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Music (PhD)

Built around themes of music, health, community and culture, this four-year degree will benefit students interested in mastering their research skills and looking to make their mark in the fields of music therapy or community music.

Unique not only in Canada, but also internationally, the program curriculum is based on a Doctoral Action Plan, Problem-Based Learning, Peer Learning, and various Doctoral Special Seminar Topics (DSST).

Research pursuits are limitless, but may include music and wellness, music performance and transforming communities, music therapy interventions, music and the brain, global music practices, activism in health and well-being, music and aging, and music-medicine.

First program of its kind.

Diverse Doctoral Special Seminar Topics replace mandatory courses, personalizing your learning.

Options to focus research in Community Music or Music Therapy.

Program Details

Program structure.

The PhD in Music consists of 12 credits, comprised of a combination of Doctoral Seminar Special Topics (DSSTs), independent directed studies proposals relevant to their research topics as electives, seminars or symposia, research supervision, comprehensive exams and final dissertation writing and defense.

Because of the diversity of research topics pursued, the PhD program in Community Music/Music Therapy does not involve a core component; in general, the student works mainly with an individual supervisor and with their peer group.

Once the project is defined, methods established, and ethics approved, the subsequent years in the program are devoted to refining the research and moving forward in data collection. Along with collaborative learning, faculty advisement, and doctoral special topics seminars, the student develops a level of expertise in the specific field of focus.

Year One (Two Credits)

During the initial year of the program, students will work closely with a faculty advisor, research supervisor, and Collaborative Learning Communities (CLC) comprised of peer groups to establish and refine a research topic, scheduled goal-searching with task completion-related milestones, methodology planning, literature review, and symposium participation. Deliverables may include, but are not limited to:

• 5000-word research outline and plan for enacting the plan, including a timeline for completion;
• Contractual Agreement with advisor(s) regarding frequency and expectations in prepared consultations;
• Thorough literature review on research topic with annotated bibliography;
• Completion of the 700-level topics and symposia as scheduled.

Year Two (Two Credits)

During the second year of the program, students will work closely with their research supervisor and Collaborative Learning Communities (CLC) comprised of peer groups to establish and refine the research proposal (LOI), literature review, and data collection launching. Deliverables may include, but are not limited to:

• Literature review (publishable scoping review/systematic review on a chosen topic).
• LOI presented for the PhD Committee.

Year Three (Four Credits)

During the third year of the program, students continue working closely with their research supervisor and Collaborative Learning Communities (CLC) formed of peer groups, to refine data collection, data analysis, and dissertation writing. Main tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Data collection.
• Data analysis.

Year Four (Four Credits)

During the final year of the program, students continue working closely with their research supervisor to finish their dissertation, and to prepare the oral defense. Main tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Dissertation writing.
• Oral defense.

As a research-intensive doctoral degree, curriculum provided through Doctoral Action Plan, Problem-Based Learning, Peer Learning, and various Doctoral Special Seminar Topics (DSST) are designed to enable students to achieve doctoral level learning outcomes, meeting the qualifications and criteria for PhD-level research specific activity.

Doctoral Action Plan

In the first year, students develop a Doctoral Action Plan. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor, personal and professional learning outcomes would be developed, and the action plan would include targets and milestones for the project. Research projects would be designed and approved in consultation with the advisor or advisors and include thorough literature reviews.

Problem-Based Learning

This doctoral program is informed by the principles of Problem-Based Learning offering constructivist strategies where the doctoral student assumes the role of a self-directed and self-regulated learner.

Peer Learning

Collaborative Learning Communities formed of peer groups will be established. By working within the peer group an enriched learning community is created where ideas and problems are shared, knowledge exchanged, and learning finds value at an academic, professional, and personal level. Learning communities will be in regular contact and meet intensively 2–3 times a year.

Teaching Assistantship

A paid teaching component, generated through Teaching Assistantships for undergraduate courses, will be an important part of the PhD student’s training. This will enhance the overall quality of the undergraduate and graduate student experience.

Faculty Advisor

Regular consultations with a faculty advisor will provide structure in meeting pre-determined milestones throughout the degree program. The frequency of these meetings will vary, depending upon the type of research undertaken and the progression stage of the student within the program. It is recommended that bi-weekly sessions be scheduled initially.

Doctoral Seminar Topics

Doctoral Seminar Special Topics (DSSTs) are three-day intensives where students explore topics in-depth as a community of learners under the instruction of experts in the field. Three DSSTs will be scheduled annually. Students are required to attend at least two seminars each year with a minimum of eight required by the time of graduation.

DSST examples:

• Community Music Therapy
• Improvisation and Microanalysis
• Neurological Foundations
• Music and Aging Populations
• Indigenous Perspectives
• Music and Social Justice
• Utilizing music to recover mental health challenges
• Music, Songwriting, Listening and Leisure
• The Role of Music throughout the Life Span
• Music and Spirituality

Research Overview

During the second year of the program, a public, 45-minute presentation will be scheduled followed by Q/A and discussion. All faculty and grad students will be encouraged to participate. A major research study serves as the culminating evaluation. A dissertation (including arts-based research utilizing multi-media formats as pertinent to the student’s study) is required along with its successful defense. Each student will work with a faculty advisor or advisors over the duration of the program.

The student and advisor will establish deliverable dates where the student completes aspects of their study program, according to the outcomes designed and agreed upon ahead of time.

For example, Year 1 would include building a doctoral action plan where learning outcomes, project descriptions, literature reviews and research focuses are developed. Year 2 would include the ethics approval process and the start of data collection. It might also include an elective course and/or an applied placement. Pathways through the degree program are flexible and will be adapted to the student’s research focus.

Research Topics

A wide range of research topics are welcome, encouraging the student to explore areas of personal interest that have current relevance to the field. Personal and professional learning outcomes are developed, and the action plan will include targets and milestones for the project.

Upon approval of the proposed topic, the student will begin a research program under regular supervision. A supervisory committee comprised of two or more faculty will be established to support and provide feedback on the student’s progress, assessing the research plan.

Areas of Study

With a focus on either Community Music or Music Therapy , this degree would accommodate candidates interested in one or more of the following areas of study:

• Music Therapy, Community Music Therapy, or Music Psychotherapy
• Clinical music therapy - practice based/evidence-based research
• Music therapy interventions: improvisation, music listening, song writing
• Music therapy and creative arts practices
• Music and health
• Music and wellness
• Music in palliative care
• Studies in psychotherapy and counselling
• Low frequency/sound vibration studies
• Music and aging
• Music and medicine
• Music and brain
• Music and cognitive neurosciences
• Clinical improvisation in a Music Therapy context
• Music Psychotherapy interventions and approaches
• Music Therapy assessment
• Community Music leadership and facilitation,
• Freelance musicians with a passion for activism and/or health and wellbeing
• Innovative practices in music education
• Contemporary music: performance, facilitation, composition and improvisation in community contexts
• Global music practices
• Studies in peace and social justice through community music practices

"This program is uniquely designed and provides students with the expertise, resources, and experience to develop themselves as leading researchers in community music or music therapy."

Professor Lee Willingham, co-coordinator of Laurier’s PhD in Music: Community Music

Take the first step in your graduate education and apply to one of our graduate programs. Follow our three-step admission process — we’ll walk you through how to apply and prepare for your first day as a graduate student.

• Start: Fall (September)
• Format: Full-time
• Application deadline:  March 30 (international applicants), May 1 (domestic applicants)

*Domestic applications will remain open until May 1 with priority given to applicants who have submitted all application requirements by March 1. Those who apply after March 1 will only be interviewed, should there be room in the program.

Admission Requirements

Successful applicants must have completed a master’s program in areas such as Music, Music Education, Fine Arts, Music Therapy, or Community Music with a minimum average of A-. Applicants holding an honours undergraduate degree in in Music/Music Therapy/Community Music and a master’s degree in allied fields such as Social Work, Psychology, Pastoral Counselling, Music Education, Early Childhood Music, Pedagogy, Leisure Studies, or other related fields may be considered.

The application process will consist of an interview, three (3) academic reference letters, a completed Statement of Intent ** and an example of graduate-level writing.

Your Statement of Intent describes what you will investigate, why your topic is important, and how do you plan to conduct your research. It should include a title, introduction, literature review, research design (paradigm, research methods, data collection/analysis plan) and references. (2000 words)

Applicants to this program will indicate either (a) Community Music or (b) Music Therapy as their primary field of proposed study. Documented field experience in the applicant’s area of study will be considered an asset.

Applicants whose language of instruction was not English must furnish evidence of proficiency in English prior to admission, in accordance with university requirements.

Students who may not come from traditional music degrees but demonstrate life experience in pertinent aspects of Community Music or Music Therapy along with a strong application may be eligible for admission under the university’s existing alternate admission plan provision.

Applications will remain open until May 1, 2023 with priority given applicants who have submitted all application requirements by March 1, 2023. Those who apply after March 1 will only be interviewed should there by room in the program.

** In addition to submitting the digital copy of the Statement of Intent, applicants must submit a link to [email protected] with a 5-10 minute video, summarizing your Statement of Intent. The purpose of the video is to introduce yourself, why do you want to do PhD at Laurier, and would be a good candidate for the programme. 

