRƵ Un jalon du patrimoine musical canadien signé R. Murray Schafer /music/node/60023 <p><em>Article provenant du Devoir.</em></p> <p>"Après un orchestre constitué des meilleurs éléments des Conservatoires de toutes les régions rejoints par quelques glorieux diplômés (le 12 octobre à la Maison symphonique) et après l’Orchestre de l’Université de Montréal, samedi 14 octobre, il était tentant d’aller entendre une semaine plus tard l’Orchestre symphonique de VRƵ.</p> Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:18:29 +0000 VRƵ Montreal: a vital classical-guitar center /music/node/59972 <p><em>Original article from Classical Guitar Magazine.</em></p> <p>"Montreal is rightly known for its many beautiful historic buildings, authentic French character, ice hockey, indie-rock bands, bagels, and even its smoked meats—but much less so for its classical guitar scene. Yet, through the years this vital Canadian city has developed some amazing local guitar players and composers, attracted devoted teachers and visiting legends, and nurtured a large and enthusiastic audience with a taste for virtuosos, thus inciting more and more youngsters to pick up the instrument."</p> Fri, 20 Oct 2017 19:58:45 +0000 VRƵ Patricia Abbott: "Choral Music Brings People Together" /music/node/59939 <p><span>Next <a href="/music/channels/event/mcgill-concert-choir-schulich-singers-english-montreal-school-board-chorale-269094" target="_blank">Wednesday, October 25</a>, a joint choir concert will feature two generations of musicians performing music that combines new and old elements.</span></p> Thu, 19 Oct 2017 18:54:28 +0000 VRƵ Capturing the spirit of tango and vibrato /music/node/59856 <p><em>Excerpt from CBC Radio Ideas with Paul Kennedy.</em></p> <p>"There's a purity to music. It takes us into its own world, far removed from frustrations and challenges of daily life. But hidden within those innocent-sounding musical flourishes, there often lies a history of passionate disagreement.</p> Tue, 17 Oct 2017 14:10:38 +0000 VRƵ Principal Suzanne Fortier on OSM's selection committee for new music director /music/node/59824 <p><em>Excerpt from the Montreal Gazette.</em></p> <p>"The OSM has unveiled a 13-member selection committee to find a replacement for Kent Nagano, who leaves as music director in 2020. VRƵ principal Suzanne Fortier is chairperson. Former OSM managing director Zarin Mehta is titled senior adviser, which means writers will be relieved of the need to call him an éminence grise." </p> <p><a href="http://montrealgazette.com/entertainment/local-arts/kaptainis-andre-mathieu-new-music-is-user-friendly-lefevre-says">Continue reading here.</a></p> Mon, 16 Oct 2017 18:43:39 +0000 VRƵ Antoine Malette-Chénier talks Schafer /music/node/59812 <p><em>Blog post by Chris Maskell.</em> <em>Photo by <a href="https://www.kristantoczko.com">Kristan Toczko</a>.</em></p> <p>After winning the 2016-2017 VRƵ Concerto Competition and completing his Graduate Diploma in Performance at Schulich, harpist Antoine Malette-Chénier is set to appear with the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra next Friday and Saturday night. To learn more about the work he’ll be performing and his experiences learning music in school and more, we spoke to Malette-Chénier in a recent email exchange.</p> Mon, 16 Oct 2017 16:15:33 +0000 VRƵ The 10th anniversary of an organ competition founded by John Grew /music/node/59751 <p><em>An excerpt from a VRƵ Reporter article.</em></p> <p>"“It was my crazy idea,” John Grew observed at the start of a conversation about what is now the only North American-based international pipe organ competition. “In North America, we are unique.”</p> Fri, 06 Oct 2017 20:58:47 +0000 VRƵ Paul Johnston in MacEwan University's new recording studios /music/node/59740 <p><em>Excerpt from an article from the Edmonton Journal.</em></p> <p>"Chances are you don’t think about the microphone stands used to record your favourite tunes. It’s part of Johnston’s role to make sure that you can just sit back and enjoy the music, and to train others to reach for those same high standards.</p> <p>The work is all tied to a recording diploma and hopefully — subject to government approval — the first full-scale, four-year recording degree in Canada."</p> <p>Paul Johnston completed a BMus in jazz and MMus in sound recording at the Schulich School of Music.</p> Tue, 03 Oct 2017 15:16:43 +0000 VRƵ Montreal alto saxophonist Benjamin Deschamps to play three Ontario concerts /music/node/59739 <p><em>An excerpt from an Ottawa Citizen article.</em></p> <p>"Montreal alto saxophonist Benjamin Deschamps ventures across the border later this week to play three Ontario concerts — Sept. 29 at the Jazz Room in Waterloo, Sept. 30 at Record Runner Rehearsal Studio in Ottawa and Oct. 1 at the Emmet Ray in Toronto.</p> <p>Before Deschamps, a bracing player and composer who is 29 years old, starts logging the kilometres with his quintet, get to know him and his music through the interview below."</p> Mon, 02 Oct 2017 16:17:29 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Marcelo Wanderley to teach masterclass series on culture and technology at Numediart Research Institute of Mons University /music/node/59716 <p><em>An excerpt from CUTE 2017: Numediart Masterclass on Culture and Technology:</em></p> Thu, 28 Sep 2017 18:48:57 +0000 VRƵ End of an era for county music festival /music/node/59715 <p><em>An excerpt from an article by the County Weekly News:</em></p> Thu, 28 Sep 2017 17:55:06 +0000 VRƵ Upstairs & Schulich: 20 years running /music/node/59564 <p><em>Blog post by Chris Maskell</em></p> Mon, 25 Sep 2017 13:00:00 +0000 VRƵ Alex Francoeur: Missing Element /music/node/59563 <p><em>Blog post by Chris Maskell</em></p> Fri, 22 Sep 2017 13:00:00 +0000 VRƵ 3D audio boosts sound enjoyment with artificial intelligence /music/node/59532 <p>This article was published in the Financial Post on September 8, 2017.</p> <p><em>"<span>Matthew Boerum is co-founder and CEO of Audible Reality, Inc., a developer of a 3D software solution that creates an immersive experience for anyone using headphones. With Audible Reality, users can experience another person’s voice or music as if they were in the same room.</span></em></p> Mon, 11 Sep 2017 16:55:20 +0000 VRƵ CBC/VRƵ Internship: a great opportunity for Schulich students! /music/node/59531 <p><em>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</em></p> <p><span>In today’s music industry, many artists find that they have to diversify their sources of income in order to make a living – some may teach, repair instruments or work in music media. To reflect this, many post-secondary music schools are diversifying their curriculums to offer classes that teach skills from these areas – such as the courses that make up the new <a href="/music/programs/minor/entrepreneurship-bmus">Music Entrepreneurship minor</a> at the Schulich School of Music.</span></p> Mon, 11 Sep 2017 14:09:37 +0000 VRƵ Announcing the launch of the Graham Sommer Competition for Young Composers /music/node/59504 <p>The Schulich School of Music of VRƵ is proud to announce the first edition of the Graham Sommer Competition for Young Composers. The late Dr. Graham Sommer, an alumnus of VRƵ’s Faculty of Medicine as well as an accomplished pianist and ardent music lover, made a gift to create a biennial competition for young Canadian composers, with a focus on chamber music.</p> Thu, 07 Sep 2017 17:42:08 +0000 VRƵ Dean Brenda Ravenscroft begins her mandate at the Schulich School of Music /music/node/59338 <p>Professor <strong>Brenda Ravenscroft</strong> is the new Dean of the Schulich School of Music. Formerly Associate Dean in the Faculty of Arts and Science at Queen’s University, and Professor of Music Theory and Analysis, Prof. Ravenscroft began her mandate at Schulich in July of 2017. Prof. Ravenscroft taught Music Theory at VRƵ’s Faculty of Music from 1991 to 1993, and has maintained close ties with VRƵ colleagues through research and teaching interests.</p> Tue, 29 Aug 2017 16:33:34 +0000 VRƵ In memoriam of Professor Eleanor Stubley /music/node/58801 <p><em>To honour Eleanor’s devotion to students at the Schulich School of Music and by request of her family, donations can be made to the Eleanor Stubley Recording Prize by visiting <a href="https://www.alumni.mcgill.ca/give/index.php?new=1&amp;giftCode=06447">VRƵ’s Giving Site</a> or by calling VRƵ directly at 514-398-5000. </em></p> <p><em>If you would like to share a comforting thought with Eleanor’s family, please follow this link to the <a href="http://www.jjcardinal.ca/en/obituary.asp?id=2042">obituary notice</a>. </em></p> Tue, 15 Aug 2017 00:00:59 +0000 VRƵ Montreal tabla virtuoso Shawn Mativetsky releases new solo album /music/node/58491 <p>Earlier this year, VRƵ percussion faculty member Shawn Mativetsky released <em>Rivers</em>, <a href="https://www.shawnmativetsky.com/rivers">a traditional Indian classical solo tabla album</a> – making him the first Quebec-based artist to do so. <span>Featuring George Koller on dilruba, the disc features traditional repertoire from North India passed onto Mative</span><span>tsky </span><span>by his tabla teacher (or </span><em>Guru</em><span>)</span><span>. </span></p> Tue, 08 Aug 2017 15:00:38 +0000 VRƵ Vermont cellist Joshua Morris’s golden year /music/node/58466 <p>&lt;Article from VRƵ News - Alumni Magazine&gt;</p> <p><em>As a master’s student at VRƵ, Joshua Morris, MMus’17, often walked through the music library where a Golden Violin sculpture sits on display.</em></p> <p><em>The display case includes the names of the winners of the annual Golden Violin Competition – one of the most significant music prizes in Canada, which comes with a $25,000 cash award.“</em></p> Mon, 07 Aug 2017 14:48:47 +0000 VRƵ Nicolas Ellis, le Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois de la direction d’orchestre! /music/node/58422 <p><em>Article provenant du Devoir</em></p> <p>"<span>Alors qu’il passait son baccalauréat de piano, Nicolas Ellis a monté en 2012, pendant le Printemps érable, l’« Orchestre de la solidarité sociale ». Cinq ans plus tard, il se voit confier par Yannick Nézet-Séguin l’Orchestre Métropolitain pour cinq concerts d’été, dont, ce jeudi, l’emblématique concert au chalet du Mont-Royal.</span></p> Tue, 01 Aug 2017 15:05:30 +0000 VRƵ Le fabuleux été de Simon Rivard /music/node/58124 <p>Article provenant de La Presse +</p> <p>"<em><span>Depuis quelques semaines, les nuits de <strong>Simon Rivard</strong> sont courtes et composées de rêves dans lesquels il lit des partitions musicales. Et pour cause. Le jeune chef d’orchestre de 27 ans n’a eu qu’une semaine de préavis pour se préparer à vivre l’aventure estivale de l’Orchestre de la Francophonie.</span></em></p> Wed, 12 Jul 2017 19:01:53 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music graduates win 2nd and 3rd prizes at the 2017 Stepping Stone /music/node/58086 <p>The Schulich School of Music was well represented at this year's <strong>Canadian Music Competition Stepping Stone</strong>, with alums <strong>Tristan Longval-Gagné</strong> (L. Mus.'10) and <strong>Antoine Malette-Chénier</strong> (Grad Dip'17) winning respectively Second and Third Steinway &amp; Sons Prizes. The Stepping Stone event was held this year at the Schulich School of Music, in Tanna Schulich Hall, from June 27th to July 5th. This year's jury members were: Annick-Patricia Carrière, Susan Hoeppner, Shannon Mercer, Katarzyna Musiał and Gwen Thompson-Robinow. </p> Fri, 07 Jul 2017 16:30:49 +0000 VRƵ ORA Sound : Un matériau révolutionnaire pour les haut-parleurs du futur? /music/node/57939 <p>Article provenant de La Presse +</p> <p>"<em>Découvert en 2004, ce qui a mené à l’octroi d’un prix Nobel de physique en 2010, le graphène est un matériau aux propriétés presque irréelles, mais aux applications concrètes encore peu visibles. Ora Sound, une jeune entreprise montréalaise, tente de révolutionner l’industrie du haut-parleur en s’appuyant sur lui.</em></p> Tue, 27 Jun 2017 16:23:20 +0000 VRƵ Andrew Crust, MMus'12, hired as Assistant Conductor of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra and Conductor of the Memphis Youth Symphony /music/node/57938 <p>The <strong>Memphis Symphony Orchestra</strong> recently announced the appointment of <strong>Andrew Crust</strong>, MMus'12, as <span>Assistant Conductor of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra and Conductor of the Memphis Youth Symphony.</span></p> Tue, 27 Jun 2017 15:04:22 +0000 VRƵ In conversation with Felix Hong, winner of the Prix d'Europe 2017 /music/node/57937 <p><em>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</em></p> Mon, 26 Jun 2017 21:45:56 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students distinguished themselves at the International Trumpet Guild Conference /music/node/57774 <p>The Schulich School of Music was well represented at the 2017 International Trumpet Guild Conference, having more students participate in the Conference’s competitions than any other university. In addition to a brilliant performance by Schulich’s Trumpet Ensemble, several students distinguished themselves in the competition’s individual categories, including David Koch, who placed second in the Orchestral Excerpts Competition (in which Francis LaPorte came in third).</p> Wed, 14 Jun 2017 15:13:36 +0000 VRƵ Benjamin Deschamps: Révélation Radio-Canada /music/node/57772 <p><em>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</em></p> <p><span>At 29 years old, Montreal alto saxophonist Benjamin Deschamps (B.Mus 2012, M.Mus 2016) has a lot of accomplishments under his belt. In relatively short order, he’s released two successful records as a bandleader, directed the Montreal All City Big Band, completed various tours in North America, Poland and France, and won the Rimouski Festi Jazz Grand Prix in 2013 with his quartet. Most recently, Radio-Canada presented him as one of the four </span><a href="http://ici.artv.ca/videos/video/benjamin-deschamps?autoplay=true" target="_blank"><em>Révélations Radio-Canada 2017-2018</em></a><span>, where he was recognized for his promising career as an artist.</span></p> <p> Thu, 15 Jun 2017 13:00:00 +0000 VRƵ Laura Risk: Performance, Research and the Governor General’s Gold Medal /music/node/57764 <p><em>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</em></p> <p><span>Sometimes, it feels best to be recognized for your hard work when you least expect it. For fiddler and recent doctoral graduate Laura Risk (Ph.D, 2017), this surprise came in the form of an email from VRƵ announcing that she had been awarded not only the VRƵ Alumni Association Graduate Award (valued at $1500), but also the Governor General’s Gold Medal – the university’s highest honour.</span></p> Tue, 13 Jun 2017 20:54:29 +0000 VRƵ Audible Reality: Ne pas en croire ses oreilles /music/node/57707 <p>&lt;Article trouvé dans <em>Le Devoir&gt;<br /> <br /></em></p> Mon, 05 Jun 2017 19:58:42 +0000 VRƵ Laura Risk receives Governor General's Award for Academic Excellence /music/node/57709 <p>The exceptional research of<strong> Laura Risk</strong>, PhD'17, has been honoured by VRƵ. She has received the University's highest honour, the Governor General's Gold Medal.</p> Mon, 05 Jun 2017 20:01:41 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music graduates and students shine at the 2017 Prix d'Europe /music/node/57702 <p>Many of our students and alumni performed very well at this year's Prix d'Europe competition.  <strong>Felix Hong</strong>, BMus'16, ArtDip '17, was awarded the 2017 Prix d'Europe grand prize from l'Academie de musique du Québec.  The prize has a cash value of $25,000 and has been awarded every year since 1911.  Felix Hong is a piano student of Professor<strong> Ilya Poletaev</strong>.</p> Mon, 05 Jun 2017 19:25:45 +0000 VRƵ Jazz composer Christine Jensen recipient of the Oscar Peterson Award /music/node/57626 <p>Jazz instructor <strong>Christine Jensen</strong>, has received the 2017 Oscar Peterson Award from the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal </p> Wed, 31 May 2017 14:45:46 +0000 VRƵ Victoria Baroque Players Appearing at Fanny Bay Hall /music/node/57596 <p>&lt;Article from <em>BC Local News</em>&gt;<br /> <br /> <em><span>"Chloe Meyers on violin. Heralding her beginnings as a true northern Albertan, Meyers began her violin training at the age of three. Her studies led her to the University of Victoria, and then VRƵ, where she fell in love with the baroque violin." </span></em><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.bclocalnews.com/entertainment/421038803.html"><span>Read the whole article.</span></a></p> Fri, 26 May 2017 18:26:08 +0000 VRƵ MacEwan University Launches Record Label /music/node/57595 <p>&lt;Article from <em>University Affairs</em>&gt;<br /> <br /> <em>"The label officially launched on April 6, and has already released albums by Acid Bunny, Mallory Chipman and the Obsessions Octet, Canadian jazz artists with ties to MacEwan and VRƵ (where Mr. Johnston earned degrees in jazz performance and sound recording)." </em><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.universityaffairs.ca/news/news-article/macewan-university-launches-record-label/"><span>Read the whole article</span></a></p> &;&;&;/&; Fri, 26 May 2017 18:22:37 +0000 VRƵ Lydia Ainsworth: Growing and Afterglowing /music/node/57594 <p>(Article in the Portland Mercury)</p> <p>Once she was in college, studying music and composition at both Montreal’s VRƵ and New York University, <strong>Lydia Ainsworth</strong> brought her voice back into the equation.</p> &;&;&;/&; Fri, 26 May 2017 18:19:06 +0000 VRƵ Les Rêves jazzés du Trio Jonathan Turgeon /music/node/57593 <p>&lt;Article trouvé dans <em>Québec Spot</em>&gt;<br /> <br /></p> Fri, 26 May 2017 18:16:58 +0000 VRƵ Olivier Laquerre sera du concert 'Portraits d'Angleterre' /music/node/57592 <p>&lt;Article trouvé dans <em>La Presse&gt;</em><br /> <br /> <span><em>"Ne se trouvant «pas assez fort en mathématiques» pour continuer ses études en informatique et sentant que le chant prenait de plus en plus de place dans sa vie, Olivier Laquerre a bifurqué vers l'Université VRƵ, où il a étudié en chant. C'est à cette époque que ses premiers contrats professionnels se sont "résentés."</em> <a href="http://www.lapresse.ca/le-nouvelliste/arts/201704/27/01-5092552-olivier-laquerre-sera-du-concert-portraits-dangleterre.php">Lire l'article complet</a></span></p> Fri, 26 May 2017 18:09:10 +0000 VRƵ Purdy passes the vocal torch to Smith Bessette /music/node/57591 <p>By VRƵ Reporter Staff</p> <p>First there’s the skirl of the pipes, then Winston Purdy’s rich baritone rolls across the audience as he sings the University anthem, Hail, Alma Mater, to  mark the beginning of almost every Convocation ceremony since 1999. That musical accompaniment has been a feature of decades of processions of students, faculty and families as they walk into the Convocation tent.