Distinguished Visiting Artist in Country Music
The Distinguished Visiting Artist in Country Music program connects MacEwan students with the artists and professionals behind Canada’s country music industry. Aspiring country singers, musicians, producers and other professions in the industry learn from the most celebrated names in the field.
Shape the next generation of country music talent
Your support brings real-world industry experience into MacEwan classrooms and performance spaces—connecting students with accomplished country music professionals and opening doors to opportunities that textbooks alone can't provide.
What your support makes possible
Meaningful industry mentorship
Your gift connects students with established performers, writers and producers who share real-world insight and experience.
Hands-on, real-world learning
Your donation brings artists to campus to lead master classes, workshops and performances that turn learning into practice.
Clear pathways to creative careers
Your support helps aspiring performers and future country music professionals build confidence, skills and industry connections.
A stronger country music community
Your generosity strengthens Edmonton’s country music scene and supports a vibrant, sustainable creative economy.
Backstage Pass: learning takes the stage
Backstage Pass is a signature part of MacEwan’s Distinguished Visiting Artist in Country Music initiative. Made possible by your support, Backstage Pass brings students and professionals together for a master class and a concert. Pairing behind-the-scenes learning with a live performance that brings real-world experience to the stage.
Backstage Pass events typically take place in January. Watch MacEwan’s events listings for upcoming performances.
Charitable Registration #119235786RR0001
For inquiries about your gift, contact the Alumni and Development Office at giving@macewan.ca or call us at 780-497-5410.
Protection of Privacy: Personal information provided is collected in accordance with Section 4(c) of the Alberta Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) and will be protected in accordance with section 10 and used and disclosed in accordance with sections 12 and 13 of the Act. It will be used and/or disclosed for the purpose of event registration. It may also be used and/or disclosed for alumni, donor engagement and philanthropic activities. If you require further information about collection, use and disclosure of personal information, please contact the Development Office at giving@macewan.ca or 780-497-5410.
How the Distinguished Visiting Artist program works
Artists are invited to campus
Recognized leaders from across the country music industry join MacEwan as distinguished visiting artists.
Students learn from experience
Through lectures, master classes, mentorship, and performances—culminating each January in Backstage Pass—artists share real-world insight from across the industry.
Learning leads to opportunity
Students build skills, confidence and connections that support long-term careers.
“I truly wish there was something like this program when I was starting out in the business—it probably would have saved me some money and heartache!”
– Brett Kissel, Alberta-born country music superstar and honourary campaign chair
Kissel lends his leadership and perspective to MacEwan’s initiative. His career reflects the pathways that this program helps open for students: learning from experience, building meaningful connections and growing talent within Canada’s country music industry.