Application Checklist

After you have submitted your OUAC application , paid the non-refundable application fee, and Laurier has received your application, you'll receive an email from [email protected] advising you to upload the additional required documentation to Laurier’s Online Registration and Information System (LORIS) .

Note that the application process and the uploading of supplemental documentation, which includes references, typically takes two weeks. To avoid disappointment, please apply early.

An application for admission to our PhD program in Music must include:

• The Application Summary, which is generated after you complete your OUAC application (log back in to OUAC to retrieve it).
• Transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work. Documents must be dated within the past six months.
• A completed statement of intent .
• A resume of your academic and work experience. Include a history of your publication and scholarly paper activity and any other information you feel will interest the admissions committee.
• A sample of your scholarly writing (10-20 pages in length). This may be a chapter of your master's thesis or a paper written for a graduate course.
• Completed reference forms . Three academic references are required. Note: Reference forms are electronically submitted to Laurier by the referee and do not need to be uploaded.

Visit our Graduate Admissions Toolkit for more information about applying.

English Proficiency

Proficiency in written and spoken English is essential to graduate studies at Laurier. Applicants whose language of instruction during their previous postsecondary education was not in English must submit evidence of proficiency in English. If applicable, results from accepted testing services must be uploaded to LORIS .

Your Next Steps

Questions? Contact [email protected] .

"There is no doubt our doctoral students will leave a lasting impression in the international research community, positively impacting the discipline of music therapy as well as the credibility of clinical work and practice."

Professor Heidi Ahonen, co-coordinator of the PhD in Music: Music Therapy

Waterloo Campus

This program is available on Laurier's Waterloo campus.

Laurier's Waterloo campus is home to more than 19,000 graduate and undergraduate students. Tucked into several city blocks, this campus is walking distance to your classrooms, food, and various campus amenities.

Laurier is a leading force in research among Canadian universities, and many of our research centres and institutes are housed in Waterloo.

Learn more about Laurier's campuses .

Tuition and Funding

Full-time domestic students will benefit from bursary and teaching assistantship opportunities at the university. Those unable to suspend their careers also have the option to complete the program as part-time students.

All full-time domestic students receive the PhD minimum guaranteed funding (MGF) package of two teaching assistantships and a scholarship.

The Faculty of Music welcomes international students to the PhD Program. International students who have confirmed funding from a third-party, such as their employer or a scholarship program in their home country, will be considered for admission beginning in the 2024/25 admission year.

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants.

"With contributions from several university-based partners, ASPIRE provides graduate students and postdoctoral researchers with informative, hands-on professional skills training essential for degree and post-degree success."

Brent Wolfe , Associate Vice-President and Dean, Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

Graduates may go on to work in the following settings:

• Public Health
• Senior Communities
• Faith-based Communities
• Entreprenurial Settings

Your Path to Post-Degree Success

ASPIRE is Laurier's professional skills development training program for graduate students. The program helps you craft an individualized, extracurricular learning plan tailored to your professional journey and entry to the workplace .

Learn about the interests of our faculty members. If you are looking for more information about this program, have questions, or want to set up a meeting, contact a member of our team . 

Heidi Ahonen Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, Master of Music Therapy Director, Manfred and Penny Conrad Institute for Music Therapy Research

Lee Willingham Professor, Music Education Director, Laurier Centre for Music in the Community Coordinator, Music Education Coordinator, Master of Arts in Community Music

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Laurier introduces first-of-its-kind PhD in Music with fields in Community Music and Music Therapy

Oct. 20, 2022 For Immediate Release

WATERLOO – Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Music is excited to announce a new, first-of-its-kind PhD in Music with fields in Community Music and Music Therapy. 

Built around the themes of music, health, community and culture, this four-year degree will benefit students interested in mastering their research skills and looking to make their mark in the fields of music therapy or community music. Research pursuits are limitless, but may include music and wellness, music performance and transforming communities, music therapy interventions, music and the brain, global music practices, activism in health and well-being, music and aging, and music-medicine.

“This program is uniquely designed and provides students with the expertise, resources and experience to develop themselves as leading researchers in community music or music therapy,” said Professor Lee Willingham, co-coordinator of Laurier’s PhD in Music: Community Music. “Rather than mandatory courses, students will participate in doctoral special seminar topics throughout the year, covering a wide range of academic and practical themes.”

Laurier’s Faculty of Music is a well-established leader in the fields of community music and music therapy. Distinguishing itself from most graduate programs, the university’s new PhD in Music will take an interdisciplinary learning approach based on a doctoral action plan, problem-based learning, peer learning and doctoral special seminar topics. The addition of intensive, topical doctoral special seminar topics and collaborative peer groups will replace traditional course-based programs, serving to produce strong, independent researchers and practitioners.

“I'm looking forward to launching many innovative and groundbreaking research projects with our future PhD students,” said Professor Heidi Ahonen, co-coordinator of the PhD in Music: Music Therapy. “There is no doubt our doctoral students will leave a lasting impression in the international research community, positively impacting the discipline of music therapy as well as the credibility of clinical work and practice.”

“The PhD in Music and its innovative design will be highly attractive to students interested in pursuing a doctoral degree and their research opportunities will be enhanced by the faculty’s well-recognized strengths in community music and music therapy,” said Professor Brent Wolfe, acting associate vice-president and dean of Laurier's Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. “This program adds significantly to the suite of excellent post-graduate programs offered by the Faculty of Music at Laurier.”

Applicants must successfully complete an acceptable master's program or demonstrate life experience in pertinent aspects of community music or music therapy, along with meeting all other admission requirements. The faculty anticipates applicants will represent a variety of perspectives and backgrounds and possess a fundamental interest in the intersections of music and health.

Laurier’s PhD in Music with fields in Community Music and Music Therapy will welcome its first students in September 2023. For more information, including a full list of admission requirements, please email [email protected] .

Media Contacts:

Mieke Kanmacher, Outreach and Student Recruitment Co-ordinator

Faculty of Music, Wilfrid Laurier University

E: [email protected]

Lori Chalmers Morrison, Director: Integrated Communications

External Relations, Wilfrid Laurier University

E: [email protected]

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Doctor of philosophy in music.

The objectives of the PhD in Music program are to produce strong independent researchers in the practice-based and evidence-based an area of specialization or concentration that is related to the demonstrable and collective strengths of the program’s faculty ')" onMouseOut="hideGlossaryDef()">fields of either Community Music , or Music Therapy . Through exploring commonalities of two fields that combine music with health and wellness, along with societal concerns, students will enhance the quality of their research-informed practice and engage in, and promote, interdisciplinary research.

a unit of study in a discipline identified by a unique course number and having a specific credit weight.

• Admission Requirements
• Program Requirements

Successful applicants must have completed a master’s program in areas such as Music, Music Education, Fine Arts, Music Therapy, or Community Music with a minimum average of A-. Applicants holding an honours undergraduate degree in in Music/Music Therapy/Community Music and a master’s degree in allied fields such as Social Work, Psychology, Pastoral Counselling, Music Education, Early Childhood Music, Pedagogy, Leisure Studies, or other related fields may be considered.

The application process will consist of a detailed proposal for research in topics applicable to Community Music practice or Music Therapy practice, an interview, three (3) academic reference letters, and an example of graduate-level writing. Applicants to this program will indicate either (a) Community Music or (b) Music Therapy as their primary an area of specialization or concentration that is related to the demonstrable and collective strengths of the program’s faculty ')" onMouseOut="hideGlossaryDef()">field of proposed study. Documented field experience in the applicant’s area of study will be considered an asset.

Applicants whose language of instruction was not English must furnish evidence of proficiency in English prior to admission, in accordance with university requirements.

To obtain the 12 credits, students progress under the supervision of the Graduate Program Coordinator and Dissertation Advisor to satisfy milestone requirements, the Doctoral Seminar Special Topics Intensives, or elective courses and a dissertation.

Note :  Each year, students are required to participate in at least 2 DSSTs, and/or in addition to 1 approved elective. The elective requirement may be fulfilled by completion of the third DSST annually, or through credit earned for another Laurier graduate seminar course or an approved independent directed study. Two DSSTs ( MU701 and MU812 ) are mandatory for all students .

The research supervision will continue each year ( MU704 , MU804 , MU808 , MU813 ). Students will enrol in MU799 in their third term of registration and complete by the end of year 2 (term 6). 

Year 1: MU701 - DSST 1: Advanced Research Intensive, MU704 - Research Supervision 1, 2-3 DSSTs, MU799 - Comprehensive Examinations

Year 2: MU804 - Research Supervision 2, 2-3DSSTs, MU799 - Comprehensive Examinations

Year 3: MU808 - Research Supervision 3, 2-3 DSSTs, MU899 - PhD Dissertation Writing 2 and Oral Defense

Year 4: MU812 - DSST 12: Advanced Research Dissemination, MU813 - Research Supervision 4, any remaining DSSTs, MU899 - PhD Dissertation Writing 2 and Oral Defense

In planning the topics for DSST’s the students’ research interest and needs, will inform the design, topic, and schedule of delivery.

