Andrea Unrau
Director of Programming
Sarah McLachlan School of Music
About Andrea Unrau
Andrea Unrau is the Director of Programming at the Sarah McLachlan School of Music, where she leads the design and delivery of inclusive and zero-cost community-based music programs serving over 1000 children and youth across Western Canadian cities.
Through years of program expansion and work with over 100 teaching artists, Andrea has developed models of accessible program design that can balance needs within diverse communities. Her research explores the intersection of music education and child development, with a focus on how music supports cognitive, social and emotional growth in young learners.
Most recently, Andrea and colleagues have been engaged in cross-Canada research on large-scale community music programs, investigating shared values, teaching strategies, and long-term impacts. She is passionate about music as a catalyst for belonging, self-expression, and transformative growth.
Events with Andrea Unrau
Starting a Music Program in Your Community – Tips for Start-Ups
Starting a music program from the ground up can be a powerful way to foster community, engage youth and create a lasting cultural, educational and social impact. This roundtable brings...
Bringing Music Alive in Schools: Transforming the Lives of Children and Youth Through Music Education
Music programs are a powerful force in the lives of young people, whether it’s through building self-confidence, fostering belonging, or helping students navigate the overwhelming challenges of today. And yet,...