Mark Simons is an Early Clarinet Instructor at the Schulich School of Music, McGill University, and teaches at Marianopolis College. He specializes in early music performance on period instruments such as the chalumeau and classical clarinet. His expertise spans baroque, classical, jazz, and klezmer styles, with a focus on historical performance practices. Education: Studied at Marianopolis College, McGill University, and Temple University. Research interests include exploring sonorities of period instruments and chamber music collaborations. He has performed with renowned ensembles like Les Boréades, Arion Baroque Orchestra, and the Daponte String Quartet. Notable recordings include CDs on the Analekta label: Viole D’Amour and Telemann et les Gitans . No scientific awards listed. His advising and grants details are unspecified. Active in ensembles such as the Arthur Leblanc and Bozzini quartets, and regularly performs with l'Orchestre Symphonique de Québec and I Musici de Montréal.
Mark Morris is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of English and Film Studies at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Arts, where he has taught since 2000. A multi-faceted academic, he is also an award-winning librettist, music critic, theatre director, broadcaster, curator, and photographer with international recognition for his creative and scholarly work. His educational background includes: BA from the University of Oxford MA from the University of Oxford PhD in Creative Writing (Canada's first) from the University of Calgary (1996) His research spans creative non-fiction, children's literature, Shakespeare studies (including authorship skepticism), and the social-political history of Western genre film/novel. He specializes in classical music's literary context, Victorian family history, Lawrence Durrell's interdisciplinary intersections, and Indian literature in English. His work bridges academic rigor with artistic practice through libretto composition and cultural criticism. Recent publications demonstrate his interdisciplinary fusion of musicology, literary analysis, and political biography, particularly examining opera's relationship to historical narratives and contemporary leadership. This reflects his consistent focus on cultural transmission across artistic mediums. His accolades include: Faculty of Arts Teaching Award (University of Alberta) Morris has mentored students across creative writing and literature disciplines while leading major collaborative projects including KidsOp (children's opera company), Vaughan String Quartet productions, and Durrell Society initiatives. His work has been supported through institutional affiliations, artistic commissions, and educational partnerships with Alberta schools and international festivals. He co-founded KidsOp for cross-generational opera productions, collaborated with the Vaughan String Quartet on immigrant narrative projects, and served on the Durrell School of Corfu's Advisory Board until 2014. His university roles include Visiting-Scholar-in-Residence for the 100th Anniversary project and ongoing cultural journalism through EdmontonScene.com.
James Wright is a Professor in the School for Studies in Art and Culture at Carleton University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. from McGill University and is a distinguished scholar and composer with a focus on music philosophy, aesthetics, film music, 20th-century music, and post-tonal theory. His research and creative work bridge academic and artistic domains, with international recognition for both scholarly publications and musical compositions. Ph.D., McGill University Dr. Wright’s research interests include music philosophy and aesthetics, music perception, film music, 20th-century music history, post-tonal analysis, dance and music, and the history of music theory. His interdisciplinary approach connects music with philosophy, literature, visual art, and cultural studies. He has published extensively on Schoenberg, Wittgenstein, and Canadian composers like Eldon Rathburn, exploring the intersections of music, identity, and modernity. His recent creative and scholarly works span books, edited volumes, and compositions. Notably, his 2022 co-edited volume Monstrosity, Identity, and Music examines music in horror and speculative media, while his 2023 string quartet Ellen at Scattergood received the 2022 Petrichor Prize. His compositions have been performed globally and recorded by ensembles such as the Gryphon Trio and Quatuor Andara. He has also composed choral works, art songs, and pieces inspired by Canadian art and social themes. Governor-General’s Gold Medal, McGill University Lewis Lockwood Award, American Musicological Society 2022 Petrichor Prize for Composition University of Toronto Louis Applebaum Distinguished Visiting Professor in Composition (2019) James Wright has hosted major academic events, including the international conference “Music and Antifascism,” and his works have been featured in CBC Music, Fanfare Magazine, and international performances. He teaches courses in Western music history and mentors emerging musicians. He is also active in community music initiatives, including collaborations with youth choirs and educational programs. Dr. Wright leads creative projects that integrate music with dance, visual art, and social commentary. His work A Gallery of Song was choreographed and performed at the National Gallery and National Arts Centre, reflecting his commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. He continues to compose and publish, with upcoming works such as What Angels See (2025) for cello and piano.
