Program Overview
Cape Breton University's Music program offers a comprehensive curriculum encompassing Atlantic Canadian traditions, popular music, and global traditions. Students can specialize in performance, music theory, composition, or business, and benefit from performance opportunities, masterclasses, and study abroad programs. The program prepares graduates for careers in performing, teaching, music therapy, journalism, and production.
Program Outline
- Atlantic Canadian cultures and traditions: This area explores the rich musical heritage of the region, including traditional fiddle music, Gaelic songs, and step dancing.
- Popular music: Students will delve into the history and analysis of popular music genres, including rock, pop, country, and hip-hop.
- Global traditions: This area examines music from around the world, including African, Eastern European, and Asian traditions. The program offers a variety of courses, including:
- Performance: Students can choose to specialize in voice, piano, guitar, or another instrument.
- Music theory and composition: Students will learn the fundamentals of music theory and develop their skills in composition.
- Genre surveys and histories: Students will gain a deeper understanding of different musical genres and their historical contexts.
- Issues in music: This course explores the social, cultural, and political implications of music.
- Research methods: Students will learn how to conduct research in the field of music. Many of the instructors are well-known musicians in their own right, and they bring their real-world experience into the classroom. The program also offers a variety of learning opportunities outside of the classroom, including:
- Performance opportunities: Students have the opportunity to perform in a variety of ensembles, including the University Choir, the Wind Ensemble, and the Jazz Band.
- Masterclasses: Students can learn from world-renowned musicians through masterclasses and workshops.
- Study abroad: Students can study music in another country through the university's study abroad program.
Careers: The Music program at Cape Breton University prepares students for a variety of careers in the music industry, including:
- Performing: As a performer, you could work as a solo artist, a member of a band, or an orchestra musician.
- Teaching: You could teach music in a school, a private studio, or online.
- Music therapy: Music therapists use music to help people with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities.
- Music production: You could work as a sound engineer, a record producer, or a music video director.
Other: The Music program at Cape Breton University is located in the heart of the Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic drives in the world. The university is also close to the Atlantic Ocean, which provides students with many opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Music program at Cape Breton University is a unique and rewarding experience for students who are passionate about music. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a variety of careers in the music industry.
