The Complete Guide to
First-year Life at the
Schulich School of Music
édition 2014-2015 edition
A Publication of the Music Undergraduate Students’ Association of McGill University © 2012
The Complete Guide to Life in
the
Schulich School of Music
2014-2015 Edition
Edited By: Julie Choi
Contributors:
Melodie Adler
Julie Gentile
Naomi Perley
David Benson
Ned Hanlon
Lianna Portnoy
Emil Briones
Justin Kisch
Tanya Roberts
Tristan CapacAndrew Mangal
David Ryshpan
chione
David Matthews
Lauren Simmons
Clive Chang
Daniel Mills
Isaac Shaw
Amber Chow
Paul Moody
Megan Snell
Simon-Oliver
Rezan OnenCarolina Soares
Delage
Lapointe
Sean Waugh
Alexander Dyck
Cindy Paré
Allegra Young
Note: The Handbook is published by the Music Undergraduate Students’
Association, a student society at McGill University. The content of this
publication does not necessarily represent the views of the Music Undergraduate Students’ Association or McGill University.
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Foreword
Welcome to the 22nd edition of the first year handbook published
by the Music Undergraduate Students’ Association (MUSA) of
McGill University. The transition to university is can be a multitude
of things, including exciting, challenging, scary or just completely
and utterly confusing. Whatever the case may be, we have designed this handbook to highlight opportunities within the Schulich School of Music, and offer friendly advice regarding academic, social, music and personal situations!
All sections of the handbook have been written by current and
former music students, who have experienced first hand many of
the best kept secrets about their respective programs. More importantly, they are eager to share their knowledge that they
lacked when they first arrived at McGill. While course calendars,
academic advisors, and the First-Year Office are all valuable resources, the BEST resource to help you navigate through McGill
is someone who is already a few steps ahead of you on the same
journey!! :)
We have designed this information package to help ease you into
your first year as a music student. Whether you’re trying to
choose your courses, apply for scholarships, or curious for the
future, we’ve tried to anticipate all your needs. Most of all, we
want to help you find a way to make your time at McGill
as enjoyable and meaningful as possible. So read on!
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Table of Contents
Intro to MUSA
MUSA Council 2012-13
5
The First-Year Program
8
Coming from CÉGEP
Tips for Registration
Individual Programs
Auditions and Ensembles
Practice Rooms
Marvin Duchow Music Library
25
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Bureaucracy at McGill
Who’s Who at the SSofM
30
Let me Upgrade You
Getting Involved
Life in Montréal
The Back Page
43
3
4
11
12
13
22
23
26
29
32
36
38
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Intro to MUSA
What is MUSA? M.U.S.A. stands for the “Music Undergraduate
Students' Association” of McGill University. We represent all undergraduate students, whether your degree is a Bachelor's, Licentiate, or Undergraduate Artist Diploma. (That means you!)
What does MUSA do for me? The elected executive meet every
two weeks to decide on a multitude of things, including where to
focus our energy and budget, issues that require collaboration
with the Administration, and planning events for our student body.
This can include anything from addressing academic grievances
from students who wish to remain anonymous, issues such as
cafeteria service, and academic problems such as curricular reform and physical development.
We address issues through monthly meetings with the Dean and
by coordinating student representation on the many committees
governing the leadership of the Schulich School of Music. Issues
relating to the McGill community outside of the Schulich School of
Music are addressed through a position on McGill Senate, a representative within the Student's Society of McGill University, and
through involvement in several campus-wide committees.
We need your input! Student feedback directs the activities of the
Executive, and the ways in which we represent your concerns.
Our office (E-106) is located right off the cafeteria, and all students are encouraged to walk in and talk about issues and concerns. Alternatively, you may call us at (514) 398-4551, or e-mail
questions@mcgillmusa.ca. All of MUSA Executive meetings are
open to the public and students are welcome to attend.
Besides activism, MUSA provides numerous services, holds
events and administers funds for all music students, including:
Music Frosh, funding for Special Projects through the Student Life
Fund, the Masterclass/Lecture Fund, a Musician’s Health Series,
Locker Registration, publication of the Phonograph (MUSA’s official newspaper, for which we gladly accept articles from students), BBQ's, parties, and much more behind the scenes. For
more information on these activities and more please visit the
MUSA website at www.mcgillmusa.ca.
4
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
The 2012-2013 MUSA Council
President –
Diana Farnand –
U3 Flute Performance;
president@mcgillmusa.ca
Vice-President of
Internal Affairs –
Julie Choi –
U1 Piano Performance;
internal@mcgillmusa.ca
Vice-President of
External Affairs –
Nancy Zhang –
U3 Music Education;
external@mcgillmusa.ca
5
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Music Senator –
Maximillion Scebba –
U4 Music Theory & Music History;
senator@mcgillmusa.ca
Vice-President of Academic – Chelsea Kolic –
U2 Voice Performance;
academic@mcgillmusa.ca
Vice-President of Finance –
Zainen Suzuki –
U2 Voice Performance;
finance@mcgillmusa.ca
Vice-President of Admin –
Parker Sheil –
U2 Piano Performance;
questions@mcgillmusa.ca
6
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Vice-President of Events –
Allison O’Brien –
U2 Voice Performance;
events@mcgillmusa.ca
Vice-President of
Communications –
Céleste Pagniello –
U1 Flute Faculty;
communication@mcgillmusa.ca
Vice-President of Health
and Athletics –
Anthony Mariano U2 Saxophone Faculty;
atheletics@mcgillmusa.ca
7
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Editor in Chief of
Photograph–
Huei Lin –
U3 Saxophone Performance;
academic@mcgillmusa.ca
8
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
* Each September, elections are held for the position of First-Year
Representative. This person brings forward the concerns of firstyear music students to the Executive. If you want to get involved
and make a difference, this is a great way to do it. Contact us for
more information on this and other volunteer opportunities.
MUSA Contact Information
Website: www.mcgillmusa.ca
Email: general@mcgillmusa.ca
Phone: (514) 398-4551
Office Location: E-106, Music Cafeteria (First Floor)
9
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
The First-Year Program
By Sean Waugh, Voice Performance Alumnus
& Lauren Simmons, Music Education Alumnus
After Secondary School in Québec, students usually attend CEGEP before attending University. Students generally attend
CEGEP for two years and specialize in their prospective University Major. Since CEGEP classes are basically all equal to introductory classes here at McGill, Québec students enter McGill
technically categorized as “U1” (or second year) students. But,
because McGill also has a huge international population as well
as a much larger population of out of province Canadians, the
entering “first year” class can vary significantly. McGill has
therefore created a system to categorize its students into “years”
as follows:
“YEAR”
Student Makeup
U0
Coming from out of province or
international high school curriculum
U1
Coming from CEGEP. (Or from an
IB school or with large amount of
AP credits, This doesn’t apply to
music majors because our firstyear requirements are not offered
in the AP or IB programs)
U2, 3, 4
Subsequent years of study.
Equal to
First Year
Second Year
Third Year,
Fourth Year
and Beyond
Helpful Hint: The McGill Administration is notorious for not defining “First
Year” in certain instances. It is always good to double check that you
actually have to do some “First Year” things if you are a U0.
