Our Program
Humber’s Bachelor of Music degree program is unlike any other four-year undergraduate degree in music in North America.
By combining the latest recording technologies and entrepreneurial business strategies with performance, production, songwriting and composition in jazz, pop, R&B, Latin and world music, graduates will be well equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for success in today’s music world.
Founded in 1972, the program has consistently produced many of the most successful commercial and jazz musicians in Canada and the world. With more than 350 students and a faculty of 18 full-time and 80 part-time teachers, our program is the largest, most diverse and highly regarded program of its kind in the country. Long known for the strength of its professors, Humber offers you the opportunity to study privately, in classroom situations, and in several of the more than 50 ensembles directed by a who’s who of Canadian music. As Toronto is the centre of Canada’s entertainment industry, Humber attracts the top professionals in jazz, musical theatre, television, film, commercials and pop – a valuable resource for students unmatched by any other school in Canada.
After two years of core music courses, you will continue with lessons on your major instrument, as well as take classes in music production and music business while also choosing from electives in arranging, composition, advanced improvisation, film scoring, music production techniques, songwriting, ethnomusicology or pedagogy.
You’ll develop musicianship and artistry by presenting your own recital, arranging and composing original material, and recording and marketing your own music.
In addition, you will take courses in music history, theory, aural training and improvisation, and have the opportunity to participate in a variety of ensembles.
All students complete a major recording project/ portfolio in their fourth year. The assembled portfolio, which includes a complete press kit and professional-quality recording, as well as other promotional materials, functions as your calling card for entrance into the music industry upon graduation.
Courses Learning OutcomesSemester 1
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Semester 2
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Semester 3
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Semester 4
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Semester 5
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Semester 6
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Semester 7
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Semester 8
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Work Term
Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:
Perform, compose, produce music at a professional level for entry to the competitive, global music industry.
Demonstrate a knowledge of diverse musical styles and contextualize themselves within contemporary music history: specifically defined as the idioms of African American musical genres, mainstream pop music, country/folk music, Latin music, music for musicals and film, art music and jazz.
Demonstrate, through performance and composition, a technical and musical mastery of harmonic, melodic and rhythmic structures.
Demonstrate, through performance, an extensive knowledge of contemporary musical repertoire and apply appropriate performance skills in diverse music contexts.
Compose and arrange in a broad range of contemporary music styles.
Prepare and present a portfolio of recorded material reflecting a broad range of styles.
Record, edit and produce a broad range of contemporary music.
Apply computer applications/music technology skills in composition, arranging and production.
Demonstrate, through production and performance, organizational, project management, and implementation skills.
Critically analyze and evaluate sound recordings and describe their production characteristics.
Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, communication, critical thinking, research and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of contract law, copyright law, intellectual property rights, royalties, and rules of public domain.
Make use of entrepreneurial music business skills to engage in the competitive contemporary music industry.
Demonstrate professional “freelance” etiquette relating to job seeking and keeping skills.
Demonstrate an ability to research and present findings from primary and secondary sources.
Formulate, articulate and present their own ideas about music, art and society through discussion and writings.
Demonstrate an artistic awareness and understanding of musical aesthetics.
Assess personal strengths, musical and business skills, knowledge, artistic vision, interests, and abilities.
Work Placement
You will participate in a work placement designed to mirror the professional music world, which is largely characterized by contract, freelance and part-time employment. You are responsible for accumulating the equivalent of 450 hours of experience which will allow you to establish contacts and relationships with key companies and industry professionals
Our Faculty
You’ll learn from professors who have real-world experience and are active in the industry. Our professors are committed to providing you with practical, hands-on training to help you achieve the career you want.
