First-year bachelor of music students here at Carleton should prepare for an incredibly varied program, according to assistant director of music Anna Hoefnagels.
Hoefnagels, who specializes in First Nations and Canadian music, said first-year students should expect a “pretty outgoing, friendly group of faculty, but challenging.”
“[Carleton music students] have different expectations than other university students,” she said, pointing out the equal focus on theory, history and musicianship.
The music program allows for the use of almost any instrument, Hoefnagels said, describing a range from flute to accordion. Nor are they limited in style – classical, jazz and pop music are choices of study, all eligible for university credit.
Credits can also be earned by performing in musicals and off-campus productions.
Besides the usual lecture-style courses in music theory and history, students will also have the opportunity for one-on-one music lessons with professors, and are able to perform at recitals.
Carleton is home to many music groups such as the Carleton University Choir and the music society.
When asked what first-year students would find most interesting about the program, Hoefnagels replied, “Probably the inclusivity, the comprehensiveness. We value pop music on par with art music . . . which for a lot of students is a real perk.”