10
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
General First-Year Course Load
Classical Area (All Bachelor of Music Programs except Jazz )
Fall Semester
Winter Semester
MUIN 180 –BMus Practical Lessons 1 (3 Credits)
MUEN xxx – Large Ensemble
(2 Credits)
MUEN xxx – Small Ensemble
(1 Credit)
MUTH 150 – Theory and Analysis 1 (3 Credits)
MUPD 135 – Music as a Profession 1 (1 Credit)
MUSP 140 – Musicianship Training 1 (2 Credits)
MUSP 170 – Keyboard 1
(1 Credit)
MUHL 186 – Western Musical
Traditions (3 Credits)
Non Music/Free Elective
MUIN 181 – BMus Practical Lessons 2 (3 Credits)
MUEN xxx – Large Ensemble
(2 Credits)
MUEN xxx – Small Ensemble
(1 Credit)
MUTH 151 – Theory and Analysis
2 (3 Credits)
MUPD 136 – Music as a Profession 2 (1 Credit)
MUSP 141 – Musicianship Training 2 (2 Credits)
MUSP 171 – Keyboard 2
(1 Credit)
MUHL 286 - Critical Thinking
About Music (3 Credits)
Non Music/Free Elective
Jazz Area (Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance)
Fall Semester
Winter Semester
MUIN 180 –BMus Practical Lessons 1 (3 Credits)
MUEN xxx – Large Ensemble
(2 Credits)
MUEN 570 – Jazz Combo
(1 Credit)
MUJZ 160 – Jazz Materials 1
(3 Credits)
MUJZ 170 – Jazz Keyboard 1
(1 Credit)
MUPD 135 – Music as a Profession 1 (1 Credit)
MUSP 123 – Jazz Ear Training 1
(2 Credits)
MUJZ 187 – Jazz History Survey
(3 Credits)
Non Music/Free Elective
11
MUIN 181 – BMus Practical Lessons 2 (3 Credits)
MUEN xxx – Large Ensemble
(2 Credits)
MUEN 570 – Jazz Combo
(1 Credit)
MUJZ 161 – Jazz Materials 2
(3 Credits)
MUJZ 171 – Jazz Keyboard 2
(1 Credit)
MUPD 136 – Music as a Profession 2 (1 Credit)
MUSP 124 – Jazz Ear Training 2
(2 Credits)
Non Music/Free Elective
Non Music/Free Elective
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Theory (MUTH) - Focuses on basic four-part harmony and Bach chorale analysis.
Musicianship (MUSP) - Focuses on ear training and sight singing and
dictation of scores, rhythms, tonal melodies, atonal melodies and harmonic progressions. The Schulich School of Music uses Fixed Do.
The keyboard courses focus on basic piano playing and on transposition, idioms, harmonizing melodies, and score reading.
History (MUHL) – The first-year class presents an extremely BROAD
overview of the entire history of western music. The second level class
introduces you to strategies for research and writing about music.
Jazz Studies (MUJZ) – The content of MUJZ courses is specifically
designed to hone related skills and knowledge of Jazz Majors.
NB: Depending on your program, there might be other requirement that
you are able to fulfill in your first year, for example, instrumental pedagogy and techniques classes for Music Education Majors.
Placement Exams - You have probably already received some information regarding placement exams which will take place in late August.
It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you take all placement exams even
if you feel there is no way you can pass out of the corresponding classes. You never know, you may place out of one unexpectedly. Students often test out of musicianship courses. Furthermore, students with
prior piano experience typically pass out of MUSP 170 (Piano proficiency). Also, the placement exams give you a preview of the course work
you will be focusing on in specific classes. If you place out of any of
the classes outlined above, you can usually replace them with higherlevel courses in the same stream, depending on what is offered in that
particular semester.
Credit Overload - The minimum credit count for a full time student is
only 12. Therefore, if this outline seems too overwhelming, do not fear!
You can take fewer credits during your first year, if you feel you need a
smoother transition to university. As long as you make sure to have a
look at your degree requirements, and plan out roughly what you are to
take each academic year, you should still be able to finish your degree
on time.
It is also possible to take summer courses at McGill. All of the core
theory, history, and musicianship courses are offered in the summer
sessions as well as many non-music electives. There are three summer sessions (May, June, and July) in which you can take a maximum
of 9 credits in each. Make sure you check online in mid-March to see
which session offers which courses.
12
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Coming from Cégep
By Tristan Capacchione, Music Theory Alumnus
Most Quebec students have probably gotten a D.É.C. (Diplôme
d’Études Collégiales). If this D.É.C. wasn’t in music it probably only affects how many Arts/Science Electives you would have to take. Aside
from that you would be starting as a real first-year (U0). This of course
doesn’t take into account of private education attained at conservatories
and similar institutions.
If you did take music in CÉGEP, this won’t get you exemptions from music courses automatically, but rather you have the option to take placement tests to get exemptions from first and second-year music courses.
You will most likely have six credits transferred to your Arts/Science
elective area. A word of warning: when doing placement tests be aware
that some teachers come from a slightly different school of Theory and
don’t necessarily do things in exactly the same way. If you had a hard
time in history, prepare well on your own over the summer to place out
of the history survey course (MUHL 186). Remember, your chance of
getting placed out of first-year courses depends on your ability
and preparation in these areas.
13
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Tips for Registration
Minerva
You must register for the above courses and their tutorials online (note
that history and theory courses have two separate semesters that you
must register for) BUT your practical instruction (private lessons) course
gets registered for you. Also, DO NOT register for any ensembles until
after audition results are posted.
Over-ride Forms
The maximum credits a student can register for one semester on Minerva is 18, but it is quite easy for a music student to exceed that number.
Therefore, if you encounter this problem, before you can register for
more classes, you must go to the Student affairs office and pick up a
Minerva over-ride form. You will then have to get this form signed by
an administrator and usually the professor of the class you are trying to
register for. Once you return this form to the student affairs office with
all of the necessary information, you can then log on to Minerva and
register for that class. These forms may also be used if you want to
get into a class that is full or a class for which you lack the prerequisites according to Minerva. Over-ride forms are the main way to
get around Minerva if something isn’t going how it should be.
Academic Electives
Remember, you must complete a certain amount of music electives and
non-music elective credits in order to fulfill the requirements for your
individual major. You may also take your NON-music electives with
the PASS/FAIL option. (Up to 10% of the total credits for your major). Taking a class pass/fail entails the reception of the credits when
you receive a mark above 65 in the class and a P on your transcript.
However, the mark you get will not affect your GPA. Therefore, if you
happen to fail, it will not count as a 0 on your transcript and will only appear as an “F”. Caution: Just make sure that you, in fact, pass your
electives as it is easy to get behind in academic courses with all of the
musical commitments you will have!
14
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Individual Programs
Here are some quick facts and tips for the individual majors themselves.
If you still have questions, do not hesitate to send them to general@mcgillmusa.ca.
Performance, by Lianna Portnoy
Overview: As the name suggests, the program is based heavily on
practical instruction and development on your main instrument. The key
to survival is balancing your time devoted to practicing, working on your
academic classes, as well as taking care of yourself.
The First Year: Like all first year students, performance majors have
the basic requirements outlined in the first year course table. The
Practical Lesson requirements are the defining components in a performance degree, being the only program that mandates its students to
take lessons their entire time at the university.
Academics and Performance: Be sure to balance your practicing
with your course work, since it is easy to neglect it. Also, make sure
you register for your academic electives early since they fill up quickly.
Note that vocalists have language requirements as well as academic
electives that also serve as pre-requisites for diction classes. Try to
take at least one diction course your first year.
All students should
consider the option of an academic or music minor since you have to
fulfill a certain amount of academic elective credits anyway. Typical
minors are 18-24 credits, so look into it in the course calendar. Note
that pianists and guitarists are also required to do a certain amount of a
large ensemble credits, and most audition for choirs, so don’t forget to
sign up!
Potential Problems (and how to solve them): Your university course
calendar is your friend! Depending on your instrument, you may have
subtle differences in course requirements so make sure you check.
The race for practice rooms is one of the biggest problems for performance majors. Be aware that practice rooms are fuller during the day,
so early morning and night practicing is a good idea. Also take advantage of the 24-hour practice rooms across the street in the 550
Sherbrooke building.