Doctoral Seminar Special Topics are scheduled as 3-day intensives across Fall and Winter semesters, each year, where students explore topics in-depth as a community of learners under the instruction of experts in the field. Selected topics will be scheduled biennially, while others will occur one time in the four-year cycle. Topics will be flexible as the program evolves and student needs and interests become evident. DSSTs cover such practical areas as research methodologies and research advisory sessions, to more general areas such as neurology and music, and music and spirituality. Specific areas of focus include, for example, Indigenous perspectives, aging populations, facilitation, songwriting, activism and justice, and improvisation. DSSTs learning outcomes are designed and offered to provide an in-depth intensive exploration of key principles that connect to current societal practices. DSST sessions address areas of common interest between Music Therapy and Community Music.

Following successful completion of all other requirements, the student must complete, under the supervision of a dissertation advisor, an original research project ( MU899 ) on an advanced topic. The Regulations Governing the Doctoral Dissertation  will govern the dissertation format and the dissertation examination.

Academic & Related Dates 2022/2023

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Laurier Centre for Music in the Community

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The Laurier Centre for Music in the Community (LCMC) was formed with a mission of connecting Laurier to the wider Waterloo Regional community through musical activities, community research and collaboration. The LCMC lives out this mission through research, symposia, publishing, projects, partnerships and concerts. Using music as a conduit, we work to connect to our community, collaborate with music makers, and thereby contribute to the vitality of the music of the people and of the people themselves.

In May 2007, Wilfrid Laurier University approved the LCMC to be one of the institution’s research centres and a public launch was held on March 28, 2008. The LCMC is a significant achievement in the context of a research university. In establishing a research centre based on community, we are showcasing a strong commitment to research and a drive to connect institution to community. LCMC welcomes research in any method that addresses aspects of music and community. It is through this research that we seek to inform practice.

The LCMC has generated innovative and transformative events, leading to research and improved practice in our communities. The  Master of Arts in Community Music was formed largely due to the research and work of LCMC and is the only program of its kind in Canada. In a time where the community musician is becoming a recognized practice, we are in place to provide support, and research and facilitation services to enhance the work in this field.

Contact Us:

E: [email protected]

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Visiting Musician: Dr. Sylvanus (Kwashie) Kuwor

Laurier introduces first-of-its-kind PhD in Music with fields in Community Music and Music Therapy

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Calendar of Events

Friday, Aug. 2, 2024

Laurier Academy of Music and Arts Chamber Camp Concert

Maureen Forrester Recital Hall 1:30 P.M. - 3 P.M.

Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024

Southwestern Ontario Suzuki Institute Faculty Recital

Theatre Auditorium 7:30 P.M. - 9 P.M.

Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024

Southwestern Ontario Suzuki Institute Student Fiddling Concert

Maureen Forrester Recital Hall 12:30 P.M. - 1 P.M.

Southwestern Ontario Suzuki Institute Chamber Music Concert

Maureen Forrester Recital Hall 1 P.M. - 1:30 P.M.

Southwestern Ontario Suzuki Institute Operetta

Maureen Forrester Recital Hall 6 P.M. - 7 P.M.

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• Level : university

WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY Laurier introduces first-of-its-kind PhD in Music with fields in Community Music and Music Therapy

Wilfrid Laurier University's Faculty of Music is excited to announce a new, first-of-its-kind PhD in Music with fields in Community Music and Music Therapy. 

Built around the themes of music, health, community and culture, this four-year degree will benefit students interested in mastering their research skills and looking to make their mark in the fields of music therapy or community music. Research pursuits are limitless, but may include music and wellness, music performance and transforming communities, music therapy interventions, music and the brain, global music practices, activism in health and well-being, music and aging, and music-medicine.

"This program is uniquely designed and provides students with the expertise, resources and experience to develop themselves as leading researchers in community music or music therapy," said Professor Lee Willingham, co-coordinator of Laurier's PhD in Music: Community Music. "Rather than mandatory courses, students will participate in doctoral special seminar topics throughout the year, covering a wide range of academic and practical themes."

Laurier's Faculty of Music is a well-established leader in the fields of community music and music therapy. Distinguishing itself from most graduate programs, the university's new PhD in Music will take an interdisciplinary learning approach based on a doctoral action plan, problem-based learning, peer learning and doctoral special seminar topics. The addition of intensive, topical doctoral special seminar topics and collaborative peer groups will replace traditional course-based programs, serving to produce strong, independent researchers and practitioners.

"I'm looking forward to launching many innovative and groundbreaking research projects with our future PhD students," said Professor Heidi Ahonen, co-coordinator of the PhD in Music: Music Therapy. "There is no doubt our doctoral students will leave a lasting impression in the international research community, positively impacting the discipline of music therapy as well as the credibility of clinical work and practice."

"The PhD in Music and its innovative design will be highly attractive to students interested in pursuing a doctoral degree and their research opportunities will be enhanced by the faculty's well-recognized strengths in community music and music therapy," said Professor Brent Wolfe, acting associate vice-president and dean of Laurier's Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. "This program adds significantly to the suite of excellent post-graduate programs offered by the Faculty of Music at Laurier."

Applicants must successfully complete an acceptable master's program or demonstrate life experience in pertinent aspects of community music or music therapy, along with meeting all other admission requirements. The faculty anticipates applicants will represent a variety of perspectives and backgrounds and possess a fundamental interest in the intersections of music and health.

Laurier's PhD in Music with fields in Community Music and Music Therapy will welcome its first students in September 2023. For more information, including a full list of admission requirements, please email [email protected] .

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Composition, community music, keyboard (piano and harpsichord), music education, music history, theory and critical analysis, music therapy, woodwinds, brass and percussion.

Beth Ann de Sousa Coach-Accompanist, Strings and Winds Elvera Froese Coach-Accompanist, Voice

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Matthew Emery Assistant Professor Kathryn Ladano Instructor, Faculty of Music Director, Improvisation Convergence Ensemble Saman Shahi Instructor, Faculty of Music Cameron McKittrick Instructor, Faculty of Music

• Undergraduate coordinator: Brandon Leis
• Graduate coordinator:  Lee Willingham

Emily Carruthers Experiential Placements Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor

Brennan Connolly Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Planning and Curriculum Musician in Residence, Percussion Director, Percussion Ensemble

Karen Cyrus Assistant Professor, Ethnomusicology, Community Music Director, Tshepo Institute for the Study of Contemporary Africa

Amanda Brunk Instructor, Contemporary Voice (Community Music) 

Maria Kouznetsova Faculty of Music, Events, Concerts, and Performance Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Colin Labadie Instructor, Faculty of Music

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Elizabeth Lepock Instructor, Faculty of Music

Richard Marsella Instructor, Faculty of Music

Terry Paynter Instructor, Faculty of Music

Mariette Stephenson Instructor, Faculty of Music Jason White Instructor, Faculty of Music

Lee Willingham Professor, Music Education Coordinator, Music Education Coordinator, Master of Arts in Community Music Coordinator, PhD: Music (Community Music)

Deanna Yerichuk  (On sabbatical until July 2025) Assistant Professor, Community Music Coordinator, Bachelor of Music in Community Music Director, Laurier Centre for Music in the Community Gerard Yun Assistant Professor, Community Music

Kate Carver Music Director and Conductor, Opera Brennan Connolly Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Planning and Curriculum Musician in Residence, Percussion Director, Percussion Ensemble Amanda Kind Director, VOX

Kathryn Ladano Instructor, Faculty of Music Director, Improvisation Convergence Ensemble Brandon Leis Lecturer, Community Music and Voice Coordinator, Community Music (undergraduate) Director, Laurier Singers

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Carolyn Neumann VanderBurgh Director, Laurier Concert Choir Instructor, Faculty of Music

• Coordinator:  Anya Alexeyev  (Winter term) and  Joseph Ferretti  (Fall term)

Anya Alexeyev  (On sabaatical until January 2025) Associate Professor, Piano Coordinator, Keyboard (Winter term) Joseph Ferretti Instructor, Piano Coordinator, Keyboard (Fall term)

Cynthia Hiebert Instructor, Harpsichord

Elaine Lau Instructor, Piano

Marnie Van Weelden Instructor, Piano

• Coordinator:  Lee Willingham

Joshua Hill Instructor, Faculty of Music

Cynthia Kinnunen Instructor, Faculty of Music

Daniel Ramjattan Instructor, Guitar

Laurel Swinden Instructor, Flute 

Lee Willingham Professor, Music Education Coordinator, Music Education Coordinator, Master of Arts in Community Music Coordinator, PhD: Music (Community Music) 

• Coordinator:  Kirsten Yri

Eva Branda Instructor, Faculty of Music

Katy Clark Instructor, Faculty of Music Karen Cyrus Assistant Professor, Ethnomusicology, Community Music Director, Tshepo Institute for the Study of Contemporary Africa

Anna Ferenc Associate Professor, Music Theory 

Brent Hagerman Instructor, Faculty of Music

Colin Labadie Instructor, Faculty of Music

Kathryn Ladano Director, Improvisation Convergence Ensemble Instructor, Faculty of Music