</p> Fri, 26 May 2017 18:01:31 +0000 VRƵ The Milton Quartet wins the Gold Medal & Grand Prize at the 2017 Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. /music/node/57573 <p>The Milton String Quartet, composed of Schulich School of Music students Roman Fraser, Maithéna Gireault, Evan Robinson and Joshua Morris, has won the Grand Prize and Senior String Division Gold Medal at the 44th Annual Fischoff Competition at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. </p> Mon, 15 May 2017 20:18:42 +0000 VRƵ May 8, 2017. Scheduled exam recitals will take place. Classes and exams cancelled. /music/node/57536 <p>A message from Eleanor Stubley, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, Schulich School of Music:  </p> <p>Please note <strong>recitals and recital rehearsals will take place today, May 8, 2017</strong>.  Students and faculty who have been affected by the flooding and need to reschedule or cancel should email <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">helene.drouin</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span> to inform the Graduate Studies Office.  Arrangements will be made to replace adjudicator and/or re-schedule as is needed in response to the request. </p> Mon, 08 May 2017 13:58:40 +0000 VRƵ Sarah Nemetallah, GrDipMusic'10, making a difference in her community /music/node/57526 <p>Each year the VRƵ Alumni Association recognizes alumni, friends, students, faculty and staff whose commitment has had a significant impact on alumni life, the University and/or the community. This year, one of our graduates, <strong>S</strong><span><strong>arah Nematallah</strong>, has received the <strong>2017 James G. Wright Award</strong> for her work in developing the accessible, interactive <a href="http://ceciliastringquartet.com/xenia/" target="_blank">Xenia Concert Series</a> for individuals with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and their families.   </span></p> Fri, 05 May 2017 15:18:48 +0000 VRƵ Audible Reality wins First Prize at Dobson Cup /music/node/57520 <p>Two Schulich PhD students, <strong>Bryan Martin</strong> and <strong>Mathew Boerum</strong>, received first prize and $11,000 in the category of <em>Innovation Driven Enterprise</em> at the VRƵ Dobson Cup <a href="/dobson/entrepreneurship-programs/mcgill-dobson-cup/winners">awards ceremony</a> held March 30, 2017. <a href="http://www.audiblereality.com/"> <strong>Audible Reality</strong></a> develops revolutionary 3D audio imaging which captures and delivers fully-immersive, life-like sound from any source.</p> Thu, 04 May 2017 20:34:39 +0000 VRƵ New Book of interviews with Schulich School of Music and Shepherd School of Music professors released. /music/node/57501 <p>A new publication highlighting fascinating insights gained through interviews with many Schulich professors has recently been released by the <a href="https://socialsciencesgateway.rice.edu">Rice University Gateway Study of Leadership</a> program.  Earlier this year Rice University students traveled to Montreal to collaborate with Interim Dean J<strong>ulie Cumming</strong>, Prof. <strong>Simon Aldrich</strong>, Director of the Music Entrepreneurship Program, Doctoral student <strong>Suzu Enns.</strong></p> Wed, 03 May 2017 18:45:03 +0000 VRƵ Yolanda Bruno, BMus'11, wins First Prize of the Isabel Overton Bader Canadian Violin Competition /music/node/57494 <p>Violinist <strong>Yolanda Bruno, </strong>BMus'11, was awarded the First Prize and the Audience Choice Prize at the inaugural<strong> Isabel Overton Bader Canadian Violin Competition</strong>, organized by the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts at Queen’s University. This national competition was open to Canadian violinists from the age of 18 to 29. While studying at the Schulich School of Music, she was a violin student of Jonathan Crow.</p> Wed, 03 May 2017 15:20:56 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music Teaching Awards announced /music/node/57434 <p>The Schulich School of Music Teaching Awards are a public recognition of the  excellence, commitment and innovation of our faculty, part-time instructors, and graduate teaching assistants.  They serve to acknowledge  the importance of these qualities in the academic experience of students at VRƵ. Four awards will be presented at the Schulich School of Music <a href="/students/graduation/convocation/spring">Spring Convocation</a>, taking place at 3:00 p.m on Wednesday, May 31st on the VRƵ Lower Campus.  </p> <p>This year  the recipients are:</p> Fri, 28 Apr 2017 20:40:30 +0000 VRƵ The phenomenon of artistic migration to Paris: Schulich School of Music hosts International conference /music/node/57404 <p>The international conference <em>Artistic Migration &amp; Identity: Paris 1870-1940 </em>takes place April 27-29 at the Schulich School of Music. </p> Wed, 26 Apr 2017 15:59:44 +0000 VRƵ New Recording of composer Philippe Leroux's music by percussion ensemble Sixtrum /music/node/57397 <p>(By Chris Maskell)</p> <p>After playing 350 concerts, recording two albums, and appearing at more than ten international music festivals, contemporary percussion ensemble <a href="http://www.sixtrum.com/en">Sixtrum </a>broke new ground by paying homage to composer (and Director of the Schulich School of Music's Digital Composition Studios) composer <strong>Philippe Leroux </strong>in their newest release, <em>De la percussion</em> (<a href="https://www.ledisquaire.com/accueil/16678-philippe-leroux-1959-de-la-percussion-ensemble-sixtrum-3341348159379.html">Soupir éditions, S232</a>). </p> Mon, 24 Apr 2017 15:24:54 +0000 VRƵ Yannick Nézet-Séguin to get honorary doctorate /music/node/57324 <p>By VRƵ Reporter Staff</p> <p>VRƵ will present Montreal-born conductor <strong>Yannick Nézet-Séguin</strong> with an honorary degree. The University’s highest honour will be presented to Maestro Nézet-Séguin on May 14, at 3 p.m., at the Maison symphonique de Montréal, 1600 rue Saint-Urbain.</p> Wed, 19 Apr 2017 13:44:28 +0000 VRƵ New book by Steven Huebner explains Verdi's craft /music/node/57298 <p>Despite being the most-performed operatic composer in the world, there’s a surprising lack of studies written on the style of Giuseppe Verdi’s works — a problem that Prof. <strong>Steven Huebner</strong> is addressing head-on. Recently, Huebner put out the first book in any language that offers an in-depth analysis of the composer’s musical style in the context of his 23 Italian operas, from Aida to Ernani.</p> Tue, 18 Apr 2017 14:24:49 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Julie Cumming honoured for graduate teaching excellence /music/node/57287 <p>Professor <strong>Julie Cumming</strong>, Associate Professor of Music History and Musicology, Interim Dean of the Schulich School of Music, has received the <em>Graduate Faculty Teaching Award (Doctoral-level) 2016-2017 </em> from the Northeastern Association of Graduate Schools (NAGS). The association is comprised of Deans and Associate Deans of graduate studies from universities on the east coast of the US north of Washington DC, within Canada, from  universities in Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes.</p> Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:56:27 +0000 VRƵ Success for two Schulich Vocal Students. /music/node/57272 <p>Two Schulich School of Music voice students were winners at the <em>Concours de Musique du Choeur de la Montagne, </em>which took place on April 8, 2017.  Baritone <strong>William Reed </strong>Copeland, BMus'17/MMus'19 received first prize, and  soprano <strong>Elizabeth Mary Jane Egan</strong> BMus'18 received second prize.  Both were accompanied by Schulich School of Music Rehearsal coach, pianist  <strong>Louise Pelletier</strong>.  </p> Tue, 11 Apr 2017 18:17:13 +0000 VRƵ Quand Bolduc s’acoquine avec Oscar Peterson /music/node/57271 <p>(Revue du nouveau disque de Rémi Bolduc, du 8 avril,  Le Devoir, Serge Truffaut) </p> <p><em>Ce «Swingin’ avec Oscar» distille en huit pièces du pur bonheur</em>   </p> Mon, 10 Apr 2017 13:44:57 +0000 VRƵ Joan Patenaude-Yarnell, recalling the early days of the VRƵ Opera Studio /music/node/57218 <p>Following her debut with the Canadian Opera Company as Micaela in Carmen in 1964, <strong>Joan Patenaude-Yarnell</strong> went on to perform many of the lyric-coloratura soprano roles throughout North America (New York City Opera and San Francisco Opera, among others) and with many leading conductors of our time (Charles Mackerras, Seiji Ozawa, Julius Rudel). Her roles have included Violetta in La Traviata, Alice Ford in Falstaff, Gilda in Rigoletto, Nedda in I Pagliacci, the title role in Suor Angelica, Mimì in La Bohème, Juliette in Roméo et Juliette, Elle in La Voix Humaine, and Héro in </p> Mon, 03 Apr 2017 18:21:59 +0000 VRƵ Santé auditive des musiciens: la musique qui fait mal /music/node/57217 <p>Acouphènes, hypersensibilité au bruit et perte d'audition : si la musique adoucit les moeurs, elle peut aussi blesser ceux qui la jouent. En raison de l'art qu'ils pratiquent, les musiciens sont fréquemment exposés à de hauts niveaux sonores, notamment au sein des orchestres. Sans protection, les blessures sont parfois permanentes. </p> <p><a href="http://www.lapresse.ca/arts/musique/201703/29/01-5083373-sante-auditive-des-musiciens-la-musique-qui-fait-mal.php">Article complet</a> dans La Presse </p> &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; Mon, 03 Apr 2017 14:41:13 +0000 VRƵ Solide et tenace Joe Sullivan /music/node/57216 <p>(Revue du nouvel album de Joe Sullivan, par Serge Truffaut, Le Devoir)</p> <p>Il est tenace, Joe Sullivan, très tenace. Trompettiste, compositeur, arrangeur et professeur à VRƵ, il tient à bout de bras comme de pieds — faut bien battre la mesure ! — un grand orchestre, alias <em>big band</em> depuis plus ou moins 20 ans. En Amérique du Nord, cela est rare, extrêmement rare. Depuis peu, Sullivan nous propose un nouvel album intitulé <em>Unfamiliar Surroundings </em>et publié par Perry Lake Records.</p> Mon, 03 Apr 2017 14:32:30 +0000 VRƵ Soprano Dominque Labelle honoured by Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra /music/node/57213 <p>Professor <strong>Dominique Labelle</strong> was honoured at the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra  (PBO) and Chorale's annual Winter Gala, held on March 10, 2017.  At the Gala, Labelle premiered a newly commissioned piece which was written for her by Pulitzer Prize winning composer<strong> Caroline Shaw</strong>.</p> Mon, 03 Apr 2017 13:41:39 +0000 VRƵ Noted Pianist David Dolan in Residence April 2-6, 2017 /music/node/57209 <p>Professor <strong>David Dolan</strong>, a  2016-2017 Catherine Thornhill-Steele Visiting Artist, will lead workshops for Schulich School of Music students and will also give a public lecture, sponsored jointly by the Department of Research and CIRMMT.    </p> Fri, 31 Mar 2017 19:19:42 +0000 VRƵ Jean-Sébastien Vallée: Bringing Handel to Life /music/node/57203 <p>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</p> <p>While ensembles at Schulich frequently put on class concerts throughout the school year, it’s much less common for them to collaborate with another of the school’s groups – let alone two. On Thursday, April 6, the VRƵ Baroque Orchestra, Cappella Antica and the Schulich Singers will come together to perform Handel’s legendary oratorio <em>Israel in Egypt </em>under the joint leadership of directors<strong> Valerie Kinslow,</strong> <strong>Jean-Sébastien Vallée</strong> and <strong>Hank Knox</strong>.</p> Fri, 31 Mar 2017 14:07:26 +0000 VRƵ Radio-France presents a candid conversation with composition professor Denys Bouliane /music/node/57130 <p>Schulich composition professor <strong>Denys Bouliane</strong> was the featured artist on March 20th in a Radio-France program devoted to his work.  The <a href="https://www.francemusique.fr/emissions/tapage-nocturne/tapage-nocturne-special-quebec-1-avec-denys-bouliane-32627">conversation</a> with animator Bruno Letort can be heard in its entirety and features large excerpts of his seminal works.  For Bouliane,  teaching composition is like the act of composing itself: you can have manifold interests and an open mind, but ultimately you cannot offer more than who you are.</p> Wed, 29 Mar 2017 15:41:13 +0000 VRƵ Schulich graduate students excel at Society for American Music conference /music/node/57129 <p>A record number of Schulich School of Music graduate students presented papers and participated in the 43rd Annual <a href="http://www.american-music.org/sam/WhatIsSAM.php">Society for American Music</a> (SAM) Annual Conference, which was hosted by VRƵ and held in Montreal from March 22-26.  The Society for American Music is made up of scholars, performers, and students dedicated to the study, teaching, and creation of the musics of the Americas.</p> Wed, 29 Mar 2017 15:20:46 +0000 VRƵ Audible Reality a Dobson Cup Finalist /music/node/56963 <p>Two Schulich PhD students, <strong>Bryan Martin</strong> and <strong>Mathew Boerum</strong>, have had their company's project advance to the final round of the VRƵ Dobson Cup. <a href="http://www.audiblereality.com"> <strong>Audible Reality</strong></a> develops revolutionary 3D audio imaging which captures and delivers fully-immersive, life-like sound from any source.</p> Fri, 24 Mar 2017 17:35:13 +0000 VRƵ Pianist Zhenni Li wins New York Concert Artists and Associates Competition /music/node/56675 <p>On March 11, 2017, Schulich doctoral piano student<strong> Zhenni Li</strong>, a student of Prof. <strong>Stéphane Lemelin</strong>,  was named winner of the New York Concert Artists and Associates Worldwide Debut Audition.  Selected as one of three finalists, out of 165 who applied, Zhenni Li performed the <em>Rachmaninov 3rd Piano Concerto in D minor, Op. 30</em> with the New York Concert Artists Symphony Orchestra,  led by conductor Eduard Zilberkant.  Preliminary auctions were held in Los Angeles, New York, Cologne, Warsaw, Budapest and Paris.</p> Mon, 20 Mar 2017 15:16:27 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Trumpet Students and Ensemble at the International Trumpet Guild Competition /music/node/56467 <p>Students of trumpet Professor <strong>Richard Stoelzel </strong>and <strong>Paul Merkelo</strong> have excelled at the International Trumpet Guild Competitions and will advance to the final competition round later this spring. <strong> Francis LaPorte</strong>, student of Richard Stoelzel,<strong> </strong>and<strong> </strong><strong>David Koch</strong>, student of Paul Merkelo, have been named finalists in the International Trumpet Guild Orchestral Competition.  <strong>Benjamin Hare</strong>, student of Richard Stoelzel, is the first alternate for the Solo Competition Finals.</p> Thu, 16 Mar 2017 15:13:54 +0000 VRƵ Brian Cherney: Highlights in Canadian Music /music/node/56325 <p>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</p> <p>It speaks volumes that <strong>Prof. Brian Cherney</strong>’s <em>Canadian Music Concert </em>series grew out of a desire to share our nation’s great works with his students. While teaching his course on Canadian Music at Schulich, he came up with an idea to make the compositions in the curriculum more accessible to the class — and this has since become a well-loved yearly tradition. </p> Tue, 14 Mar 2017 20:23:51 +0000 VRƵ Lubimov, fascinant sorcier /music/node/56012 <p>(Une revue du concert d'Alexei Lubimov, par le célèbre critique Christophe Huss, Le Devoir)</p> <p>Le concert d'Alexei Lubimov, 72 ans, était présenté dans une série «Schulich en concert» dans le cadre de Montréal en lumière.</p> <p>Le voilà, le concert, qui m’a « purgé » de l’état d’hébétude dans lequel m’avait entraîné le récital d’András Schiff, vendredi dernier. C’est dire qu’il a surpassé de très loin le récital de la veille, du réputé Yefim Bronfman.</p> Thu, 09 Mar 2017 15:31:44 +0000 VRƵ Violinist Violaine Melançon to teach at Schulich in 2017-2018 /music/node/55911 <div> <p>The Schulich School of Music is delighted to announce that violinist <strong>Violaine Melançon </strong>has been named Visiting Professor for the 2017-2018 season.  </p> <p>An artist deeply dedicated to the range of violin and chamber music repertoire, violinist Violaine Melançon serves on the violin and chamber music faculties of the Peabody Conservatory (<a href="http://www.peabody.jhu.edu">www.peabody.jhu.edu</a>), and is Visiting Professor at the Schulich School of Music at VRƵ.</p></div> Fri, 03 Mar 2017 16:56:11 +0000 VRƵ Patrick Hansen: From Game of Thrones to Schulich’s Opera Marathon /music/node/55909 <p>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</p> <p>In just a few short days, Montreal opera fans are going to get everything they could ever wish for. As part of Montréal en Lumière, Schulich’s <em>Lisl Wirth Black Box Festival</em>  is set to present the<em><strong> </strong>Opera Binge Festival</em>, which will cram a total of seven operas into the space of 24 hours.</p> Thu, 02 Mar 2017 20:03:03 +0000 VRƵ Harpist Antoine Malette-Chénier wins VRƵ Concerto Competition /music/node/55863 <p>Harpist <strong>Antoine Malette-Chénier, </strong>a Doctor of Musical Arts student of Jennifer Swartz, has won the VRƵ Concerto Competition.  In the final round, which took place on Tuesday, February 21, Antoine gave a stunning performance of Canadian Composer R. Murray Schafer's Concerto for Harp and Orchestra.   He will perform with the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra during their 2017-18 season.</p> Mon, 27 Feb 2017 17:47:47 +0000 VRƵ Review: Flautas latinas de locura /music/node/55826 <p>Por: Patricia Morales Betancourt (blog post in Saledepresse)</p> <p>El 17 de febrero del presente año se presentaron cuatro profesionales de la flauta traversa en la sala Tanna Schulich, ubicada sobre la calle 527, Sherbrooke Oeste.</p> Thu, 23 Feb 2017 22:23:15 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Students excel at the Concours d'Art lyrique de la Relève Musicale /music/node/55817 <p> The  <em>Concours d'Art lyrique de la Relève Musicale</em> was held on February 17, 18 and 19 in Québec City.   Three current students were awarded prizes:  tenor <strong>Jeremy Scinocca</strong>, BMus'19 received 1st Prize, tenor <strong>Graeme Linton</strong>, B.Mus'19 and bass-baritone <strong>Reed Copeland</strong>, BMus'17 each received 3rd Prize.  In addition baritone <strong>Igor Mostovoi</strong>, MMus'17 was engaged by the <em>Opéra national du Rhin,</em> Strasbourg, France for their Young Artists Program for the 2017-2018 season.  </p> Wed, 22 Feb 2017 21:43:24 +0000 VRƵ Opera VRƵ celebrates 60 years with a dazzling Fledermaus /music/node/55793 <p>(Review by Arthur Kaptainis in La Scena)</p> <p>As a celebration of the 60 years of Opera VRƵ, the Schulich School of Music late last month presented a run of Johann Strauss’s Die Fledermaus in the Monument National. The opening was a big success, with a fresh array of voices, exquisite Art-Nouveau sets by <strong>Vincent Lefèvre</strong> and brilliant costumes by <strong>Ginette Grenier</strong>.  </p> Tue, 21 Feb 2017 21:27:23 +0000 VRƵ Grammy Award for Nick Squire /music/node/55775 <p><strong>Nick Squire</strong> (MMus '08) has received Grammy Award in the category of Best Orchestral Performance for his work as Sound Engineer on the recording of Shostakovich: Under Stalin's Shadow - Symphonies Nos. 5, 8 &amp; 9, recorded by Deutsche Grammophon.  The Boston Symphony Orchestra was led by conductor  Andris Nelsons. </p> Mon, 20 Feb 2017 19:06:26 +0000 VRƵ Boudreau and Bartók: Classics of their Time /music/node/55773 <p>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</p> <p>This year, the Société de musique contemporaine du Québec (SMCQ) marks its 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary and Schulich students will be playing a major part in the celebrations. Notably, the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra (MGSO) is set to perform parts of Walter Boudreau’s <em>Berliner Momente </em>under direction of the composer himself on the opening night of the SMCQ’s Montréal/New Musiques Festival 2017.</p> Mon, 20 Feb 2017 18:49:41 +0000 VRƵ Amy Hillis wins 2017 VRƵ Concerto Competition /music/node/55666 <p>The winner of the 2017 Schulich School String Concerto Competition is <strong>Amy Hillis</strong>, a D.M.A. candidate in violin performance from the studio of Prof. <strong>Axel Strauss.  </strong></p> Wed, 15 Feb 2017 18:49:06 +0000 VRƵ Montreal is crowned the world's top student city /music/node/55664 <div> <p>(By VRƵ Reporter Staff)</p> <p>There’s already plenty to celebrate during Montreal’s 375th anniversary year, and now there’s yet another reason: Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) has named Montreal the world’s number-one student city. The global higher education analyst released its fifth annual QS Best Student Cities ranking on February 14, 2017.</p> <p>Montreal jumped from last year’s seventh place to overtake reigning champ Paris, now the world’s second-place student city after four years in the top spot.</p></div> Wed, 15 Feb 2017 18:21:55 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Edward Klorman a 2017 PROSE Award Recipient /music/node/55569 <p>Professor <strong>Edward Klorman</strong> has received the 2017 PROSE Award in the category of Music and the Performing Arts for his book <em>Mozart’s Music of Friends: Social Interplay in the Chamber Works,</em> published by Cambridge University Press.  The annual <a href="https://proseawards.com">PROSE Awards</a> recognize the very best in professional and scholarly publishing by bringing attention to distinguished books, journals, and electronic content in 53 categories.</p> Mon, 13 Feb 2017 15:46:25 +0000 VRƵ Hank Knox on Barthold Kuijken /music/node/55508 <p>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</p> <p style="text-align:center"><em>The VRƵ Baroque Orchestra will feature guest conductor Barthold Kuijken in concert this Friday, February 10, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. in Redpath Hall. </em></p> <p style="text-align:center"><a href="http://schulich.ticketmob.com/event.cfm?cart&amp;id=145752"><em>Tickets are available for purchase here.</em></a></p> Wed, 08 Feb 2017 20:32:44 +0000 VRƵ 2017 Juno Nominees Announced /music/node/55507 <p>The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) has  announced the nominees for the 46th Annual JUNO Awards and this year Schulich faculty, alumni and former faculty are well-represented in the lists of finalists. Here below is a comprehensive list of those nominees with ties to the school.  JUNO Week 2017 will be hosted in Ottawa from March 27 through April 2, 2017, and a live broadcast of The 2017 JUNO Awards will air on CTV and CTV GO on Sunday, April 2 from the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa.  Congratulations to all nominees. </p> Wed, 08 Feb 2017 19:04:00 +0000 VRƵ Opus Prize winners announced /music/node/55503 <p>The 20th annual Conseil Québecois de la musique Gala was held on Sunday, February 5th, at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.  Under the artistic direction of Alain Gauthier, Québec's musical community gathered to celebrate the artists, performers, musical ensembles, cultural organizations, composers and musicologists who have shone across the province and beyond over the past year.  Once again, there were many awards distributed to members of the Schulich community.  Here below is a comprehensive list of winners with connections to the school, be they graduates or professors.</p> Mon, 06 Feb 2017 21:18:54 +0000 VRƵ Sam Newsome: ‘Some things just are’ /music/node/55484 <p><em>(Blog post by Chris Maskell)</em></p> <p><em>On Wednesday, February 8, 2017, saxophonist Sam Newsome will be performing with pianist Jean-Michel Pilc, VRƵ Jazz Orchestra I and other guests at 7:30 p.m. in Pollack Hall. In anticipation of this concert, Schulich graduate student Chris Maskell spoke to Newsome to learn more about his life and music.</em></p> Tue, 31 Jan 2017 18:11:30 +0000 VRƵ Une Luxuese Chauve-Souris /music/node/55483 <p><span>Aujourd’hui, les paradigmes ont changé. On ne va plus à Opera VRƵ pour dénicher des talents d’ici, dont les meilleurs iront ensuite à l’Atelier d’opéra avant de se faire entendre à l’international. On y entend une panoplie de gens venus de partout pour étudier à Montréal. Ils donnent un spectacle de niveau souvent quasiment professionnel.</span></p> <p><a href="http://www.ledevoir.com/culture/musique/490289/musique-classique-une-luxueuse">Le Devoir</a></p> Tue, 31 Jan 2017 15:31:54 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Brass named to semi-finals in the National Trumpet Competition /music/node/55405 <p><span>The <strong>VRƵ Trumpet Ensemble</strong>, let by Professor <strong>Richard Stoelzel</strong>, has advanced to the semi finals of the National Trumpet Competition to be held in March 2017 in Denver,Colorado. In addition, <strong>Francis LaPorte </strong>and <strong>Brent Proseus</strong> have advanced to the semi finals of the National Trumpet Competition College Solo Division. </span></p> Tue, 24 Jan 2017 21:50:25 +0000 VRƵ Rashaan Allwood Prizewinner in the Wadden International Organ Competition /music/node/55396 <p><strong>Rashaan Allwood</strong>, a student of <strong>Professor Hans-Ola Ericsson</strong>, was awarded second prize at the<span> Wadden International Organ Competition in Denmark this past weekend.  HIs award of </span><span>75.000 Danish Krona is approximately $14,000 Canadian.  “I am indeed very proud of  Rashaan whose shows exceptional hard work,talent, and determination," said Prof. Ericsson.  "The organ program at Schulich provides talented organists and church musicians with an opportunity to hone their artistry and skills."  </span></p> Mon, 23 Jan 2017 16:09:48 +0000 VRƵ An Interview with Trombonist Peter Sullivan, Soloist with the VRƵ Wind Orchestra /music/node/55395 <p><em>Blog post by Chris Maskell</em></p> Mon, 23 Jan 2017 15:09:13 +0000 VRƵ Russell Wustenberg, a bridge between director and performer /music/node/55356 <p><em>Blog post by Chris Maskell</em></p> <p>As Opera VRƵ’s landmark 60<sup>th</sup> season continues into the New Year, the momentum of its programming isn’t letting up. With major events on the horizon such as next weekend’s production of <em>Die Fledermaus </em>at the Monument-National and the subsequent Opera B!nge festival, both Schulich students and faculty alike have busy schedules.</p> Wed, 18 Jan 2017 22:06:20 +0000 VRƵ Coming Up: A four-concert George Enescu Festival February 3-5, 2017 /music/node/55355 <p><em>In this piece, George Ensescu festival organizer Ilya Poletaev discusses his passion for the music of the composer and his motivations for organizing this first festival dedicated to his music with Schulich graduate student Chris Maskell.  </em></p> <p><span>In the world of music, it’s an unfortunate reality that brilliant artists can go overlooked. Luckily, these same musicians are often championed by those who love their work, and in the case of the late Romanian composer George Enescu, his voice in Montreal is Schulich piano professor<strong> Ilya Poletaev</strong>. </span></p> Wed, 18 Jan 2017 16:15:40 +0000 VRƵ Riffing on a Legend: Jazz Concert Inspired by Martin Luther King Junior /music/node/55354 <p>Jazz musicians paid tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. with a concert based on his speeches and words. The concert at VRƵ used speeches by the civil rights leader as an auditory backdrop to the instrumental pieces.</p> <p><span>Link to CTV News item in sidebar. </span></p> Tue, 17 Jan 2017 16:30:11 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ performance taps the music of Martin Luther King Junior /music/node/55343 <p>Schulich School of Music jazz professor and grammy-nominated composer <strong>John Hollenbeck</strong> marks Martin Luther King Day with unique performance.  (Full CBC article in sidebar link)</p> Mon, 16 Jan 2017 15:17:05 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music and the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra Academy /music/node/55139 <p><strong>The Schulich School of Music at VRƵ</strong> is now one of the <strong>Canadian Opera Company Orchestra Academy</strong>’s collaborating organizations, joining founding participants <strong>The Glenn Gould School at the Royal Conservatory of Music</strong> and the<strong> University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music</strong>. This unique program <span> returns for its fourth year of three-week intensive training beginning on J</span><span>anuary 8, 2017.</span></p> Tue, 03 Jan 2017 20:08:19 +0000 VRƵ Pianist Madeline Weber receives Abner Martin Music Scholarship /music/node/55131 <p><strong>Madeline Weber</strong>, student of Professor <strong>Marina Mdivani </strong>is the recipient of the $4,000 Abner Martin Music Scholarship for 2016/17. A graduate of Elmira District Secondary School in 2014, she is in the second year of the piano performance program in the Schulich School of Music at VRƵ. She has participated in Piano Tuesday recitals, Class Concerts, piano trio concerts and other public performances including a concert for VRƵ’s Open House with the Concert Choir that she accompanies, under the direction of Jean-Sébastien Vallée.</p> Thu, 22 Dec 2016 15:27:29 +0000 VRƵ Zi Hua Tan finalist for the Toru Takemitsu Composition Award /music/node/55125 <p><strong> Zi Hua Tan</strong>, a Doctoral composition student of Prof.<strong> John Rea</strong> has been named a finalist for the 2017 Toru Takemitsu Composition Award.  <span>Out of 115 entries from 36 countries, Zi Hua Tan’s composition, </span><em>…at the still point</em><span>… was chosen to be among the four finalists of the Toru Takemitsu Composition Award 2017.</span></p> Mon, 19 Dec 2016 20:36:24 +0000 VRƵ Schulich nominees for the Prix Opus /music/node/55032 <p>Finalists for the Conseil québécois de la musique's Prix Opus were announced last Friday, and once again there are many nominated who are  Schulich alumni and/or faculty.   The Prix Opus were established in 1996 to highlight the excellence and diversity of Québec's musical offering, and are awarded in many different categories.  The winners will be announced in a Gala event to be held on Sunday, February 5, 2017.   Artists nominated with a Schulich connection are listed here.  </p> &;&;&;/&; &;&;&;/&; <p><em><u>Concert de l’année – Montréal </u></em></p> Wed, 14 Dec 2016 14:44:01 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Chamber Music Competition Winners Announced /music/node/54809 <p>The  Annual Schulich School of Music Chamber Music Competition took place  Tuesday, December 6, in Tanna Schulich Hall.  Two groups were declared winners and will travel to Europe for exchange visits to conservatories.  The winner of the <span>Exchange visit to the Mozarteum, Salzburg was the Milton String Quartet, with members </span><span><strong>Roman Fraser</strong>, violin, </span><span><strong>Maïthéna Girault</strong>, violin, </span><span><strong>Evan Robinson</strong>, viola and<strong> </strong></span><span><strong>Joshua Morris</strong>, cello.</span></p> Thu, 08 Dec 2016 21:24:25 +0000 VRƵ Rice University Students Visit Schulich School of Music /music/node/54720 <p><span>Last month, seven Rice University students traveled from Houston to Montréal to expand Rice’s Gateway Study of Leadership research program at VRƵ. Much of the time spent at VRƵ was at the Schulich School of Music, where the students met with Interim Dean <strong>Julie Cumming</strong>, Prof. <strong>Simon Aldrich</strong>, Director of the Music Entrepreneurship Program, Doctoral student <strong>Suzu Enns </strong>and several other faculty members including <strong>Ichiro Fujinaga</strong> and <strong>Lloyd Whitesell</strong>.</span></p> Wed, 07 Dec 2016 20:50:47 +0000 VRƵ Alex Soloway announced winner of the VRƵ Classical Concerto Competition /music/node/54669 <p><span>Artist Diploma Piano Student<strong> Alex Soloway</strong> has been announced as the winner of this year's Classical Concerto Competition. He is a student of Prof. <strong>Ilya Poletaev</strong> and was also a winner in 2014 of the VRƵ Chamber Music Competition as a member of the Aeolus Trio.  Soloway has already performed in Canada, Europe, and the United States, including concerts at the Canadian Opera Company’s Four Seasons Centre in Toronto, the Mozarteum University in Salzburg, and Carnegie’s Weill Recital Hall in New York.</span></p> Tue, 06 Dec 2016 19:21:12 +0000 VRƵ Grammy Nominations for Schulich alumni and professors /music/node/54668 <p><span>The Recording Academy has announced the </span><span>nominees for the 59th Annual GRAMMY Awards. Included in this list were several nominees from Schulich.  </span></p> Tue, 06 Dec 2016 19:09:55 +0000 VRƵ A Glowing Review for Pianist Ilya Poletaev /music/node/54579 <p>(Review by Peter Dobrin)</p> <p><span>How long will it be before the pianist hits that last note? You might have held your breath, as I did, waiting for </span><strong>Ilya Poletaev</strong><span> to strike the final note of the Bach "Sarabande" encore Wednesday night at the end of his Philadelphia Chamber Music Society recital debut at the American Philosophical Society.</span></p> Fri, 02 Dec 2016 17:27:57 +0000 VRƵ First and third prizes to Rashaan Allwood and Joel Peters in OSM Manulife Competition /music/node/54556 <p>The 2016 edition of the OSM Manulife Competition took place last week.  This year's categories were strings and organ, for which the semi-final string rounds took place in Tanna Schulich Hall at the Schulich School of Music.  The semifinals for organ took place in the Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the finals in the Maison symphonique de Montréal at the Grand-Orgue-Pierre-Béique.</p> Wed, 30 Nov 2016 15:33:13 +0000 VRƵ Compositional Collaboration between the OSM and the Schulich School of Music. /music/node/54543 <p>When Schulich School of Music composition students write pieces for orchestra it may be that they dream of their works someday being performed by the <strong><em>Orchestre symphonique de Montréal</em></strong>, with all the finesse and polish that a world-class orchestra brings to contemporary music.   For three students, <strong>Doyoon Kim</strong>, <strong>Francisco Ferro</strong> and <strong>Xue Han</strong>, this was exactly what happened, when on November 10<sup>th</sup>, the OSM, conducted by Maestro <strong>Adam Johnson</strong>, premiered their works in Pollack Hall.  As part of thi</p> Fri, 25 Nov 2016 16:03:07 +0000 VRƵ Mezzo-soprano Simone McIntosh wins Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/54528 <p><span>Following an evening of</span><span> exceptionally high-level vocal artistry from all three finalists, <strong>Jean-Philippe Mc Clish</strong>, <strong>Simone McIntosh</strong> and <strong>Igor Mostovoi</strong>, last night the members of the Jury declared mezzo-soprano <strong>Simone McIntosh, </strong>a Master's voice student of <strong>Dominique Labelle</strong> the winner of the 2016-2017 Wirth Vocal Prize. </span></p> Mon, 21 Nov 2016 17:01:35 +0000 VRƵ Jordan de Souza, le monsieur 100 000 volts du classique /music/node/54506 <p><strong>Jordan de Souza</strong> est arrivé à Montréal il y a dix ans pour se former à la musique, avouant lui-même qu'il ne connaissait rien à l'opéra, discipline avec laquelle il s'est familiarisé à VRƵ.  Rencontre avec le chef canadien, qui dirige pour la première fois à l’Opéra de Montréal (Article de Christoph Huss du journal <span><a href="http://www.ledevoir.com/culture/musique/484473/jordan-de-souza-le-monsieur-100-000-volts-du-classique">Le Devoir</a>).</span></p> Mon, 14 Nov 2016 17:16:53 +0000 VRƵ Peter Schubert receives VRƵ's Lifetime Achievement Award for Leadership in Learning /music/node/54500 <p>On  November 2nd,  Schulich School of Music Theory Professor <strong>Peter Schubert </strong>was named the recipient of VRƵ’s <a href="/tls/teaching/awards/university/lifetime">Lifetime Achievement Award for Leadership in Learning</a>. <span>The award, which was given during Fall Convocation Ceremonies, recognizes sustained excellence in leadership and innovation, as well as the active integration of teaching and learning with inquiry, scholarship and research.</span></p> Thu, 10 Nov 2016 19:17:18 +0000 VRƵ Finalists announced for the Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/54466 <p><span>The three finalists chosen to compete for the Wirth Vocal Prize this year are mezzo-soprano </span><strong>Simone McIntosh</strong><span>, bass-baritone </span><strong>Igor Mostovoi</strong><span> and bass </span><strong>Jean-Philippe Mc Clish</strong><span>.  </span><span>These singers, selected in an earlier-held preliminary round, will each present a thirty minute programme made up of pieces performed in a minimum of three languages and including at least one opera aria.</span></p> Wed, 09 Nov 2016 17:29:32 +0000 VRƵ Saledepresse review of Alcina /music/node/54465 <p><u>Blog post by Patricia Morales (in Spanish)</u></p> <p>Opera VRƵ, directed by <strong>Patrick Hansen</strong> and gave three performances of Alcina earlier this month. The VRƵ Baroque Orchestra was directed by <strong>Hank Knox</strong>.  Blogger Patricia Morales attended the matinee held November 6th, and wrote <a href="https://saldepresse.wordpress.com/2016/11/08/alcina-de-frideric-handel-en-la-opera-de-mcgill-del-ecole-de-musique-schulich/">this post </a>about the production.  </p> &;&;&;/&; Wed, 09 Nov 2016 16:22:37 +0000 VRƵ Robert Hasegawa receives a Society for Music Theory award /music/node/54464 <p><strong>Robert Hasegawa</strong>, Assistant Professor of Music Theory and Area Chair for Music Theory at the Schulich School of Music, has received the 'Emerging Scholar Award' at the 2016 <em>Society for Music Theory </em>conference held in Vancouver.  His article <span>“Clashing Harmonic Systems in Haas’s Blumenstück and in vain” was published in the journal <em>Music Theory Spectrum </em>37/2 (Fall 2015).  