Courses & Programs

2023-2024

Mini-U Baby (0 - 18M)

Classes just for you and your new baby!  While baby giggles and bops to the music during these classes, you will learn new songs, rhymes, and dances to strengthen your connection with your baby in class and at home. These classes are based on the current early childhood research, so every activity is not only fun, but builds skills and fosters your child’s development. These classes have a capacity of 10 children, to give babies lots of room! Fees: $99

Tuesday, 10:00 - 10:45 a.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
SPRING 2024: April 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14 [6 weeks]

Instructor: Tara Campbell

Registration Open February 19


Mini-U Toddler (18M - 3YR)

We have designed a class that moves just as quickly as your little one. This class includes dances, rhymes, instrument exploration and most importantly, ways for your toddler to lead the activities.  The capacity of our Mini U Classes is 10, giving your child lots of room to move, and of course a ton of well-deserved attention! Full parent participation is required in these classes. Fees: $99

Option 1: Tuesday, 11:00 - 11:45 a.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
SPRING 2024: April 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14 [6 weeks]

Instructor: Tara Campbell
 

Option 2: Saturday, 10:00 - 10:45 a.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
SPRING 2024: Apr 6, 13,  20, 27, May 4, 11 [6 weeks]

Instructor: Tara Campbell

Registration Opens February 19


Mini-U Pre-Schooler (3 - 5YR) 

Our preschooler music classes foster your growing child’s wild imagination, using music as the tool for fun, learning and exploration! Songs, dances, instrument play and stories will engage your child and foster language development, self-regulation, music skills and confidence. We invite parents to join us for the last ten minutes of class.  The class capacity of our Mini U classes is 10, to allow for lots of room to move! Fees: $99

Option 1: Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
SPRING 2024: Apr 6, 13,  20, 27, May 4, 11 [6 weeks]

Instructor: Tara Campbell

Registration Opens February 19

Beginner Group Violin Class (ages 7+)

Our Saturday Group Violin lessons provide an affordable introduction to the violin, allowing student the opportunity to explore the basics of playing the violin in a fun group setting.  Students should be prepared to practice at home, in between group class dates. This class is open to all beginners, ages 7+ (yes, including adults)! Need an instrument? Add on a violin rental during checkout for an additional $45.

Saturdays, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Fees: $165/semester
Instructor: Alina Khvatova

Location: Stephure Hall (Casa)
FALL 2023:  Sep 16, 23, Oct 7, 14, 21, 28, Nov 4, 25, Dec 2, 9 (10 weeks)
WINTER 2024: Jan 20, 27, Feb 3, 10, 24, Mar 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (10 weeks)
No class dates: Sep 30, Nov 11, Nov 18, February 17

Register

Youth TAIKO Drumming Classes (ages 8 - 12) 

Japanese Kumi Daiko (ensemble taiko) centres around body and movement to explore “Ma”: the space between the notes. Working together to build energy, taiko drummers use body movement to create powerful rhythms. This combination of rhythm and choreography creates a challenging and exciting drumming style regardless of experience, and exercises both mind and body.

Fees: $180/semester
Instructor: Marc Vantol

Thursday, 4:45 - 6:00pm 
FALL 2023: Sep 21, 28, Oct 5, 12, 19, 26, Nov 2, 9, 23, 30 
WINTER 2024: Jan 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, 15, 29, Mar 7, 14, 21, 28 
NO CLASS DATES: Nov 16, Feb 22

Register

Youth Taiko

Children’s Choir (Ages 5 – 11)

The U of L Children's Choir is for children aged 5-11 years who love to sing or would like to explore what singing with others is all about. No audition is required. The focus of this dynamic young choir is on giving children the chance to experience the fun and joy of singing while at the same time growing as musicians. They sing a wide variety of music, including singing games and activities that help them develop as musicians and learn to use their singing voices in a healthy way. Their weekly rehearsals, led by conductor Nicole Garlock, are fun, organic and valuable. Performances throughout the year are the icing on the cake. 