Insider Hints: Effective practicing is more important than the length of
time you spend practicing! Aside from practicing, there is the added
stress of small ensembles and your lessons. Make sure you find ways
to de-stress and stay healthy. This is especially true for vocalists, but if
15
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
you do get sick, cancel your lessons, do not sing until you are better,
and try to postpone immediate performances.
The practice rooms of the fourth floor of the East wing have both live
and dead rooms; black walls indicate dead rooms and all white walls are
live, so there ought to be enough empty rooms to choose your preference.
Notes for individual instruments:
Vocalists- Try to memorize your pieces as quickly as possible so you
can concentrate on the music, and always look presentable for your lessons.
Pianists- Note the extra requirements you have, such as the fact that
you must play a piano Tuesday concert once a semester, and note the
requirements for Technique exams and the Concerto exam.
Violinists- You have to do a certain number of semesters of small ensemble on viola so be prepared.
Jazz Performance, by Simon-Olivier Delage
Overview: The jazz program, in relation to the classical stream at
McGill, is much smaller, which makes for a unique experience at the
Schulich School of Music.
The First Year: Make sure you look out during placement exams for
the jazz area related diagnostic tests.
Academics and Performance: You are required to take 8 semesters
of jazz combo. They are formed in the beginning of the year during an
initial jam session, so you can find the type of players you want to play
with. Look out for information in the beginning of the year for this session, as it is highly recommended that you attend. You are also required to do 8 semesters of Big Band (or Jazz Choir for vocalists) or
another basic ensemble (chamber jazz ensemble, or any of the classical
large ensembles, such as choir or wind symphony).
Potential Problems (and how to solve them): Make sure you know
the requirements specifically for jazz majors, since most general announcements are geared more towards classical players. Refer to
your university course calendar first before asking course related questions – it’s a great tool! Note that you can take 10% of your non-music
credits pass/fail, but make sure you pass. Remember to register for
your non-music classes early.
16
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Insider Hints: Take advantage of all that McGill and Montreal has to
offer. Go to as many jazz performances as you can both in and out of
McGill. Play with as many different players as possible so you can
broaden your jazz knowledge. Also, get your sight-reading down in
order to prepare for auditions. Finally, if you feel you have desire to
represent your fellow jazz majors, look into running for the MUSA!
Music Education, by Cindy Paré
Overview: This program is quite different from the others, as students
have to deal with two faculties: the Faculty of Education and the Schulich School of Music. Essentially, you graduate with two degrees – one
in Bachelor of Music and one in Bachelor of Education.
The First Year: Prepare mentally to have an overwhelming year! You
will have a blast, but you will be very busy.
The best recommendation would probably be not to take more than 18
credits a semester. You should be comfortable with 15-16 credits. If you
can handle that many credits during your first semester, you might consider taking more in following semesters.
Register for instrumental technique classes. Be prepared to learn a new
instrument every three weeks. In these classes, it is important to know
that you will have a lab where you will be playing in a band with your
fellow education majors. These classes are a wonderful opportunity to
meet everyone in the program because ultimately, you will likely end up
forming a very tight-knit community with the other music education students.
Your first year will be mostly filled with music classes. However, it is not
a bad idea to register for Philosophical Foundations of Education in the
Winter semester. Your education classes will be in the Education building, which is relatively far from your music classes, so it’s a good idea to
leave about a half-hour between classes in both buildings.
In order to be a teacher in the province of Quebec, you have to pass an
English Proficiency Exam. To complete this exam, you must register for
EDEC 215 at the same time you register your classes for the Fall semester. The exam takes place in December. You will be asked to answer 15 grammar questions and to write a short essay.
Potential Problems (and how to solve them): If you ever decide to
take more than 18 credits for a semester, you will have to get an override form. These are available in the Student Affairs office.
17
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
If you have any questions regarding your program, the Music department is likely to send you to the Education building and vice-versa. The
best resource is Lisa Lorenzino, Chair of Music Education. Older Music
Education fellows are also worth asking since they are familiar with the
program. Do not hesitate to ask these people for advice since they are
all very friendly and willing to help!
This program asks for 173-174 credits. Consider doing it in 5 or 6 years.
It is very hard to fit it into only 4 years.
You will have to do a First Field Experience. It will take place after the
Winter semester so plan to stay longer at the beginning of summer to do
it. It is a great idea to do it in your first year so that you find out if music
teaching is right for you. Remember that you have to register for the
First Professional Seminar as well.
Insider Hints: The Music Education students have their own association named MEdUSA. (Music Education Undergraduate Students’ Association) If you have any questions, they will surely be a valuable source
of information.
When taking an instrumental techniques class, try to practice at least a
little bit every day. This way, you will improve faster on your new instrument and get better grades for these classes. Make sure to keep up
with the readings!
Music History, by Naomi Perley
Overview: So, the history of music is what interests you? Then this is
the degree for you! Along with the ensembles and lessons that all students take, you get to take a large number of upper-year music history
classes. This program is great because of the flexibility in what courses
you can take. In the Major program, you get to choose seven music history courses from a list of close to thirty. For the Honours program, you
get to choose nine such classes, and there is some flexibility in which
analysis and counterpoint classes you take. The music history program
can lead you wherever you want, career-wise: to work at CBC Radio, as
a music critic, for an arts association….one recent music history graduate is even starting med school this fall! If you are considering graduate
studies in music history, you should probably do the Honours degree.
Because you take so many music history classes, along with a large
number of advanced theory classes, the Honours program gives you a
very solid academic base, not to mention a leg up on grad school applicants from across the continent.
The First Year: In your first year, you take the same core classes as
mentioned in the first year course table. At the beginning of the year,
18
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
you will be asked to sit placement exams. If you have studied theory or
music history before, and especially if you have taken Royal Conservatory exams, brush up on these subjects. It will make your life so much
easier if you get exempt from a number of classes! First and second
year are a little weird if you’re a music history student, since you don’t
get to the music history classes till your third year. Don’t worry if you
don’t know any music history students when you start. The truth is,
many people switch into music history sometime during their degree,
rather than starting in it.
Academics & Performance: Alongside all the great music history classes you get to take, you can take lessons and participate in ensembles
for your first three years. Lessons and ensembles are a rewarding break
from all the academic work you have to do. You can also use your lessons and ensembles to your advantage by studying the music that
you’re interested in academically. Study a piece with your teacher that
you want to write a paper on, and join an ensemble appropriate for the
era you’re interested in. If you find yourself drawn more to performance
than music history, many people do either a Double Major in performance and music history, or the Minor in music history for performers.
Potential Problems (and how to solve them): There is a lot of
coursework inherent in a music history degree, especially if you take the
Honours option. As stated above, study for your placement exams!!
Less courses to take = less stress. The course calendar, with its plethora of options for you to choose from, can seem pretty daunting. So don’t
be afraid to ask a music history professor or an older music history student for help. Also, the distribution of music history classes can be pretty
weird sometimes, with many classes meeting at the same time, or hardly any being offered one semester. Be careful in planning out your
courses, and if you see a course offered that you’re really interested in,
pounce! You may never see it again.
Insider Hints: If you happen to tell people (like your professors) that
you’re a music history major, they’ll probably want to know what you
“specialize” in. Although that’s something you don’t really have to decide
till grad school, it’s good to think about, even if it’s vague, such as “20th
century music. Also, try to choose electives that suit your degree. For
grad school, you need to speak at least two non-English languages;
German, French or Italian are probably your best bets. Taking some
non-music history courses, and perhaps some English or cultural history
courses would be a good idea also. If your interests are broader than
just music history, it’s possible to combine it with a composition, theory,
or performance major.
Composition, by Melodie Adler
19
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Overview: The McGill composition program allows students to be involved in several aspects of music as well as a diverse and intense
composition atmosphere.
The First Year: The first year course load for composition students is
the same for all first years as shown in the course table. Your actual
composition classes do not begin until you finish your 100 level courses,
so if you place out of enough courses during the placement exams you
may be able to start sooner.
