After three transformative years in The Royal Conservatory’s Oscar Peterson Program, clarinetist Giselle Santana is taking the next step in her musical journey with a scholarship to pursue post-secondary music studies at the University of Toronto. This fall, she will begin a Bachelor of Music degree, continuing a path that once felt out of reach. 

“The Oscar Peterson Program has quite literally changed my life”, says the young clarinetist of the RCM's tuition-free program for GTA youth. She adds that before joining the program, pursuing music seriously “was just a faraway dream.” Coming from a single-parent household, financial barriers made access to high-quality music education difficult. “Most of the money coming in was to keep our family afloat,” she explains. “So, it wasn’t ever something I could dream of doing.” 

Everything changed when she discovered the Oscar Peterson Program through friends. What began as an opportunity to improve her clarinet playing soon became a source of confidence, community, and inspiration. 

“The Oscar Peterson Program opened pathways for me beyond what I had ever dreamed for myself,” she said. “Playing fun, yet technically challenging music, pushed me to become a better musician and performer.” 

Giselle and her student mentor Ann Murdocca at The Royal Occasion 2026

A key part of Giselle’s journey has been the mentorship she received from Ann Murdocca, an ADP student at The Glenn Gould School. “Having Ann as my mentor has been incredible,” says Giselle. “She has helped me prepare for university auditions and is always ready to answer my questions. Her support has allowed me to grow and surpass bumps in my learning journey to become a better musician, and a better human.” 

Beyond musical training, Giselle says the program has given her a sense of belonging and belief in herself. “I have built confidence in myself and my abilities, and am surrounded by such a warm, welcoming, and encouraging community.” 

One especially meaningful moment came during The Royal Occasion, where Giselle spoke movingly about how the program helped her achieve what once felt impossible: the opportunity to pursue post-secondary music studies. Then, just moments later backstage, she received an email confirming that she had been awarded a scholarship to the University of Toronto. The remarkable timing of the news made for an emotional and unforgettable moment, underscoring the life-changing impact of the Oscar Peterson Program and the power of access to music education. 

Reflecting on the support that made her journey possible, Giselle emphasized the importance of ensuring access to music education for all young people. 

“I think every child should have the opportunity to seek their dreams,” she said. “The circumstances in their lives shouldn’t be a factor of whether or not they get to.” 

Now, as she prepares to begin the next chapter of her musical education, Giselle is looking ahead with excitement and gratitude. 

“What seemed impossible for my life became possible with this program,” she said. “I could only have done it with the support I’ve received from the Oscar Peterson Program.” 

Find out more about the Oscar Peterson Program.