T</span><span>he Emerging Scholar Award (Article) is given for an article published no more than seven calendar years after the author’s receipt of the Ph.D.</span></p> Wed, 09 Nov 2016 15:48:03 +0000 VRƵ Mezzo-soprano Simone McIntosh winner of COC Centre Stage Competition /music/node/54422 <p><span>Vancouver-born mezzo-soprano <strong>Simone McIntosh</strong>, a Master's student  </span><span>of Professor<strong> Dominique Labelle</strong> at the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ was named the winner of the COC Centre Stage Competition on Thursday, November 3rd.    The announcement was made at the gala evening event held in Toronto and the prize is sponsored by Board Chair Colleen Sexsmith.  Ms.</span></p> Fri, 04 Nov 2016 19:16:18 +0000 VRƵ Joshua Morris winner of the 2016-2017 Golden Violin Competition /music/node/54370 <p>Cellist <strong>Joshua Morris </strong>was named the winner of the 2016-2017 Golden Violin Competition held Sunday, October 30th in Pollack Hall.  <span>Morris, accompanied by Karsiri Laothamatas, performed  Kaddish, from 2 Mélodies hébraïques by  Maurice Ravel, a work composed by Morris himself, Suite for Solo Cello, and the  Prokofiev  Sonata for cello and piano in C major, Op. 119.</span></p> Mon, 31 Oct 2016 16:00:40 +0000 VRƵ The Comings and Goings of Pianist Bryn Roberts /music/node/54319 <p>For rootsy singer-songwriters Dar Williams, Serena Ryder and Rosanne Cash, the accompanist of choice has often been pianist <strong>Bryn Roberts</strong>.  <span>But when he’s in charge, Roberts, a 39-year-old Winnipeg native who splits his time between New York City and Portland, Ore., leans toward playing lyrical, contemporary jazz.</span></p> Wed, 26 Oct 2016 21:04:49 +0000 VRƵ Accolades for soprano Dominique Labelle's recording of Mi Palpita Il Cor /music/node/54261 <p>Voice professor soprano<strong> Dominique Labelle</strong> has released an album with Musica Pacifica: <em>Mi Palpita Il Cor.  </em><span><a href="http://www.musicapacifica.org/">Musica Pacifica</a> is an early music ensemble based in San Francisco  and they have built up an impressive catalog of performances concentrating primarily on the pre-Classical repertoire.</span></p> Thu, 20 Oct 2016 21:00:36 +0000 VRƵ Conductor Jordan de Souza named Kapellmeister at the Komische Oper Berlin /music/node/54211 <p><strong>Jordan de Souza, </strong>BMus'09, MMus'11 will become the Kapellmeister of the Komische Oper Berlin  beginning with the start of their 2017/18 season.  In his first season as Kapellmeister, he will conduct several repertoire pieces, direct one new production and lead an orchestra concert.</p> Tue, 18 Oct 2016 15:49:52 +0000 VRƵ Mark Fewer: Expanding Your Horizons /music/node/54193 <p><u>Blog post by Chris Maskell</u></p> <p>When thinking about musicians who feel equally at home in both the classical and jazz realms, not many players come to mind. It’s challenging to keep a foot in both doors and meet the unique demands required to be proficient in both styles. One might think of a pianist or trumpet player for the few who do make it work, but probably not a violinist. Luckily for us, Schulich’s own <strong>Mark Fewer</strong> serves as a prime example that it can be done – and done well.</p> Mon, 17 Oct 2016 15:13:40 +0000 VRƵ Brenda Ravenscroft named next Dean of the Schulich School of Music /music/node/54157 <p>Professor <strong>Brenda Ravenscroft</strong> will be the next Dean of the Schulich School of Music. Currently <span>Associate Dean (Teaching and Learning) at Queen’s Faculty of Arts and Science, and Professor of Music Theory and Analysis at Queen’s University, Prof. Ravenscroft will begin her mandate at Schulich in July of 2017. </span><span>Prof. Ravenscroft taught Music Theory at VRƵ’s Faculty of Music from 1991 to 1993, and has maintained close ties with VRƵ colleagues through research and teaching interests.</span></p> Fri, 07 Oct 2016 19:11:54 +0000 VRƵ Spanish Review of the September VRƵ Symphony Orchestra Concert /music/node/54143 <p>On  September 23rd and 24th, the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro <strong>Alexis Hause</strong>r, performed its first concert of the season. The piano soloist was <strong>Anna Peletsis</strong>.  Reviewer <strong>Patricia Morales</strong> has published this Spanish <a href="https://saldepresse.wordpress.com/2016/10/06/la-orquesta-sinfonica-de-mcgill-en-concierto/">blog post</a> about the program.  The complete works included:  Ludwig van Beethoven:  Egmont Overture, Op. 84; Aram Khachaturian:  Concerto for piano in D flat major, Op. 38; Piotr Ilitch Tchaïkovsky Symphony No.</p> Fri, 07 Oct 2016 16:10:29 +0000 VRƵ Classical Music: a chance to go beyond fossilized repertoire /music/node/54142 <p><strong>Ilya Poletaev</strong> is a Moscow-born pianist who is an assistant professor of music at the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ in Montreal, but has a wide-ranging international career. Next Wednesday, he will appear in the University of Victoria’s Orion Series in Fine Arts. Read the complete blog post in the Times Colonist <a href="http://www.timescolonist.com/entertainment/music/classical-music-a-chance-to-go-beyond-fossilized-repertoire-1.2359294">here</a>. </p> Fri, 07 Oct 2016 15:43:09 +0000 VRƵ "I felt the clock ticking" — why Andre White just released three albums at once /music/node/53970 <p>A jazz renaissance man who not only plays drums and piano, but also has been on faculty at VRƵ and and behind the board as a respected and prodigious recording engineer, <strong>Andre White</strong>, 57, has been a towering yet humble musical giant in Montreal and beyond since the mid-1980s.   In this <a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/entertainment/jazzblog/i-felt-the-clock-ticking-why-andre-white-just-released-three-cds-at-once">article </a>by Peter Hum discover the impact White has had on the Canadian jazz scene, and learn why he recently released three albums digitally.</p> Mon, 03 Oct 2016 14:59:43 +0000 VRƵ Cellist Joshua Morris receives 2016 Peter Mendell Award /music/node/53916 <p><span><strong>Joshua Morris</strong> is a Masters in Cello Performance student of Professor <strong>Brian Manker</strong>.  He was recently a semifinalist in the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, and has also been a finalist of the VRƵ Classical Concerto Music Competition.  The Peter Mendell Award is intended to foster the development of musical excellence, and was founded by lawyer Peter Mendell in 2005.</span></p> Fri, 30 Sep 2016 18:04:25 +0000 VRƵ Theo Bleckmann and John Hollenbeck - A Cherished Collaboration /music/node/53905 <p><u>Blog post by Chris Maskell</u></p> <p>The partnership between jazz singer <strong>Theo Bleckmann</strong> and drummer <strong>John Hollenbeck</strong> has taken many forms over the years. One month, they may be touring with Prof. Hollenbeck’s Large Ensemble, while not much later, a listener might find them improvising mind-bending duets in front of a rapt audience. Next week, they are set to explore yet another new musical setting during their performance at the Schulich School of Music with VRƵ’s Jazz Choir.</p> Wed, 28 Sep 2016 19:46:08 +0000 VRƵ An interview with Catherine Steele /music/node/49845 <p>The Schulich School of Music’s Kelly Rice recently met with pianist and music teacher Catherine Steele (née Thornhill) to discuss her life in music, beginning with her childhood in Newfoundland.  </p> <p>She is the inspiration behind the Catherine Thornhill Steele Visiting Artist Fund, created by Seymour Schulich in 2005 to honour her.</p> <h5><em>In this photo: Catherine Thornhill at her graduation recital</em></h5> <p><em>​</em></p> <h2>Notes from the interview</h2> <p>Kelly Rice: Tell me about your first musical memories.</p> Thu, 08 Oct 2015 18:53:40 +0000 VRƵ A new Canada-wide Music Composition Competition /music/node/53904 <p>The Schulich School of Music enthusiastically announces the establishment of the<em> Graham Sommer Competition for Young Composers</em>, open to all Canadian composers under 35 years old.  The school will host the first edition of the competition in 2017, thanks to generous support from <strong>Dr. Graham Sommer</strong>, M.D. C.M. ’72.  </p> <p><u>Full VRƵ Reporter article by Andrew Mahon:</u></p> Wed, 28 Sep 2016 15:33:54 +0000 VRƵ On learning from a master: an interview with pianist Anna Peletsis /music/node/53823 <p><u>Blog post by Chris Maskell:</u></p> <p><span>Since she became part of the faculty of the Schulich School of Music in 1992, ten of Professor Marina Mdivani’s students have won the VRƵ Concerto Competition. The most recent of these, <strong>Anna Peletsis</strong>, shares an interesting parallel with Mdivani’s past – both attended the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory and eventually relocated to Canada.</span></p> Thu, 22 Sep 2016 17:28:48 +0000 VRƵ Zhenni Li wins Second Prize at the International Edvard Grieg Competition /music/node/53574 <p>Schulich School of Music Doctoral piano student <strong>Zhenni Li </strong> has won Second Prize in the 15th Annual <a href="http://griegcompetition.com/">International Edvard Grieg Competition</a> which was held September 2-10 in Bergen, Norway.  In addition to the 20,000 euro second prize, Ms. Li was also awarded the 1000 euro Orchestra Prize.  Ms. Li is a student of Prof. <strong>Stéphane Lemelin</strong>.</p> Mon, 12 Sep 2016 15:19:22 +0000 VRƵ Jeremy Cox named Schulich Distinguished Visiting Chair /music/node/53573 <p><span><strong>Jeremy Cox</strong> has been named 2016-2017 Schulich Distinguished Visiting Chair in Music. He brings to the school an expertise that spans performance, scholarship, teaching, academic leadership, and curriculum design.  Prof. Cox will be involved in many aspects of school life this year, including teaching, conference organization, academic review, and writing.</span></p> Mon, 12 Sep 2016 14:11:13 +0000 VRƵ Rolston String Quartet wins the 2016 edition of the Banff International String Quartet Competition /music/node/53569 <p>We wish to congratulate this year’s winners of the 2016 edition of the Banff International String Quartet Competition, the Rolston String Quartet. Formed in 2013 by Luri Lee and Jeffrey Dyrda (BMus 2009) on violin, Hezekiah Leung on viola and Jonathan Lo on cello, this Canadian string quartet is currently the graduate Quartet-in-Residence at Rice University’s Shepard School of Music. Other achievements for the Quartet include first place at the 2016 Chamber Music Yellow Springs Competition, and prizes at the M-Prize and Bordeaux International String Quartet Competitions.</p> Fri, 09 Sep 2016 19:54:08 +0000 VRƵ For Edward Klorman, Theory is theory is steeped in playing, performing, and history /music/node/53531 <p>(Blog article by Laurie Niles)</p> <p>August 8, 2016, 12:47 PM · Where was Edward Klorman when I was drowning in frustration during music theory class?</p> <p>I've always come to music as a violinist -- a one-line player in an orchestra or ensemble. Reading was just a means of getting the music into my head and into my fingers, and though I felt like I had a deep understanding of harmony, it was completely instinctual and experiential.</p> Tue, 06 Sep 2016 21:02:20 +0000 VRƵ Tenor John Mac Master ready to raise the voices of VRƵ students /music/node/53488 <p>(Article by Richard Burnett, Montreal Gazette)</p> <p>One of the finest operatic singers of his generation, tenor <strong>John Mac Master </strong>began his storied showbiz career in Montreal and the West Island singing in 1970s rock ‘n’ roll bar bands.</p> <p>“My longest-lasting band was called Jade, and we played Top 40 hits like Taking Care of Business and December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night),” says Mac Master, who was the band’s charismatic, long-haired lead singer. “We played bars like the John Bull Pub downtown and roadhouses on the lakeshore.”</p> Wed, 31 Aug 2016 15:31:10 +0000 VRƵ Student Brent Proseus finalist in Ellsworth Smith Solo Competition /music/node/53435 <p><strong>Brent Proseus</strong>, a second year trumpet Performance Major in the class of Richard Stoelzel has been chosen one of six students to compete this week in the prestigious Ellsworth Smith Solo competition. The competition will be <a href="http://ellsworthsmithtrumpetcompetition.org/">live streamed</a> .  Brent Proseus is also a 2016 International Solo Competition winner and a winner of the VRƵ Concerto Competition, </p> Tue, 30 Aug 2016 14:13:32 +0000 VRƵ New Minor in Music Entrepreneurship /music/node/53202 <p><strong>Introducing the Minor in Music Entrepreneurship: a collaboration between the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ and VRƵ’s Desautels Faculty of Management.</strong></p> Wed, 17 Aug 2016 14:03:33 +0000 VRƵ It's never to late to benefit from music lessons, proves Montreal New Horizons Band /music/node/52956 <p>Interesting article in University Affairs about the <em>Montreal New Horizons Band</em>, founded in 2014 by PhD candidate <strong>Audrey-Kristel Barbeau</strong>. Read the article <a href="http://bit.ly/2biLmiu">here</a>.</p> Wed, 10 Aug 2016 14:21:13 +0000 VRƵ MISQA is back at the Schulich School of Music from August 14-27 /music/node/52951 <p>MISQA (VRƵ International String Quartet Academy) was founded in 2010 by Mrs. Constance Pathy. Since its inception, Prof. André J. Roy has assumed its leadership as per his position of general &amp; artistic director. Each year, the academy invites the most significant practitioners of the genre to share their experience with and to educate some of the worlds most promising young quartets; four senior quartets and four junior quartets are selected every year. Private lessons, master classes and concerts are all part of the academy during two weeks.</p> Fri, 05 Aug 2016 23:27:10 +0000 VRƵ In memory of Sandy Pearlman /music/node/52890 <p>It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sandy Pearlman (August 8, 1943 – July 26, 2016). Producer, Lyricist, Manager, and in his words, a Relentless brainstormer of the ever-tightening embrace of Music by Technology and Technology by Music.</p> Fri, 29 Jul 2016 13:21:41 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Alumni and baroque flutists for the win at the Indianapolis International Baroque Competition! /music/node/52873 <p>Schulich School of Music Alumna <strong>Alexa Raine-Wright</strong> brings home the $10,000 Devonna &amp; Amos Gerber Grand Prize and Indianapolis Baroque Orchestra Prize at the 2016 Indianapolis International Baroque Competition. <span><strong>Vincent Lauzer</strong>, Schulich Alumnus also won the Dee Garrett Laureate and Stanley Ritchie Audience Prizes.</span></p> Tue, 12 Jul 2016 16:44:17 +0000 VRƵ In Perfect Harmony /music/node/52753 <p>The student musicians in the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra have easy access to mentors who regularly perform for a world-renowned orchestra. Almost two dozen members of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal teach at VRƵ’s Schulich School of Music and roughly one-third of the OSM’s musicians are VRƵ graduates. Read the full VRƵ Alumni article <a href="http://mcgillnews.mcgill.ca/s/1762/news/interior.aspx?sid=1762&amp;gid=2&amp;pgid=690">here</a>.</p> Wed, 29 Jun 2016 18:56:07 +0000 VRƵ David Dias Da Silva wins 2016 Stepping Stones Competition /music/node/52475 <p>It's been a great month for clarinettist David Dias Da Silva (ArtDip'16).  Not only did he win the <a href="/music/channels/news/successes-alumni-prix-deurope-competition-261370">2016 Prix d'Europe</a>, but he has also just been awarded first place in the  Canadian Music Competition's (CMC) <a href="http://www.cmcnational.com/en/select/nouv/index.php?id=7786">Stepping Stone Competition</a>.  In addition to a $10 000 prize, he will also perform at the 2016 CMC’s Gala Concert with the Orchestre symphonique de Drummondville, on July 5, 2016, at Maison des arts Desjardins.</p> Wed, 22 Jun 2016 18:52:23 +0000 VRƵ Successes for Alumni at the Prix d'Europe competition /music/node/52350 <p>Clarinettist <strong>David Dias da Silva</strong> (ArtDip'16) has won the<em> 2016 Prix d'Europe</em>.  Third prize, the <em>Le Prix Québecor </em> and the <em>Prix Guy Soucie  </em>were awarded to violinist and DMus candidate <strong>Elizabeth Skinner </strong>(MMus'15).  Soprano <strong>Erin Berger</strong> (BMus'11, MMus'13) received the<em> Prix du Lied et de la mélodie</em>, and flutist<strong> Lara Deutsch</strong> (BMus'12, MMus'14) was awarded the<em> Prix du Centre de musique canadienne au Québec.</em></p> Fri, 17 Jun 2016 13:34:48 +0000 VRƵ An Honorary Doctorate for Susan McClary /music/node/52192 <p><strong>Susan McClary</strong>, B.Mus. (Southern Illinois University), M.A., Ph.D. (Harvard University) was  named Doctor of Music <em>honoris causa </em>at  this year's spring convocation, which took place on May 31st.<br /></p> Tue, 14 Jun 2016 18:01:00 +0000 VRƵ Ichiro Fujinaga appointed Associate Dean for Research and Administration /music/node/52040 <p>Professor <strong>Ichiro Fujinaga</strong> has been appointed Associate Dean for Research and Administration for 2016-17.  Professor Fujinaga is one of the leading figures worldwide in the fields of Music Information Retrieval and Digital Humanities in Music.  He is also a successful and productive researcher, who has received major grants from many sources, including the US National Endowment for the Humanities and the Mellon Foundation, and Canadian SSHRC, CFI, and FRQSC.</p> Thu, 09 Jun 2016 19:03:56 +0000 VRƵ Accolades for VRƵ Brass at the International Trumpet Guild Convention /music/node/52014 <p><strong>The VRƵ Trumpet Ensemble</strong> and professor <strong>Richard Stoelzel, </strong>Brass Area Chair, recently participated in the <a href="https://itgconference.org/">International Trumpet Guild Conference</a> in Anaheim, California.  Their prelude concert collegiate performance received astanding ovation. "In my over 20 years going to these conferences, I have never witnessed a prelude concert collegiate trumpet ensemble receive a standing ovation," said Prof. Stoelzel.</p> Thu, 09 Jun 2016 15:29:07 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Julie Cumming named Interim Dean of the Schulich School of Music /music/node/52008 <p><strong>Prof. Julie Cumming</strong> has been named Interim Dean of the Schulich School of Music, beginning 1 July 2016, following the conclusion of Prof. Sean Ferguson’s term as Dean.</p> Wed, 08 Jun 2016 17:06:50 +0000 VRƵ Renowned tenor John Mac Master joins the Voice Faculty of the Schulich School of Music /music/node/51937 <p>The Schulich School of Music welcomes tenor<strong> John Mac Master </strong>to the Voice Faculty of the Schulich School of Music this fall, building on its remarkable faculty.  </p> Mon, 06 Jun 2016 16:13:08 +0000 VRƵ $17 Million to Shape the Future of Music /music/node/51928 <p><span>The </span><strong>Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology</strong><span> (CIRMMT), the</span><strong> Schulich School of Music of VRƵ</strong><span> and the </span><strong>Faculty of Music of l’Université de Montréal</strong><span> are creating a unique interconnected research hub that will quite literally link two exceptional spaces at two of Canada’s most renowned music schools.</span></p> <p><u>Remarkable public and private investment</u></p> Fri, 03 Jun 2016 14:53:10 +0000 VRƵ Le Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en musique, médias et technologie: à la fine pointe de la recherche entre musique, technologie et science /music/node/51761 <p>Par Raymond Desmarteau | <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">francais</span> [at] <span class="d">rcinet.ca</span></span><br /> jeudi 19 mai, 2016</p> Fri, 20 May 2016 19:39:53 +0000 VRƵ Violist Marina Thibault named a Révélation musicale 2016-2017 /music/node/51743 <p>Violist <strong>Marina Thibault</strong>, MMus'15, has been named a <em>Révélation musicale 2016-2017</em> by Radio-Canada.   While a student at the Schulich School of Music she was in the class of Prof. <strong>André Roy,</strong> and was a winner of the VRƵ Concerto Competition.  The <em>Révélations musicales</em> program provides both artistic support and a performance platform for talented young artists.  </p> Thu, 19 May 2016 14:53:28 +0000 VRƵ Two conducting appointments for Karl Hirzer /music/node/51435 <p>Artist Diploma piano student<strong> Karl Hirzer</strong>, MMus 2015, has been named resident conductor with Calgary Philharmonic and also assistant conductor to Boris Brott at the National Academy Orchestra for the summer of 2016. Karl Hirzer is a Canadian pianist and conductor from Vancouver, BC. In May of 2015, he completed his Master’s degree in piano performance  studying with <strong>Ilya Poletaev </strong>at the Schulich School of Music, where he also studied orchestral conducting with <strong>Alexis Hauser</strong>.</p> Wed, 27 Apr 2016 15:36:15 +0000 VRƵ Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship - call for nominations (due May 17, 2016) /music/node/51436 <p>The Schulich School of Music is conducting an internal competition to select its candidate for the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship competition.</p> <p><strong>The deadline to submit applications for institutional review is May 17, 2016.</strong></p> <p>Eligible candidates must demonstrate potential to pursue a research-intensive career in an area aligned with research interests at the Schulich School of Music and with the strategic priorities of VRƵ. Candidates must have fulfilled all requirements for a PhD or PhD-equivalent degree:</p> Thu, 28 Apr 2016 00:59:17 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Stephen McAdams wins Killam Fellowship /music/node/51341 <p>Professor Stephen McAdams, Canada Research Chair in Music Perception and Cognition, is one of six outstanding Canadian researchers to be awarded a Canada Council for the Arts Killam Research Fellowship. He is the second Killam Research Fellowship recipient from the Schulich School of Music.</p> Tue, 19 Apr 2016 21:37:41 +0000 VRƵ Laura Risk awarded a 2016 SWAAC Graduate Student Award of Merit. /music/node/51276 <p><span>The Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada (SWAAC) have named graduate musicology student <strong>Laura Risk</strong> a recipient of a<em> 2016 SWAAC Graduate Student Award of Merit</em>.  This award was established to recognize women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in their university and in the community while maintaining an exemplary academic record.  The award, which consists of $3000 and a plaque, will be presented on Friday, April 29th at the SWAAC annual conference.</span></p> Tue, 12 Apr 2016 16:19:26 +0000 VRƵ New Lawrence A. Mysak Prize for Woodwinds /music/node/51273 <p>When he retired in 2010, Lawrence Mysak, Professor Emeritus in VRƵ’s Department of Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences, capped an illustrious and award-winning career in science and mathematics. But his research and teaching career ran parallel to another passion. Mysak is also an active musician, and has played the flute for over two decades as a member of the I Medici di VRƵ Orchestra. Recently he established the Lawrence A. Mysak Prize for Woodwinds at the Schulich School of Music, an annual undergraduate award whose first recipient will be announced in 2016.</p> Mon, 11 Apr 2016 16:38:58 +0000 VRƵ Mezzo-Soprano Rihab Chaieb wins 1st Prize at the 2016 Gerda Lissner International Vocal Competition /music/node/51210 <p><strong>Rihab Chaieb</strong> has been awarded a First Prize at the <em>2016 Gerda Lissner International Vocal Competition </em>in New York.   She <span>graduated with BMus in Voice from the  Schulich School of Music before becoming a member of the Canadian Opera Company's  Ensemble program. Currently finishing her first year at the Metropolitan Opera's Lindemann program, Chaieb studied voice at Schulich with Professors <strong>Winston Purdy</strong> and <strong>Sanford Sylvan</strong>.</span></p> Thu, 07 Apr 2016 13:41:16 +0000 VRƵ Viva Voce's Last Concert /music/node/51209 <p>Viva Voce, one of Montreal's best professional choral ensembles gave its last concert on Tuesday night at Bourgie Hall. <span>Viva Voce closed its 17th season with music by Renaissance rock star and Monteverdi role model, Cipriano De Rore. </span><span>Founder and conductor <strong>Peter Schubert</strong> says he's always looking for enticing ways to program a concert, and anniversaries are sometimes helpful.</span></p> Wed, 06 Apr 2016 17:30:43 +0000 VRƵ Composer John Rea the focus of latest Circuit musiques contemporaines magazine /music/node/51065 <p>The latest edition of<em> Circuit musiques contemporaines, Volume 26, no. 1, </em>is devoted to the Societé de musique contemporaine de Québec's (SMCQ) Homage Series composer of the year, <strong>Professor John Rea</strong>.  Rea has been celebrated  by the SMCQ throughout the 2015-2016 musical season. The magazine includes articles and contributions by Jimmie LeBlanc, Maxime McKinley, Anne Marie Messier and Michel Robert, Julien Bilodeau and John Rea himself. The issue is illustrated by artist Nicholas Voeikoff-Erens.</p> Thu, 31 Mar 2016 16:04:10 +0000 VRƵ Review: Ensemble Signal Returns to Winter With ‘Schnee’ /music/node/51020 <p>Professor<strong> Jacqueline Leclair</strong>, Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs group, Ensemble Signal, performed a remarkable, hour-long work by Hans Abrahamsen in New York City March 24th, and received this New York Times review. Leclair teaches oboe, coaches chamber music and is also Woodwind Area Chair here at the Schulich School of Music. </p> Tue, 29 Mar 2016 18:13:40 +0000 VRƵ Master's Student Benjamin Deschamps receives Conseil des Arts de Montréal award /music/node/51015 <p><strong>Benjamin Deschamps,</strong> a Schulich School of Music Master's student has been awarded the 'Bourse de Création Jazz' by the Conseil des Arts de Montréal (CAM).  The $5,000 award will be used to help fund the production of his second jazz recording.  The award was announced on March 17, at the opening of the<em> Jazz en rafale </em>concert series.  Deschamps is curently finishing his Master's degree as a student of Professor Joe Sullivan and has also studied with Professors Kevin Dean and Jean-Nicolas Trottier.</p> Tue, 29 Mar 2016 15:05:42 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ's Schulich School of Music ranked top Canadian university by QS in the Performing Arts Category /music/node/51004 <p>On March 21st, 2016 the <strong>QS World University Rankings by Subject 2016</strong> were announced and VRƵ's Schulich School of Music was named the top Canadian performing arts university in the country. QS rankings highlight the world’s top universities in 42 subjects, based on academic reputation, employer reputation and research impact.  The Schulich School of Music was ranked 26th overall.  Other participating Canadian institutions include University of British Columbia, University of Montreal, and University of Toronto.</p> Wed, 23 Mar 2016 20:06:47 +0000 VRƵ Québec Hebdo>Culture Jean-Sébastien Vallée et le Chœur Schulich en concert à Québec /music/node/50865 <p><strong>Le Chœur Schulich de l'Université VRƵ</strong> sera en concert à la Chapelle du Musée de l'Amérique à Québec vendredi 11 mars. C'est un retour aux sources pour le directeur artistique du Chœur Schulich, <strong>Jean-Sébastien Vallée</strong>, qui vient de Québec et y a poursuivi ses études en musique.</p> Thu, 10 Mar 2016 15:18:20 +0000 VRƵ SQRM applauds Schulich School of Music researchers /music/node/50863 <p>Research at VRƵ is often celebrated for its international collaborations and recognition; but its importance at home, in the province of Quebec, is equally meritorious. This was never more apparent than at the recent award ceremony of the <a href="http://www.sqrm.qc.ca">Société québécoise de recherche en musique</a> (SQRM) when the outstanding work of six young VRƵ musicologists and theorists were recognized.  On Nov. 11, 2015, four VRƵ students were the finalists for the annual paper competition.   </p> Tue, 08 Mar 2016 22:13:35 +0000 VRƵ Marcelo Wanderley appointed an INRIA International Chair, 2016-20. /music/node/50862 <p>Professor<strong> Marcelo M. Wanderley </strong>has been awarded an<a href="http://www.inria.fr/en"> Inria </a>International Chair for 2016-2020. Prof. Wanderley is the first VRƵ researcher to be awarded this chair and is among the four awardees this year. <span>Inria is the French National Institute for Computer Science and Applied Mathematics. This is the first time a Professor of Music is awarded this chair, attesting to the wide variety of research directions and the impact of the work developed at the Schulich School of Music at VRƵ.    </span></p> Tue, 08 Mar 2016 16:35:59 +0000 VRƵ Anna Peletsis wins the VRƵ Concerto Competition, Piano Division. /music/node/50750 <p><strong>Anna Peletsis</strong>, a doctoral piano student of Professor <strong>Marina Mdivani</strong>, has won the VRƵ Concerto Competition and will perform next season with the McGIll Symphony Orchestra. A graduate of the<span> Tchaikovsky Moscow Conservatoire where she with professors Sergey Dorensky, Pavel Nersessian and Nikolai Luganski, she also won the 1st prize of the International Piano Competition "Nikolai Rubinstein" in Paris in 2004. She has participated in the “Jose Iturbi” masterclasses in Valencia, Spain and in a  master class of French Music in Paris, France.</span></p> Wed, 24 Feb 2016 19:59:24 +0000 VRƵ Brent Proseus, trumpet, winner of the VRƵ Concerto Competiton. /music/node/50721 <p><strong>Brent Proseus</strong>, a student of Professor <strong>Richard Stoelzel</strong>, Brass Area Chair, has been named winner of the 2016 Schulich School of Music Woodwinds, Brass, and Percussion competition.  <span>Brent’s first trumpet teacher was his father, Eric and he  continued his studies with Gregg Good. Brent was principal trumpet in the Michigan Junior High All-State Band and he was principal trumpet in the Michigan All-state Orchestra as well as the lead trumpet in the Michigan All-State Jazz Band.</span></p> Fri, 19 Feb 2016 15:37:14 +0000 VRƵ An Interview with Wirth Vocal Prize winner Chelsea Rus /music/node/50720 <p>On Feb. 7, Chelsea Rus was named the winner of the inaugural Wirth Vocal Prize. According to the Schulich School of Music’s website, the $25,000 prize is given to “an exceptional voice student… in recognition of outstanding accomplishment as a singer and significant promise for an international career.” Pretty heady stuff for any young singer – but especially so for Rus, who had never even heard an opera until her first year of college in 2009 back home in Abbotsford, B.C.</p> Fri, 19 Feb 2016 14:55:59 +0000 VRƵ Jean-Willy Kunz : Pipe dreams do come true /music/node/50715 <p><span>If, as Mark Twain said here in 1881, you can’t throw a brick in Montreal without breaking a church window, it must be equally true that you can’t go very far in this once very religious city without stumbling across a pipe organ. And often a damned good one.</span></p> Wed, 17 Feb 2016 14:47:18 +0000 VRƵ Elinor Frey wins Opus Prize for the Berlin Sonatas /music/node/50616 <p>Cellist <a href="http://www.elinorfrey.com/home.php"><strong>Elinor Frey</strong></a>, an alumni of the Schulich School of Music, has won the early-music recording of the year award for her disc <em>Berlin Sonatas </em>on the <a href="http://www.passacaille.be/CD.aspx?ID=127">Passacaille</a> label.   Fascinated with the cello’s origins and the creative process of new music, Elinor Frey plays both period and modern instruments.</p> Mon, 15 Feb 2016 20:18:13 +0000 VRƵ John Grew to be invested into the Order of Canada on Friday, February 12 /music/node/50580 <p>Professor Emeritus John Grew, former Dean of Music, will be invested into the Order of Canada on Friday, February 12th 2016 in a ceremony at Rideau Hall. The ceremony, which begins at 10:30am EST, will be webcast live from the Governor General of Canada's <a href="http://www.gg.ca">website</a>. A webcast link will be available on their homepage before 10:30am on Friday.</p> Thu, 11 Feb 2016 18:39:32 +0000 VRƵ Vidéo de TFO Art : Prodige du violon /music/node/50556 &;&;&;/&; Tue, 09 Feb 2016 19:16:22 +0000 VRƵ Rémi Bolduc wins Concert of the Year, Jazz and World Music at the 2016 Opus Awards /music/node/50550 <p><strong>Rémi Bolduc</strong>, Chair of the Jazz Department at the Schulich School of Music, was awarded an Opus Prize in a ceremony held Sunday, February 7 at the Salle Bourgie.  His concert performance of  "L'Hommage à Dave Brubeck" featured performances by Schulich School of Music jazz students <strong>Andrew Boudreau,</strong> <strong>Mathieu McConnell-Enright </strong>and <strong>Louis-Vincent Hamel.</strong>  Bolduc says  "Having this opportunity to give a concert with some of my students from the Schulich School of Music is an inspiration for me and also for them.</p> Mon, 08 Feb 2016 17:19:48 +0000 VRƵ Chelsea Rus wins the Wirth Vocal Prize /music/node/50549 <p>British Columbian soprano <strong>Chelsea Rus </strong>was named the winner of the 2016<em> <a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/wirth-vocal-prize">Wirth Vocal Prize</a></em><a href="/music/student-resources/competitions-awards/wirth-vocal-prize"> </a>in the inaugural edition of the competition held Sunday, February 7 in Tanna Schulich Hall.  Ms. Rus performed a program that included works by Puccini, Massenet, and Strauss.  She is a master's student in the studio  of Joanne Kolomyjec.</p> Mon, 08 Feb 2016 17:06:02 +0000 VRƵ Juno Nominations for Schulich Alumni /music/node/50539 <p>The nominees for the 2016 JUNO Awards were announced by The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) <span>at a press conference in Toronto yesterday morning.  Schulich alumni and faculty who are up for awards including:  </span></p> <p><strong>INSTRUMENTAL ALBUM OF THE YEAR  </strong><span>Legacy Live</span><span> </span><em>Jens Lindeman, BMus'88 </em>(Independent)</p> Wed, 03 Feb 2016 19:31:37 +0000 VRƵ Maîtres en musique: Schulich Percussionists on Canal Savoir /music/node/50515 <p>Discover five Quebec universities and their diversified training programs in <strong><a href="http://www.canalsavoir.tv/emission/maitres_en_musique">Maîtres en musique</a>,</strong>  a series of 60 minute broadcasts filmed last season with Canal Savoir.  The Schulich School of Music, along with University of Montreal, University of Sherbrooke, Laval  University and University of Quebec at Montreal each participated with Canal Savoir.</p> Mon, 01 Feb 2016 16:55:26 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Chamber Music Competition Winners Announced /music/node/50250 <p>The winners of the 2015-2016 Schulich School of Music Chamber Music Competition have been announced.</p> <p><span>Exchange visit to the Mozarteum, Saltzburg:  </span><span><strong>Elizabeth Skinner</strong>, violin; <strong>Jaewon Ahn</strong>, cello; <strong>Meagan Milatz</strong>, piano</span></p> <p><span>Exchange visit to a European ConNext Conservatory:  <strong>Eric Abramovitz, clarinet</strong>; <strong>Roman Fraser</strong>, violin; <strong>Jeremy Ho</strong>, piano.</span></p> Fri, 11 Dec 2015 19:36:20 +0000 VRƵ Schulich well-represented in Prix Opus Nominations /music/node/50200 <p>Finalists for the Conseil Québécois de la musique's Prix Opus were announced last week, and there are many nominated who are  Schulich alumni and/or faculty.   The Prix Opus were established in 1996 to highlight the excellence and diversity of Québec's musical offering, and are awarded in many different categories.  The winners will be announced in a Gala event to be held on February 7, 2016.   Artists with a Schulich connection are highlighted in bold.</p> Mon, 07 Dec 2015 16:35:16 +0000 VRƵ Profs. William Caplin and Philippe Leroux inducted to the Royal Society of Canada /music/node/50176 <p><strong>William Caplin </strong>and <strong>Philippe Leroux</strong> were inducted as fellows of the Royal Society of Canada on November 26th, 2015.  The Royal Society of Canada (RSC): The Academies of Arts, Humanities and Sciences of Canada was established under an Act of Parliament in 1883 as Canada’s National Academy, the senior collegium of distinguished scholars, artists and scientists in the country. The primary objective of the Society is to promote learning and research in the arts, the humanities and the natural and social sciences.</p> Thu, 03 Dec 2015 17:45:00 +0000 VRƵ Vincent Lauzer, BMus'10, MMus'12, receives Fernand Lindsay Award /music/node/50170 <p>The winner of the prestigious  <em>2015 Fernand Lindsay Award </em>is recorder player and Schulich graduate <strong>Vincent Lauzer</strong>,  BMus'10, MMus'12.  Worth $50,000, this award is a springboard to an international career for this extremely talented young musician.  <span>Watch a video of Vincent Lauzer performing </span><a href="https://vimeo.com/100603180">here.</a><span> </span></p> <p>The complete press release is found in the sidebar link. </p> Thu, 26 Nov 2015 21:15:27 +0000 VRƵ A Review of the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra concert in Koerner Hall /music/node/50167 <p>Arthur Kaptainis, music critic at the National Post, attended the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra's concert on November 17th in Toronto's Koerner Hall. Here is the text in his article that refers to the McGIll Symphony Orchestra.  The full review can be found in the sidebar link. </p> &;&;&;/&; Wed, 25 Nov 2015 16:28:58 +0000 VRƵ Zhenni Li wins VRƵ Classical Concerto Competition /music/node/50162 <p>On Sunday, November 22, <strong>Zhenni Li</strong>, a second year Doctoral  piano student of <strong>Stéphane Lemelin</strong> won the VRƵ Classical Concerto Competition.  