Professor Ken Hull began teaching piano and music courses part-time at Grebel in 1977, the same year that Music became an official department at the University of Waterloo. Ken became a full-time faculty member in 1981 as course demand soared. Since that time, he has taught a full portfolio in Music History and Church Music and Worship, developed many innovative courses, and led several travel courses to Leipzig and London. He has held administrative positions and conducted the Chamber and Chapel choirs at Grebel.
As Director of the College’s Church Music and Worship program, Ken has concentrated on Christian hymnody, music and liturgy, and sacred choral music, examining how music creates meaning within various contexts. “Reflecting on how we worship is important because what we do, sing, or say in worship not only expresses our faith, it shapes it,” he explained. “How we worship plays a significant role in what kind of disciples we become.”
Describing Ken as a kind and humorous professor, music student Olga Denisova remarked that “his passion about music and music history research is contagious. It’s a pleasure to learn from someone so passionate!”
A former student commended Ken on his generosity with time and encouragement. “May you somehow realize the scope of positive impact you’ve made on schools, churches, communities, and individuals,” she added.
Retiring from Grebel this May, Ken will continue as Artistic Director of the Spiritus Ensemble, which he founded in 2009. And as he completes his work as project manager for the Anglican Church of Canada hymn book supplement, he will continue his research on the intersection of music, liturgy, theology, and meaning.
“Ken’s voice, vision, and leadership have been central to the shape of the music department as we know it today,” said Music Professor Emeritus Len Enns. “He has always supported the vision of music study at Grebel as an endeavor central to the liberal arts. The initial shaping of the program, the development of courses that examine issues of music in society (exploring popular music, and worship music, for example), and the continuation and enriching of international travel courses that bring students directly into the cultural setting of particular music—all of these are thanks in large part to Ken’s vision and commitment.”
“ The fact that he, as a first-rate performer, would resist the shiny apple of a performance-focused direction for the broader light of an integrated approach to music study in its most relevant context—in the place where music meets the deep aspirations of the human condition—that is a commitment he has staunchly defended and championed over his years as Grebel’s longest serving faculty member.”
“Ken has been a key member of the Music Department since the degree program was formed forty years ago,” added Music Chair Laura Gray. “His influence has been felt, not just in his work of teaching, research, administrative duties and ensemble leading, but in how he did all of these things—with integrity, diligence, generosity, grace and a healthy daily dose or two of light-hearted humour! We will miss his regular presence in our midst, but are grateful for having had the good fortune to have him as a colleague.”