André J. Roy is an Associate Professor and Area Coordinator (Strings) at the Schulich School of Music, McGill University. He previously served as Chair of the Department of Performance. His roles include teaching viola, chamber music, and orchestral studies, alongside leading the McGill International String Quartet Academy (MISQA) as its creator, General, and Artistic Director. He graduated from the Curtis Institute of Music and held the position of 1st Assistant Solo Viola with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra. Prof. Roy’s expertise spans viola performance, string quartet training, and orchestral studies. His pedagogical work has produced students in leading orchestras worldwide, including the New York Philharmonic, London Symphony Orchestra, and La Scala Opera di Milano. He authored String Quartet Technique , a seminal text on quartet training, and is a sought-after guest teacher at institutions like the Colburn School and Royal Conservatory of Music. Research & Pedagogy: Specializes in viola techniques, ensemble coordination, and orchestral training. Awards: McGill’s President’s Prize for Teaching (2008), three Canada Council of the Arts awards. Global Reach: Performs and teaches across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. His chamber music training has guided quartets to international competitions, including Fischoff, Banff, and Wigmore Hall laureates. He mentors ensembles at festivals like Aldeburgh and Morningside Music Bridge.
Dr. Stephanie Lind is an Associate Professor at Queen's University's DAN School of Drama and Music. Her primary affiliation is within the Department of Music, where she teaches music theory, analysis, and musicology. She holds a B.Mus. (Hon.) from Wilfrid Laurier University, an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia. Her research focuses on video game music, transformational theory, and contemporary Canadian art music, with a particular emphasis on the intersection of musical structures and gameplay narratives. Dr. Lind's research has been supported by a SSHRC Insight Grant and has produced influential works like Authenticity in the Music of Video Games (Lexington Press, 2023). Her articles explore topics such as rogue-lite game sound design, rhythm game mechanics, and the role of music in Assassin's Creed narratives. She is a屡获殊荣的教师, winning multiple DAN School Teaching Awards for her innovative pedagogical approaches, including the integration of technology in classrooms and mentorship of student research projects. Her community involvement includes active participation in Queen’s Music programs and Kingston’s music scene as a woodwind player and ensemble vocalist. Dr. Lind’s work bridges academic research with practical applications, emphasizing both scholarly rigor and creative expression.
Jeremy Bell serves as Artist-in-Residence for Violin, Strings and Chamber Music at Wilfrid Laurier University's Faculty of Music and is a member of the Penderecki String Quartet. He joined the university in 1999 and continues to teach violin and chamber music while maintaining an active international performance career. Education: B. Mus degree from University of Toronto Masters and Doctor of Music from State University of New York at Stony Brook Dr. Bell specializes in Baroque, Classical, and Contemporary violin repertoire with deep expertise in Galamian and Dounis violin techniques. His teaching philosophy emphasizes slow scale practice as foundational technical development, complemented by dexterity exercises. Students typically study standard repertoire including concertos, sonatas, and Bach works, with emphasis on both technical mastery and musical expression. Awards and Recognition: Eckhardt-Grammatté National competition prize winner Conseil Québécois' Prix Opus recipient Ontario Arts Council's Chalmers Award winner JUNO Award winner for Marjan Mozetich's 'Lament in the Trampled Garden' As artistic director of QuartetFest and the Leith Summer Festival, and faculty member at the Festival del Lago International Academy of Music since 2018, Bell extends his pedagogical influence broadly. His collaborative spirit spans diverse musical genres - from baroque performances with Consortium Aurora Borealis to collaborations with artists including DJ Spooky and Jay-Z. With the Penderecki String Quartet, he has performed at prestigious venues worldwide including Carnegie Hall, Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, and the Shanghai Oriental Arts Centre, recording over 25 discs featuring works by Bartók, Grieg, and contemporary composers.
Örjan Sandred is a Professor of Composition at the University of Manitoba's Desautels Faculty of Music, where he founded Studio FLAT for computer music research and production. He teaches composition, computer-assisted composition, and electro-acoustic music while maintaining an active international composition career. Diplomi i Komposition, Royal College of Music Stockholm MFA, Royal College of Music Stockholm Additional studies at McGill University and IRCAM (Paris) His research focuses on Computer-Assisted Composition with emphasis on rule-based systems, live electronics integration, and artificial intelligence applications. Sandred developed the Cluster Engine constraint-solving system for music composition, exploring how computers can process musical ideas through formalized rules. His work bridges acoustic instruments with digital technologies, creating innovative performance systems where musicians interact with responsive computer environments. His recent compositions demonstrate evolving trends in interactive performance systems (Tilting Points, Sketches of Shifting Landscapes), climate change expression (Footprints), and pandemic-era multimedia installations (Sonic Trails: Lockdown). These works consistently integrate live electronics with acoustic instruments through sophisticated Max/MSP patches. Scientific awards include: Guggenheim Fellowship (2022) Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2023) DAAD Visiting Professorship at Hochschule für Musik Detmold (2016) Manitoba Arts Council support for major commissions Sandred maintains significant international collaborations with performers and institutions worldwide. His compositions receive regular premieres across Europe, North America, and Asia through commissions from organizations like the Swedish Concert Institute and Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. He directs Studio FLAT as a hub for computer music research while developing educational resources including his book The Musical Fundamentals of Computer Assisted Composition . Current projects include an installation collaboration with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and conductors from Sweden/Canada, plus ongoing development of the Cluster Engine system within Max environment through MOZlib.
