Véronique Fortier finds her sound through hands-on learning

A saxophonist, composer and conductor in the making, Véronique Fortier came to the University of Lethbridge for its combined music and education degree, but discovered she wanted more. Véronique has embraced every opportunity to grow during her studies — shaping not only her musical practice, but her plans for a future filled with creativity, collaboration and possibility.

Take as many opportunities as you can to broaden the scope of your studies, even if you’re nervous or unsure if you’ll like it. There’s something to learn in every situation, good or bad, and I really believe this is how you develop and grow as a young professional.

Meet Véronique. Passionate. Curious. Driven.
Program: Bachelor of Music | Major: Saxophone Performance

Why did you choose to pursue fine arts at ULethbridge?

Initially, I chose to pursue Fine Arts at ULethbridge because of the high-quality education faculty and the Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education combined degree. Several of my high school teachers were graduates of the program and spoke highly of their experiences, which made a strong impression on me. Additionally, when I was in high school, the saxophone studio professor did a clinic at my school, and it was really inspiring to work with him.

What inspires your artistic/musical practice?

As a performer, I’m inspired by the people around me. Seeing my friends work hard to achieve their goals motivates me to push myself and grow as a musician. I’m also inspired by my professors and the level of artistry they bring to their performances as it gives me something to aspire to. This year, I’ve been developing my own musical identity as a saxophonist, both in my sound and in the repertoire I chose for my graduation recital, and it has been exciting to grow into my own artist.

As a composer, I look for inspiration everywhere. Personal experiences, the styles of well-known composers, visual art, stories I want to tell, or specific instrumental techniques I want to highlight can all spark new ideas.

I think inspiration can come from almost anything, sometimes you just have to be open to it and take the time to seek it out.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge? Has your academic plan changed since you began your studies?

When I first began my studies, I was enrolled in the combined BMus/BEd degree because I knew I was passionate about teaching. However, in my third year I realized there was much more within music that I wanted to explore, so I switched into the full Bachelor of Music program.

I am still strongly motivated to teach, but I also discovered a deep interest in performance, composition, and conducting. There is so much more I want to learn and develop in these areas, which is why I plan to pursue graduate studies after completing my bachelor’s degree.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

The relationships and friendships I’ve built throughout my degree have had a great impact on me, both personally and professionally, shaping me into who I am today. Having the opportunity to make music with close friends is a privilege I hold deeply in my heart.

During my studies, I’ve been fortunate to perform chamber music with my peers, including playing in a saxophone quartet and, most memorably, a trio for my junior recital last year. Collaborating with my closest friends was not only really fun, but also very rewarding and meaningful.

How have your professors or instructors impacted your education?

My professors and instructors have played a huge role in shaping my education. They have consistently inspired and encouraged me to discover my own sound and musical style, which in turn has helped me see what is possible after graduation.

Many of the professors in the music department truly care about building meaningful relationships with their students, and over the past four years that support has had a profound impact on both my academic progress and my creative growth.

I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to receive feedback and guidance from professors even when I’m not currently enrolled in their classes. This level of mentorship has enriched my studies and helped me develop confidence in my abilities as a musician and young professional.

Have you received any scholarships or awards? How have they impacted your education?

Yes, I have received several scholarships and awards throughout my degree. They have made a meaningful impact by easing the financial burden of my studies, allowing me to focus more fully on developing my skills, and growing as a musician without added stress.

Tell us about your experiential or work-integrated learning opportunities at ULethbridge and how these have enhanced your education?

Throughout my four years at the University of Lethbridge, I’ve had several experiential learning opportunities that have greatly enhanced my education. In my third year, I performed at the North American Saxophone Alliance Region 9 Conference at the University of British Columbia. Performing for a room full of saxophone students and professionals was nerve-wracking, but it was a pivotal moment where I realized my potential and capability as a musician.

I’ve been actively involved in the University’s Wind Orchestra Club executive team, and this year I was honoured to be elected president. This role has been incredibly rewarding, giving me the chance to support and improve the ensemble while hopefully inspiring other students. One highlight was organizing our 26th annual Big Band Cabaret, the club’s biggest fundraiser of the year. It was a very successful evening, and I felt extremely proud.

This past semester, I also designed an independent study with Dr. Holly De Caigny in instrumental conducting to gain more hands-on experience running rehearsals and working with a band. While the university offers an introductory conducting course, I wanted the opportunity to go further. This has been a challenging and rewarding experience, allowing me to develop as a conductor. Experiences like this have pushed me to grow, take risks and pursue new opportunities in music.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

Once I finish my studies, I hope to pursue graduate studies in music. I want to continue developing as a performer while also exploring more opportunities in composition, conducting, and research. Music offers so many different paths, and I want to experience as much as I can to grow as a well-rounded musician and music educator.

A big personal goal of mine is to one day publish my own compositions or be commissioned to write new works. That would be so awesome and special!

What advice would you give to future ULethbridge students?

Take as many opportunities as you can to broaden the scope of your studies, even if you’re nervous or unsure if you’ll like it. There’s something to learn in every situation, good or bad, and I really believe this is how you develop and grow as a young professional. Putting yourself out there will always result in a lesson learned and therefore will always be worth it.