Cameron McKittrick Instructor, Faculty of Music Terry Paynter Instructor, Faculty of Music

Kevin Swinden (On sabbatical until July 2025) Associate Professor, Music Theory

Trevor Wagler Instructor, Faculty of Music

Kirsten Yri Associate Professor, Musicology Coordinator, Music History, Theory and Critical Analysis 

• Bachelor of Music Therapy coordinator:  Elizabeth Mitchell
• Master of Music Therapy coordinator:  Demian Kogutek
• PhD coordinator:  Heidi Ahonen

Heidi Ahonen Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, PhD: Music (Music Therapy) Thyra Andrews Instructor, Faculty of Music Emily Carruthers Experiential Placements Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor Amy Clements-Cortés Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor

Noreen Donnell Instructor, Music Therapy Linda Gambell Music Therapy Supervisor  Melissa Jessop Music Therapy Supervisor

Rebekah Jordan-Miller Director, Laurier Academy of Music and Arts Instructor, Faculty of Music

Taylor Kurta Instructor, Faculty of Music

Eunice Kang Music Therapy Supervisor

Sara Klinck Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor

Demian Kogutek Assistant Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, Master of Music Therapy Director, Manfred and Penny Conrad Institute for Music Therapy Research 

Andrea Lamont Instructor, Faculty of Music Elizabeth Mitchell Assistant Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, Bachelor of Music Therapy

Adrienne Pringle Music Therapy Supervisor

Kathleen Skinner Instructor, Faculty of Music Christina Weldon Music Therapy Supervisor

• Coordinator: Katie Schlaikjer

Jeremy Bell Artist-in-Residence, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet

Lina Cao Instructor, Guzheng Lori Gemmell Instructor, Harp

Jerzy Kaplanek Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Performance  Professor, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Strings

Katie Schlaikjer Artist-in-Residence, Cello, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Strings

Christine Vlajk Artist-in-Residence, Viola, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Chamber Music

Sharlene Wallace Instructor, Harp

Ian Whitman Instructor, Double Bass

• Coordinator: Jonathan Rowsell

Ari Cohen Mann Instructor, Oboe 

Derek Conrod Instructor, French Horn

Ross Edwards Instructor, Clarinet

Guy Few Instructor, Trumpet

Kathleen McLean Musician in Residence, Bassoon Katherine Robertson Instructor, French Horn

Jonathan Rowsell Musician in Residence, Tuba/Euphonium Coordinator, Woodwinds, Brass and Percussion

Peter Shackleton Instructor, Clarinet Laurel Swinden Instructor, Flute 

Rachel Thomas Instructor, Trombone

Dave Wiffen Instructor, Saxophone

• Coordinator:  Leslie Fagan

Kimberly Barber Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - External Affairs, Partnerships and Graduate Studies Professor, Voice Administrative Coordinator, Opera

Kate Carver Music Director and Conductor, Opera

Katy Clark Instructor, Faculty of Music

Leslie Fagan  (On sabaatical until July 2025) Assistant Professor, Voice Coordinator, Voice

Brandon Leis Lecturer, Community Music and Voice Coordinator, Community Music (undergraduate) Director, Laurier Singers Elizabeth Lepock Instructor, Faculty of Music

James McLean Instructor, Voice Jennie Such Instructor, Voice

Dean and Associate Deans

Cynthia Johnston Turner Dean, Faculty of Music

Brennan Connolly Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Planning and Curriculum Musician in Residence, Percussion Director, Percussion Ensemble Jerzy Kaplanek Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Performance Professor, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Strings

Michelle Corbett Senior Administrative Officer Rebekah Jordan-Miller Director, Laurier Academy of Music and Arts Instructor, Faculty of Music

Mathew Kensett Director of Production and Performance Facilities Operations

Justine MacNeil Administrative Manager

Nick Bastian Technical Coordinator, Performance Facilities

Emily Carruthers Graduate Program & Experiential Placements Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor Alyssa Chong Auditions Coordinator and Administrative Assistant Kathy Gauci Academic Advisor 

Mieke Kanmacher Communication, Enrolment and Recruitment Coordinator

Jessica Khan Operations Coordinator, Laurier Academy of Music and Arts Maria Kouznetsova Events, Concerts, and Performance Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music

Heather Lepine Experiential Placement Administrative Coordinator

Danny McAfee  Piano Technician

Amy Neufeld Facilities and Resource Coordinator

Malinga Perera Maddumage Financial Analyst

Contact Us:

E: [email protected] T: 548-889-4675

Laurier Music

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Laurier Faculty of Music

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Wilfrid Laurier University

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Laurier traces its roots to the opening of the Evangelical Lutheran Seminary in Waterloo more than 100 years ago in 1911. They’ve gone through several changes since then, and in 1973 the name changed from Waterloo Lutheran University to Wilfrid Laurier University. In 1999, they opened the campus in Brantford, and in 2024 another campus in Milton.

Laurier offers an exceptional range and depth of study. Students can choose from more than 100 academic programs, taught by award-winning faculty.

Laurier offers plenty of opportunities to do hands-on research, whether you want to work with nanomaterials or disadvantaged children. Their faculty members pride themselves on their mentoring skills and it’s not unusual to see world-class professors working closely with motivated students, both undergraduate and graduate. Whether in science, business, arts, music, education, social work or any of the other disciplines, Laurier researchers tackle local and global challenges through nearly two dozen research centres and institutes – often combining disciplines to explore problems from multiple angles.

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We use a circle of care model that incorporates specialties from a diverse, multidisciplinary team. Students who use the Student Wellness Centre have access to a number of wellness professionals to enhance their health and wellbeing while they are here at Laurier:

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Wilfrid Laurier University’s two biggest campuses are in Waterloo and Brantford, but we also have a Faculty of Social Work in Kitchener, and a new campus in Milton. All of our campuses and locations are about 90 minutes drive (or less!) away from Toronto, Canada’s biggest city.

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The Athletic Complex in Waterloo includes an Olympic-size pool, a triple gymnasium, dance studios, and a large fitness centre. Outside, Alumni Field offers a full-sized, FIFA-certified, artificial surface for both intramurals and club teams. University Stadium is home to Golden Hawk football, soccer, rugby and lacrosse.The Laurier Brantford YMCA has an aquatics centre with a two-tank pool, a double and a single gym, a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment and Wi-Fi capabilities for fitness programs, three studios, multi-purpose spaces, and a lounge for Laurier students.

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Program requirements.

Note: University regulations apply to all students at Laurier. If there is any discrepancy between the program or progression requirements outlined on this page and those in the university's academic calendars , the academic calendars are the official sources of information. The information below is from the latest calendar, and you may be following progression requirements from an earlier calendar. Students are responsible for checking the appropriate calendar. Contact your program coordinator should you notice any discrepancies.

Academic Advising

Academic advising is available within the faculty. In all cases, it is your responsibility to ensure that you are properly registered and meet course requirements and the requirements of your program (see below).

Undergraduate Academic Advisor

Kathy Gauci

• E: [email protected]
• T: 548.889.3628

Undergraduate Programs

Updated as of July 26, 2022  based off of the 2022-2023 Academic Calendar.

Bachelor of Music: Community Music

The Bachelor of Music, Community Music concentration consists of 20.0 credits, of which at least 12.0 and no more than 16.0 credits may be MU courses; 9.0 MU credits at the 200 level or higher are required to graduate. The following courses are required for this concentration:

Required Courses

(10 Credits)

• MU100, MU141, MU142, MU145A°, MU145B°, MU146 or MU181, MU194, MU195
• MU200, MU240, MU242, MU243, MU246 or MU281, MU245A°, MU245B°, MU295G* or MU295K*
• MU340, MU341, MU346 or MU381
• 2.0 credits of Music electives, chosen from any single category of: C (Culture and Society), S (Style and Structure), or P (Performance and Production) courses.
• 1.0 credit of unrestricted Music electives.
• 4.0 credits of non-music electives
• 3.0 Music or non-music electives to total 20.0 credits.

Students wishing to devise their electives to satisfy the entrance requirements of a Faculty of Education should select courses under the advisement of the Co-ordinator of the Music Education area.

Community Music students are encouraged to use their non-music electives to satisfy the requirements of a minor or option in another discipline.

• Applied Digital Option, Christian Studies and Global Citizenship Option, Christian Studies and Global Song Option, Community Engagement Option, Film Production Option, Legal Studies Option, Music and Cultural History Option, Education Minor, Social Entrepreneurship Option.
• Note that some of the options and minors may contain additional prerequisite courses.
• A maximum of two minors/options are allowed in a degree program.

Bachelor of Music: Composition

Students in the Composition concentration are required to write works for various ensembles and to participate in a Composition master class. Those students wishing to continue in Composition beyond Year 2:

• Must have completed all second year core requirements (MU237°, MU268 or MU264*, MU271, MU281, MU290A*),
• Must have a minimum Music GPA of 7.0,
• Must submit a portfolio of their work to the composition faculty for their recommendation to the concentration.