Academics and Performance: You can opt to do an honours degree in
composition, and the only significant additions to the requirements are
some additional theory courses. Also, many students tend to have either another major or a minor along with composition. It is also common that many performance students decide to pick up a composition
concentration. You do not have to make this decision until your second
or third year as composition cannot start until second year anyway.
McGill has a composer-in-residence program that allows you to write
compositions for the large ensembles at McGill. You can apply for this
great opportunity starting your second year, and the application deadline
is in December.
Potential Problems (and how to solve them): It is hard to adjust to
the freedom of university coursework, and even harder for composition
students. Many courses only require you to hand in your work at the
end of the semester, with almost nothing concrete due in the meantime.
Do not procrastinate! These late deadlines allow you time to revise
your compositions so that you can be somewhat satisfied with your
work.
Notation is important! You do not want to waste time with unclear notation issues, so make sure you make use of the computer lab on the top
floor of the library since they all have music notation programs. As
well, the library has printers with up to 15x17 paper, which is quite useful for composition majors.
Insider Hints: Make sure you friend some performance majors since
you may have your compositions performed! Also, a great resource for
composition majors is the Canadian Music Centre located at 416 Rue
McGill. It is a great place to bind your scores and buy score paper.
Finally, take advantage of the vast contemporary music scene both at
McGill and around Montreal. Visit www.music.mcgill.ca/composition/
for more information on the McGill composition program.
Music Theory, by Tristan Capacchione
20
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Overview: The Theory program at McGill is offered by a diverse department consisting of students and professors of many musical aspects.
The First Year: The first year program for theory is the same as the
general first year course load in the course table. The advanced theory courses do not start until the third year or after you complete the 200
level courses.
Academic and Performance: Most theory students do not study theory alone, but rather have an added minor or major. It is also possible
to pick up a theory minor along with your major concentration. You do
not have to decide this until after your second year though, since everyone is on the same theory track until they complete their 200 level
courses.
If you pick a theory minor, it is only a few additional theory courses. Also, if you are a theory major, it is also a few more theory courses to attain an honours degree, so keep these options in mind. Just be aware
of the grade and credit requirements of the honours program as outlined
in the course calendar.
Potential Problems (and how to solve them): The theory program is
probably the easiest to navigate through; just make sure you plan your
course load in advance to allow the necessary time to complete your
degree. Similar to history, some classes are only offered every second
year, so if you’re interested in a particular class, register for it right away.
Insider Hints: Explore the many varied music electives offered at
McGill that most students do not have time/room to take. Explore
many musical areas to find out what interests you, so that you can figure out how you want to put your theoretical skills to use!
Faculty Program, by Paul Moody
Overview: The faculty program can be the most restrictive yet most
open of all programs. This program offers a general Bachelor of Music
Degree with no particular major.
The First Year: When entering the Schulich School of Music at McGill
most of your classes will be mandatory for all first year students, so you
will only begin to feel the effects come second year. Often after first
year, some Faculty Program students transfer into a more specialized
program because they have found a particular area of interest in music. For those who take this path, good riddance! Some however,
have interests that are diverse and spread throughout musical and nonmusical subjects alike. For this reason these individuals may choose to
21
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
ride with the Faculty Program for all four years.
Academics and Performance: The faculty program offers more music
and arts electives, which allows one to pursue more diverse interests at
the university level. For example, those who enjoy both jazz and classical performance as well as a non-music area would not be allowed to
study all of these areas in such restrictive and focused programs like
Performance.
Potential Problems (and how to solve them): The difficulty with the
Faculty Program is that it can often be quite restrictive because many
classes in the school are restricted to the students in that particular
field. This being said, there are certain ways to get around these restrictions but it is recommended that you proceed with caution as there
is a lot of fine print that might come back to haunt you later in your degree. When approaching a restricted class you must take all the precautions you can think of. Seek advice from your advisor, do everything in writing and get the signatures from your professor, the chair of
the department, and from someone in the Dean’s office. You do not
want to have the unfortunate experience of having one of your courses
put into question because you did not obtain the proper approval. So
again, speak with a guidance counselor before you make any decisions. It is quite possible to create your own degree, but there are
some details you must to be aware of.
Insider Hints:
A downfall of the faculty program however is the sometimes-lesser
amount of attention that is given to you as a student. Typically, the
people who enter the Faculty Program are less performance-oriented
and from experience this sentiment is understood by peers and professors. As a result of being a Faculty Program student, one’s lesson requirements are much less and many non-performance students will
have graduate students give some of their lessons. A positive experience that can result from being a Faculty Program student, and this is
not the case for all, is that your teacher may give you more independence on the repertoire that you learn, and you could possibly be given
the opportunity to split lessons in half between classical and jazz.
Seek advice from your guidance counselor and proceed as directed. It
takes a lot of self-discipline and drive to keep up with your peers in performance because it is easy to go under the radar, as expectations of a
Faculty Program student are typically much lower. When it comes to
getting what you want out of McGill, most of it is possible as long as you
push.
22
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Double Degrees, by Clive Chang
Under extremely rare circumstances, McGill may allow you to pursue
concurrent degrees that are not already offered as an approved program combination by the University. Be completely sure that you want
to pursue both degree programs concurrently, and that you have a genuine interest in both fields. Doing concurrent degrees is very demanding
in terms of time and energy; you will most likely be taking more classes
per semester than your friends, and you will have to set aside more time
for studying, doing assignments, etc. This also means that balancing
your academic, extracurricular, and social lives will become more difficult.
McGill already offers some concurrent programs, such as the Concurrent Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education program. One can
also do a B.Ed/B.Sc Concurrent degree. For most other choices however, you will have to design the program of study yourself. Here are some
hints on how to get that accomplished.
How to choose your programs
Evaluate your other options: for example, pursuing a minor or concentration in one field, or pursuing the degrees consecutively, for example,
doing your B.Mus first (in 3 years), and then your B.A. (in 2 years).
Your faculty advisor can help you identify all the options available to
you. When choosing courses, try to kill two birds with one stone. For
example, if you are doing a B.Mus/B.A., choose your arts electives so
that they count toward your major in the B.A.! You want to save as
much time as possible.
How to get into your programs
You will have to start with the advisor in your immediate program, who
will then refer you to the necessary administrative officers. You will
most likely be required to write a formal letter of request, which will be
reviewed by the Associate Dean and the program manager or department chair. It would be wise to include a brief discussion of how your
degree combination is the best way to go about pursuing your future
career goals and aspirations. Make it convincing!
How to fit all your classes in
It would be wise to look well ahead in terms of your study plan at McGill.
Most degree programs have required courses, and these courses may
have prerequisites. If you do not plan out your courses a year or two in
advance, you may be faced with the dilemma of not being able to take a
certain course because you haven’t completed the prerequisite, and this
will undoubtedly extend your already long course sequence. The last
thing you want is to have to stay an extra semester—or even an extra
year—because you didn’t plan out your courses well in advance!
23
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Who to contact when things go wrong
Don’t be afraid to ask around! Surely there are other students like
yourself who are pursuing concurrent degrees. When you are doing a
double degree, your respective faculties understand that you may need
priority in certain courses in order to complete your program in a reasonable amount of time, and they are usually willing to be flexible!
Keep in close contact with your academic advisors (in the Schulich
School of Music, these would be your area chair, and the senior music
advisor, Marie Moscato); they are a great source of help.
24
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Auditions and Ensembles
Large Ensembles:
Auditions for all large ensembles are held before classes begin for the
fall semester (you may have another one in the beginning of winter semester). You can visit www.mcgill.ca/music/student/ensembles/ to see
the specifics for the auditions, or to view descriptions of the ensembles
offered.