View Faculty CredentialsMike Ardagh
MMus (Sound Recording) - McGill University, PQ
BMus (Performance/Production) - Humber College, ON
Diploma (Contemporary Music & Technology) - Selkirk College, BC
Professor
Andy Ballantyne
BMus (Music Performance – Jazz Studies) – University of Toronto
Diploma (Music) – Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Professor
Collin Barrett
MA (Composition) – York University
Professor
Shirantha Beddage
DMA – Eastman School of Music, NY, USA
MMus – William Paterson University, NJ, USA
BMus – British Columbia Open University, BC
Professor
Matt Brubeck
MMus - Yale (Cello Performance)
BA - Yale (Music)
Professor
Rob Bulger
Diploma (Music) – Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Professor
Bruce Cassidy
BSc - Dalhousie University - psychology, chemistry
Professor
Denny Christianson
Diploma in Ed – McGill University, PQ
BFA – Concordia University, PQ
Professor/Program Co-ordinator
Peter Cook
MMus (Sound Recording)– McGill University, PQ
BMus – McGill University, PQ
Professor
Sienna Dahlen
MMus (Music Performance - Jazz) University of Toronto
BMus (Music Performance - Jazz)
McGill University
Diploma (Jazz Studies)
Vancouver Island University
Professor
Brian Dickinson
MA (Music) – New England Conservatory, Boston, MA, USA
Professor
Mike Downes
MA (Composition) – York University
BMus – McGill University, PQ
Professor
Kevin Fallis
MMus (Sound Recording) – McGill University, PQ
BMus, Honours, Jazz Performance (Double Bass) – McGill University, PQ
Professor
Joey Goldstein
Professor
Kelsey Grant
MA (Music) – Manhattan School of Music, NY, USA
BMus – McGill University, PQ
Professor
Justin Gray
MMus - York University
BMus -Thompson Rivers University
BA - Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Professor
Johnny Griffith
MMus Jazz Performance U of T
BMus Thompson Rivers University - performance
Humber college - music diploma
Professor
Shannon Gunn
MA (Composition) - York University
Professor
Nathan Hiltz
B.Mus Humber College (Thompson Rivers) in Performance
M.Mus University of Toronto in Performance
Professor
Will Jarvis
MA – York University
BMus – Thompson Rivers University, BC / Humber College of Applied Technology & Advanced Learning
Professor
Peter Johnston
PhD - Ethnomusicology, York University
MA - Composition, York University
BMus - Composition, Dalhousie University
Drew Jurecka
BMus - in Violin Performance, the Cleveland Institute of Music
Professor
Al Kay
Diploma (Music) – Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Professor
Mark Kelso
Professor
Brad Klump
MME – Indiana University, Indiana, USA
BMus – McGill University, PQ
Professor
Pat LaBarbera
Diploma (Arranging/Composition) – Berklee College of Music, Boston, MA, USA
Professor
Jon Maharaj
BMus - University of Toronto
Professor
Steve Mancuso
MMus – York University
BMus – Humber College of Applied Technology & Advanced Learning/Thompson Rivers University, BC
Professor
Lisa Martinelli
MA – York University
BEd – University of Toronto
BMus – University of Toronto
Diploma - Humber College Institute of Advanced Learning
Professor
Mike McClennan
MA (Music Performance) – University of Toronto
BA (Music Performance) – University of Toronto
Professor
Nick Morgan
Diploma (Jazz performance) - Humber College
Professor
Andrew Mullin
MMus (Sound Recording) - McGill University, PQ
BMus - McGill University, PQ
Professor
Dave Neill
MMus Performance (Jazz) – University of Toronto
BMus Performance (Jazz) – University of Toronto
Professor
Brian O'Kane
MMus (Jazz Performance)- University of Toronto
BMus (Jazz Studies)- Thompson Rivers University
Diploma (Music with Honours)- Humber College
Professor
David Occhipinti
MA - York University
Professor
Kieran Overs
Diploma (Music With Honours) Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
BMus (Jazz Studies) - British Columbia Open University, BC
MMus - McGill University, Montréal
Professor
Dan Parr
BSc
Mathematics
University of Western Ontario
Professor
Mark Promane
BEd – University of Toronto
BA Music – University of Western Ontario
Professor
Mark Shannon
BFA (Music) York University
Professor
Gord Sheard
PhD (Ethnomusicology) – York University
BFA (Music) – York University
Professor
Steve Szmutni
Diploma (Music) – Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Professor
Nancy Walker
MA (Composition) - York University
Diploma (Music) - Humber College
Professor
Rebekah Wolkstein
BM violin performance - Cleveland Institute of music
MM violin performance -Cleveland Institute of music
BA English - Case Western Reserve University
Artist Diploma violin performance: Glenn Gould School
DMA violin performance: University of Toronto
Geoff Young
Professor
Tony Zorzi
Diploma (Music) - Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Professor
Your Career
Chart a freelance career in your favourite area of the music industry, whether as a performing artist, clinician, producer, songwriter, arranger or composer in a wide range of styles and genres.