She will perform with the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra on January 22 and 23, 2016 in Redpath Hall.  </p> Mon, 23 Nov 2015 20:16:04 +0000 VRƵ Philippe Leroux awarded the Grand Prix du Disque 2015 for Contemporary Music the Académie Charles Cros in France. /music/node/50146 <p>Professor Leroux was awarded this prize for his work <em>Quid sit musicus ?,</em>  recorded by Solistes XXI  under the direction of Rachid Safir. <em> </em>The Grand Prix du Disque et du DVD given out by the <em>Académie Charles Cros </em>recognize outstanding achievements in recorded music and musical scholarship. Prizes are awarded in the field of popular song, classical music, jazz, and other categories of recorded music, as well as for outstanding books of musicology. </p> Wed, 18 Nov 2015 19:41:03 +0000 VRƵ Young, Musically Gifted and In Charge: Jordan de Souza, conductor /music/node/50087 <p>Prepare to see a lot more of the back of Jordan de Souza's head: the young conductor is tackling some major Toronto assignments this upcoming year. De Souza, who studied music at VRƵ, has been on its teaching staff since 2011. He was still a teenager when he was named conductor of the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul in Montreal in 2008.</p> <p>Read the full article in the sidebar link, from the Toronto Star.</p> Thu, 12 Nov 2015 15:24:06 +0000 VRƵ Jean-Michel Pilc on starting afresh in Montreal and at VRƵ /music/node/50075 <p><span>(article from the Ottawa Gazette)   During his 55 years, pianist Jean-Michel Pilc has repeatedly embraced change headlong.</span></p> <p>In his 20s, the Paris-born Pilc worked as an engineer, although jazz was his after-hours passion. At 27, the self-taught pianist, who says he fell in love with jazz at the age of eight, switched to making music full-time and was playing with France’s finest jazz artists.</p> Tue, 10 Nov 2015 14:55:59 +0000 VRƵ Maestro Alexis Hauser on things Viennese: Interview in the Montreal Gazette /music/node/50074 <p>(This article, written by Arthur Kaptainis, appeared in the Montreal Gazette on November 5)</p> <p><span> </span><span>The question arises before, and indeed during, any Viennese-themed concert of the type given Sunday afternoon by the OSM: To schlepp or not to schlepp?</span></p> Mon, 09 Nov 2015 19:14:46 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ vies for Canadian Music School Supremacy.(article in the Toronto Star) /music/node/50073 <p>VRƵ vies for Canadian music school supremacy<br /> Thanks to general government and philanthropic support, music education gets priority at Schulich School.</p> <p>By: William Littler Music Columnist, Published on Sat Nov 07 2015</p> <p>MONTREAL—Canada’s finest music school?</p> <p>First a confession. I happen to teach at one of the candidates, the Royal Conservatory of Music, home to Toronto’s beloved Koerner Hall and neighbour to another candidate, the University of Toronto Faculty of Music, home to the country’s pre-eminent music library.</p> Sun, 08 Nov 2015 18:42:02 +0000 VRƵ Student Bruno Roy a prize winner at last night's Centre Stage Competition /music/node/50041 <p><strong>Bruno Roy</strong>, a second year Masters student of <strong>Ben Heppner</strong>, has placed third at the Canadian Opera Company's annual voice competition <a href="http://coccentrestage.ca">COC Centre Stage</a>.  The competition showcases the next generation of opera stars selected from nationwide auditions for the COC Ensemble Studio—Canada’s premier training program for young opera professionals. The competition features the young singers vying for cash prizes ranging in value from $1,500 to $5,000.</p> Wed, 04 Nov 2015 15:42:19 +0000 VRƵ Matt Haimovitz and Bach: Colonizing Columbia's Campus /music/node/50010 <p>Students eating at Columbia University’s John Jay Dining Hall, an airy den reverberating with undergraduate chatter, were in for a surprise last Wednesday. When they walked in for dinner, they found Matt Haimovitz [Associate Professor in the Schulich School of Music at VRƵ] — the cellist who helped to start a trend by performing in places like an East Village punk club and a pizzeria in Jackson, Miss. — playing Bach.<br /></p> Thu, 29 Oct 2015 19:06:48 +0000 VRƵ Joshua Peters receives Golden Violin Award /music/node/50006 <p><strong>Joshua Peters</strong>, violin, has been named this year’s winner of the Golden Violin Competition, following an exciting public recital competition held on Sunday October 25th in Tanna Schulich Hall. </p> Mon, 26 Oct 2015 19:13:24 +0000 VRƵ Charles Richard-Hamelin, BMus’11, prize winner at the Chopin Piano Competition /music/node/49979 <p>Since graduating the Schulich School of Music in 2011, pianist Charles Richard-Hamelin has received a constant stream of accolades. Winner of the Prix d’Europe in 2011, second prize at the Montreal International Musical Competition and the third prize at the Seoul International Music Competition in South Korea in 2014, Richard-Hamelin’s latest distinction comes from the 17th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition.</p> Fri, 23 Oct 2015 13:08:00 +0000 VRƵ "I'm hoping to be a bridge" — John Hollenbeck on his move to Montréal and VRƵ /music/node/49903 <p>As if Montreal were not already punching above its weight when it comes to large-ensemble jazz, John Hollenbeck has moved to town. The renowned U.S. composer, bandleader and drummer/percussionist began teaching at VRƵ’s Schulich School of Music last month, although he splits his time between New York, Berlin, where he also teaches, and Montreal. Hollenbeck, 47, is a huge catch for VRƵ, given his acclaimed work in jazz and new music.</p> &;&;&;/&; <p>(full article in sidebar)</p> <p>The Ottawa Citizen</p> Tue, 20 Oct 2015 15:11:20 +0000 VRƵ Chelsea Barton awarded 3rd prize in European organ competition. /music/node/49849 <p><strong>Chelsea Barton</strong>, a Schulich School of Music organ student of Professors<strong> Hans-Ola Ericsson</strong> and <strong>Hank Knox</strong>, placed third in the  final round of the International BACH | LISZT Organ Competition, which is organized by the City and Cathedral of Erfurt in cooperation with the University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar.  Because of the diversity and the importance of historic and modern instruments on which the competitors perform, this current competition is of world-wide importance to organists. </p> &;&;&;/&; Tue, 13 Oct 2015 13:15:29 +0000 VRƵ Master's organ student Chelsea Barton competing in final round of European competiton /music/node/49843 <p>Organ student<strong> Chelsea Barton</strong>, a Schulich School of Music organ student of Professors <strong>Hans-Ola Ericsson</strong> and<strong> Hank Knox</strong>, will compete in the final round of the<em> International BACH | LISZT Organ Competition, </em>which is organized by the City and Cathedral of Erfurt in cooperation with the University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar.  Because of the diversity and the importance of historic and modern instruments on which the competitors perform, this current competition is of world-wide importance to organists.  </p> Thu, 08 Oct 2015 16:34:31 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ Symphony to perform this fall in Toronto /music/node/49713 <p>Versatility and virtuosity will be the hallmarks of the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra (MGSO)'s debut at Toronto's famed Koerner Hall on November 17, 2015. The first Canadian student orchestra to perform in New York's historic Carnegie Hall, the MGSO has earned a reputation as one of the most dynamic student orchestras in all of Canada. The Koerner Hall concert celebrates the 10th anniversary of the naming of the Schulich School of Music, and the concert is presented in partnership with the VRƵ Alumni Association.</p> Fri, 18 Sep 2015 19:10:47 +0000 VRƵ Composer John Rea the 2015-2016 focus of the SMCQ's Homage series /music/node/49682 <p>Schulich composer John Rea's works will be featured throughout the 2015-2016 season in performances by the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra, the VRƵ Contemporary Music Ensemble, the SMCQ and many others, as he is this year's featured Quebec composer in the SMCQ's Hommage series.    In January, the Schulich School of Music will host three days of activities and conferences about his life and works as part of the celebrations.  <a href="http://www.smcq.qc.ca/smcq/en/hommage/2015/">Read more</a> about the Hommage series.</p> Fri, 11 Sep 2015 17:03:07 +0000 VRƵ Recent hires at the Schulich School of Music /music/node/49681 <p>In September 2015 five new faculty members joined the teaching body of the Schulich School of Music.  Adding to the current 62 full-time tenure-stream professors, 29 part-time professors and 135 instructors currently teaching at the school are <strong>Jean-Sébastien Vallée</strong>, Assistant Professor of Choral Conducting, <strong>Richard Stoelzel</strong>, Associate Professor of Trumpet, and Chair of the Brass Area, <strong>Jean-Michel Pilc</strong>, Associate Professor of Jazz (piano), <strong>John Hollenbeck</strong>, Associate Professor of Jazz (drums and composition) and <strong>Steph</strong></p> Fri, 11 Sep 2015 16:08:14 +0000 VRƵ Schulich alum Brian Current, BMus’96, wins the first Azrieli Commissioning Competition in Jewish Music /music/node/49656 <p>The Azrieli Music Project is proud to announce that VRƵ graduate <strong>Brian Current</strong> is the winner of the inaugural <em>Azrieli Commissioning Competition,</em> a $50,000 prize for a new work of orchestral Jewish Music. Two new prizes of $50,000 each were established this year by the Azrieli Foundation in order to celebrate, foster and create opportunities for the performance of high quality new orchestral music on a Jewish theme or subject.</p> Thu, 10 Sep 2015 18:02:31 +0000 VRƵ John Buck recipient of Schulich's largest merit-based jazz award. /music/node/49655 <p><strong>John Buck</strong>, Jazz Drums, BMus'18, was named the recipient of the first <em>Lou Williamson Jazz Award  </em>yesterday in a ceremony held at the Schulich School of Music.  This award was  e<span>stablished in 2015 by Chris and Eve Millington in memory of the gifted jazz percussionist Lou Williamson .  Williamson was a former VRƵ instructor and was also a highly respected music administrator.  </span></p> Thu, 10 Sep 2015 15:43:20 +0000 VRƵ Two Schulich professors named Royal Society of Canada Fellows /music/node/49624 <p>The Schulich School of Music of VRƵ is pleased to announce  that Professors <strong>William Caplin</strong>, James VRƵ Professor, Department of Music Research, Schulich School of Music and <strong>Philippe Leroux</strong>, Associate Professor, Department of Music Research, Schulich School of Music, were among the fourteen VRƵ researchers and scholars named Fellos of the Royal Society of Canada.  </p> Tue, 08 Sep 2015 19:46:31 +0000 VRƵ Violin Student Elizabeth Skinner receives the Peter Mendell Award /music/node/49608 <p>The Peter Mendell Award was recently given to violinist Elizabeth Skinner, a student of Prof. Axel Strauss.   She receives a bursary of $2500.  All violin, viola, cello, and bass students  under the age of 25 and enrolled on a full-time basis in one of Quebec’s universities, all cycles, or the Conservatoire de musique du Québec,  in third, fourth, and fifth cycles are eligible.  </p> Wed, 02 Sep 2015 19:24:38 +0000 VRƵ Composition Students and Alumni receive multiple awards at the SOCAN Foundation Awards for Young Composers. /music/node/49603 <p>Composition students and alumni have once again received awards at this year's SOCAN Foundation Awards for Young Composers. <br /> <br /> The John Weinzweig Grand Prize<br /> Grand Prize awarded for the best overall work submitted in the competition<br /> Darren James Russo (M.Mus. 2015, B.Mus. 2011: studied with Denys Bouliane and Chris Paul Harman)<br /> <br /> The Sir Ernest MacMillan Awards<br /> For compositions for no fewer than thirteen performers up to a full symphony orchestra, which may include vocal participation and may be scored to include electroacoustics<br /> <br /></p> Mon, 31 Aug 2015 18:40:51 +0000 VRƵ Well-being Program for Schulich Students announced. /music/node/49602 <p>This September, a groundbreaking new program at VRƵ's Schulich School of Music will address that acute student stress and anxiety. <span>Starting Sept. 1, studies in wellness will be added to the curriculum and new students will be required to take part in a peer mentorship program. The initiative is the first of its kind in Canada.  (Full article in sidebar link)</span></p> Fri, 28 Aug 2015 15:38:29 +0000 VRƵ Organ Students big winners at National Organ Playing Competition /music/node/49551 <p>Schulich  organ students  Stephen Boda and Helen Tucker won  first and second prize in the Royal Canadian College of Organists National competition in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in conjunction with the Winnipeg Organ Festival.  They are students of Hans-Ola Ericsson.</p> Mon, 13 Jul 2015 14:20:21 +0000 VRƵ MATT HAIMOVITZ, PERIOD /music/node/49550 <p><br /> Sometimes an artist’s most meaningful projects arise by chance, in everyday interactions, rather than through any grand plan. So, it seems, was the case with the intrepid cellist Matt Haimovitz, whose latest enthusiasm came about in the halls of VRƵ, where he has been on the faculty for more than a decade.<br /> Article from the <strong>The Boston Globe.</strong></p> Mon, 13 Jul 2015 13:32:22 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Professor Jon Wild uses auto-tune to make a Renaissance theorists dream come true. /music/node/48694 <p><span>One music theorist greatly invested in the topic was Nicola Vicentino (1511–c.1575) who, inspired by the writings of the ancient Greeks, wrote a treatise proposing a 31-tone division of the octave. […] This "what if" scenario captured the imagination of Jon Wild, associate professor of theory and composition at VRƵ's Schulich School of Music, who studied the treatise and soon realized he could use modern Auto-Tune software to bring Vicentino's startling ideas to life nearly 500 years later.</span></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music student Sven-Amin Lembke awarded two VRƵ convocation prizes /music/node/48693 <p>Schulich School of Music student Sven-Amin Lembke has been awarded two VRƵ convocations prizes that will be awarded on May 27, 2015. He will receive one of two Governor General's Gold Medal awards for the most outstanding VRƵ graduate receiving a Doctoral degree in 2014-15 in any discipline, as well as The VRƵ Alumni Association Graduate Award which is given to an outstanding VRƵ graduate receiving a degree in 2014-15 in any discipline</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Exceptional CFI funding announced for the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology. /music/node/48692 <p><span>Researchers from the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology (CIRMMT), housed at the Schulich School of Music at VRƵ, received over $4 million in funding from the <a href="http://www.innovation.ca/en/ResearchInAction/OutcomeStory/Reapingrewardsworldleadingresearchinfrastructure">CFI</a> and a</span><span> total of $10.9M which includes matching funds from the Quebec Government and VRƵ.</span></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Convocation Awards and Honours /music/node/48691 <p>At last week's convocation, not only did the Schulich School of Music celebrate graduating students, but it also highlighted excellence in teaching by full and part-time faculty as well as by graduate students.  Congratulations to those who received the  following awards:</p> <p><span><u>The David Thomson Award for Excellence in Graduate Teaching &amp; Supervision</u>,  r</span><span>eceived by <strong>Professor Julie Cumming</strong>, Department of Music Research</span></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ New Hires at the Schulich School of Music /music/node/48690 <p>In September 2015 four new faculty members will join the teaching body of the Schulich School of Music.  Adding to the current 62 full-time tenure-stream professors, 29 part-time professors and 135 instructors currently teaching at the school are <strong>Jean-Sébastien Vallée</strong>, Assistant Professor of Choral Conducting, <strong>Richard Stoelzel</strong>, Associate Professor of Trumpet, and Chair of the Brass Area, <strong>Jean-Michel Pilc</strong>, Associate Professor of Jazz (piano) and <strong>John Hollenbeck</strong>,  Associate Professor of Jazz (drums and composition).  Their ap</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Alumni Charles Richard-Hamelin, BMus '11: Radio Canada's Discovery of the Year /music/node/48689 <p>Lauréat du Prix d’Europe en 2011, Charles Richard-Hamelin est considéré comme l’un des pianistes canadiens les plus prometteurs de sa génération. En tant que soliste, Charles a pu se faire entendre avec de nombreux orchestres, dont l’Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, l'Orchestre symphonique de Toronto et le Korean Symphony Orchestra.<br /><br /></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Martha de Francisco named 'Woman of Distinction' Arts and Culture section by YWCA /music/node/48688 <p><span>About Martha de Francisco</span></p> <p>Martha de Francisco is an artist, but an artist whose work is to make the work of other artists sound great. Lend us an ear for a moment…</p> <p>This classically trained pianist was born in Mexico to a Colombian family. Educated in Germany she has dedicated her professional life to becoming one of the world’s top recording engineer-producers for classical music. Quite an accomplishment, considering that music recording is an almost entirely male-dominated industry – only 5 % are women.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Flute Alumna Amelia Lyon named to Kingston Orchestra /music/node/48687 <p>Alumna Amelia Lyon won the audition for the Principal Flute Chair in Kingston Ontario. Amelia will replace  Donelda Gartshore, one of Carolyn Christie's former teachers.  <span>Amelia studied at VRƵ with Denis Bluteau and Carolyn Christie and is an alumna of the NYO.  </span><span>Born to music-loving parents in Ottawa, Ontario in 1985, Amelia has been playing the flute since the age of nine. In high school, she was an active member of the orchestra and the wind ensembles, as well as founding and participating in smaller chamber groups with other students.</span></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ A Unique Partnership with JMC and La Chapelle Historique du Bon Pasteur /music/node/48686 <p>Next season, two of Schulich's finest piano students and each a winner of the VRƵ Concerto Competition, will perform recitals in partnership with Jeunesses Musicales  du Canada and with La Chapelle Historique du Bon Pasteur. Dates will be announced at the start of the fall season.