For orchestral instrument auditions, the audition materials
(ie. excerpts) are pre-selected. The list of excerpts for fall placement
auditions is sent out in the summer, and can be found on the website,
so that you are able to prepare before-hand.
All choral and jazz auditions will have sign up sheets posted around the
time of placement exams. Vocal auditions consist of sight-reading and
a test for range, while jazz auditions are based on sight reading, with
some improvisation.
Anyone can sign up for any type of audition even if the ensemble may
not involve your main instrument. In fact, all piano, organ and guitar
majors MUST take some form of a large ensemble and therefore can
participate in any of the large ensemble auditions. Also, you are allowed to be in two large ensembles at once, as long as the rehearsals
don’t conflict, but be forewarned that this involves a huge commitment.
BEWARE: You may only miss a large ensemble under dire circumstances! If you know you will have a scheduling conflict, let your conductor know right away and fill out an ensemble excuse form available
outside the Ensemble Resource Manager’s Office. If you are too sick to
attend rehearsal, you must present a doctor’s note. This form must be
returned and reviewed, so that your absence is successfully approved.
If you miss a rehearsal for an insufficient reason or do not fill out a form,
your mark will be lowered a FULL letter grade for that ensemble!
Small Ensembles:
Look around the school during the first week for signs about meetings to
form small ensembles. Almost any combination of instruments or voices can be put together with the approval of a staff coach, but there are
many “standard” small ensembles available to you (string quartets,
woodwind choirs etc.).
25
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Practice Rooms
Practice room etiquette is different everywhere, but if you
follow a few simple rules you should have no trouble getting
along with your fellow musicians.
Practice Room Policy
1. Practice rooms are to be used by members of the Schulich School of Music ONLY (this includes Marianopolis students and McGill University students taking conservatory
lessons).
2. Practice rooms are divided among three designations:
Voice (3rd floor), Instrumental (4th floor), and Piano (5th
floor). If you are in a room that is not your specific designation you can be asked to leave. If the room is empty but not
in your designated area, you may practice in it but a person
of that area has the right to kick you out if the rest of the
rooms in the area are full.
3. Do NOT allow anyone you don’t know to follow you in the
practice rooms – if they have access, they must use their
own cards to get in (students complain of not enough practice rooms but allowing strangers in worsens this problem).
4. For voice and piano students: if you don’t show up during
the first 15 minutes of your practice time booking, you lose
your booked time slot.
5. Pianos are NOT to be moved – disciplinary actions will be
taken.
6. Do NOT leave personal belongings unattended (especially instruments).
7. Absolutely no food or drinks on the pianos.
8. Please keep the practice rooms clean!
26
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
9. Close windows and lights when you leave, and keep the
door open.
Practice Rooms – Piano and Voice Majors
To ensure that all voice and piano majors receive adequate
and equal time in the practice rooms, a sign up for practice
room times occurs at the beginning of every semester.
Every piano and voice student is allotted a certain amount of time
for which they can sign up for a practice room. The sign-up process occurs over an online registration system during the first few
weeks of each semester. Make sure to watch out for information
about how to sign-up at the beginning of the year. Once all the
schedules are finalized, they are posted on the doors of every
practice room.
Practice Rooms – Everyone Else
Note that the rest of the practice rooms have no reservation system so they run on a first-come first-serve basis. They tend to fill
up in the mid afternoon, so plan in advance to avoid line ups.
Feel free to use a piano or voice room if there is one available,
however, if need be, piano and voice majors reserve the right to
boot you at anytime. Furthermore, all early music majors, percussionists, and jazz drummers have their own rooms that follow different procedures.
550 Sherbrooke Tower
The music school has several practice rooms and classrooms in
the office building across the street. If any of your classes on
Minerva are in a room with four digits beginning with 11, then they
are on the 11th floor of this building. The practice rooms here,
although not as acoustically ideal as those in the music building,
are available 24 hours a day. So if you feel the need to do some
late-night 3 am practicing, this is the place for you.
27
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
The Marvin Duchow Music Library
Here is a brief outline of the contents of the Marvin Duchow Music Library, one of the 13 comprehensive libraries at McGill. The
library is located on the third floor of the new music building.
This is a BRIEF overview, so it is highly suggested that you sign
up for a library tour in the beginning of the year. Go to
www.mcgill.ca/music-library/ to find out more.
1. Third Floor (Normal Speaking Level)
• Current Periodicals (260 subscriptions)
• Computer work stations
• 45,000 scores
• Rare books collection
2. Fourth Floor (Whispering ONLY)
• Audio/visual-22,000 CDs, 65,000 LPs, hundreds of
•
•
•
videos
Laptops, recording equipment, micro tracks,
fire wire boxes, microphones, and other
equipment which can be loaned out for FREE
3 group listening areas, video viewing room, seminar rooms, listening viewing and recording stations.
1 seminar room
3. Fifth Floor (ABSOLUTE SILENCE)
• 27,000 books, 4,000 bound periodicals
• Gertrude Whitley Performance Library (large and
chamber ensemble scores)
• 2 seminar rooms
• Music Student Computer Room with computers,
keyboards, Finale, Sibelius, Logic software. Accessible only with your McGill student ID.
• Information desk/ask for help and get course reserve materials
28
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Financial Aid and Scholarships
By Clive Chang, Composition and B. Com. Alumnus
Where to Start?
Entrance Scholarships
You most likely have started looking at scholarships before you
came to McGill, during your application process. If you received
an entrance scholarship to McGill, be aware that you need a certain credit load and grade point average to keep it! Specifically,
you need to maintain at least a 3.5 or 3.7 Cumulative GPA (depending on the particular scholarship) each year, while taking
at least 27 graded credits over the Fall and Winter semesters.
This means that if you choose the Pass/Fail option for a course—
also known as Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory option (S/U)—those
credits will not count when they consider renewal of your scholarship. Also, note that they look at your GPA from year to year—if
your CGPA over two years is at least 3.5 or 3.7, but your GPA for
the past year (September-April) is below that, your scholarship
cannot be renewed. Last but not least, note that any summer
courses you take are not considered when you apply.
In-Course Scholarships
If you didn’t win an entrance scholarship, do not despair! There
are many scholarships for which McGill students are eligible during the completion of their degree program! In fact, there are
certain scholarships that are only open to students who did not
receive an entrance scholarship!
Financial Aid
Many students apply for funding from their provincial and federal
governments. Loans are granted to students from their home
country and province/state (for example, OSAP in Ontario), and
often offer interest-free loans that do not have to be repaid until 6
months after you graduate or cease to be a full-time student!
The Financial Aid Office in the Brown Student Services Building is
the place to go if you need more information.
29
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
What is the Process?
Start with the basics – your course calendar, McGill’s website,
bulletins outside of classrooms, offices, and all around campus.
Go to your student affairs office to get a copy of the scholarships
calendar (if available). Some scholarships require separate application, and some do not. (For example, all music scholarships are awarded based on Faculty recommendations and all
students are automatically considered.)
Hints on Getting the Dough
Scholarship opportunities also exist off-campus! Look on corporate websites, search the internet or use existing search engines
(such as www.studentawards.com ) to find more. A lot of scholarship
criteria look for more than just academic achievement! More
often than not, major scholarships are awarded on a combination
of superior academic achievement, extracurricular and community involvement, and leadership qualities. Get involved, and increase your chances of winning! Make your application as professional as possible; if an essay is required, be sure to have it
proofread and edited by your peers. Get to know your professors well, as you may need a recommendation from them one
day! Many scholarships are also directed at individuals from
specific regions, countries, and backgrounds. Research is the
key to uncovering scholarship opportunities you would not otherwise find! Good luck!
30
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Who do I contact to find out more??
