Eastwood Collegiate Music

Join a community where young musicians grow, create, and shine.

Award-winning staff & expert mentorship

Band, Jazz, Strings, Vocals, Songwriting & Production

Real-world performance and creative opportunities

 

Check out our highlights from 2024-25 to get a glimpse into the abundant performance opportunities offered as well as our new facilities!

Eastwood Music Highlight Photos

For more information about the Integrated Arts Program and how to apply visit  –  eci.wrdsb.ca/arts

Scroll to bottom for Music Course Selection Options!

Why Should Your Child Choose Eastwood Collegiate Music?

Eastwood Collegiate Institute is one of the region’s most vibrant and respected places for young musicians to grow. If your child is passionate about music – whether performing, producing, composing, or exploring it as a career – Eastwood offers an environment where they can truly thrive.

  1. A Dedicated Integrated Arts Program (IAP)

Eastwood’s Music IAP Major provides a specialized, arts-focused pathway within a supportive public-school setting. Students learn alongside peers who share the same passion, drive, and creativity—building a strong sense of community and belonging

  1. Exceptional Facilities

With newly renovated music rooms, rehearsal spaces, two recording studios, and technology-enhanced classrooms, students learn in professional-level environments that mirror the real music industry. This facility truly stands by itself.

  1. Expert, Caring Teachers

Eastwood’s music educators are working musicians and conductors who bring hands-on experience from the stage and studio. They know how to challenge students while supporting their well-being and growth.

Meet Our Staff:

Matt Drysdale – Department Head

  • Instrumental Music • Jazz Band & Jazz Combos • Songwriting & Recording Arts
  • Leads Eastwood’s award-winning songwriting and recording program

Lauren Helmer – Concert Winds & Jazz

  • Concert Winds • Jazz & Combos • Instrumental Music
  • Professional conductor with Guelph Concert Winds
  • Focuses on ensemble performance, technique, and real-world musicianship

Kirsty Hunsberger Shortt – Strings Specialist

  • Director of String Orchestras and Eastwood Fiddlers
  • Builds expressive playing, ensemble skills, and technical mastery from beginner to advanced levels

Ryan Coulter – Vocal Specialist

  • Leads Choir, vocal ensembles, and musical theatre preparation
  • Supports students in vocal development, performance confidence, and artistic expression
  1. Performance Opportunities That Matter

From our IAP Gala, jazz nights and songwriters concerts at the Jazz Room, musicals to festivals, tours, community events, and music nights, students gain real performance experience that builds confidence, teamwork, and artistry.

  1. A Program That Meets Students Where They Are

Whether your child arrives as a beginner, an experienced performer, or a budding producer, Eastwood provides:

  • Multiple pathways: band, vocal, strings, songwriting/production, jazz, digital music
  • Choices for advanced and developing musicians
  • Specialized courses in recording, songwriting, music technology, and composition
  1. A Supportive, Student-Centered Community

Music at Eastwood is more than classes, it’s a family. Students form strong friendships, learn leadership skills, and join a community that celebrates individuality and creativity.

  1. A Track Record of Success

Eastwood musicians go on to:

  • Study music in university or college
  • Pursue careers in education, performance, theatre, sound engineering, and music production
  • Continue as lifelong musicians with strong artistic foundations
  1. Real-World Skills Beyond Music

Even for students who don’t plan on a music-based career, the program builds skills that last a lifetime:

  • Confidence and communication
  • Creativity and problem-solving
  • Discipline, collaboration, and time management
  1. A Place to Belong and Be Inspired

Most importantly, Eastwood is a place where your child will be seen, supported, and encouraged to grow, not just as a musician, but as a person.

Come see why Eastwood Collegiate is where young musicians belong, create, and thrive.

 

Here is our CBC Music Class Entry from Spring 2025 – grade 11/12 Songwriting and Recording.  1st place in Canada!

Here is our Grade 10 Music Production class entry for this year!  Top 10 in Canada as of Dec 16.

 

 

For Music Course Selection information

Grade 8s going into Grade 9:  View Slide Show

Grade 9s going into Grade 10:  View Slide Show

Grade 10s going into Grade 12: View Slide Show

Grade 11s going into grade 12 or Returning gr 12s:  View Slideshow