Guitar Academy program

Guitar Academy

Established in 1993, the Guitar Academy program targets enthusiastic, ambitious young players seeking a well-rounded music education. This cost-effective program is designed as a supplement to a student's private guitar lessons; offering a group environment in which participants may further develop their playing ability, performance skills, theoretical foundation and overall musicianship. The program’s student body includes dedicated young players as well as aspiring professionals.

Students also receive access to international superstars thanks to our partnership with the Wyatt Artists in Residence Series and the Calgary Classical Guitar Society. Recent guest artists who have offered exclusive Academy classes include David Tanenbaum (USA), Thomas Viloteau (France), Benjamin Verdery (USA), Daniel Bolshoy (Canada), Lorenzo Micheli (Italy), Matteo Mela (Italy), and Michael Partington (England/USA).

Guitar Academy alumni have continued their musical studies at post-secondary institutions in Europe and North America including McGill University, Berklee College of Music, Staatliche Hochschule für Musik und Darstellende Kunst Stuttgart, University of Alberta, Queen’s University, Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Victoria, University of Lethbridge, and Mount Royal University’s own post-secondary program. Alumni who have pursued other non-music, professional fields have acquired invaluable life skills and will hold a life’s passion for music and the arts.

Admission requirements

Entrance to the Guitar Academy program is by audition. Auditions are held in May each year. Students should prepare two contrasting pieces and expect a short sight reading test and interview.

To qualify for admission to the Guitar Academy program, students:
  • must play a classical guitar (nylon strings)
  • must be currently studying with a private teacher (teacher need not be affiliated with the Mount Royal Conservatory)
  • must be able to read music (standard notation)
  • should have a minimum of 1 year of previous private instruction
  • should have RCM / Kiwanis Festival experience (an asset, but not required)

New applicants must fill out the online Audition Application form. Refer to the Audition Information page for more details.

For more information, or for assistance with the audition application process, contact the Academy Program Coordinator at 403.440.6832.

Like any team sport, full commitment (consistent attendance) throughout the Guitar Academy’s academic year is essential.

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Senior Guitar Academy

For musically mature students 14-18 years old playing advanced repertoire:

Senior Guitar Academy includes:

  • Membership in one small ensemble (duo, trio, quartet, etc.)
  • Membership in the Guitar Academy Large ensemble
  • Participation in technique classes and specialty lectures
  • Participation in masterclasses with international, national, and local guest artists
  • Participation in monthly Academy recitals
  • Participation in Spring guitar showcase evening
  • Theory / History credit
  • CD / DVD recording project
  • Rehearsals with a professional accompanist (pianist)

Associate Guitar Academy

For students 14-18 years old playing intermediate and/or early advanced repertoire, and who are still developing their performance skills.

Associate Guitar Academy includes:

Membership in the Guitar Academy Large ensemble

  • Membership in one small ensemble (duo, trio, quartet, etc.)
  • Participation in technique classes and specialty lectures
  • Participation in masterclasses with international, national, and local guest artists
  • Participation in monthly Academy recitals
  • Participation in Spring guitar showcase evening
  • Theory / History credit

Intermediate Guitar Academy

For students 12-16 years old playing intermediate and/or early advanced repertoire, and who are still developing their performance skills.

Intermediate Guitar Academy includes:
  • Membership in one small ensemble (duo, trio, quartet, etc.)
  • Membership in the Guitar Academy Large ensemble
  • Participation in technique classes and specialty lectures
  • Participation in masterclasses with international, national, and local guest artists
  • Participation in monthly Academy recitals
  • Participation in Spring guitar showcase evening
  • Theory / History credit

Junior Guitar Academy

For young students 8-12 years old playing beginning and/or early intermediate repertoire.

Junior Guitar Academy includes:
  • Membership in one small ensemble (duo, trio, quartet, etc.)
  • Membership in the Guitar Academy Large ensemble
  • Participation in technique classes and specialty lectures
  • Participation in masterclasses with international, national, and local guest artists
  • Participation in monthly Academy recitals
  • Participation in Spring guitar showcase evening

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The Guitar Academy Team

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