Meet KPU: Malcolm Aiken
Aiken is a KPU music instructor and a Juno-nominated artist who shares his extensive experience in the music industry with students
Trumpeter Malcolm Aiken has been a KPU music faculty member since 2021. (Submitted)
Malcolm Aiken is a music instructor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University as well as a Juno Award-nominated trumpeter, artist, and music producer.
Holding his master’s degree in ethnomusicology from the University of British Columbia, where he studied jazz and Latin jazz, Aiken has built a dynamic career that blends performing, teaching, and producing music.
He has played for audiences worldwide, including at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, which he found brought lots of vibrancy to the city, with the audiences being very fun to play to.
As a touring musician, he has shared the stage with musicians such as Chucho Valdes, Noel Gallagher of the band Oasis, John Hammond Jr., and Jim Byrnes, who is a KPU honorary degree recipient, among other artists.
His work in the music industry goes beyond performing as he brings his love for music to the classroom. Aiken is committed to sharing his knowledge and guiding students to discover their potential and passion to reach their artistic aspirations, contributing to the evolving music scene in Canada.
Aiken sent the following responses in an email statement to The Runner, which have been edited for clarity.
When did you join the KPU community and why?
I began teaching in KPU’s music department in 2021 during the pandemic when the world was shut down and everything had moved online. It was an interesting time to join the music faculty!
My academic background combined with 25 years in the music industry provides me with a global and nuanced perspective to my work in the classroom.
What’s your favourite story of your time at KPU?
I have really enjoyed working with my colleague, the illustrious Dr. Gordon Cobb, in the production of the annual Wake Up! Social Justice Music Festival. It’s wonderful to see students from different departments and interests come together to create something special each year.
What I most enjoy about teaching music here is working alongside such inspiring faculty and diverse students.
What’s something you’d like to say to people new to the KPU community?
Welcome! There’s lots of exciting things happening right now in the KPU music department. It’s a great time to be part of our community as we build something truly unique.
Also, aim high! The sky is the limit. The music industry is undergoing rapid changes, and there will always be space for hard working, creative, and innovative artists!
What are you working on right now?
I am currently working on several recording projects and preparing for summer tours with my musical projects.
What’s something you’d like people to know about you?
I’d like to highlight the mentorship of two KPU faculty alum — Tom Shorthouse and Dr. Sal Ferreras, both of whom inspired me to pursue music and taught me to love the craft and process. They were instrumental in my career development, and I try to keep their teachings and approach to music in everything I do.
