AMPD Testimonials

My experience in the Music program these last four years has been a rewarding one. Being able to study under highly accomplished instructors who also cared for my professional development was encouraging and pushed me to challenge myself in new ways. With the connections and friendships, I made at this institution, I can confidently say there was no program that could have been a more perfect fit for me. 

Dulce Martinez

Fourth-year Music Student 

My education at York University’s music program provided a strong foundation for my career by enhancing my versatility, improvisation and composition skills. Being able to take courses in jazz performance, theory and technology helped shape my unique fusion sound while equipping me with the technical and production knowledge needed as an independent artist. Performance opportunities and networking connections strengthened my stage presence and industry awareness, while my studies also prepared me for leadership roles, including teaching, mentorship and music direction. York’s program played a key role in shaping my artistry, creativity and ability to navigate the music industry.

Desarae Dee (BFA ’12)

Instrumental Jazz Fusion Artist & 2022 Recipient of the SiriusXM Black Canadian Award

When I studied at York University I wasn’t just studying performance or composition. I was studying everything and how they all connect together. Learning how to collaborate and appreciate all those different kinds of fine arts really did help me.

Dan Kanter (BFA ’07)

Musical Director and Producer for Justin Bieber

Studying in AMPD's Music program deepened my passion for music and provided me with skills that I continue to use in both performance and life. One of my most cherished memories is Tuesday nights with the Gospel Choir, where I made lifelong friends who I now consider family.

Angelina (Gulla) De Paola (Music, '10)

York University (Administration), Private Voice teacher and Performer

The music faculty at York University were dedicated professionals who provided invaluable guidance during my studies. Their expertise helped me build a strong foundation that I now draw upon in my current role. 

Luis Ramirez (PhD ’24)

Assistant Professor of Music Theory, Brandon University

I decided to come to AMPD because we have a really strong music education program and I was actually able to take both classical cello and music education. Our facilities are amazing. We have so many practice rooms along with incredible professors.

Eleni Mitrpoulos

Third-Year Music Student

All these years later – in addition to singing and recording – I am still producing concerts, showcases and festivals, and all because of York, which truly did inspire me to redefine the possible.

Ori Dagan (BFA Music ‘07) 

Photo: What A Difference O’Day Made: a celebratory concert honouring Anita O’Day that he produced at Burton Auditorium in 2005. Read more in The York University Magazine.

What I remember most about my time at York was the incredible faculty and some of the most amazing teachers that I’ve ever come into contact with. People who really shaped my journey as a musician and showed me what the options were in this industry. The advice I would give students today is to just keep going – focus on the things that excite you, and don’t lose sight of the reason that you got into playing music in the first place.

Jeremy Ledbetter (BFA Music ’02)

Juno Award-winning pianist and composer

York changed everything. My studies at AMPD reignited my curiosity, turning my confusion into exploration. The mentorship I received helped mend the invisible gap between me and my potential. My professors showed me that I didn’t need to be a virtuoso pianist to have a voice in music. I could shape my own path, create my own role and build a life in music that felt authentic to me.

Alokananda Dasgupta (BFA Music ’09)

Award-Winning Film Composer (Netflix, Amazon Prime)

Read our feature on Alokananda’s journey.