Education profiles CANADA

Tanya Derksen

Education and Outreach Manager
Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Years in current position: 2
Years in the field: 8

Majors:
Music, Piano

Additional Training:
Arts and Cultural Management Certificate program coursework, University of Winnipeg
Career Path:
Piano/Theory Instructor
Piano Accompanist
Executive Assistant, Manitoba Audio Recording Industry Association

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
The creative aspect of putting on programs and working with local community partners.

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
The magnitude and impact of the organization.

What steps did you take towards an orchestra career?
Networking, networking, networking—it’s the best way to get your foot in the door.

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
Make sure you want to work in this field. It’s important to enjoy the work because there are few other perks.

Any other advice?
If you are passionate about it and finds way to keep balance in your life (i.e. don’t get burned out), it can be very rewarding.