Bringing a Modern Twist to Classical Music

For Cam Buie, the Library's 2024 Musical Artist in Residence, music has always been a part of who he is.  

"My dad plays piano as well. As soon as I could sit up on the bench, he got me playing notes." 

Since those early days, music has become much more than a hobby. From taking formal piano lessons throughout his childhood, to studying music at the University of Ottawa, performing with bands, and playing the organ at hockey games at the Saddledome — Cam has been able to build a career while connecting with the community through his music. 

Experimental sounds 

While Cam is classically trained, his music has a variety of influences and a modern twist. His style blends classical music with electronic sounds — something that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. 

Cam says that he isn't the kind of musician who only performs by just bringing out his guitar and singing songs. Rather, he enjoys taking people off the beaten path in a way that shares his fascination with the process of creating different soundscapes. 

"I really enjoy a lot of experimental music. I have a lot of synthesizers and that's been a big part of my residency. I have a lot of electronic musical instruments and making music with that can be extremely rewarding. It's such a very different experience than classical music."

Making connections at the Library 

Cam personally knows previous Musical Artists in Residence at the Library and was thrilled to receive this opportunity himself.  

"I was finding myself more in the 'side man’ role where I was a session musician getting hired to play other people's music. But I wanted to get back into the place of making my own music. The Musical Artist in Residence felt like the opportunity to get me there." 

He also has extensive experience in music education. His passion for teaching others about music has tied well into his residency. 

Cam has been able to connect with many different people at the Library. In the first weeks of his residency, Cam has helped a young man apply for a program at Berklee College of Music, discussed his handwritten scores with people passing by his office, and has hosted demonstrations for school-aged students. 

"It's been really cool to meet members of the community and just be here in the Library." 

Cam looks forward to building more connections through conversations and music throughout the rest of his residency. He welcomes people of all musical abilities to stop by his drop-in hours and discuss everything from technique, songwriting, performance, or whatever aspect of the music industry would be most helpful. His final showcase will be at Central Library on December 14 where he will be working with a local artist to tie in visuals to his electronic music show. 

Learn more about the Musical Artist in Residence Program. 

About the Library Residency Programs   

The Musical Artist in Residence is the last of eight residencies that take place at Calgary Public Library each year. These short-term community engagement initiatives support individuals and collectives living and working in Calgary and surrounding First Nations communities.