Dr. Edward Jurkowski

Biography

Edward Jurkowski is a strong leader and passionate advocate for the music arts, currently serving as the Dean of the Desautels Faculty of Music at the University of Manitoba since January 1, 2019. His tenure is marked by significant advancements, including the completion of funding for the Desautels Concert Hall, set to open in 2024, and the implementation of innovative academic initiatives such as the MA Music Research Micro Certificate in Songmaking. He has played a pivotal role in hiring new faculty members, including the faculty's Indigenous Scholar, and has fostered the induction of the Clearwater Quartet as the current chamber ensemble-in-residence. Edward received his undergraduate degree in musical composition from the University of Manitoba and obtained his MA and PhD in music theory from the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester. His research has culminated in several books and journal articles, and he has been recognized for his teaching excellence with Distinguished Teaching Award nominations. Prior to joining the University of Manitoba, Edward spent 22 years at the University of Lethbridge, serving for six years as the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, which includes the music department. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation as a strong administrator and valued collaborator within academia, holding positions such as president of the Canadian University Music Society and chairing various committees, including MusCan and the Canadian Association of Fine Arts Deans. His contributions to arts education have earned him the 2024 Academic Leadership Award from the Canadian Association of Fine Arts Deans.

Research Interests