Loans, Bursaries, and Scholarships:
Scholarships and Student Aid Office
Brown Student Services Building,
Suite 3200, 3600 McTavish Street
Montreal, Quebec H3A 1Y2
Phone: 514-398-6013
Fax: 514-398-7352
Email: student.aid@mcgill.ca
Office of the Dean of Students
Brown Student Services Building
Suite 4100, 3600 McTavish Street
Montreal, Quebec H3A 1Y2
Tel.: 514-398-4990
Fax: 514-398-3857
www.mcgill.ca/deanofstudents/
First-Year Office
Brown Student Services Building,
Suite 2100, 3600 McTavish Street
Tel: 514-398-6913
Fax: 514-398-6944
http://www.mcgill.ca/firstyear/
31
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Bureaucracy at McGill
By David Matthews, Faculty Program and B.Sc. in Biology
Alumnus
As you may have heard, McGill has a bit of a reputation for bureaucracy and red-tape. What does this mean for you? … long
lines, lots of paperwork and sometimes a cold attitude from those
who are supposed to help you.
Fortunately, in music we are blessed with a Faculty Administration that is for the most part very helpful and competent. Things
get a bit scarier though when you encounter the larger University
Administration.
Here are some insider hints for dealing with bureaucracy at
McGill:
The Phone is Your Friend
Before you trek all the way across campus to go to an office that
may or may not be able to help you, why not give them a call to
find out what they actually do (their names can often be deceiving). You can use the “student information” section of the McGill
website
to
find
the
coordinates
you
need
(www.mcgill.ca/students). Also, if you go to one office and are
turned away or sent somewhere else, ask the person who is
sending you away to phone the next office to warn them that you
are coming and to confirm that it is the right place to go. This
may seem simple, but it will save you a lot of leg work.
Email is NOT Your Friend
McGill Administrators receive hundreds of emails a day, and
yours is not likely to be at the top of their priority list. The phone
is a much faster and more effective way to deal with the Admin.
Good Friends Are Hard to Find
32
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
In the world of the McGill Admin, you will occasionally encounter
someone who is able to magically solve all of your problems.
Remember this person … contact them when things go wrong
and ask them for help if you don’t know where to go. It is always
those inside the Administration who understand its inner workings
and secrets best. They can save you tons of time.
Who’s Who at the Schulich School of
Music
Here are some useful contacts in and around the music school.
Dean’s Office A-731; 398-4538
Sean Ferguson, Dean
Mary-Beth Campbell, Administrative coordinator
Department of Performance 514-398-4542
Douglas McNabney, Chair Room A-724
Jennifer Stephenson, Timetable and Schedule Coordinator A736D
Ania Loboda, Administrative Coordinator A-726C
Go here to give in your lesson assignment card, information on
subsidized accompanists, register for practical exams, and all
performance related issues.
Department of Music Research 398-4540
Prof. Christoph Neidhöfer , Chair A-723
Where you go for all questions in this department including Composition, Theory, Music History, and Music Education.
Academic Affairs Office 398-4541
Marie Moscato, Senior Student Advisor A-720
Egidia Demichele, Senior Administrator and Student Affairs coordinator A-726F
Danuta Pietrzak: Student Affairs Secretary
This is a great place to come when dealing with any academic
issues you may experience while at McGill. This office deals with
Minerva and registration problems, and provides over-ride forms.
They also schedule academic advising appointments.
Ensemble Resource Manager Office 398-5193
Rebecca Woodmass
33
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
This is where you go to get ensemble excuse forms and ask
about general large ensemble questions. The ERM is also responsible for the execution of placement auditions.
Building Director Office, E-224; 398-8333
Peter Wightman, Building Director
Katherine Simons, Associate Building Director
This office manages keys, card access, instrument loans, and
room bookings, but NOT locker issues (That’s MUSA’s job).
Porter C206a, 398-8216 or 741-3726 (pager)
Fernando Antenucci
The porter maintains the school’s lost & found and can be found
directly left from the main entrance.
Concerts and Publicity C205
Louise Ostiguy, Director
All concerts within the SSM are managed here. The box office
is found next to this office. Music students can get one free ticket
to most McGill concerts, as long as they themselves are not participating in the concert.
Bulletin Boards across from Clara Lichtenstein Hall
These boards contain useful information, which is updated
throughout the year, pertaining to ensemble auditions (i.e. sign-up
sheets), audition results, ensemble excuse approvals, small ensembles and large ensemble schedules.
Gig Booking Office A-718 398-8157
Freelancing and performance opportunities outside the university
are coordinated through this office.
Reception 398-0837
Found on the entrance of the 7th floor administrative offices, you
come here to receive your OTP (Orchestral Training Program)
audition comments, practical exam comments, and paychecks if
you happen to work for the school. General questions and information can be found here.
34
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Let Me Upgrade You: Where to Find
Answers to Your Problems
By Tanya Roberts, Voice Performance Alumnus
Though it is not our intention to jinx you with our list of 15 means
of escape when bad stuff happens, but you’ll need a way out if it
ever does. Here are a few plans of action music students have
come to love.
1.
All the Single Ladies! (and men and everything in between) I feel unsafe!
If at any time on campus, you feel unsafe, there exists several
programs to help you. Some useful McGill numbers include
Walksafe (514-398-2498) which will walk you anywhere
home within a few kilometres, McGill First Aid (514-3985216),the Nightline (514-398-MAIN (6246)) and of course
McGill Security (514-398-3000).
2. Pay my own fun, and I pay my own bills!
I need to make some money!
If you’d like to try making money with your instrument before
you graduate, the Schulich School of Music Booking Office
can give you a preview of what joys your degree in music
may bring. Members of the public call the office with their
musician requests, and the Office puts them in touch with
music students enlisted with the Office. Be prepared to
submit a demo.
Phone: 514-398-8157
3. Ring the alarm! I’m having a job/career
crisis.
Don’t worry, we all face this issue. However, if you would like
someone to talk about career options, resumes, cover letters
or simply getting a job during the year, CaPS (Career and
Planning Services) is the place the go. Located in the Brown
Building, CaPS provides free career counseling and job hunting tools.
Contact: Jan Bottomer, Music and Arts Career Advisor
Phone: 514-398-3304 ext.0768
35
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Email: jan.bottomer@mcgill.ca
4. What’s up with this?
I have no food OR
money!
If making money with your instrument doesn’t work out so
well, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t still eat well. The
Yellow Door is a McGill student-run initiative which executes
an impressive number of volunteer programs, including a food
bank and free hot meals for students. They also run a fabulous Coffeehouse which you might be interested in playing at.
The Midnight Kitchen, is also available for students seeking
vegan options for free meals. Don’t forget to bring your own
non-disposable cutlery and dish! Student-volunteers run the
midnight kitchen starting at 12:30 in the Shatner building every day.
5. You must not know ‘bout me! I have is-
sues with my private teacher.
If your teacher isn’t the mentor and spiritual guide that you
were hoping him/her to be for you, contact the Department of
Performance with your qualms. They’ll be the Super Glue to
your broken porcelain.
Contact: Jennifer Stephenson
Phone: 514-398-2598
Email: jennifer.stephenson@mcgill.ca
6. I’m not myself lately! I’m not feeling very
well.
Whether it’s your tummy or your psyche that isn’t quite right,
McGill Health Services can help. Appointments to meet with
a doctor or a nurse can be made, or you can make an impromptu visit. If you choose to drop-in, be prepared to wait
for long periods of time.
Contact: McGill Health Services, Mental Health Services
Address: Brown Building, 3600 McTavish, Suite 3300
Phone: 514-398-6017
7. I’m too bootylicious! I want free Yoga and
other health-related services!
The MUSA Musicians’ Health Series offers many services to
promote your health such as free weekly yoga classes and
36
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
cool guest health-related presentations. The McGill Sports
Medicine Clinic (3rd floor of the sports center, 475 Avenue des
Pins) also offers a priority service for music-related injuries.
