Honouring Dr. Bob Pritchard and Dr. Keith Hamel
To honour the legacies of Dr. Bob Pritchard and Dr. Keith Hamel, pioneers in music technology at UBC, we invite you to support the Dr. Bob Pritchard and Dr. Keith Hamel Award in Music Technology and New Media.
Project Description
For decades, Dr. Pritchard and Dr. Hamel mentored students and helped establish UBC’s School of Music as a leader in music technology. Their courses—distinct at the UBC School of Music for their interdisciplinary approach—brought together students from Music, Arts, Science and Engineering to explore the intersection of organized sound and technology. Through hands-on experiences, they empowered students with the skills and confidence to reimagine the possibilities of music and performance.
Impact of Your Support
Students pursuing music technology often face significant financial barriers beyond tuition, books and accommodation. The cost of specialized software, digital equipment, instruments and performance attire can be prohibitive—limiting access to creative exploration and growth, particularly in fast-evolving fields like media arts and technology.
Your gift can change that. A new award in music technology and new media will provide students with the incentive to explore the field of music technology according to their interests, take creative risks, access the necessary tools to bring otherwise bold ideas to fruition and—importantly—to open up new horizons for future pursuits..
Make your gift today and help future artists thrive in the space Dr. Pritchard and Dr. Hamel helped shape. To make your donation go even further, the first $5,000 in gifts will be matched by Dr. Pritchard and Dr. Hamel, doubling your impact.
About Dr. Keith Hamel and Dr. Bob Pritchard
Dr. Keith Hamel is an internationally recognized composer and professor whose works combine live performance with computer-controlled electronics and responsive video. His compositions have been performed by leading ensembles around the world. Over his 38-year teaching and research career at UBC, he has mentored many of Canada’s most accomplished composers and championed the role of technology in contemporary music. He retires this year.
Dr. Bob Pritchard, who retired in 2024, is known for his work in interactive media, 3D audio and motion capture. His research and teaching helped students at all levels explore and expand the boundaries of music, movement and digital performance.
Together, Dr. Pritchard and Dr. Hamel built a lasting legacy at UBC. This award will carry that legacy forward—supporting future generations of students and inspiring continued innovation in music and media.