Instructor: Nicole Garlock 
Fees: $285/year

Tuesday, 4:30 – 5:15 p.m.
Location: Penner Classroom
FALL 2023: Sep 26, Oct 3, 10, 17, 24 Nov 7, 21, 28, Dec 5, 12
WINTER 2024: Jan 16, 23, 30, Feb 6, 13, 27, Mar 5, 12, 19, 26, Apr 9, 16, 23
NO CLASS DATES: Oct 31, Nov 14, Feb 20, Apr 2 

Register


Alegre Choir (Ages 12 -17)

For singers aged 12-17, this choir offers singers a joyful and comprehensive experience in choral music. We sing music of all styles, with an emphasis is on choosing repertoire that is accessible, fun and challenging enough to allow each member to develop as vocal musicians through the experience of singing together. Weekly rehearsal, led by Kathy Matkin-Clapton are an energetic fusion of focus, hard work and joy as we grow together as a choir.  While this group performs throughout the year, the commitment is not heavy. Our primary aim is to create a dynamic and welcoming community where every singer feels valued and supported to develop confidence and musicianship through each rehearsal and performance. No audition or previous experience is required to participate in this choir.

Instructor: Kathy Matkin-Clapton
Fees: $390 + GST

Wednesday, 5:30-7:00pm
Location: Penner Hall (Casa) 
FALL 2023:  Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 11, 18, 25, Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Dec 6
WINTER, 2024: Jan 17, 24, 31 Feb 7, 14, 28, Mar 6, 13, 20, 27, Apr 10, 17, 24 
NO CLASS DATES:  Feb 21, Apr 3

Register


Incanto Singers (Ages 17+)

The Incanto Singers are a welcoming and skilled mixed choir for younger adults who love to sing. No audition is required to participate in this group because our goal is to develop individual musicality as we work together as a choir. We sing a wide variety of challenging repertoire in SATB, working hard in our weekly rehearsals to create and refine a sound and joyful approach that is uniquely “Incanto”. This wonderful choir is open to singers ages 17 and up. Many members of our group are working professionals, university, college or high school students who are eager to belong to a choir that will both accept them where they are at and challenge them to grow in confidence and skill as choral singers. While this group is often asked to perform throughout the year, the commitment is not heavy, and many events are decided upon collectively. Weekly rehearsals are led by Kathy Matkin-Clapton.

Instructor: Kathy Matkin-Clapton
Fees: $390 + GST 

Wednesday, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Penner Classroom
FALL 2023:  Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 11, 18, 25, Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Dec 6
WINTER, 2024: Jan 17, 24, 31 Feb 7, 14, 28, Mar 6, 13, 20, 27, Apr 10, 17, 24
NO CLASS DATES:  Feb 21, Apr 3

Register 


Sing for Joy (ages 40+)

Sing for Joy: A choir for well-being

In this choir, everyone is welcome, and everyone is good enough. Most of our singers are 40+, although we prefer to call it “plenty-nine”.  Our rehearsals are fun, dynamic “cup-filling” experiences for all. We sing a wide variety of music, from pop and the “oldies” to folk and traditional choir music in two, three three and four parts. Reading music is a plus, but not a must. Online materials are available to support learning between practices. The group meets on Thursday evenings from 7-8:30 at CASA (230 8th street south). Although we’re based in Lethbridge, singers can join the fun via Zoom from anywhere. Our new semester begins on Thursday, September 21st, 2023. Our conductor Kathy Matkin-Clapton has been leading choirs in our community for the past three decades. Her approach is to empower singers to find their inner musicians, nurturing confidence and growth that expands ability and possibility simultaneously. Her primary goal is to nurture joy and connection through collective music-making. She is passionate about and deeply committed to her work and grateful for every member of this uniquely amazing group of people. We hope you will join us as we sing for joy!

Website: sing4joy.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wesingforjoy

Instructor: Kathy Matkin-Clapton
Fees: $250/semester

Thursday, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Stephure Hall
FALL 2023:  Sep 21, 28, Oct 5, 12, 19, 26, Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Dec 7
WINTER 2024:  Jan 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, 15, Mar 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, Apr 11, 18
NO CLASS DATES: Feb 22, Feb 29, Apr 4

Register


Ventus Women's Choir

Ventus Women’s Choir was founded in the summer of 2015 and is comprised of singers from Lethbridge and surrounding area. Under the direction of Regan Brooks, Ventus has collaborated with established choirs and placed first at local, provincial, and national festivals.

