By Nikolina Djuric
Metro Vancouver, B.C. – A Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) music instructor is hitting all the right notes.
Gail Suderman is one of eight women nominated for a 2017 YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Arts, Culture and Design category.
“Gail has created genuine excitement for song among students, their parents and school leaders,” said Dr. Diane Purvey, dean in the Faculty of Arts. “The current popularity of choral singing is due to the efforts of musicians like Gail, who has nurtured this art for three decades.”
Suderman has accomplished a great deal in a career spanning more than 25 years in music and music instruction. As a music teacher at Gladstone Secondary in Vancouver, she doubled the size of the program and created excitement around choral work.
She has served as KPU’s director of voice and choral studies since 2001, where she places a high priority on developing the voice, opera and choral program.
In addition to Suderman demonstrating creativity in igniting and sustaining interest in voice and opera, her work with Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir has made a strong impact in the Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley regions. Suderman's vision for the gospel choir has helped to establish support for youth via the choir's young artist program and introduce thousands to the power and joy of gospel music. She has also created additional opportunities for young vocalists by building connections with renowned ensembles such as the Vancouver Children's Choir.
“Good Noise” has become one of Vancouver’s “go-to” choirs, having performed live with Shania Twain, Barbra Streisand, David Foster, Josh Groban, Holly Cole and Jim Byrnes.
“Gail Suderman is a force in the BC cultural scene,” said KPU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Davis. “She is an outstanding musician in her own right, and an amazing teacher and leader. She inspires and supports artists of every age to create wonderful music.”
More of Suderman’s accomplishments can be found on her website.
Recognized nationally, the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards honours individuals and organizations whose outstanding activities and achievements contribute to the well-being and future of our community.
The awards will be announced on May 29 during a gala event at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
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