CPO partnership
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A challenging new program designed to test and reward exceptional music students is underway in the music department at the University of Calgary.

Part of a partnership between the U of C and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO), the MusiCan Protégé Program provides gifted music students with a glimpse into life as a professional musician working in an orchestra.

The program is one of only two in Canada; the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Ottawa has a similar offering. “This opportunity will attract gifted music students to the U of C and keep them here,” says Jeremy Brown, head of the music department.

As part of the MusiCan Protégé Program, students observe and rehearse with CPO musicians and learn what it takes to perform with an orchestra. One of the goals is to provide students with knowledge and experience that will help them launch their performance careers.

"Orchestral jobs are extremely difficult to ‘win.’ Positions rarely open up, and when they do, the competition is tough and the audition process can be painfully trying,” says Nick Bedell, CPO’s manager of outreach and education. “Ability is one thing and a great thing, but experience builds and strengthens ability and is a big ‘plus point’ on a resume.”

CPO members mentor students through rehearsals and technique classes. Students will also attend master classes with CPO music director Maestro Roberto Minczuk and other visiting conductors and musicians. In addition, students in the program receive complimentary tickets to concerts.

“Training with the CPO has given me more ideas, not just on the performing aspect, but on the discipline and sheer commitment that it takes to be part of a major orchestra,” says flutist and graduate student Maria Noriega.

The program also provides students with valuable networking opportunities.