The performing arts have an exceptional capacity to affect us. Our Performing & Worship Arts department seeks to bring a biblical and theological understanding to this powerful medium so that you can learn how to use your gifts for God's glory, both within the Church and when confronting the secular music world. If music is a passion of yours or something you’d like to learn more about, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get involved!
Music teams
Students participate in a variety of music ensembles that perform on campus, in local churches, and on tours across western Canada. These groups provide students with the opportunity to refine their musical and performance skills, develop life-long friendships, and minister through music. All ensembles require a full-year commitment and are eligible for up to two credit hours per year (one per semester).
College Singers
The Briercrest College Singers is a large accompanied choir that practices several times a week and performs in local churches and at events throughout the year, including the Briercrest Christmas production, Voices from the Front (Remembrance Day production), and Opera Scenes.
Orchestra
The Briercrest orchestra accompanies the choir and performs at the annual Christmas production, classical concerts, and other special events. This ensemble consists of a combination of students, community members, and professionals, giving you the opportunity to gain friends and mentors among those who are more experienced in their art.
Worship Teams
Worship teams lead music during the College's chapel services, four times per week. These groups develop a close-knit bond as they explore the many aspects of practical worship leadership and develop their own skills throughout the academic year.
Resonant
Resonant is a 12 to 14-voice a cappella ensemble. Throughout the year, this group performs at many events on campus and tours Western Canada, performing vocal literature in genres including sacred, contemporary, gospel, and folk.
Creative technology
Recording studio
Briercrest College is home to a digital recording studio where albums have been produced by many students. Our recording studio gives you the opportunity to learn about the recording industry and explore this area of the arts.
Keyboard lab
The keyboard lab allows our advanced and beginner students to study piano in a group setting. The lab also contains a variety of electronic keyboards so you can learn the principles of electronic music.
Video production
Video production is a class designed to equip students with the skills necessary for effective video communications. You’ll have the opportunity to learn the basics of camera shooting, setting up and operating a non-linear video editing suite, and engineering live video productions. Our advanced course gives you the opportunity to refine your skills in shooting, lighting, graphics, editing, and producing as you gain valuable experience doing practical projects.
Live sound and production
Our live sound and production class equips you with the knowledge and skills of live sound engineering including set-up, signal flow, microphone techniques, mixing techniques, and signal processing. We also explore related production topics like the basics of lighting, PowerPoint, stage management, and professional etiquette.
Drama
There are countless opportunities to take part in stage productions at Briercrest College. Beyond the Acting and Musical Theatre Workshop classes, you can audition for parts in the annual Briercrest Christmas production, and for Briercrest Summer Stage, where two full musicals are produced and performed between the months of April and June. Several other performance events take place throughout the academic year, including Voices from the Front (a unique Remembrance Day production) and Opera Scenes.
Visual arts
Props and set design are a vital part of the Briercrest Christmas Musical, Briercrest Summer Stage, and Youth Quake productions. As a result, artistic students are given many opportunities to use their talents.
Private lessons
We offer lessons in piano, voice, guitar, violin, drums, and a variety of other instruments. Ten lessons are offered each semester. For information on cost or to apply for lessons, check online or contact the Performing & Worship Arts office. Practice rooms are available on a rental basis for those taking music lessons. You may receive one credit for applied lessons with no tuition beyond the regular lesson fee. All students taking lessons for credit receive a grade for each semester of study.