Dr. Charles Stolte is a Professor of Saxophone, Musicology, and Composition at The King's University, and an Instructor of Saxophone at MacEwan University Conservatory of Music. He holds a D. Mus. from Northwestern University and has taught at institutions including the University of Alberta and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. His career spans international performances, commissions, and compositions. Education: D. Mus. (Northwestern University, 2002), M.Mus. (University of Alberta, 1994), B. Mus. (University of Alberta, Honours with Distinction), BA (The King's University College). Research focuses on modern composition for saxophone, chamber ensembles, and choral works, often blending traditional and experimental techniques. His works have been performed globally and broadcast on CBC Radio. Key achievements include commissions from Canada Council for the Arts, Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and the Royal Canadian College of Organists. Awards and recognitions include an Outreach Grant (Canada Council for the Arts), distinguished teaching at Poland's XII Woodwind Workshop, and performances at the World Saxophone Congress. His compositions explore diverse genres—from avant-garde chamber music to liturgical choral pieces. He leads the Stolte/Segger Duo and is a member of Ensemble Mujirushi. His teaching emphasizes interdisciplinary artistry, with a focus on fostering creativity in music performance and composition.
Christoph Neidhöfer is an Associate Professor and Area Coordinator (Music Theory) at McGill University's Schulich School of Music. He holds a PhD in music theory from Harvard University and diplomas in composition, music theory, and piano performance from the Musikhochschule Basel. His research focuses on 20th/21st-century music analysis, emphasizing compositional processes and their cultural/historical contexts. Supported by grants from SSHRC, the Paul Sacher Foundation, and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, his work integrates archival studies. Neidhöfer has taught at the Darmstadt Summer Courses and the Mannes Institute, and his awards include the Schulich Teaching Award (2017). He co-authored Baroque Counterpoint (2023) and edited Music Theory Spectrum . Current projects include the “New Concepts of Harmony” research initiative in Venice. Education: Musikhochschule Basel: Diplomas in Composition, Music Theory, and Piano Performance Harvard University: PhD in Music Theory (Dissertation: Stravinsky’s Early Serialism) Research Interests: Twentieth/21st-century music analysis Serialism and post-tonal theory Archival studies of compositional processes Interdisciplinary connections between music and politics/culture Professional Activities: Editorial boards: Integral , Music Theory Spectrum , and Archival Notes Scientific Committee: Centro Studi Luciano Berio Keynote speaker at international music theory conferences
Aris Carastathis is a Professor of Theory/Composition in the Department of Music at Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. He has served as Chair of the Department of Music for three terms (1994-2001, 2004-2007, and 2016-2022). He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts from Louisiana State University (1988) and is an Associate Composer with the Canadian Music Centre. His compositional career spans over 100 works, performed internationally and broadcast on CBC and other networks. Education: Bachelor/Master's (Guitar/Composition), University of Northern Iowa Doctor of Musical Arts, Louisiana State University Research focuses on avant-garde composition techniques blending atonal and modal idioms, rhythmic innovation, and electroacoustic integration. Recent works include Time Suspended (2023) for piano and String Quartet (2020), showcasing his evolving style from strict serialism to tonal-modal fusion. Over 100 compositions are published by Universal Edition, Phorminx Editions, and others. Commissions include works for the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, Canadian Music Centre, and Baton Rouge Symphony Chamber Orchestra. Recordings feature on Sarton Records, Centredisc, and Naxos. Active in music organizations, he serves as President of New Music North and has held leadership roles in the Canadian University Music Society. His works explore interdisciplinary collaboration, with pieces like Full of Stars (2008) combining electroacoustic music with video art. Recent premieres highlight experimental techniques in solo and ensemble settings.
Dean Burry is an Assistant Professor at Queen’s University’s Dan School of Drama and Music, specializing in music composition and libretto writing. He holds degrees from Mount Allison University (B.Mus. in Saxophone Performance) and the University of Toronto (DMA in Composition, Mus.M. in Theory & Composition). As a leading composer of children’s opera and Canadian music, he has created over twelve theatrical works for young audiences, including the landmark opera The Brothers Grimm , performed over 600 times and recognized as the most performed Canadian opera. His works span orchestral pieces like Tracing Colville (inspired by WWII artist Alex Colville) and chamber music such as The Highwayman , released on Centrediscs/NAXOS. He also serves as founding Artistic Director of the Watershed Festival, Reimagining Music Theatre. Education: DMA (Composition), University of Toronto; Mus.M. (Theory & Composition), University of Toronto; B.Mus. (Saxophone Performance), Mount Allison University. Research interests include music for young audiences, Canadian identity in composition, and historical narratives through opera. Notable works include Shanawdithit (DORA Award-winning opera about Beothuk Nation history), Il Giudizio di Pigmalione (myth-based opera), and String Quartet No. 1 (exploring deafness and vibration in music). His outreach includes the Canadian Opera Company’s Education Department and the After-School Opera Program, engaging thousands of youth nationwide. Recent achievements include the 2020 DORA Award for Shanawdithit , the 2011 Louis Applebaum Award, and commissions from institutions like the Kingston Symphony Orchestra and Canadian Children’s Opera Company. His works are performed internationally, with premieres in China, Slovenia, and Brazil.
