Academy Program for Gifted Youth

The Conservatory’s Academy Program for Gifted Youth is an enrichment program specifically developed to provide musical training of the highest quality for gifted young artists.

Admission requirements
Program information
Sponsorship and program support

The Academy Program offers participants a balanced, performance-based course of study, as well as opportunities to meet and perform with professional musicians and renowned teachers. Specific training includes sessions with acclaimed musicians in private lessons, small group classes and masterclasses; individual sessions with an accompanist; chamber music coaching; instruction in theory, aural skills and musical discoveries; frequent recitals aimed at developing confidence and stage presence; and participation in a large ensemble for those students who play orchestral instruments.

Through regular performances, participants gain valuable experience in a variety of settings for audiences of their peers, as well as for faculty members, clinicians and the public.

The Academy Program affords gifted young musicians the opportunity to progress at an accelerated pace. Graduates who continue with their musical studies are much sought-after by leading post-secondary music schools both in Canada and the United States. The Academy Program's reputation is known and respected throughout North America.

Admission requirements

Entrance in the Academy Program for Gifted Youth is by audition only. Learn more about the audition application process.

Program information

Claudia Hasan-Nielsen
Program Coordinator
Academy Program for Gifted Youth
403.440.6832

Sponsorship and program support

Participants in the Academy Program for Gifted Youth pay only a nominal registration fee.

Funding for the Academy Program was established in 1980 through a principal endowment from the Kahanoff Foundation; since that time over 30 corporate and private donors have contributed to ensure its continued success. The Academy Program is grateful for the generous private support which has made this possible.

The Academy Program would also like to acknowledge the Alberta Foundation for the Arts for its support.

Contact the Manager, Academy Program for Gifted Youth to learn more about how you can support this remarkable program.

Feast of Sound & Song

Mount Royal University’s Feast of Sound & Song event raises funds for the Conservatory and for the Academy Program for Gifted Youth. The event is currently on hiatus, and will return after the new Conservatory and Bella concert hall are constructed.