How do I set up a trombone audition?
Applicants must first apply to Humber College. Auditions can then be booked through your MyHumber account. An audition fee of $50 will be charged at the time of booking.
What are the brass audition requirements?
The specific audition requirements are posted in the "Requirements" tab.
Do the requirements for the trombone auditions apply to the Intro to Jazz program?
Yes, the requirements are the same as those for the Degree program. When you audition you are automatically considered for the Intro program.
Can I submit a recorded audition rather than auditioning in person?
It is strongly suggested that applicants perform a live audition. However, in circumstances where applicants are not residents of Ontario and are unable to be present for a live audition they may submit a recorded audition online through Slideroom via your MyHumber account.
Please download the full instructions for trumpet/trombone and for french horn. For other brass instruments, contact Jennifer Hannah at jennifer.hannah@humber.ca.
How long is the audition?
Each audition involves a theory and ear test (approximately 30 minutes) at the beginning of your allotted audition time. This is followed by the brass audition, which lasts approximately 20 minutes. There will be a sign-up sheet for the brass auditions so you may be first (or last!).
Do I need to bring an accompanist to my audition?
No, but your jazz tunes should have a recorded accompaniment using play-along CD's such as the Jamey Aebersold series of books and CD's. A CD player and stereo (for mp3/ipods) are available in the audition room.
I'm not sure which classical piece to prepare. Do you have any suggestions?
There are many commercially available studies for trombone by Borgdoni, Kopprasch, Tyrel, Bach cello suites, etc. Choose one that demonstrates your musicality and technical facility on the instrument. Bass trombonists should play pieces that show off their low range. One movement from a concerto is a good choice as well. The piece should be between 2 to 4 minutes long.
I'm not sure which jazz piece to prepare. Do you have any suggestions?
Performing two jazz standards is required. The usual format is to play one chorus of the melody, one or two choruses of an improvised solo. Even if you have limited improvisational ability, try to play along with the CD. Getting a few lessons from a good commercial/jazz brass teacher is highly recommended. At the audition show me your potential if you have strengths in the following areas: a beautiful sound and style, good finger or slide technique, a good high or low range, good harmonic knowledge of the chords when improvising, a good time feel.
Here are a few suggestions:
- All the Things You Are
- Stella by Starlight
- Green Dolphin Street
- Autumn Leaves
- Yardbird Suite
- Blues (Tenor Madness, Billies Bounce, Now's the Time, etc)
- The Nearness of You
- Someday My Prince Will Come
- Night In Tunisia
- I'm Old Fashioned
- Laura
- Summertime
All of these tunes are available in the Jamey Aebersold play-along CD/book series.
Can I audition on other brass instruments other than trombone?
Yes, the requirements are the same, but for out of town auditions contact us and we will send you specific exercises for your instrument. Tuba, euphonium, and French horn players can apply, but remember our courses are geared mostly towards jazz and contemporary music rather than classical repertoire.
How many brass players audition and how many are accepted?
This varies from year to year. On average approximately 20 to 30 brass players apply and up to 15 are accepted into the Degree program. An additional number (approximately 2 to 4) are accepted into the Intro to Jazz Program.
I get really nervous when auditioning. What can I do?