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ First prize for Steven Cowan at the Montreal International Guitar Festival and Competition. /music/node/48685 <p>Guitarist Steven Cowan is the First Prize Winner at the 2015 Guitare Montréal International Festival and Competition. This competition is held annually at Concordia and attracts guitarists from many different countries. The 1st place winner receives a cash prize, a free video shooting, as well as concert engagements at the 2016 Guitare Montréal Festival, and in Ontario through the Guitar Society of Toronto. </p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Elizabeth Wirth gives $7.5M to Schulich School of Music /music/node/48684 <p>VRƵ alumna Elizabeth A. Wirth, BA’64, has made a landmark gift of $7.5 million to enhance student-related programs at the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ. In recognition of her exceptional generosity for this and previous gifts, VRƵ is naming the New Music Building on Sherbrooke St. in her honour.<br /> The announcements of the gift and the renaming of the building were made earlier this evening at a special event at VRƵ celebrating philanthropy and showcasing the impact that private support is having on the Schulich School of Music and its students.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Philippe Leroux wins French Académie des beaux-arts composition prize /music/node/48683 <p>Professor Philippe Leroux has been awarded the 2015 <strong><em>Prix de composition musicale de la Fondation Simone et Cino Del Duca</em></strong><span>, for the composition of an original short work for orchestra.  The work will be premiered later this year at the Institut de France.</span></p> <p>Since 1995, the Simone et Cino Del Duca Foundation has honoured French painters, sculptors and composers for their work in the Fine Arts.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Les 40 ans de loyaux services de la salle Pollack (article de Christoph Huss, Le Devoir) /music/node/48682 <p>L’École de musique Schulich de l’Université VRƵ s’apprête à honorer l’un de ses outils les plus performants. C’est le 10 avril 1975 qu’a été inaugurée la salle Pollack. Avec ses 600 places, elle a rendu de fiers services à la musique à Montréal.<br /><br /></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ New book in French by Prof. Stephen McAdams /music/node/48681 <p>Just published by Editions Vrin in Paris, "Perception et cognition de la musique: Les conférences Alphonse Dupront" presents the 4 Distinguished Lectures delivered by Prof. McAdams during his tenure in the Chaire Alphonse Dupront in musicology at the Université Paris-Sorbonne (Paris IV) in Mayn2008 and in the "Bilan et tendances des musicologies" series a the Université de Montréal in 2009.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Monumentale Turangalîla-Symphonie /music/node/48680 <p>Composée de 1946 à 1948, la Turangalîla-Symphonie est une oeuvre monumentale d'Olivier Messiaen. Assurément, son interprétation représente une tâche colossale pour un orchestre symphonique universitaire. Et cette tâche a été dignement accomplie par celui de VRƵ à la Maison symphonique.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Brubeck à l’apéro /music/node/48679 <p>La fin de l’année universitaire approche, tout comme la fin de la saison de concerts de l’École de musique Schulich. Ne manquez pas les prochains concerts du secteur jazz :<br /> Le jeudi 26 mars, à 17 h 30, Rémi Bolduc, directeur du secteur jazz à VRƵ et considéré comme l’un des meilleurs saxophonistes de jazz au Canada, présentera des extraits de son dernier disque, un hommage au pianiste et compositeur américain Dave Brubeck. Le concert est présenté dans le cadre de la série « Jazz à l’heure de pointe » de l’École de musique Schulich.<br /></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Winners of the Dean's Essay Prize Announced /music/node/48678 <p><span>Generously funded by the Dean, this competition celebrates excellence in the art of writing about music in the different genres in which it unfolds.  Papers in each genre are judged on the basis of the criteria that distinguish each as the “best of its kind.”  When comparing across genres the panel emphasized the quality and presentation of ideas, with special emphasis this year on the originality of methodological approaches and contribution to the discipline.   The papers are judged by an inter-disciplinary panel.</span></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Entrevue avec Philippe Sly, baryton-basse (Tutti-magazine) /music/node/48677 <p>Le jeune baryton-basse canadien<strong> Philippe Sly </strong>fait ses débuts scéniques en Europe à Paris, sur la scène de l'Opéra Comique, dans Au Monde. Nous le rencontrons pendant les répétitions de l'opéra de Philippe Boesmans pour recueillir ses impressions, parler de sa voix, de ses expériences déjà riches et multiples et de son implication entière dans la musique et le chant. Lisez l'entrevue<a href="http://www.tutti-magazine.fr/news/page/Interview-Philippe-Sly-baryton-basse-Au-Monde-Boesmans-Opera-Comique-fr/"> ici.</a></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Review of Dénes Várjon's piano recital. /music/node/48676 <p>As part of the Montréal en Lumière Winter Festival, internationally renowned pianist Dénes Várjon was invited to perform a solo recital at VRƵ’s Schulich School of Music. Currently a professor at the Liszt Academy in Budapest, Várjon’s program was fit for a conservatory, a sort of chronological overview of the literature with Classical and Romantic standards, a piece from the warhorse cabinet and a touch of modernist flare. The evening was a display of varying styles and challenges that demonstrated Várjon’s adaptability and dexterity.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ Concerto Competition Piano Winners Announced /music/node/48675 <p><strong>Geoffrey Conquer</strong>, student of Marina Mdivani and <strong>Zhenni Li</strong>, student of Stéphane Lemelin, were declared joint winners of the Schulich Concerto Competition, piano.  Conquer, who performed the Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor and Li who performed the Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor, will both play with the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra in the 2015-2016 season. </p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Violist Marina Thibeault wins VRƵ Concerto Competition for Strings. /music/node/48674 <p>The String Area Winner of the VRƵ concerto competition is violist Marina Thibault, a student of André Roy.  In the competition she performed the Schnittke Viola Concerto. The other finalists were Veronika Cherniak, student of Andrew Wan; Elizabeth Skinner, student of Axel Strauss; Maïthéna Thibault, student of Andrew Wan.  Congratulations to all who participated.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Renowned violist Steven Dann appointed to Schulich String Faculty /music/node/48673 <p>The Schulich School of Music is delighted to announce the appointment of internationally-renowned violist Steven Dann as Catherine Thornhill Steele Chair in Viola starting September 2015, for a period of three years. Steven Dann's career has covered a wealth of violistic possibilities. As principal viola of some of the world's leading orchestras, as a veteran of the string quartet and chamber music world, as soloist and recitalist and as a dedicated teacher.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Thierry Tidrow, BMus 09 awarded Jules Léger Prize for New Chamber Music /music/node/48672 <p>The Composition Area of the Schulich School of Music is pleased to announce that one of its former students, Thierry Tidrow (BMus, Honours Composition and Major Music Theory, 2009) is the recipient of the 2014 Jules Léger Prize for New Chamber Music. During his bachelor's program, Mr. Tidrow studied composition with Professors Christoph Neidhöfer and Brian Cherney.</p> <p>An interview with Thierry Tidrow about his winning work may be found on the website of the Canada Council for the Arts (see sidebar)</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Grammy Awards for Professor Richard King. /music/node/48671 <p><br /> Professor Richard King received two Grammy awards this past weekend in the categories of <em>Best Contemporary Instrumental Album</em> (<span>"Bass &amp; Mandolin"  </span><span>Chris Thile &amp; Edgar Meyer) and <em>Best Orchestral Performance</em> (John Adams</span><span>: "City Noir"  </span><span>David Robertson, conductor, St. Louis Symphony)  both on the Nonesuch label.  With these two latest awards, Prof. King now has a total of 14 Grammy awards. </span></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Another great review for pianist Stéphane Lemelin's CD of Pierné and Vierne quintets. /music/node/48670 <p>Chair of Music Performance Stéphane Lemein has recently released a CD of piano quintets with the Quatuor Arthur-Leblanc. <span>Read more from Le Devoir critique Christophe Huss's February 6th review in which he describes the recording  as 'intelligently programmed- a real jewel.'  (Full review in French) </span></p> <p><span>Quintettes avec piano de Pierné et Vierne</span></p> <p><span>ATMA ACD2 2384</span></p> <p><span>Quatuor Arthur-Leblanc, Stéphane Lemelin (piano).</span></p> &;&;&;/&; Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Doctoral Student Laura Risk awarded a Prix Mnémo for her CD Musique et chanson de la Gaspésie, Douglastown /music/node/48669 <p>Risk produced  an archival CD for a community in the Gaspé, and the prize recognizes the remarkable docmentation or research in a field connected to dance, music, song, and traditional Francophone storytelling within the Americas.    The CD was the result of extensive research into the musical traditions of the Gaspé community.  Laura Risk and her collaborator Glen Patterson first digitized and catalogued over 70 hours of recordings and then selected the 46 tracks that are found on the recording.  The CD is accompanied by a bilingual booklet which also contains photographs. </p> &;&;&;/&; Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Schulich and VRƵ grads and faculty nominated for Juno Awards /music/node/48668 <p>Nominations for Canada's top music prize, the Junos, were announced last week.  Schulich and VRƵ grads &amp; faculty factor into 22 nominations:<br /></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Professor Mark Fewer, violin, to return to Schulich in July 2015 /music/node/48667 <p>A valued member of the Schulich School of Music since 2007, Professor Mark Fewer was recently named a William Dawson Scholar, an award which recognizes a faculty member's outstanding and original contributions as well as their world-class caliber. Fewer is a highly-regarded soloist and chamber musician, whose performances of both classical and jazz have been described as “genre-bending”. He has appeared widely in North America and also abroad throughout Europe, Australia, and the Far East.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ New Horizons Band Students Join Education Class /music/node/48666 <p>Description: EDEA 472 students in their final semester of their Music Education degree are combining with volunteer members from the New Horizons Montreal Band, a intergenerational concert band now in their second year of operation. The seniors are learning how to play band instruments (most are in their 2nd year of this process), and the VRƵ Students are learning to become teachers.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Legendary tenor Ben Heppner to join the Schulich voice faculty /music/node/48665 <p>The Schulich School of Music is thrilled to announce the appointment of legendary Canadian tenor Ben Heppner to the voice faculty of the Schulich School of Music for the academic year 2015-16. One of Canada’s greatest artists, Mr. Heppner has received acclaim on the world’s most prestigious opera stages, including the Metropolitan Opera, Covent Garden, La Scala, and the Vienna State Opera. Mr. Heppner will teach over a dozen voice students and contribute immensely to the rich and dynamic life of the Voice Area at the School.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Fabrice Marandola named the director of Le Vivier /music/node/48664 <p>Professor Fabrice Marandola is interviewed by Le Devoir in a special section dedicated to the grand opening of Le Vivier at his new address, the 'Gesù-Centre de création' in Montreal. Le Vivier comprises 34 music ensembles and organisations dedicated to new music. Fabrice Marandola has been the President of the Board of Directors since last fall.</p> <p>Read the full article <a href="http://www.ledevoir.com/culture/musique/429821/le-vivier-foyer-de-la-diversite-des-musiques-nouvelles">here</a>.</p> &;&;&;/&; Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ A warm review of Stéphane Lemelin’s recently released disc of quintets by Pirné and Vierne with the Quatuor Arthur-Leblanc /music/node/48663 <p>Read the full Radio-Canada article <a href="http://ici.radio-canada.ca/emissions/medium_large/2012-2013/chronique.asp?idChronique=360584">here</a>.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Bénédicte Lauzière, BMus ’12 named new concertmaster of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony /music/node/48662 <p>Read the full article on <a href="http://www.therecord.com/whatson-story/5267209-new-concertmaster-brimming-with-talent-and-self-confidence/">therecord.com</a></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ "De souffles et de machines" finalist for Grand Prix /music/node/48661 <p>The <a href="mailto:live@CIRMMT">live@CIRMMT</a> concert, "De souffles et de machines" performed by the Quasar saxophone quartet, has been selected as a finalist for a 30th Grand Prix du Counseil des arts de Montréal. </p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Schulich alumni in the lineup of the 2015-2016 Canadian Opera Company season /music/node/48660 <p>Next season look for the participation of several Schulich alumni in different productions at the Canadian Opera Company.  In October 2015 the COC will present the world premiere of Pyramus and Thisbe, written by composer Barbara Monk Feldman.  The work is inspired by the beauty, light, and colour of her native Gaspé Peninsula and is a timeless story of star-crossed lovers. In February 2016 Jordan de Souza will conduct two  performances of the Canadian Opera Company's production of Le Nozze di Figaro.</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Professor Stephen McAdams has received extensive media coverage for his recent research which explores the physiological response to music in two completely different populations /music/node/48659 <p>Working with researchers from the Technische Universität Berlin and the University of Montreal, Prof. McAdams compared reactions to various pieces of music from two groups of people: 40 Mbenzélé Pygmies in the Congolese rainforest and 40 Canadians in Montreal. “The emotional diversity of music depends on who we are, what we’ve experienced and who we identify with — that’s the most exciting part of music,” McAdams says.</p> <p><span>Further reading can be found in these articles:</span></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Lanza receives XIII Tomás Luis de Victoria Prize /music/node/48658 <p>Schulich Professor alcides lanza, pianist, conductor and composer is the winner of the XIII Prize Tomás Luis de Victoria 2014, offered by the SGAE Foundation in Madrid. This prize recognizes his substantial contribution to the enrichment of the musical life of the Ibero-American people. It also recognizes lanza's distinguished career as a composer and pedagogue. The award ceremony took place on May 28, 2015, at the Auditorium of the Real Academia de las Artes, Madrid, Spain</p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Order of Canada Appointees /music/node/48657 <p>The Schulich School of Music congratulates former Dean of Music, Professor John Grew, alumni Jens Lindemann (BMus’88), and Faculty Advisory Board Member Joan Ivory (BA’54)  on their being named among the 95 newest appointees to the Order of Canada named December 26th, 2014.  The honour, established in 1967 by the Queen, recognizes contributions to Canada; its motto, desiderantes meliorem patriam means "they desire a better country." Appointees are made on the recommendation of an independent advisory council headed by Canada's Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.<br /><br /></p> Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Dominique Labelle featured in the New York Times /music/node/48656 <p>Prof. Dominique Labelle's performance in the Philharmonia Baroque’s concert performance of Handel’s “Teseo” at Alice Tully Hall was featured in the New York Times as one of the funniest classical music performances of 2014.</p> <p>Read more <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/14/arts/music/the-funniest-classical-music-performances-of-2014.html?_r=2">here</a>.</p> &;&;&;/&; Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:26:21 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ Symphony Orchestra's all-Strauss concert receives warm reviews in Le Devoir and The Gazette /music/node/48337 <p>The VRƵ Symphony Orchestra with conductor Alexis Hauser and soprano soloist Jane Archibald performed to an appreciative audience which included members of the Franz Paul Decker family and Mrs. Catherine Thornhill Steele, in whose honour the Catherine Thornhill Steele Visiting Artist Fund is named.  The first review to appear (in Le Devoir) remarks on the quality of the program the of the conductor, soloist and orchestra.  </p> <p>Read the reviews:</p> Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:26:30 +0000 VRƵ Anthony Tan wins two ECM+ Generation2014 Awards /music/node/48215 <p>Following the recent cross-country tour of <i>Génération2014, </i>a series of concerts produced by the Ensemble Contemporain de Montréal (ECM+), Mr. Anthony Tan won both the Jury Prize and the Audience Prize for his composition entitled <i>Ksana II, </i>which received its world premiere performance in Banff on November 6, 2014. Mr Tan is in the PhD program (composition), jointly supervised by Profs. John Rea and Stephen McAdams.</p> Thu, 27 Nov 2014 20:41:35 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Grads excel at the 75th OSM Standard Life Competition /music/node/48214 <p>The 75th anniversary of the OSM Standard Life Competition was held from November 18 to 22, 2014, in Montreal.  Schulich School of Music alumni were well represented amongst the winners.  Since its creation in 1940, the OSM Standard Life Competition has helped launch the careers of some 300 prizewinners onto the national and international scene.