During Year 3 and Year 4, students study individually with members of the faculty; in the final year students write an extended work as their graduation composition. A student in the Bachelor of Music, Composition concentration must complete 20.0 credits, of which at least 14.5 and no more than 16.0 credits may be MU courses; 9.0 senior level MU credits are required to graduate. 

The following courses are required for the Composition concentration:

• MU100, MU136°, MU137°, MU160, MU161, MU162, MU181, MU190A*
• MU236°, MU237°, MU251T, MU252, MU260A, MU260B, MU266, MU268, MU270, MU271, MU281, MU290A*
• MU336°, MU337°, MU360*; (MU298* or MU381); MU396
• MU460*, MU496
• 0.5 credit chosen from: MU361, MU342, MU461, MU463
• 0.5 credit chosen from: MU375, MU377
• 4.0 credits non-music electives
• Music or non-music electives for a total of 20.0 credits.
• MU264* may count in lieu of MU266 and MU268.
• For students who take MU390 and MU490, the extra half credit(s) earned shall count as music electives.

Bachelor of Music: Performance

The Performance concentration is designed for students who intend to become professional performers and teachers of performance. Students who demonstrate at audition time or during Year 1 or Year 2, that they have the potential to succeed as performers may apply to enter this program. Students in Year 1 and Year 2 of the Performance program receive one-hour weekly lessons, and are encouraged to take part in noon hour student recitals. Students in Year 3 and Year 4 receive 1.5 hours of private instruction per week, and are required to take part in noon hour student recitals. In addition, students in year 4 are required to give a full-length formal recital. The total amount of individual studio instruction (combining applied study and composition) may not exceed 90 minutes per week (1.5 credits). Students who enrol in studio composition may not be eligible for MU390B‡ and MU490B‡.

Students in Performance violin (Year 3 and/or Year 4) may take 1 hour lessons on violin and half-hour lessons on viola (or vice-versa). Depending on the split, the student would be required to fulfill two thirds of his/her performance activity (recital, ensemble, chamber music) on the instrument for which 1 hour lessons are given and one third of his/her performance activity on the instrument for which half-hour lessons are given. If a student chooses this option in Year 4, the Graduation Recital would be split between the two instruments.

Term work will be averaged between the two instructors based on the proportion chosen (ex. 33% viola, 66% violin). There will be no change in grading procedure for the Graduation Recital or juries.

Required Courses for all Performance Areas

• MU100, MU136°, MU137°, MU161, MU162, MU181, MU190A*
• MU236°, MU237°, MU266, MU268, MU270, MU271, MU281, MU290B*
• MU336°, MU337°, MU375, MU390B‡
• MU490B‡
• 0.5 credit chose from MU372-378, MU342, MU361, MU461, MU463, MU470-475
• 4.0 credits in non-music electives
• If a request is made in writing and signed by a student and instructor, MU290D‡ (1.5 credits with 90 minute lessons) may be taken in place of MU290B* by permission of the dean. In this case,
• MU390A* will be taken for 1.0 credit only (1 hour lessons) in place of MU390B‡.

Additional Credits Required in Specified Performance Areas

Guitar: mu381.

• 1.0 credit chosen from MU283, MU381 and MU383
• 1.5 credits of Music electives

Orchestral Instruments: 

• MU318, MU387, MU481
• 1.0 Music elective credit
• Students whose principal instrument is violin, viola, or violoncello must take 1.5 credits from MU183, MU283, MU383 and MU483;
• those whose principal instrument is brass or woodwind (except Saxophone) or harp must take 1.0 credits of MU183, MU283, MU383, MU483;
• those whose principal instrument is double bass must take a 0.5 credit of MU183, MU283, MU383, MU483.
• Students are required to complete their chamber music requirements (MUx83) on their major instrument. An ensemble placement audition must be successfully completed before the end of the second week of the fall term for placement in an instrumental ensemble.

Piano:  

• MU253 (in place of MU281), MU293, MU393, MU493
• 0.5 credit chosen from MU383 or MU483.
• 1.0 credit Music elective.

Voice: 

• MU291, MU294, MU298*; (MU381 or MU398*); MU391
• 0.5 credit music elective.

Bachelor of Music: Music Education

This concentration is designed for students wishing to pursue a career in teaching music at the elementary or secondary level. It combines the core Music credits of the BMus program with instruction in conducting, instrumental and choral techniques, and methods and philosophy of music education. A student in Music Education must complete 20.0 credits, of which at least 14.0 and no more than 16.0 credits may be MU courses; 9.0 senior level MU credits are required to graduate. The following courses are required for Music Education concentration:

• MU202, MU236°, MU237°, MU266, MU268, MU270, MU271, MU281, MU290A*
• MU336°, MU337°, MU367, MU375, MU394; MU396 or MU390A*; MU496 or MU490A*;
• Any two courses from: MU298*, MU381, MU481
• 0.5 credit chosen from: MU203, MU208
• 0.5 credit chosen from: MU358, MU494
• 0.5 credit chosen from MU372–378, MU342, MU361, MU461, MU463 or MU470–475
• Percussion:  MU201J
• Brass: MU201F°, MU201M°, MU201N°, MU201O°,
• Woodwinds: MU201B°, MU201C°, MU201E°, MU201H°, MU201L°
• Strings:  MU201A°, MU201D°, MU201G°, MU201P, MU201Q°, MU201T°,
• Voice: MU201R
• Students with sufficient documented proficiency on an instrument may be exempted from the relevant techniques (MU201) course; students are strongly discouraged from enrolling in more than two secondary instruments at one time.
• Non-music electives should be chosen so as to constitute preparation for teaching at least one other subject.
• MU251T is strongly recommended for students interested in teaching at the secondary level.

Bachelor of Music: Self-Directed Studies

The first year of the BMus (CY) core curriculum serves as the one-year core curriculum for the Bachelor of Music, Self-Directed Studies concentration, but with a breadth of study across the areas of Culture and Society (C), Performance and Production (P) and Style and Structure (S). Starting in 2nd year, and with the assistance of the academic advisor and faculty mentor, students will map a purposeful pathway through their degree by selecting upper-level courses across these three areas, and with greater depth of study in the area of their choosing.

A student in the Bachelor of Music, Self-Directed Studies concentration must complete 20.0 credits, of which at least 14.0 and no more than 16.0 credits may be MU courses; 9.0 senior level MU credits are required to graduate. The following courses are required for the BMus (Self-Directed Studies):

• MU100, MU136°, MU137°, MU161, MU162, MU181, MU190A*, MU266
• At least 1.0 credit of applied study (x90A or x96 courses) at the 200-level or above.
• At least 1.0 credit from each category of C, S, and P at the 200-level or above, defined below.
• At least 3.0 credits and no more than 5.0 credits at the 200-level or above from any single category C, S, or P. Including all credits above, at least 4.0 MU credits at the 300-level and at least 1.0 MU credit at the 400-level. No more than 0.5 credit from the MU442–444 series courses may be applied toward the concentration.

Students are advised to be mindful of the prerequisites for upper year courses. All students in the Self-Directed Studies Program are required to meet with both the Academic Advisor and Faculty Mentor for the Self-Directed Studies program at least once per term.

Check the Academic Calendar for courses listed by categories:

• Category C: Culture and Society
• Category P: Performance and Production
• Category S: Style and Stucture

Minor in Music

A minor in music consists of 3.0 credits from courses in at least two of three categories:  Culture and Society (C), Performance and Production (P) and Style and Structure (S), ..

1.0 Credit Required courses:   0.5 credits from two of three categories (C, P and S): S: one of   MU121   (OC),   MU161 ,   MU162 . C:   MU100 . P: one of   MU181 , (Note 1, 2),   MU146 , (Note 1),   MU160 , or an Approved External Ensemble (Note 3). 2.0 Credits of Music Courses at the 200-level or higher, from at least two of the following lists of courses (C, P and S). Note that some courses have prerequisites.

Category C:   Culture and Society Category S:   Style and Structure Category P : Performance and Production  

Opera Diploma

The Opera Diploma program is intended for singers who have completed an undergraduate degree or diploma in music and who wish to continue their studies in voice and opera. The diploma requires the completion, within two consecutive academic terms (fall/winter) of 4.5 credits with an overall GPA of 7.00 (B-). For admission to the program, students must have completed all prerequisites, perform a live audition successfully, and be admitted to the university. Pre-screening tapes (audio or video with good audio quality) may be submitted for consideration, but are not substitutes for a live audition.

Prerequisites

• Two 100-level (or equivalent) language courses from French, German, Italian and Russian, or permission of the dean

Required Credits

MU398* or MU498*; MU491R‡‡; and 2.0 additional credits (refer to list below), chosen from voice, drama, acting, languages, and music history (200 level or higher) courses. If not already taken as part of the student's undergraduate degree, diploma students must take MU284, MU294, and two 100-level language courses chosen from among French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish among the required credits. Depending on the student's prior experience in voice, opera, music history and drama, other electives may be considered such as accompanying, coaching and dance. Each student's program must be approved by the dean and by the co-ordinator of opera.

All students must be registered full-time while in MU491R‡, which must be completed in winter term.

Students in this program may not repeat courses.