8. I swore I’d never fall again!
I have aca-
demic issues.
If it’s an issue of grades (or lack thereof), contact the Music
Research Department. If scheduling your courses seems
impossible, contact Student Records. You and your academics will become like juice and vodka: wonderfully inseparable.
Contact (for schedule concerns): Andrew Staples
Phone: 514-398-4541
9. You got me lookin’ so crazy right now! I
need to rant about my ensemble.
The Ensemble Resource Management office is made up of
four graduate students who look after ensemble concerns
from four areas: McGill Symphony Orchestras (MGSO), Contemporary Music Ensemble (CME), Choral Ensembles & Early Music, and Wind Symphony & Jazz Orchestras.
Contact: Alexis Carter
Phone: 514-398-5193
Email: erm@music.mcgill.ca
10. I’m a survivor, I’m gonna make it...but my
locker got broken into!
Though you may register your locker with MUSA, we’re not
responsible for your belongings. But, we can direct you to
the Porter of the Music Building, who will take your report and
let you raid the Lost & Found. Be aware that this man can
be difficult to track down, but he will give you plenty of his
time when you do find him. You should also file a report with
McGill Security (MUSA can help you do this).
Contact: Fernando Rocha
Pager: 514-741-3726
11. Lost in the song! I’m bored.
If ever you need a break from the life of a musician, there are
countless student clubs that you should consider joining!
37
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Check out the webpage below for a listing of McGill’s Student
Groups including contact info and website links.
http://www.mcgill.ca/index/student/
12. No need to convince me anymore! I need
a bus/metro pass!
If you plan to commute using public transportation every day
(at any point of your life in Montreal), take advantage of the
metro and bus system of Montreal by buying a Student Opus
Card for $13.50. This card gives students a reduced fare on
monthly transit passes. To obtain a card, you will need proof
of school attendance, available from the James Administration Building, and documentation proving Quebec residency.
Bring this to office at McGill Metro Station to buy your card.
Webpage: www.carteopus.info for more information.
13. Say my name, say my name!
I need an
accompanist!
The Schulich School of Music offers accompanists for students’ needs at subsidized rates. Each student gets somewhere between 6 to 12 hours at this rate, depending on the
program. Note that jazz, guitar, and piano majors do not qualify for this benefit.
14. I know how you usually do!
I have issues
with McGill at large.
Lay all your burdens at the feet of MUSA’s VP External. She
will be your peanut butter to your bland celery.
Contact: Katie Larson, VP External
MUSA office: E-104
Email: external@mcgillmusa.ca
15. I’m not gon’ stop!
I want to Fight the
Power!
Well, then run for MUSA, mein Freund! Student politics will
not only kill that boredom that McGill’s student clubs couldn’t
satiate, but the benefits are wunderbar. Perhaps you’ll be
writing this section of the Anti-Handbook next year!
Contact: Music Undergraduate Students’ Association of
McGill University
38
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Phone: 514-398-4551
Email: questions@mcgillmusa.ca
Website: www.music.mcgill.ca/musa
39
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Getting Involved
By Clive Chang
One of the greatest things about McGill is the fact that there is always
something fun and exciting to get involved in. If there is something you
are interested in, there most likely is a club for you! From arts to athletics to academics, a wide range of activities, mostly run by students, are
available to enthusiastic students such as yourself! Join a student organization and take advantage of the diverse and dynamic environment
that McGill offers!
Where to Start?
Activities Night
Twice a year (once at the beginning of each of the Fall and Winter semesters), the Students’ Society of McGill University (SSMU) has an Activities Night, where many McGill clubs and organizations hold information tables and sign-ups for prospective members. This will most
likely take place during the first or second week of each term. Keep an
eye out for signs and announcements – although information very often
gets passed on through word of mouth.
Check out
http://ssmu.mcgill.ca
Your Floor Fellow/MORE Fellow/Don
If you live in Rez, you will have an upper-year student assigned to your
floor or building. These students have been at McGill for at least a
year, and have been involved in campus activities. If they are not involved in something you’re interested in, they probably know someone
who is! They are a valuable resource for you—so use them!
SSMU Website
The
Students’
Society
of
McGill
University
website
(http://ssmu.mcgill.ca) has links to most of the clubs and organizations
on campus. You will usually find the appropriate contact information on
the site.
Frosh (First-Year Orientation)
First-year students are fortunate enough to have Frosh events the week
immediately preceding the beginning of classes. Contrary to popular
belief, you do not have to consume massive amounts of alcohol (or any
for that matter) in order to enjoy Frosh. There are tons of activities organized for students with varying and diverse interests! Most im40
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
portantly, Frosh allows you to meet students who share some common
interests, and strong and lasting friendships usually develop from this.
Hints on Balancing a Busy Schedule
Try to maintain a healthy balance of your academic, extracurricular, and
social lives. Diversity of activities ensures not only a healthy mind and
body, but it opens you up to new and exciting opinions, ideas, and perspectives. When you are tired and frustrated from studying, it is often
helpful to take a break—perhaps go for a jog around campus, go for a
workout at the gym, or check out one of the many concerts and shows
that take place throughout the year. Join a choir, participate in an interest club, or spend time exploring your other interests and hobbies!
Take advantage of the facilities offered on campus—you pay a fee for
the athletics centre, so why not make use of it? Libraries are usually
open late, and are a great place to study especially if you are easily distracted when studying at home. For a small fee, various dance/aerobic
classes and mini-courses are offered through the athletics centre and
through the SSMU. Also, do not forget that beautiful Mount Royal is
just northeast of campus, and the many attractions around the great city
of Montreal!
Of course, only take on as much as you can handle. You are here to
make the most out of your education, and these activities are intended
to help you grow and develop skills that you may not acquire inside the
classroom. They are not meant to add extra stress to your life! You
may find that you need to manage your time more efficiently in order to
fit all of your activities into your schedule—in fact, many students find
themselves with too many choices of activities! Careful organization
and time-management are important for balancing a heavy schedule.
Invest in a good organizer/planner, and use it well—you will find that it
saves your life over and over again.
41
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Life In Montreal
(Or, A Music Student’s Guide to Montreal)
By David Matthews, Lauren Simmons, & Ned Hanlon
Obviously there’s more to being at McGill than studying and practicing.
Montreal is one of the best college towns in North America – in fact, it’s
a full-fledged cosmopolitan metropolis with a myriad of adventures to be
had outside the classroom.
This section focuses on venues, events and other cool stuff that might
be of particular interest for music students. For a more detailed guide
to this city’s incredible wealth of restaurants, clubs, bars, festivals, cultural activities, diversions and athletic pursuits, be sure to check out the
McGill Student Handbook, published by the Students’ Society of McGill
University (SSMU). Copies will be available outside the MUSA Office
(E-104) and at the Shatner Building during the first few weeks of school.
Since the SSMU does a great job of filling you in on Montreal, we
thought we’d let them stick to it, and help you find your way around a
music student’s Montreal.
Finding Out the Skinny:
-
-
-
-
Read La Scena Musicale. This paper has everything and anything
you’d like to know about music in Montreal, and appears for free in
the lobby of the music building. Score!
Read the Montreal weekly papers. The Hour, Mirror, and Voir all
have great event listing covering everything from gallery openings
to avant-garde music shows and everything in between.
Let your fingers do the walking. You can also check out
www.montrealmirror.com, www.hour.ca, www.voir.ca or
www.campusmontreal.com for up to date listings of events around
Montreal.
Read your campus papers. The Tribune and the Daily, while a little
more local, still do a pretty good job of covering important, eclectic
and student-based events and initiatives.