Please contact Artistic Director Regan Brooks for an audition for Fall 2023 season. Regan.brooks@uleth.ca.

Instructor: Regan Brooks
Fees: $250/semester

Monday, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Stephure Hall
FALL 2023:  Sep 11, 18, 25, Oct 2, 16, 23, 30, Nov 6, 13, 20, 27, Dec 4
 

 

 
Ukulele Group Lessons (Ages 6 – 9)

Affordable group Ukulele Lessons ! Ages 6-9 can join these fun little classes to learn the charming and joyful sounds of the Ukulele. No ukulele? No problem - add one on when you register, and we will give it to your child at the first class. Your child will be making music in no time!

Instructor: Iliana Matos
Fees: $160 per semester (plus $56 ukulele if needed)

Monday, 4:30 - 5:20 p.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
FALL 2023: Sep 18, 25, Oct 2, 16, 23, 30, Nov 6, 20, 27, Dec 4 [10 weeks]
WINTER 2024: Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26, Mar 4, 11, 18, 25
No Class Dates: Oct 9, Nov 13, Feb 19

Register


Adult Ukulele Group Lessons

Now offering group ukulele lessons for adults! Come and explore the joyful sounds of the Ukulele in a fun and supportive small group environment. No Ukulele? No problem – add one on when you register, and we will have it ready for you at the first class. We can’t wait to make music with you!

Instructor: Iliana Matos
Fees: $160 per semester (plus $75 ukulele if needed)

Monday, 5:30 - 6:20 p.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
FALL 2023: Sep 18, 25, Oct 2, 16, 23, 30, Nov 6, 20, 27, Dec 4 [10 weeks]
WINTER 2024: Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26, Mar 4, 11, 18, 25
No Class Dates: Oct 9, Nov 13, Feb 19

Register

Accessibility Music Program (AMP)

Instructed by Lorrie Wittke, B.Mus.  Lorrie has over 30 years’ of experience in music education, with specialized training and certification in special music education through the Lotus Centre.

This 10-week course is designed for students with exceptionalities. Students will experience the joy of music in an inclusive environment, while exploring music and percussion instruments through games, movement, and singing. From the introductory meeting and tour on the first day of class, through to the small group performance to celebrate on the final day, this class will be filled with fun, friendship and music!  Fees: $165.

Class 1: for students developmentally between 5-7 years
Saturday, 1:00 - 1:45 p.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
WINTER 2024: Jan 27, Feb 3, 10, 17, Mar 2, 9, 16, 23, April 6, 13 [10 weeks]

Register

Class 2: for students developmentally 7+
Saturday, 2:00 - 2:45 p.m.
Location: Penner Classroom (Casa)
WINTER 2024: Jan 27, Feb 3, 10, 17, Mar 2, 9, 16, 23, April 6, 13 [10 weeks]

Register

Theory (Asynchronous)

New online theory courses are now available, designed to fully prepare and assist students in learning the RCM Music Theory 5, 6, 7 or 8 materials.  Registering and taking the RCM exam is not necessary to take these courses.  Our theory 5 is the first level of music theory and includes some basics in case students need additional beginner-level support.

To register for our online theory courses, students just need to decide which fee option best suits their needs, from just video access, to video access plus live study labs and prep exam marking support!  This allows students to decide how much support they need to complete the theory material.  Theory courses follow the RCM curriculum, so students need to purchase the workbook to go along with the course. 

All of the options include access to the online course for 6 months, giving students as much time as is needed.  When students register and pay for this course, they will then receive a welcome email with online course access details.  If students register for the fee that includes live (online) lab times, those will be scheduled bi-weekly on Thursdays, starting at 6:30pm.  Students can pick and choose which labs they want to sign up for in advance (sign-up sheets will be located in the course learning platform).