Additional Senior Credits

• Voice: MU291, MU391, MU294.
• Drama and Acting: UW courses only.
• Languages: courses from the Languages and Literatures department or UW.
• Music History: MU270, MU271, MU275, MU372, MU373, MU374, MU375, MU376, MU377, MU378, MU470, MU471, MU472, MU473, MU474, MU475
• A directed studies course aligned with any of the subdisciplines listed above may be used in partial fulfillment of the program.

Chamber Music Diploma

The Chamber Music Diploma program is intended for performers who have completed an undergraduate degree or diploma in music and who wish to continue their studies in chamber music. Entrance to the program is competitive and performing excellence will be assessed to determine eligibility. 4.5 credits with an overall GPA of 7.00 (B-) over two consecutive terms of study (Fall and Winter) are required to complete the Chamber Music Diploma.

Pre-formed groups are encouraged to apply, although individuals may also be accommodated in faculty-approved collaborations with other Chamber Music Diploma students and/or in the WLU undergraduate Chamber Music course.

An 80-minute recital of works studied over the year will be given during the second term. If two recitals are preferred, a student may perform two 40-minute recitals, one at the end of each term.

All requirements stated in the course outlines for MU183, MU283, MU383 and MU483 will apply to Chamber Music Diploma students. Pre-formed groups will be required to perform two outreach concerts over the course of the year.

Pre-existing, ongoing groups may opt to study the entire year as a self-contained ensemble, but individual students will be expected to participate in at least two chamber groups as assigned by the chamber music director, appropriate chamber music area co-ordinator, and the individual private instructor.

• MU491B*, MU491C, MU488*, MU482;
• MU376, Studies in the History of Music Genre: Chamber Music or another course in music history or theory focusing on chamber music (refer to list below),
• 1.0 music or non-music elective credit.

Students who enter without a senior course in 20th-century music literature, history or theory must take such a course as an elective within the diploma program (e.g., MU375, MU377, MU461). The MU491C credit may be used for private instruction or for chamber coaching with particular emphasis on works that may not be coached as part of the chamber music class. Music performed on chamber recitals may not be used for the MU491B* jury.

Graduate Programs

Master of arts in community music.

The MA program in community music is normally completed in six consecutive terms of part-time registration or three consecutive semesters of full-time registration. Students must develop their programs in consultation with the graduate coordinator.

In addition to the four required community music courses (MU620 - Music and Meaning in Community Contexts, MU621 - Community Music Practices and Leadership, MU622 - Creativity and Interdisciplinary Arts, MU623 - New Media, Business, Administration and Marketing), a research methods course and MU698 - Applied Community Service and Research Project, students must complete 1 half-credit elective. Elective courses will be chosen from an area relevant to the candidate's research, subject to approval by the graduate coordinator, and may be chosen from a wide range of cognate disciplines available in the Faculties of Music, Education, Arts, or from Martin Luther University College.

Research Methods

With the approval of the graduate student coordinator, students must take a research methods course appropriate to their program. Either quantitative or qualitative methods are acceptable, but must be directly relevant to the student's research agenda. Normally this course is taken within the first two semesters of registration in both part-time and full-time options.

A range of graduate research courses are offered in various graduate programs at Laurier. Students should select a course that provides pertinent methodology to the type of investigation they plan to undertake. Consultation with the Graduate Coordinator is advised to assist in the Research Methods course selection.

Graduation Requirements

Master's students must attain a minimum B- in each course, as per university policy outlined in the Calendar. Upon completion of the required course credits described above, and acceptance of the research paper and public demonstration, candidates shall be granted the Master of Arts in Community Music.

Master of Music Therapy

Two-year program (full-time), winter term, spring term, one-year program (full-time), music psychotherapy placements.

The Master of Music Therapy requires five music psychotherapy placements for students in the two-year program and three music psychotherapy placements for students in the one-year program. In year one, the first placement takes place at the on-site clinic at Laurier and in the community. The second placement is a full-time 3-month internship (Spring term) at an off-campus setting. In the final year of the two year program (and in the one-year program), there are two one-day-per-week placements (Fall and Winter terms), and a full-time 3-month internship (Spring term) at an off-campus setting. All placements are supervised by a qualified and experienced music therapist (MTA) who is also a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (RP).

Requirements for Continuing in the Program

In addition to successfully completing the academic courses, students must be judged to be capable of assuming the professional and clinical responsibilities of the practicum. Any students not meeting these requirements may be required by the Dean of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies to withdraw from the program.

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Administration

• Dean and Associate Deans  

Coach-Accompanists

Composition, community music, keyboard (piano and harpsichord), music education, music history, theory and critical analysis, music therapy, woodwinds, brass and percussion.

Beth Ann de Sousa Coach-Accompanist, Strings and Winds Elvera Froese Coach-Accompanist, Voice

Stephanie Mara Coach-Accompanist, Strings, Winds and Brass

Anna Ronai Coach-Accompanist, Voice Instructor, Faculty of Music

• Coordinator:  Barbara Assiginaak

Barbara Assiginaak Assistant Professor, Composition Coordinator, Composition

Matthew Emery Assistant Professor Kathryn Ladano Instructor, Faculty of Music Director, Improvisation Convergence Ensemble Saman Shahi Instructor, Faculty of Music Cameron McKittrick Instructor, Faculty of Music

• Undergraduate coordinator: Brandon Leis
• Graduate coordinator:  Lee Willingham

Emily Carruthers Experiential Placements Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor

Brennan Connolly Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Planning and Curriculum Musician in Residence, Percussion Director, Percussion Ensemble

Karen Cyrus Assistant Professor, Ethnomusicology, Community Music Director, Tshepo Institute for the Study of Contemporary Africa

Amanda Brunk Instructor, Contemporary Voice (Community Music) 

Maria Kouznetsova Faculty of Music, Events, Concerts, and Performance Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Colin Labadie Instructor, Faculty of Music

Kathryn Ladano Instructor, Faculty of Music Director, Improvisation Convergence Ensemble

Brandon Leis Lecturer, Community Music and Voice Coordinator, Community Music (undergraduate) Director, Laurier Singers

Elizabeth Lepock Instructor, Faculty of Music

Richard Marsella Instructor, Faculty of Music

Terry Paynter Instructor, Faculty of Music

Mariette Stephenson Instructor, Faculty of Music Jason White Instructor, Faculty of Music

Lee Willingham Professor, Music Education Coordinator, Music Education Coordinator, Master of Arts in Community Music Coordinator, PhD: Music (Community Music)

Deanna Yerichuk  (On sabbatical until July 2025) Assistant Professor, Community Music Coordinator, Bachelor of Music in Community Music Director, Laurier Centre for Music in the Community Gerard Yun Assistant Professor, Community Music

Kate Carver Music Director and Conductor, Opera Brennan Connolly Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Planning and Curriculum Musician in Residence, Percussion Director, Percussion Ensemble Amanda Kind Director, VOX

Kathryn Ladano Instructor, Faculty of Music Director, Improvisation Convergence Ensemble Brandon Leis Lecturer, Community Music and Voice Coordinator, Community Music (undergraduate) Director, Laurier Singers

Leah McGray Assistant Professor Director, Laurier Wind Orchestra

Carolyn Neumann VanderBurgh Director, Laurier Concert Choir Instructor, Faculty of Music

• Coordinator:  Anya Alexeyev  (Winter term) and  Joseph Ferretti  (Fall term)

Anya Alexeyev  (On sabaatical until January 2025) Associate Professor, Piano Coordinator, Keyboard (Winter term) Joseph Ferretti Instructor, Piano Coordinator, Keyboard (Fall term)

Cynthia Hiebert Instructor, Harpsichord

Elaine Lau Instructor, Piano

Marnie Van Weelden Instructor, Piano

• Coordinator:  Lee Willingham

Joshua Hill Instructor, Faculty of Music

Cynthia Kinnunen Instructor, Faculty of Music

Daniel Ramjattan Instructor, Guitar

Laurel Swinden Instructor, Flute 

Lee Willingham Professor, Music Education Coordinator, Music Education Coordinator, Master of Arts in Community Music Coordinator, PhD: Music (Community Music) 

• Coordinator:  Kirsten Yri

Eva Branda Instructor, Faculty of Music

Katy Clark Instructor, Faculty of Music Karen Cyrus Assistant Professor, Ethnomusicology, Community Music Director, Tshepo Institute for the Study of Contemporary Africa

Anna Ferenc Associate Professor, Music Theory 

Brent Hagerman Instructor, Faculty of Music

Colin Labadie Instructor, Faculty of Music

Kathryn Ladano Director, Improvisation Convergence Ensemble Instructor, Faculty of Music

Cameron McKittrick Instructor, Faculty of Music Terry Paynter Instructor, Faculty of Music

Kevin Swinden (On sabbatical until July 2025) Associate Professor, Music Theory

Trevor Wagler Instructor, Faculty of Music

Kirsten Yri Associate Professor, Musicology Coordinator, Music History, Theory and Critical Analysis 

• Bachelor of Music Therapy coordinator:  Elizabeth Mitchell
• Master of Music Therapy coordinator:  Demian Kogutek
• PhD coordinator:  Heidi Ahonen

