Inspiring a New Generation of Musicians

The process of composing music is different for every composer. For Dr. Andrew Staniland (BMus '00), it's a deeply solitary process. "I like to keep my compostition in my imagination as long as possible,' he says. "Composing is really about creating a work of art."

Considered one of the most influential musical voices of our time, Staniland has amassed more than 100 national and international performances of his work; garnered a long list of awards and accolades; and represented Canada at prestigious festivals in Poland, France and Hong Kong. In 2015, the University of Lethbridge Alumni Association recognized Andrew as Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.

A rising star in both the worlds of music and academia, Andrew is a professor of music and an innovative researcher at Memorial University of Newfoundland, where he is inspiring a new generation of composers and musicians.

“In my experience, love and passion for creativity is totally contagious, as is the pursuit of musical mastery,” he says. “I was moved and inspired by my teachers who had these traits, and in turn, I have the privilege of perhaps inspiring others the same way through music and through teaching.”

Learn more about Andrew