Dr. Aaron Mcdonald

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Aaron McDonald is an Adjunct Professor of Percussion at the University of British Columbia's School of Music. He serves as the Principal Timpanist for the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and has performed with prestigious organizations such as the Cleveland Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Indianapolis Symphony, Buffalo Philharmonic, Calgary Philharmonic, and the National Arts Centre Orchestra. Additionally, Aaron has showcased his talent as a soloist, performing concertos with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Calgary Philharmonic, and Classical Tahoe Orchestra. His educational background includes a Master's degree in Orchestra Performance from the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied under renowned instructors Chris Lamb and Duncan Patton. Aaron has also extended his studies with Tom Freer of the Cleveland Orchestra and participated in programs such as Music Academy West and Tanglewood. He is known for his dedication to teaching, providing private lessons in percussion, and has a strong endorsement from Freer Percussion and REMO.

Research Interests

Experience

Adjunct Professor, Percussion/Timpani

— Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, BC, Canada

Teaches percussion and timpani at the University of British Columbia's School of Music.

Principal Timpanist

— Present

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra • Vancouver, BC, Canada

Serves as the Principal Timpanist and performs with the orchestra.

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.