Jonathan De Souza is an Associate Professor of Music Theory at Western University's Don Wright Faculty of Music. He also serves as Director of the Graduate Collaborative Specialization in Music Cognition. His research integrates music theory, cognitive science, and philosophy, focusing on embodiment, instrument interaction, and performance practices. He holds a PhD from the University of Chicago and has held faculty roles since 2013. De Souza is an Associate Member of the Centre for Brain and Mind and a Core Member of the Centre for the Study of Theory and Criticism. Education: PhD in Music Theory and History, University of Chicago MMus, Royal Holloway, University of London BMus, Western University Research Interests: Embodied cognition in music performance Instrument design and player interaction Music psychology and phenomenology Interdisciplinary collaborations in music cognition Awards: Emerging Scholar Book Award (Society for Music Theory, 2020) Faculty Scholar Award (2020) Teaching & Leadership: Directs Music, Cognition, and the Brain initiative Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in music theory, pedagogy, and cognition Collaborations: Core member of the Centre for the Study of Theory and Criticism Associate member of the Centre for Brain and Mind
Catherine Cosbey serves as a Course Instructor in Violin within the Department of Music Performance at McGill University's Schulich School of Music. An accomplished chamber musician, she is currently a member of the Cavani String Quartet and has performed at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, and international festivals across North America and Europe. Her professional focus centers on violin performance and chamber music within the classical tradition, with performances described by the Strad Magazine as "polished, radiant, and incisive." She maintains an active performance career while contributing to music education through her faculty role. Ms. Cosbey has received significant recognition: Gold Medal and Grand Prize at the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition ProQuartet Prize at the 9th Borciani String Quartet Competition Additionally, she co-directs the Regina Chamber Music Festival and was a founding member of the Linden String Quartet, demonstrating her commitment to artistic leadership and collaborative music-making.
Sharon Wei is an Associate Professor of Viola at the Don Wright Faculty of Music, Western University , where she also serves as Acting Assistant Dean of Research. A renowned Canadian violist, she is celebrated for her solo, chamber, and orchestral performances globally, including appearances with orchestras like Symphony of the Redwoods and the London Symphonia. As co-founder of the award-winning Ensemble Made in Canada , she contributed to the Mosaïque Project , which won a 2021 JUNO Award and featured innovative audience engagement through artwork collection during performances. Her chamber music collaborations span prestigious festivals such as Verbier, Marlboro, and Banff, partnering with artists like James Ehnes and Gary Hoffman. Performance Highlights : Premiered Richard Mascall’s Ziigwan Viola Concerto (2022), performed at Carnegie Hall and the Freer Gallery (2022-2023), and premiered Reena Esmail’s string trio in Thailand. Ensemble Leadership : Violist with the New Orford String Quartet , dedicated to promoting Canadian composers; Artistic Director of the Prince Edward County Music Festival. Recognition : 2021 Faculty Scholars Award JUNO Award for Classical Album of the Year (Ensemble Made in Canada) Viola Prize at Yale University Sharon has held faculty positions at Yale and Stanford, and currently teaches viola and performance initiatives at Western, including a course on off-stage skills like grant writing and financial management. She has received grants from the Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, and FACTOR.
Jon Gordon is an Associate Professor at the Desautels Faculty of Music , University of Manitoba , where he teaches jazz saxophone, composition, and ensemble coaching. A 1996 Thelonious Monk Competition winner , he has performed with icons like Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, and Wayne Shorter, while releasing critically acclaimed albums such as Evolution and Within Worlds . B.Mus., Manhattan School of Music M.Mus., SUNY Purchase His research spans creative jazz composition , oral history interviews , and educational materials like Foundations for Improvisers . His 2020 book Jazz Dialogues debuted at #1 on Amazon’s jazz releases, featuring conversations with legends including Phil Woods and Milt Hinton. Key awards include a 2022 JUNO nomination for Stranger Than Fiction and recognition for For Sue as an Indie Excellence finalist . His recent 7th Ave South project (2024) documents collaborative recording with ensembles across Winnipeg and NYC, blending live and remote techniques.