</p> Thu, 27 Nov 2014 20:36:52 +0000 VRƵ Prof. McAdams gives Distinguished Lecture at Ohio State /music/node/48210 <p><span>Prof. McAdams, the Canada Research Chair in </span><span>Music Perception and Cognition at the Schulich School of Music, </span><span>delivered the 2014 William Poland Lecture in Music Theory at Ohio </span><span>State University's School of Music. The Poland lectures are an </span><span>endowed series that presents cutting-edge perspectives on music </span><span>theory. Prof. McAdams presented the work from a research project </span><span>on Orchestration and Perception supported by the Quebec Society </span><span>and Culture funding agency (FRQSC).</span></p> Thu, 27 Nov 2014 20:22:43 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music announces new partnerships with two Montreal arts organizations /music/node/48090 <p>The Schulich School of Music of VRƵ is proud to announce two exciting collaborations with notable Montreal arts organizations: <b>Jeunesses Musicales Canada </b>and <b>La Chapelle historique du Bon-Pasteur</b>.</p> <p>Each organization will award a recital in their respective hall to a winner of their choice selected from any of the VRƵ Concerto Competitions to be held during this school year.</p> Tue, 18 Nov 2014 16:38:14 +0000 VRƵ Prof. Lisa Barg receives the 2014 Philip Brett Award /music/node/48035 <p>Music Historian  and Area Chair Lisa Barg was named recipient of the <i>2014 Philip Brett Award</i> at the annual meeting of the American Musicological Society for her article 'Queer Encounters in the Music of Billy Strayhorn,' Journal of the American Musicological Society.  <span>The Philip Brett Award honours</span><span> exceptional musicological work in the field of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender/transsexual studies completed during the previous two academic years (ending June 30), in any country and in any language.</span></p> Wed, 12 Nov 2014 20:52:17 +0000 VRƵ Pianist Megan Milatz named the 2014 winner of the VRƵ Classical Concerto Competition /music/node/48028 <p><span>Pianist Megan Milatz, a final-year undergraduate student of Prof. Ilya Poletaev has been named this year's winner of the VRƵ Classical Concerto Competition.  She will perform Mozart's Concerto in C minor, K. 491 on January 23 and 24th with the VRƵ Symphony Orchestra in a concert to be held in Redpath Hall.  Ms. Milatz, from Weyburn, Saskatchewan, was also the winner of the Shean Piano Competition held in Edmonton, Alberta this past May.  </span></p> Wed, 12 Nov 2014 19:55:22 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ jazz group wins CBC's "Rock Your Campus" competition /music/node/48024 <p>Congratulations to Busty &amp; the Bass for winning the Rock Your Campus competition! </p> Tue, 11 Nov 2014 22:10:46 +0000 VRƵ 20 Schulich School of Music Scholars Take Center-Stage in Milwaukee! /music/node/47949 <p>We often applaud the world-class performers at the Schulich School of Music, but this week it is our humanities-based research that takes center stage.  From Nov. 6 – Nov. 9, 2014, 20 professors and graduate students lead the way when the American Musicological Society and the Society for Music Theory host their joint annual meeting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  The number of presentations alone is impressive given that this is the largest and most important conference of humanities-based research in music; it is also the largest number of presentations given by any school.  </p> <p></p> Fri, 31 Oct 2014 15:12:00 +0000 VRƵ Byungchan Lee winner of the Golden Violin Competition /music/node/47836 <p>Following an exciting public recital competition held on Sunday October 19th in Tanna Schulich Hall, Jury chair Prof. Douglas McNabney announced Byungchan Lee as winner of the Golden Violin Competition. Each of the three contestants (Byungchan Lee, violin; Andrea Stewart, cello; Elizabeth Skinner, violin) are current students at the school and were chosen by the string faculty based on their demonstrated exceptional talent and contribution to musical and cultural life at the school.</p> Tue, 21 Oct 2014 21:12:52 +0000 VRƵ Former VRƵ Opera student Carla Dirlikov and the White House for the Value of an Arts Education /music/node/47835 <p>In August, Mezzo-soprano Carla Dirlikov joined officials from the White House, fellow Hispanic artists and Americans for the Arts staff at the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics' Policy Forum for Music and the Arts.  A member of the <span>Americans for the Arts Artist Committee, Carla Dirlikov spoke to students, parents and school officials at Meadow Homes Elementary School in Concord, California about her firsthand experience in pursuing the arts, becoming a role model, and the opportunities that school and music teachers provided for her.</span></p> Tue, 21 Oct 2014 20:54:20 +0000 VRƵ Infusion Baroque wins the Grand Prize and the Audience Prize at the Early Music America Baroque Competition /music/node/47781 <p><span>Infusion Baroque won both the Grand Prize and the Audience Prize at the Early Music America Baroque Competition held at the University of Chicago. The group is made up of four Schulich School of Music grads: Sallynee Amawat, baroque violin, Alexa Raine-Wright, baroque flute and recorder, Camille Pacquette-Roy, Baroque cello, and Rona Nadler, harpsichord. The prize is worth 3,000$ plus 5 concerts with major presenters of early music, a feature article in the Early Music America magazine and other opportunities.</span></p> Fri, 17 Oct 2014 19:15:42 +0000 VRƵ Schulich students win prizes at the 137th Convention of the Audio Engineering Society /music/node/47776 <p>Winners were announced today for the Student Recording Competition at the 137th Convention of the Audio Engineering Society in Los Angeles.  Two students of the sound recording area were finalists.</p> <p>Pawel Leskeiwisz won Silver in the Traditional Acoustic Recording <span>category and </span><span>Fei Yu won Gold in the Modern Studio Recording category.</span></p> Fri, 17 Oct 2014 18:51:17 +0000 VRƵ Schulich welcomes Banting Fellowship recipient Karen Desmond. /music/node/47404 <p>The Banting Fellowships  program provides funding to exceptional postdoctoral applicants, both nationally and internationally, who will positively contribute to the Canada's economic, social and research‑based growth.  The 70k renewable fellowships are designed to attract and retain top-tier postdoctoral talent, both nationally and internationally, to develop their leadership potential and to position them for success as research leaders of tomorrow.  </p> Mon, 08 Sep 2014 16:41:01 +0000 VRƵ Schulich grads awarded second prize at prestigious Van Wassenaer Early Music Competition /music/node/47401 <p>The competition, begun in 1986, has launched the careers of many Early Music ensembles, and has been incorporated into the Utrecht Early Music Festival as of this year.  Twelve semi-final groups participated in the competition.  Pallade Musica were Grand Prize winners at the Early Music America Baroque Performance Competition in New York, October 2012, and  consists of three Schulich alumni :Tanya LaPerrière, baroque violon, Elinor Frey, baroque cello, Esteban La Rotta, theorbo, as well as Mylène Bélanger, harpsichord.</p> Mon, 08 Sep 2014 15:13:48 +0000 VRƵ Schulich Doctoral student Mark McDonald third-prize winner at the prestigious International Arp Schnitger Organ Competition /music/node/47343 <p>The competition, held last month in Bremen, Germany,<a href="http://www.arp-schnitger-festival.de/asf/index.php/en/introduction.html"> the Arp-Schnitger Organ Competition</a> is  in honour of the country's most important Baroque Organ builder.   Third prize winner, Mark McDonald is a doctoral student at the Schulich School of Music of VRƵ where he studies organ and harpsichord performance and teaches classes in musicianship.</p> Tue, 02 Sep 2014 15:21:58 +0000 VRƵ Announcing the establishment of the MISQA prize at the 2015 Wigmore Hall International String Quartet Competition /music/node/47342 <p>The<a href="http://www.misqa.com"> MISQA</a> Prize guarantees the first prize winning quartet quartet a place at the 2015 VRƵ International String Quartet Academy, and will cover travel, accommodation and per diems. The winner of the prize will be announced at the same time and in the same manner as all other <a href="//www.wigmore-hall.org.uk/competitions/string-quartet" target="_blank">WHISQC</a> prizes, at the awards ceremony after the final on Sunday  March  29th, 2015.</p> Tue, 02 Sep 2014 15:13:29 +0000 VRƵ Professor Ichiro Fujinaga and his team of researchers awarded 2.5 million dollar grant from SSHRC to build digital musical recognition tools. /music/node/47301 <div>(From VRƵ Newsroom Feed) </div> <div>For Ichiro Fujinaga, the thought of a thousand years of print and manuscript music collecting dust on the shelves of libraries and museums around the globe motivates him to think beyond the limitations of technology. What if digitized musical scores could be searched for a sequence of pitches, rhythms, and text? Music scholarship would be forever transformed.</div> Fri, 29 Aug 2014 11:17:56 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music students in the band SHYRE were interviewed this morning on Global TV /music/node/47265 <p>Read story on Global Montreal.</p> <p>Web link - <a href="http://bit.ly/1AUkjjW">http://bit.ly/1AUkjjW</a></p> Wed, 27 Aug 2014 15:45:10 +0000 VRƵ Musicology professor Lloyd Whitesell's course Music and Queer Identity in Montreal Gazette's 'Cool Courses'. /music/node/47246 <p>From Elton John to Tchaikovsky,  Lloyd Whitesell's course examines the role that stigmatization plays in musical creation and explores the taboos in classical music.<br /> WEBLINK: <a href="http://bit.ly/1pz4882">http://bit.ly/1pz4882</a></p> <p></p> Tue, 26 Aug 2014 13:02:10 +0000 VRƵ Schulich's newest voice professor, Soprano Dominique Labelle received a glowing review in the New York Times /music/node/47007 <p>Praised <a href="http://mobile.nytimes.com/2014/08/19/arts/music/philharmonia-baroque-orchestra-in-teseo-at-mostly-mozart.html?referrer=">in this review</a> for her deeply hued, heady and potent voice for her role as Medea in Handel's  opera Teseo, Professor Dominique Labelle begins teaching at Schulich this fall.</p> <p></p> <p></p> Tue, 19 Aug 2014 15:26:56 +0000 VRƵ Chris Kusuhara a prize winner at this weekend's 44th annual National Music Awards /music/node/47005 <p>Pianist Chris Kusuhara, a student of Kyoko Hashimoto has been awarded Second Prize and the Special Award at the National Music Festival held in Kelowna, B.C.  In 2013 he received a Developing Artist Grant from the Hnatyshyn Foundation.</p> <p>WEB LINK: <a href="http://www.fcmf.org">http://www.fcmf.org</a><br /> <a href="http://www.rjhf.com/html/darecipients-e.html">http://www.rjhf.com/html/darecipients-e.html</a></p> Tue, 19 Aug 2014 14:47:51 +0000 VRƵ Alum Chris Howard promoted to Distinguished Analyst at Gartner /music/node/46527 <p>Chris Howard has worked as a research analyst for Gartner since 2005, studying technology trends. Earlier in 2014, he was promoted to VP Distinguished Analyst, and continues to provide thought leadership on emerging tech and business trends. His travels take him around the world, and he is in demand as a keynote speaker for major events. When home with his wife Anne and 5 dogs, Chris still plays and composes in his studio and on his 1954 Mason and Hamlin A.</p> Tue, 15 Jul 2014 14:32:33 +0000 VRƵ Professor Richard King: Portrait of a Montreal Master (article in French from La Presse) /music/node/46518 <h3><b>Dans l'ombre des grands musiciens</b></h3> <p><strong>Âge: </strong>48 ans</p> <p><strong>Emploi: </strong>Professeur agrégé, École de musique Schulich de l'Université VRƵ</p> <p><strong>Spécialité: </strong>Enregistrement sonore</p> <p><strong>Distinctions: </strong>Gagnant de 12 prix Grammy, il est le seul ingénieur de son à avoir récolté des statuettes autant pour la musique classique (11) que non classique (1). Ses étudiants l'ont aussi élu professeur de l'année en 2013.</p> <p>«Placer les micros, ajuster les niveaux, équilibrer les instruments après coup...»</p> Mon, 14 Jul 2014 15:39:40 +0000 VRƵ Schulich School of Music Composition alumni and students awarded numerous prizes in the 2014 SOCAN Foundations Awards to Young Composers. /music/node/46517 <p>With a total of seven prizes at the SOCAN Foundations Awards to Young Composers, the Schulich School of Music Composition Area has performed remarkably.  Four out five of the 2014 SOCAN Foundation Awards for Young Composers have been awarded to current or former Schulich Students, and prize winners in the Sir Ernest MacMillan awards Category consist exclusively of former Schulich Students. Congratulations to all recipients and their respective professors.  </p> Mon, 14 Jul 2014 15:29:42 +0000 VRƵ Peter Schubert and Massimiliano Guido present "Unpacking the box", a series of videos about Frescobaldi's Ricercari of 1615 /music/node/46507 <p>A new approach to music theory education.  Three videos illustrate the master apprentice method of teaching the art of counterpoint with all transpositions and shortenings of cadential passages.  The videos, filmed at the Schulich School of Music, feature a spectacular four octave Italian  harpsichord that is part of the Kenneth Gilbert Harpsichord Collection.</p> <p></p> <p></p> Wed, 09 Jul 2014 19:53:23 +0000 VRƵ OBOE SECRETS, a new book release by Associate Professor Jacqueline Leclair, was favourably reviewed in the International Double Reed Journal. /music/node/46482 <p>In <i>Oboe Secrets: 75 Performance Strategies for the Advanced Oboist and English Horn Player, </i>Jacqueline Leclair tackles the oboe’s reputation as an especially difficult instrument and illustrates how oboists and English horn players can overcome common challenges. Leclair draws on her experience as a performer and instructor, offering practical tips and sometimes revolutionary ideas for rethinking oboe pedagogy. Leclair also looks at performance strategies in the areas of equipment maintenance and management, physical health, and performance technique.</p> Thu, 03 Jul 2014 19:28:05 +0000 VRƵ Vanessa Blais-Tremblay, PhD student in Musicology and Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies has won the SOCAN 2014 Writings on Canadian Music. /music/node/46481 <p><b>Vanessa Blais-Tremblay </b>is the recipient of a <b>2014 SOCAN Foundation/CUMS Award for Writings on Canadian Music </b>for her paper entitled<b>: "Don't Pocohontas Me: Modernity and Transnational Politics in Tanya Tagaq's Throat Games with Concert Stage String Ensembles."  </b></p> Thu, 03 Jul 2014 19:18:41 +0000 VRƵ VRƵ music theorists prominently featured in journal /music/node/46473 <p>The newest issue of Music Theory Online, one of the top-ranked music theory journals and one of the only open-access journals in music theory, features three different articles by VRƵ researchers: an exploration of meter in rock music (by Nicole Biamonte, associate professor of music theory), a teaching demonstration on cadences, counterpoint and improvisation in 17th-century Italian music theory and practice (by Peter Schubert, professor of music theory, and Massimilano Guido, postdoctoral student in music theory), and an exploration of the derivation and expressive possibilities of the</p> Wed, 02 Jul 2014 15:24:36 +0000 VRƵ Doctoral student Jonathan Vromet named candidate in the Canadian International Organ Competition. /music/node/45919 <p>See Press Release</p> Mon, 12 May 2014 12:29:43 +0000 VRƵ Chair of Music Performance Stéphane Lemelin releases 2-CD set of Fauré's complete Nocturnes and Barcarolles /music/node/45862 <p><i>'The Whole Note'</i>   praises Lemelin  for his interpretive expressiveness, and technical prowess  for his recent release on the Atma label of Fauré's complete Nocturnes and Barcarolles. </p> <p>Web Link: <a href="http://bit.ly/1juDeKS">http://bit.ly/1juDeKS</a></p> Mon, 05 May 2014 14:35:25 +0000 VRƵ Congratulations to this year's winners of the Dean's Essay and Graduate Sound Recording Prizes. /music/node/45739 <p><b>First Prize – Jason Noble, Ph.D. Composition</b></p> Tue, 15 Apr 2014 19:36:19 +0000 VRƵ The Schulich School of Music announces the appointment of Soprano Dominique Labelle to the Voice Faculty effective August 1st 2014 /music/node/45700 <p>With a career that includes numerous appearances on stages in Europe, Asia and North America, Dominique Labelle’s return to Québec as voice professor at Schulich is both a joyous homecoming and marks the turn of a page.   Ms. Labelle has consistently received great acclaim for her performances and has made numerous recordings of opera and concert repertoire. She can be heard on record labels including Virgin Veritas, Deutsche Harmonia Mundi, Denon, New World, RCA Victor Red Seal and more.</p> Fri, 11 Apr 2014 16:05:10 +0000 VRƵ This year Schulich Grads Sweep Jazz at the Junos /music/node/45606 <p>Graduates of the Schulich School of Music posted a clean sweep of the jazz category at Saturday’s Juno Awards in Winnipeg.</p> <p>Program alumni Christine Jensen, Mike Downes and Mike Rud took home the hardware for Contemporary Jazz Album of the Year,Traditional Jazz Album of the Year and Vocal Jazz Album of the Year respectively.</p> <p>WEBLINKS: CBC Article about Jazz Sweep: <a href="http://bit.ly/1pG9uu8">http://bit.ly/1pG9uu8</a></p> <p>Christine Jensen's Album Habitat: <a href="http://bit.ly/1js1yNm">http://bit.ly/1js1yNm</a></p> Mon, 31 Mar 2014 18:07:38 +0000 VRƵ Victor Fournelle-Blain winner of the Golden Violin Competition /music/node/45518 <p>Following an exciting public recital competition held on Saturday, March 15th in Tanna Schulich Hall, and approximately 15 minutes of deliberation, Jury chair  Prof. Douglas McNabney announced Victor Fournelle-Blain  as winner of the Golden Violin Competition.</p> Tue, 18 Mar 2014 12:42:59 +0000 VRƵ Professor Andrew Dunn, Brass Area Chair, has been elected an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music (ARAM) /music/node/45230 <p>This honour is conferred on past students of the Academy who have distinguished themselves in the music profession and have made a significant contribution to it in their particular field.</p> <p>Link to: <a href="//www.ram.ac.uk/news?nid=425">Royal Academy of Music</a> website</p> Tue, 04 Mar 2014 16:02:09 +0000 VRƵ Angel Heart Review in the NYT - continuing coverage /music/node/44159 <p>Angel Heart Review in the NYT</p> <p><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/18/arts/music/a-crushed-spirit-healed-by-the-whispers-of-angels.html?_r=1&amp;">Read about it here</a></p> <p>"And we were very inspired by that and also by Matt and his ensemble. Uccello is an ensemble of his best students at VRƵ. Their ideas of mentoring these students is not just to deliver them classical music and say this is what you should know about — they're saying, 'Come with me and be a part of this and come on stage and perform with me.'"</p> Mon, 21 Oct 2013 16:24:27 +0000 VRƵ