Registration Options: 

  • 6 Months of Access to Course Material for self-guided study, plus ability to submit 1 prep exam for marking: $150 (workbook is extra)
  • 6 Months of Access to Course Material, plus access to a live instructor for up to 3 study labs, plus ability to submit 1 prep exam for marking: $225 (workbook extra)
  • 6 Months of Access to Course Material, plus access to a live instructor for up to 6 study labs, plus ability to submit 2 prep exams for marking: $300 (workbook extra)

 

This course covers the material necessary to write the Royal Conservatory exam for Level 5 Theory.  The Level 5 course includes a thorough review of concepts covered in previous levels of RCM theory, which makes it possible for a student to use this course as a point of entry to their music theory studies, provided they have experience gained through vocal or instrumental lessons. Students will come to understand elements of pitch and notation, rhythm, scales and key signatures, melody and composition, intervals, music history, chords and harmony, form and analysis, and musical terms. 


Fees: $150 - $300
Instructor
: Colleen Klassen
Dates: From the date of payment/registration, you will have 6 months of access to this asynchronous course.

Register

*Please note this course fee does not include the actual Royal Conservatory exam.  That is a separate fee; the U of L Conservatory is not affiliated with the Royal Conservatory of Music.  We do not administer or mark the RCM exams.  This course is just designed to assist you in preparing for this exam.

This course covers the material necessary to write the Royal Conservatory exam for Level 6 Theory. If the student has not taken formal music theory prior to this course, it is recommended to begin with Level 5 and progress through the courses in sequence. A student with some training may request a placement test to help determine the appropriate course to register in. Students will come to understand elements of keys and scales, rhythm, intervals, chords and harmony, melody writing and composition, music history, and form and analysis.


Fees: $150 - $300
Instructor
: Colleen Klassen
Dates: From the date of payment/registration, you will have 6 months of access to this asynchronous course.

Register

*Please note this course fee does not include the actual Royal Conservatory exam.  That is a separate fee; the U of L Conservatory is not affiliated with the Royal Conservatory of Music.  We do not administer or mark the RCM exams.  This course is just designed to assist you in preparing for this exam.

This course covers the material necessary to write the Royal Conservatory exam for Level 7 Theory. If the student has not taken formal music theory prior to this course, it is recommended to begin with Level 5 and progress through the courses in sequence. A student with some training may request a placement test to help determine the appropriate course to register in. In Level 7 Theory, students will come to understand elements of keys and scales, rhythm, intervals, transposition, chords and harmony, melody writing and composition, music history, and form and analysis.


Fees: $150 - $300
Instructor
: Colleen Klassen
Dates: From the date of payment/registration, you will have 6 months of access to this asynchronous course.

Register

*Please note this course fee does not include the actual Royal Conservatory exam.  That is a separate fee; the U of L Conservatory is not affiliated with the Royal Conservatory of Music.  We do not administer or mark the RCM exams.  This course is just designed to assist you in preparing for this exam.

This course covers the material necessary to write the Royal Conservatory exam for Level 8 Theory. If the student has not taken formal music theory prior to this course, it is recommended to begin with Level 5 and progress through the courses in sequence. A student with some training may request a placement test to help determine the appropriate course to register in. In Level 8 Theory,  students will come to understand elements of keys and scales, rhythm, intervals, transposition, chords and harmony, melody writing and composition, music history, and form and analysis.


Fees: $150 - $300
Instructor
: Colleen Klassen
Dates: From the date of payment/registration, you will have 6 months of access to this asynchronous course.

Register

*Please note this course fee does not include the actual Royal Conservatory exam.  That is a separate fee; the U of L Conservatory is not affiliated with the Royal Conservatory of Music.  We do not administer or mark the RCM exams.  This course is just designed to assist you in preparing for this exam.

Studio 202: Podcast, Recording and Practice Studio

 

 

Studio 202 is a podcast/recording studio available for affordable hourly rental in the heart of downtown Lethbridge! Contact us to book your time today: music.conservatory@uleth.ca.

 

 

Did you know that we also offer Private Music Lessons?
Financial Assistance is available for those in need.
For more information regarding School Band Retreat opportunities, click here.