Heidi Ahonen Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, PhD: Music (Music Therapy) Thyra Andrews Instructor, Faculty of Music Emily Carruthers Experiential Placements Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor Amy Clements-Cortés Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor

Noreen Donnell Instructor, Music Therapy Linda Gambell Music Therapy Supervisor  Melissa Jessop Music Therapy Supervisor

Rebekah Jordan-Miller Director, Laurier Academy of Music and Arts Instructor, Faculty of Music

Taylor Kurta Instructor, Faculty of Music

Eunice Kang Music Therapy Supervisor

Sara Klinck Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor

Demian Kogutek Assistant Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, Master of Music Therapy Director, Manfred and Penny Conrad Institute for Music Therapy Research 

Andrea Lamont Instructor, Faculty of Music Elizabeth Mitchell Assistant Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, Bachelor of Music Therapy

Adrienne Pringle Music Therapy Supervisor

Kathleen Skinner Instructor, Faculty of Music Christina Weldon Music Therapy Supervisor

• Coordinator: Katie Schlaikjer

Jeremy Bell Artist-in-Residence, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet

Lina Cao Instructor, Guzheng Lori Gemmell Instructor, Harp

Jerzy Kaplanek Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Performance  Professor, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Strings

Katie Schlaikjer Artist-in-Residence, Cello, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Strings

Christine Vlajk Artist-in-Residence, Viola, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Chamber Music

Sharlene Wallace Instructor, Harp

Ian Whitman Instructor, Double Bass

• Coordinator: Jonathan Rowsell

Ari Cohen Mann Instructor, Oboe 

Derek Conrod Instructor, French Horn

Ross Edwards Instructor, Clarinet

Guy Few Instructor, Trumpet

Kathleen McLean Musician in Residence, Bassoon Katherine Robertson Instructor, French Horn

Jonathan Rowsell Musician in Residence, Tuba/Euphonium Coordinator, Woodwinds, Brass and Percussion

Peter Shackleton Instructor, Clarinet Laurel Swinden Instructor, Flute 

Rachel Thomas Instructor, Trombone

Dave Wiffen Instructor, Saxophone

• Coordinator:  Leslie Fagan

Kimberly Barber Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - External Affairs, Partnerships and Graduate Studies Professor, Voice Administrative Coordinator, Opera

Kate Carver Music Director and Conductor, Opera

Katy Clark Instructor, Faculty of Music

Leslie Fagan  (On sabaatical until July 2025) Assistant Professor, Voice Coordinator, Voice

Brandon Leis Lecturer, Community Music and Voice Coordinator, Community Music (undergraduate) Director, Laurier Singers Elizabeth Lepock Instructor, Faculty of Music

James McLean Instructor, Voice Jennie Such Instructor, Voice

Dean and Associate Deans

Cynthia Johnston Turner Dean, Faculty of Music

Brennan Connolly Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Planning and Curriculum Musician in Residence, Percussion Director, Percussion Ensemble Jerzy Kaplanek Associate Dean, Faculty of Music - Performance Professor, Violin, Strings and Chamber Music Member of the Penderecki String Quartet Coordinator, Strings

Michelle Corbett Senior Administrative Officer Rebekah Jordan-Miller Director, Laurier Academy of Music and Arts Instructor, Faculty of Music

Mathew Kensett Director of Production and Performance Facilities Operations

Justine MacNeil Administrative Manager

Nick Bastian Technical Coordinator, Performance Facilities

Emily Carruthers Graduate Program & Experiential Placements Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music Music Therapy Supervisor Alyssa Chong Auditions Coordinator and Administrative Assistant Kathy Gauci Academic Advisor 

Mieke Kanmacher Communication, Enrolment and Recruitment Coordinator

Jessica Khan Operations Coordinator, Laurier Academy of Music and Arts Maria Kouznetsova Events, Concerts, and Performance Coordinator Instructor, Faculty of Music

Heather Lepine Experiential Placement Administrative Coordinator

Danny McAfee  Piano Technician

Amy Neufeld Facilities and Resource Coordinator

Malinga Perera Maddumage Financial Analyst

Contact Us:

E: [email protected] T: 548-889-4675

Laurier Music

@lauriermusic

lauriermusic

Laurier Faculty of Music

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Music (BMus)

Unleash your musical passion at Laurier, where you’ll learn from our acclaimed faculty through personalized and supportive feedback. Whether you want to perform, research, compose, teach, or heal, you’ll find a concentration that matches your passion and ambition. You can also apply to the Bachelor of Music Therapy program in your second year. Auditions are required for entry to the Bachelor of Music. 

Looking ahead to a career in education? Apply to the  Music with Teaching Option  program.

Apply Your Learning

As a first-year student you will enjoy weekly private lessons, ensemble playing, masterclasses and lectures that teach you the fundamentals of music theory and history. Our program helps you grow your musical skills and confidence with generous personal attention from your instructors. When you join Laurier, you become part of a distinguished community that values your academic and mental well-being and helps you throughout your four years of study to pursue the path that meets your goals.

Program Highlights

At Laurier, you will enjoy the advantage of having subsidized and skilled coach-accompanists who will support and enhance your musical development and performance.

The Navigating the Music Industry Ecosystem Certificate at Laurier is a unique opportunity for any music student to gain insider knowledge, practical skills, and professional connections that will help them thrive in the music industry. 

• Opera Laurier  showcases the talents of singers and musicians in two captivating performances every year – a selection of scenes in the fall and a complete opera in the spring.

Take the Stage

Laurier offers endless opportunities to pursue your performing interests. Each year, you will be part of one of our ensembles and learn from our experienced Conductors, who will mentor and support you as a performer. You can also showcase your solo music skills by participating in our student recital concert series. No matter your comfort or experience with performing, you will join a motivating community that will improve your level of performance.

Ensembles include:

• Laurier Symphony Orchestra
• Laurier Wind Orchestra
• Laurier Concert Choir
• Vox Experimental Show Choir 
• Improvisation Convergence Ensemble
• Jazz Ensemble
• Percussion Ensemble
• additional chamber groups

Beyond the Classroom

Make the most out of your university career by taking advantage of all that Laurier has to offer you. Volunteer work, campus clubs, leadership programs, studying abroad, work experience – there are so many ways you can extend your classroom experience into the real world. Learn more about experiential learning through the Music Experience and Career Guide .

*Center for World University Rankings (CWUR)

Admission to the Bachelor of Music is based on the collective results of meeting academic requirements, successful audition, interview with a faculty member, reference and an optional portfolio.

Ontario High School Admission Requirements

• Minimum admission range: 75%.
• Competitive admission range based on last year’s admitted students: Low .
• English at 60%.
• Successful audition.
• Interview with a faculty member.

Canadian Admission Requirements (Outside of Ontario)

Students applying to this program from a Canadian province outside of Ontario are encouraged to review our course equivalents by province chart . This chart will show you what courses from your province are equivalent to the admission requirements listed under Ontario High School Admission Requirements.

International Admission Requirements

Students applying to this program from an international curriculum are encouraged to review our curriculum-specific requirements ; you must also meet all program-specific requirements listed under the Ontario High School Admission Requirements section.

English-Proficiency Requirement

Laurier's language of instruction is English, and so we may require you to provide evidence of your English proficiency to help make sure you experience success in your academic courses.

Your three most recent years of full-time education must be in English without taking any ESL (English as a Second Language) courses. If you do not meet this requirement, you must provide evidence of your English proficiency.

We reserve the right to request an English-language test from any applicant.

If you do not meet Laurier's English proficiency requirement but are academically qualified for your program, you may be eligible for a conditional offer of admission .

Academic Transition Pathway (ATP) Program

The academic transition pathway (ATP) program is offered through our affiliated institution, Wilfrid Laurier International College, and provides an option for meeting our English-proficiency requirement. If you have received an offer to Laurier with a condition to meet our English-proficiency requirement, you can meet that condition by successfully completing the ATP program.

College Pathways

Our unique academic partnership with Randolph College for the Performing Arts (RCPA) is designed to allow students to earn both their Bachelor of Music with a concentration in Self-Directed Studies and their Performing Arts diploma in only four years.

Learn more about our college transfer agreement .

Other Admission Requirements

Visit our admission requirements section to find specific requirements for university students, indigenous applicants, mature learners, homeschooled applicants, senior citizens, refugees, and more. 

Audition and Interview

Auditions and interviews will take place in-person on Laurier's Waterloo campus. Virtual auditions and interviews can be arranged based on distance (400+ km) or extenuating circumstances.

Applicants may choose to bring their own accompanist or work with one of Laurier’s professional coach-accompanists at no additional charge for an in-person audition.

Audition Repertoire

Audition repertoire should be prepared based on the instructions listed for your instrument . Although official Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) certificates and training are not required, we recommend performing (whether vocally or instrumentally) at a Grade 8 RCM level or higher in order to stay competitive.

Don't hesitate to contact us at [email protected] for questions regarding repertoire choices.

Interview Format

Interviews are relaxed conversations with a Laurier Faculty of Music faculty member to leanr more about your love of music. Your interviewer will be different from the faculty members sitting on your audition panel. 

