An introduction to the school

The School offers undergraduate studies leading to the Bachelor of Music degree with a choice of five programs: Comprehensive (offers the greatest flexibility in optional courses), Composition & Theory, Music Education (for those intending to teach in the public schools), Music History & Literature, and Performance. Graduate degrees include the M.A. in Musicology and Musicology with Performance, the Ph.D. in Musicology, and the M.Mus. in Performance and in Composition.

We believe that performance is the core of a musical education. For this reason, every B.Mus. student, no matter what his or her major, studies a principal instrument for four years and performs frequently in the many concerts offered by the School. Every student also participates in chamber ensembles under faculty coaching. Instruction is provided in all orchestral instruments as well as in piano, voice, organ, harpsichord, saxophone, and classical guitar. Also required of all students are 3 1/2 years of theory (including aural skills), along with a variety of courses in such areas as music history, conducting and orchestration; four years of ensemble participation; and the equivalent of five one-year courses in subjects other than music.

Jazz has recently become an area of much more active interest within the School. Several courses in jazz are now offered and opportunities for performance have increased. Electronic and computer music are also important parts of the School's offerings.

In Winter Session, the School offers over 130 concerts, spanning the spectrum from early to contemporary music. There are performances by distinguished guest artists, faculty solo and chamber music recitals, graduating recitals, concerts by School ensembles, and the popular Tuesday and Friday music noon series. The latter offer an excellent opportunity for the student to gain valuable performing experience as well as showcasing the School's up-and-coming talent.

Experience in performance is central to an education in music. All B. Mus. students, not just performance majors, appear in student recitals and participate in ensembles during all four years of their undergraduate programs. Students are also encouraged to attend as many concerts as possible. For this reason a complimentary ticket is given to each student for those School events with an admission charge. The only exceptions to this policy are scholarship benefit performances.

Most students participate in several permanent ensembles in the course of their undergraduate careers. In addition, they perform in a wide range of other chamber ensembles, such as wind quartets string quartets, piano trios, jazz combos and contemporary music groups. Student chamber groups receive regular coaching by performance faculty and have many opportunities to participate in master classes given by visiting artists.

Mission Statement

The School of Music is a professional school committed to the highest standards of excellence. It offers integrated and intensive training for performers, composers, and scholars in an environment that respects individuality and cultivates a passion for the art of music. Active music making in a community of mentors and peers is central to the UVic experience.

Our mission is to provide students at the undergraduate and graduate levels with the creative, critical, and technical skills necessary for a stimulating life in music.