Getting Your Concert On
This section could go on for about forever. There are so many musical
groups in Montreal that we can’t begin to list them all. Check the internet
for the ones we missed, read La Scena Musicale, and read every poster
on McGill’s concert boards to keep up to date. Many concert groups
have very affordable student discounts, so be sure to do your research.
42
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Schulich School of Music of McGill University:
(514) 398-4537
www.music.mcgill.ca
Our own beloved Schulich School of Music Presents over 600 concerts
annually. Between Pollack, Redpath, Clara, Tanna Schulich Hall and offcampus concerts, there is bound to be an event that appeals to you.
You can find everything from student recitals to 500-strong orchestra/choir extravaganzas in your very own faculty. Music students can
usually get free or discounted tickets thanks to your handy-dandy student card. Make sure you stop by the Box Office before 6pm on the day
of the concert to pick-up your discounted/free ticket though, otherwise,
you’ll have to pay like your Arts major friends. Also, you cannot pick up
discounted/free tickets on the weekend.
Pollack Hall and Redpath Hall are also rented to outside groups on a
regular basis, making them the busiest concert stages in the city.
These groups include the McGill Chamber Orchestra, Arion, Viva Voce,
and, our personal favourite, the Ladies’ Morning Music Club. Check
the posters in the lobby or visit the Box Office for more information.
Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal :
(514) 842-9951
www.osm.ca
Oh OSM, how we love thee. With your internationally renowned talent,
your incredible guest conductors, your exciting and intrepid repertoire,
you make Montreal the amazing musical hotbed it is. Try to catch the
OSM under the baton of Kent Nagano, newly named music director who
came on board in 2007. Students can get rush tickets for only $12 by
showing your ID at the Place des Arts box office half hour before the
concert. Better yet, if your teacher is in the OSM, you may be able to
get tickets for only $5 … or even for free (lucky you).
Opéra de Montréal :
(514) 985-2258 http://www.operademontreal.com/
Opéra de Montréal has a great line-up for 2012-2013. Also, their student
package cannot be beat for affordable, high quality musical performance. With their special deal for 18-30 year olds, tickets are $30 per
performance if you subscribe to at least two productions. If you’re feeling really broke, you can also get free tickets to certain dress rehearsals. In an effort to draw younger viewers, the O de M has also started
to host funky happenings such as performances in Metro Stations.
Check out the O de M website for more info.
Other Concert-Going Opportunities :
43
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Orchestre Metropolitain
http://www.orchestremetropolitain.com/
Arion
http://www.early-music.com/artistes.asp?id=Arion
Studio de Musique Ancienne
http://www.smam-montreal.com/
Société de Musique Contemporaine du Québec
www.smcq.qc.ca/
The Ladies’ Morning Music Club
McGill Chamber Orchestra
http://www.ocm-mco.org/
I Musici de Montréal
http://www.imusici.com/
I Medici de McGill Orchestra
http://www.imedici.mcgill.ca/
Les Grands Ballets Canadiens
http://www.grandsballets.qc.ca/
Getting Your Jazz On
Again, close to home is a good place to start for great jazz in Montreal.
Our own Jazz Orchestra I (also known as Big Band I) have been called
North America’s best collegiate level jazz ensemble, and under the direction of jazz composer and trumpeter, Joe Sullivan, they set the
standard (jazz pun!) for high calibre performance of old classics and
more avant-garde jazz forms. But there’s more! The city’s jazz clubs are
also great places to see jazz music live.
Upstairs (514)931-6808
1254 MacKay
www.upstairsjazz.com
Combos from McGill perform here, for credit no less, usually on Monday
and Tuesday nights. This is a great way to hear what our jazz musicians
are up to and there’s no cover on these nights (although they do expect
you to buy a drink). Otherwise, you can turn up and find some stellar
performers here any day of the week – for example, Rufus Wainwright
played his first ever live gig here. The drinks are a little pricey, and cover
can be steep on the weekends ($15+!), but the ambience, music and
mood are worth every penny.
44
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
Finding the Goods
As you may know, music students require a special pallet of tools.
From scores, to recordings, to reeds, to strings, to staff paper, it’s sometimes hard to know how to track everything down. The places below
should have you covered for all your music supply needs. For specific
tips on instrumental repairs and dealers, talk to your private teacher.
Archambault (514)849-6201
500 St. Catherine E (Metro Berri)
This is a chain that carries everything from sheet music to Dr. Phil
books. The St.Catherine’s location is your best bet for music supplies,
including a large collection of scores and parts, theory books, staff paper, and a great selection of classical CDs. Also, they have a student
discount!
McGill Bookstore (514) 398-7444
3420 McTavish
The bookstore has staff paper, regular McGill Suplies, and you will need
to buy many of your textbooks here. If price is an issue, check out the
Word or Haven Books (see below) or check out the bulletin boards in
the Music Building to see if anyone is trying to ditch their old books.
The Word (514) 845-5640
469 Milton
A great selection of used books, including books you’ll need for music
classes such as History, if you’re lucky. The editions might be out of
date, but the prices sure aren’t. They also have interesting scores kicking around here, if you’re interested in browsing; you’re bound to find
something affordable and interesting.
Steve’s Music (514) 878-2216
51 St.Antoine W.
www.stevesmusic.com
This is a more pop-oriented music store, with a great selection of guitars, drums, amps, mics and accessories. They also have a limited selection of brass, strings, and woodwind instruments. They do repairs,
and have contracts with many of the city’s large high school band programs.
Twigg Musique (514) 843-3593
1230 St. Hubert
This store sells many brass and woodwind-related paraphernalia, including instruments. They are also available to do repairs.
Canadian Music Centre (514) 866-3477
416 Rue McGill
A great resource for all music students, composers especially, they sell
every type of manuscript paper imaginable (really cheaply too), and also
have a considerable collection of scores and CD's by Canadian composers for sale, many of which are not available commercially. They
45
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
also have listening booths and a library loan system if you want to take
a score home for a bit, but not buy it necessarily.
McGill Classifieds
www.mcgill.ca/classified
McGill’s online marketplace … a great place to find everything and anything, including textbooks, apartments, rides, furniture, tutoring and
more. Be sure to check the site regularly, as there are hundreds of updates daily. Those of you looking to earn a quick buck should check the
employment section. There are many studies in the psychology department that will pay you to be their human guinea pig for an hour or
two. Some ambitious music students have been known to exploit these
studies as their primary source of income.
Wilder and Davis (514) 289-0849
257 Rachel E
Montreal’s string Mecca … a great place to buy instruments, strings,
mutes and more. They also do quality repairs. Watch for their annual
string sale. Check their website, www.wilderdavis.com, for more info.
The Back Page
Compiled By Tanya Roberts
Before I came to university, I wish I had known
that…
…you can love a lot of people in a lot of different ways.
…you can know everything and fail a test.
…you can know nothing and ace a test.
…no matter how ‘cool’ you were in high school, no one here cares.
…Sunday is a figment of the student’s imagination.
…every clock on campus shows a different time.
…I would be one of those people that my parents warned me about.
…friendship is more than getting drunk together.
…it didn’t matter how late I scheduled my first class, I’d still sleep
through it.
…most of my education would be obtained outside of class.
…I would go to a party the night before a final.
46
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
You know you’ve been in university too long
when…
…two miles is not too far to walk for a party.
…you’d rather clean than study.
…“Oh man, how did it get so late!” comes out of your mouth at least
once a night.
…half the time you don’t wake up in your own bed and it seems normal.
…you schedule your classes around sleep habits and soap operas.
…you know the Alto’s guy by name.
…you go to sleep when it’s light and get up when it’s dark.
…prank phone calls become funny again.
…looking out the window is a form of entertainment.
…you start thinking and sounding like your roommate.
…black lights and highlighters are the coolest things on earth.
…the weekend lasts from Thursday to Sunday.
47
The MUSA Guide to Life in the Schulich School of Music 2014-2015
48