Audition Dates

Auditions run from January to April. Dates are available to applicants through Laurier’s Audition Portal. 

Additional Audition Information

Meet our auditions coordinator, find out how to apply, what happens after your audition, as well as more about our keyboard facilities on our auditions page .

Applicants will provide contact information for one reference who can speak to their musical abilities. Contact information for references is submitted through the Audition Portal*. Laurier will contact your reference with a list of questions that can be submitted electronically.

*A link to the Audition Portal will be provided to you after Laurier receives your application.

Portfolio (Optional)

An optional portfolio of past performances, composed and/or original music may be uploaded to the Audition Portal* through video or audio links. This does not replace your audition. *A link to the Audition Portal will be provided to you after Laurier receives your application.

Your Next Steps

Program options and courses, instruments.

We know your passion for your instrument or voice is a big part of what defines you. Find your instrument below to learn what makes studying it at Laurier unique, as well as audition advice and repertoire requirements.

Don’t study an instrument listed below? Contact [email protected] for audition information.

• Double Bass
• French Horn
• Tuba and Euphonium

First-Year Courses

• Music and its Contexts
• Foundational Vocal Techniques
• Musical Skills Lab I
• Practical Study (lessons and masterclass)
• 1.5 electives

Sample Upper-Year Courses

Composition.

• Introduction to Music Therapy
• Introduction to Elementary Music Education
• The Business of Being a Professional Musician
• Introduction to Accompanying and Keyboard Skills
• Acting for Singers I
• Studies in the History of Opera

Similar Programs

• Community Music (BMus) | Waterloo
• Music Therapy (BMT) | Waterloo

Bachelor of Education Pathway

Top-ranking Music graduates are guaranteed admission to Laurier’s Bachelor of Education (BEd) program, as long as they meet the minimum admission requirements for the BEd program.

Metalworks Institute Pathway

Blend a Laurier music degree and a Metalworks diploma, receiving state-of-the-art, hands-on audio engineering experience from Metalworks alongside the traditional and innovative music degree options at Laurier in as little as four years.

Randolph College for the Performing Arts Pathway

Earn a Laurier Bachelor of Music and a Performing Arts College Diploma focusing on acting, singing and dance from Randolph College for the Performing Arts in a condensed time frame.

Teaching Option

Interested in a direct pathway to a Bachelor of Education?

Laurier’s undergraduate Teaching Option consists of 4.0 credits throughout your degree: five core half-credit courses offered through the Faculty of Education, plus three elective half-credit courses from an approved list. 

If you're admitted into and complete this Teaching Option pathway, you'll have earned a guaranteed spot in our Bachelor of Education (BEd) program, provided you meet all the admissions requirements, including:

• Meet all requirements of your undergraduate program.
• Achieving a 10.5 GPA on the ten final full credits completed at Laurier.  
• Complete all requirements of the Teaching Option.   
• Satisfy all admission requirements of the BEd program.  

Concentrations

You'll start your Bachelor of Music (BMus) with a year of well-rounded music foundations, giving you the flexibility to delve deeper into all areas of music before choosing your concentration in second year .

Concentrations are offered in composition, integrated musical arts, music education, music history, theory and critical analysis, performance and self-directed studies.

You may also apply to the Bachelor of Music Therapy after second year instead of choosing a concentration.

Once you are a music student at Laurier our academic advisor is always available to help you determine which concentration is the right fit for your career goals.

Check out other options to enhance your degree .

Seek and find your own unique musical voice and express it through diverse genres and mediums for soloists, ensembles, orchestra, opera, theatre and   a wide range of multi-media— film, video, gaming, animation, VR/AR, art installations and much more. Learn from the best in the field, collaborate with fellow composers and performers, gain experience through readings/workshops, public performances, and commissions.  

• Learn the fundamentals of composing for various ensembles.
• Study on-on-one with composition faculty members in third and fourth year.
• Explore a variety of styles and mediums, includign electronic and new media.
• Participate in a weekly composers' seminar and a final year major project. 
• Incorporate cutting-edge technology and collaborate creatively with others.
• Present your pieces in student composer concerts five times a year. 
• Have your works performed by the Laurier Symphony and Wind Orchestra as well as the Penderecki String Quartet. 
• Join the Composers and Improvisers Association and access additional composing opportunities. 

Music Education

Discover how to inspire the next generation of musicians with practical and engaging courses in pedagogy, technology, leadership and performance. You'll gain valuable insights and skills through real-world teaching opportunities and mentorship from experienced educators. 

• Top-ranking Music graduates are guaranteed admission to Laurier’s  Bachelor of Education (BEd)  program, as long as they meet the minimum admission requirements of the BEd program.
• Learn how to teach music effectively and creatively in private or public settings. 
• Develop skills in lesson design, technology use, assessment, classroom management, conducting, instrumental or choral techniques. 
• Study a second teaching subject of your choice. 
• Gain in-school experience through volunteering in local schools organized by Laurier's Student Association of Music Educators (SAME). 
• Participate in the Ontario Music Educators' Association annual conference and other educational and social events.

Integrated Musical Arts (IMA)

Follow your dreams of music creation, performance and production in any genre through this multi-dimensional hands-on degree. Grow and refine your musical adaptability and professional skills through self-directed projects presented publicly under the guidance, mentorship and support that fits your career goals.

• Prepare for a versatile and successful career in music production, performance, and composition or songwriting. 
• Engage in experiential, project-centred learning that reflects your own interests and music strengths.
• Complete three self-directed final projects in musical disciplines of Creation, Production and Performance with the guidance of the IMA coordinator. 
• Create partnerships with other musicians that will support your professional development after graduation. 
• Showcase your final projects in your final year of study and build a professional level portfolio in three musical disciplines.
• Develop practical skills in music production, performance and creation.

Music History, Theory and Critical Analysis

Immerse yourself in history and theory while enhancing your performance abilities. Craft a degree that reflects your academic passions across diverse cultures and periods while highlighting your musical talents.

• Music History, Theory, and Critical Analysis is an academic program that also offers performance opportunities through lessons, masterclasses and ensemble work.
• Choose from a variety of music history and theory electives to tailor your studies to your interests. 
• Explore music from different periods, cultures and genres, and develop your listening, writing, analytical and compositional skills. 
• Work on a research project with a faculty member in your final year. 
• Prepare for graduate studies or a career in musicology, music theory, library science or other related fields. 
• Become a research assistant or peer tutor and learn from alumni who have pursued advanced degrees at prestigious universities. 
• Take a variety of Laurier electives that are exciting to you outside of music. 

Performance

Sharpen your skills on your instrument or voice through personalized guidance from your studio teacher and coach-accompanist. Showcase your talents in various settings such as ensemble concerts, opera productions, competitions, and recitals. You'll reach new heights of musical excellence. 

• Learn from 90-minute weekly lessons and perform in various concerts and competitions.
• Showcase your skills in a 60-minute graduation recital in fourth year. 
• Benefit from masterclass guest artists who are renowned in the industry.

Self-Directed Studies

Select from a rich variety of courses in the fields of culture and society, performance and production, and style and structure. Explore and concentrate on the subjects that spark your curiosity, broadening your musical knowledge while creating a customized and meaningful degree. 

• Enjoy a flexible musical education with electives in various subjects.
• Learn from weekly one-hour lessons and join instrumental or vocal ensembles.
• Study diverse courses in Culture and Society, Performance and Production, and Style and Structure .
• Customize your degree with upper-level courses in your preferred area of interest.

Tuition and Scholarships

Getting a university education is an investment in your future.

At Laurier, we take financial health seriously by providing a wide variety of funding opportunities for you throughout your degree, such as scholarships and bursaries , and by equipping you with the skills to manage your finances effectively in the years to come.

Calculate Your Expenses

Faculty of Music Scholarships

On top of any entrance scholarships you may earn, a Faculty of Music auditon scholarship. Roughly $100,000 in Music scholarshps are awarded to first-year students each year. Financial success doesn’t end in first year; scholarships are available to upper-year students by application.

Our top first-year scholarships based on audition include the $5,000 Ken Murray Entrance Scholarship and the $2,000 Martens-Falk Voice Scholarship .

"The Music program at Laurier is highly respected and renowned due to the many opportunities it provides to students, whether that be performing in the community, within the faculty or sponsoring students to pursue their own entrepreneurial pursuits, including competitions."

Naomi Brito, Music graduate

"Laurier has provided me with all the materials I need in the program to be a successful musician and take away much of it into my professional career... and that’s all in just one course!"

Ian Fong , Music graduate

Your Career Awaits

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

Here are just some examples of our graduates' destinations. What’s yours?

Sample Career Options

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

• musician/performer
• music therapist
• music/arts journalist
• sound technician

Explore more careers .

Support After Graduation

Alumni for life means that you have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

View Our Tour Options

"It’s so great to be taught by such distinguished musicians, many with performance histories circling the globe. I enjoy building my skill and seeing my abilities develop as a singer. I love being able to witness my peers learn and grow during masterclasses."

Ashley Sherk, Music graduate

Interested in More Info?

Email [email protected] , call 548.889.8888 or see all Music faculty and staff .

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