Many people get nervous while performing, but to reduce the feeling make sure you are well prepared, and really know your tunes and scales. In your preparation for this audition, perform your pieces for family, fellow students, and music teachers to get used to the situation. You will gain confidence and get lots of good feedback from the listeners.
When will I be notified of my results?
The Registrar's Department usually mails out admission results a few weeks after the audition. The results can also be found on your MyHumber account.
Any other questions?
Contact Alastair Kay at al@alkay.ca.
The Humber Experience
Why Choose Humber
Humber's Bachelor of Music Degree is a unique program that offers distinct advantages over music degrees offered elsewhere. Here are some of the reasons to choose Humber:
The Humber Advantage
Guest Artists
As a result of Toronto’s vibrant concert and club scene, Humber students are treated regularly to composer/producer/artist-in-residence events, workshops and clinics with world-class musicians, producers, and composers. Recent guests have included Jack DeJohnette, Greg Wells, Dave Holland, Jim McNeely, Kurt Elling, Vince Mendoza, Terence Blanchard, Mike Stern and Chris Potter, to name a few.
These great artists work and perform with students in a variety of ways to improve their professional skills and add inspiration to the Humber experience.
Humber Also Offers
Jazz Performance – Introduction to Commercial Jazz program. Students who apply to the Bachelor of Music degree program may be recommended for the Jazz Performance – Introduction to Commercial Jazz program. Students who complete that program may then re-audition for the degree program.
Advisory Committee
Our Advisory Committee consists of industry leaders in business and music. These professionals help ensure that the program is kept as current as possible.
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Ross Porter | Committee Chair; CEO and General Manager, Jazz FM91 |
| Laila Biali | Pianist and Vocalist |
| Jeffrey Remedios | CEO, Universal Music Canada |
| Dr. Rob Bowman | Associate Professor, Ethnomusicology |
| Patrick Taylor | c/o Toronto Downtown Jazz Festival |
| Aaron Gotfryd |
Instructional Leader, Music, Toronto District School Board |
| Marc Jordan |
Café Productions |
| Lou Pomanti | Composer, Producer, Musician |
| Steve Butterworth | Vice President, Musical Instruments Division, Yamaha Canada Music, Ltd. |
| Dione Taylor | Soular Productions Inc. |
Director's Message
Founded in 1972, the Humber College Music Program has consistently produced many of the most successful commercial and jazz musicians in Canada and the world over. With a student body of over 400 and a faculty of 17 full-time and 80 part-time teachers, Humber’s Music Program is the largest, most diverse and best program of its kind in the country.
Long known for the strength of its faculty, Humber offers students the opportunity to study privately, in classroom situations and in over 47 ensembles with a “who’s who” of Canadian music. And because Toronto is the centre of all aspects of Canada’s entertainment industry, Humber’s faculty consists of the top pros in jazz, musical theatre, television, film, commercials and pop—a valuable resource for students which no other school in the country can match!
Humber’s dynamic four-year Bachelor of Music Degree degree, with profiles in Performance/ Composition or Music Production not only provides a traditional university skill set, but emphasizes the business of music, including a professional level fourth-year final recording project completed in Humber’s 2007 state-of-the-art recording studio. Further, because Toronto has such a vibrant concert and club scene, Humber students are regularly treated to Artist-in Residence Weeks, workshops and clinics with such world-class musicians and composers as Dave Holland, Jim McNeely, Kurt Elling, Vince Mendoza, Terence Blanchard and Chris Potter, to name a few. The mission of Humber’s program is to prepare the student not only to succeed as a working professional—entering the workforce with the necessary skills, savvy and mindset needed to adapt to an ever-changing industry—but to help students find their own artistic voice.
As well as the four-year Degree program, we also have the “Jazz Performance: Intro to Commercial/Jazz” Program which offers an opportunity to qualified students to study for a year in preparation for their application to enter the Degree Program. Come join us in Toronto for a world-class experience!
Denny Christianson
Director
Music Program, Humber School of Creative and Performing Arts
Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained in this website is current and accurate. Humber reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.