Choose Music at The University of Waterloo
At the University of Waterloo, you have the freedom to study music as a major or minor, to sample courses, or combine studies in music with almost any program. Waterloo’s diverse selection of courses, choirs, and instrumental ensembles will help you fulfill your musical dreams. Be part of a supportive academic community with flexible programs, inspiring classes, excellent teaching, and extraordinary musical experiences. You’ll receive a University of Waterloo degree and have access to all the resources of a world-class university.
Explore the many ways that music is meaningful in today's world
Conrad Grebel University College is home to the University of Waterloo's Department of Music and offers instruction in more than 20 instruments as well as vocal lessons.
The flexible Bachelor of Arts program will allow you to:
- Pursue a major or minor in music.
- Combine music courses and ensembles with most other areas of study.
- Study performance, music history, and theory while discovering the ways music relates to technology, film, gender, and global culture.
- Be a part of small class sizes to provide opportunity to get to know classmates and professors.
Events
University Choir Concert
A collection of classical works for choir, the perfect soundtrack for a Summer day.
Directed by Liska Jetchick.
Jazz Mixed Program
Enjoy the music of Paul Simmons, Duke Ellington & Paul Williams. There are many new faces in the band this term eager to share their talents and the love of Big Band Jazz.
Directed by Michael Wood.
Instrumental Chamber Ensemble Concert
Instrumental Chamber Ensembles Final Concert - Spring 2026
Enjoy an evening of classical masterpieces performed by accomplished University of Waterloo student ensembles in an intimate chamber setting.
Directed by Jody Davenport.
News
Celebrating Angelica Allen Behind the Scenes
At Conrad Grebel University College, Angelica has been the logistical mastermind behind more than 400 musical events over the last 13 years, reaching tens of thousands of audience members. With patience and dedication, she worked tirelessly to book venues, select dates, set rehearsal schedules, create and print programs, sell tickets, troubleshoot, move equipment, mobilize volunteers, communicate with students, and coordinate the front of house.
Tiffany Chan is Music's Top Student
At each spring Convocation, the University of Waterloo honours the top graduating scholar with the highest cumulative average in each honours program of study. In the Music Department, combining strong scholarship and dedication to her program, Tiffany Chan has emerged as the winner of the 2026 Music Departmental Award for Distinguished Academic Achievement.
Exploring Métis History Through Baroque Music
Karen Sunabacka’s latest piece "nitatisipwētānān: We are Leaving" for soprano and baroque orchestra will be premiered by Tafelmusik.