Canada's Premier Entertainment Arts School
About Us
Metalworks Institute is the educational creation and natural extension of world-renowned Metalworks Studios; home to some of the world’s most successful artists and producers. Mandated by founder Gil Moore to provide a superior curriculum, as well as an unrivaled social, educational, and artistic experience. Metalworks Institute is not your average school.
Accordingly, Metalworks Institute embraces a philosophy of mutual respect, inspirational mentoring, and balanced life values. The state-of-the-art campus facilities, located adjacent to the studio complex, support this vision. Providing students with the best tools, instructors and environment to complete their studies: Metalworks sets the standard for entertainment arts education.
Our Founder
Metalworks Founder Gil Moore
Metalworks Founder Gil Moore first rose to prominence as the drummer for Canadian supergroup and Music Hall of Fame inductees Triumph. When the band stopped touring in 1988, Moore dedicated himself full-time to Metalworks Studios – the unprecedented seventeen-time winners of Canadian Music Week’s Recording Studio of the Year award.
In 2004, the studio expanded into live sound and lighting through Metalworks Production Group – voted A/V Production Company of the Year at Canadian Music Week's Live Music Industry Awards in 2018. In 2005, Moore founded Metalworks Institute with the goal of passing the vast skills and knowledge of the Metalworks team to the next generation. Now our graduates inspire us daily with their accomplishments.
Our History
Metalworks Studios' Studio 1 in 1978
The Metalworks story began with the incorporation of Design Staging Inc. on October 11, 1977 – a sound company, management hub, and creative workspace for legendary Canada's Walk of Fame Inductees Triumph. As Triumph’s ascent in rock evolved, the company’s name was changed to Metalworks. While the initial focus was on studio recording, the Metalworks brand ultimately expanded to embrace multiple facets of the entertainment industry – from recording, to live event production, to education.
Metalworks Studios has maintained an unsurpassed level of excellence spanning four decades, hosting an illustrious array of international recording artists, producers, and film stars, while maintaining a vital role in the continuing development of emerging talent.
The Metalworks Community
What Our Graduates Have To Say
Metalworks gave me the foundation I needed to start my career. The instructors are great, and they are all veterans of the business which makes all the difference. If you're looking to break into the music business but don’t know where to start, Metalworks is a great place and has served as a launchpad for many respected pros.Mr. WordPress
I quite value my time spent at MWI. The education was crucial to my development and the friendships formed carry on to this day! My fellow graduates continue to inspire me daily.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks rewards hard work with honesty, curiosity with knowledge, and devotion with reinforcement. Those with a true passion for the music industry have the chance to prosper here.Mr. WordPress
The best part about it all is running into fellow MWI Alumni in the business. When you graduate – you’ll know exactly what I mean. We are the music business illuminati and we stick together!Mr. WordPress
Metalworks absolutely gave me the most hands on and real-world experience that helped me with exactly what I wanted to do after I graduated. The program was great, and the staff and community have all been amazingly supportive.Mr. WordPress
I thought the Audio Production & Engineering program was great. The instructors taught us a lot. I’d recommend the program to anyone interested in audio-related work. It really allows graduates to go into any audio field they want, whether it be studio work, live sound, post-production for TV/movies, etc.Mr. WordPress
I graduated 6 years ago and since then, was able to build a business for myself as a songwriter, with the knowledge, help and support of my Metalworks family. I’ve written for and developed artists that have gone on to sign deals in Canada, US and UK. I currently work with publishers and producers based in Toronto and Los Angeles and have several industry outlets to plug my songs to.
The curriculum, technologies and student experience at metalworks are constantly being revised and upgraded to ensure the most competitive level of education in the entertainment industry, the owner, principal and instructors all pushed and challenged me to get back on track when I was struggling and I’ve never felt that kind of support from an educational system in my life. When the students win, Metalworks wins and I’m so grateful to have this community to always call “home”.
In retrospect, this school prepared and equipped me with the tools, experience, information, and relationships I needed to navigate through one of the toughest industries on this planet – the music industry. My tenacity and endurance brought me to success but my experience at Metalworks gave me the confidence and platform to really go for it.
Mr. WordPress
This is THE place to go if you want to be accepted for who you are, what you feel, and what you express. These people have been a blessing to me, and I will never forget their kindness.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks taught me the fundamentals I needed to build a successful career in the music industry. For this reason, whenever I need to hire, I go right to Metalworks. MWI grads are simply more skilled and better equipped for the industry.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks completely changed my life. I have never learned so much in a two year span than I did at this school. The staff is wonderful and completely willing to work with you and help you with your future career. Since graduating Metalworks I have attained not 1 but 4 jobs in my field, a fantastic network of professionals, friends and wealth of knowledge. I am able to proudly call myself a professional in the music & entertainment industry and without Metalworks I don’t know if I would have ever been able to acquire the confidence to do so! This is a fantastic school that can help jump start your career into the entertainment industry!Mr. WordPress
The most helpful aspect [of my Metalworks education] would be the studio classes. My teacher [went] beyond teaching me the hands-on aspects of analog equipment in the studio – he taught me so much about studio protocol, etiquette and morale. The teachers each have their own teaching style and I believe that the community and engagement surrounding the education fosters excellent personal development both in and out of the classroom.Mr. WordPress
My time at the Institute was an experience that I will take with me wherever I go. It was intense and a lot of hard work, but it was also a lot of fun. The hard work got me well prepared for the industry. The people I met and the connections I have made from my time at school is what made the whole experience worth it.Mr. WordPress
The overall workload of the course material at Metalworks really prepared me for this life. It comes in waves, and sometimes those waves hit you hard, but the reward when you stand on a viewing deck looking out at 40,000 people cheering and smiling from ear to ear at what you've helped create - that makes it all worth it.Mr. WordPress
Everything I was taught [at Metalworks] has given me a solid foundation to reach for the sky, where ever I choose to go. I work with amazing people, and every day just keeps getting more and more exciting. It is a privilege and luxury compared to other jobs I’ve worked. Metalworks is the place to go if you want to turn your love for music into a real, tangible, and rewarding career.Mr. WordPress
The instructors at Metalworks went above and beyond to teach me very valuable life lessons. They were passionate about music and provided me with all the tools I needed to be successful.Mr. WordPress
Between learning the skills to become a good Lighting Video Technician and [advice on] building a name for yourself, I would say the most helpful aspect of my Metalworks education was learning how to network within the production community. It continues to be a great experience and I am thankful for all the relationships built.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks really is the best place in Canada to learn every facet of the music industry. Top-notch teachers and a world-class facility.Mr. WordPress
Best decision you’ll ever make. Beyond all, MWI is a really positive place. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and accomplished, but so friendly. It's more of a collaborative environment than a strict professor-student vibe and that’s what I loved most. If you’re thinking about pursuing music – regardless of whether you want to be a performing or studio vocalist/instrumentalist, or a studio/live engineer, or a music producer, I would STRONGLY recommend Metalworks. You’ll learn everything you need to be successful at your craft.Mr. WordPress
First and foremost, [the most helpful aspect of my Metalworks education] was learning from industry professionals with real world experience. Having access to classic analogue equipment as well as the newest digital tech wasn’t bad either, ha!Mr. WordPress
Metalworks helped to start a good networking environment with great professionals in the entertainment business, like lawyers and producers. The school provided me with a basic understanding of how the music business works; for example, I learned how to properly run a management company, record label, and publishing company.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks helped me build the foundation for how I conduct myself personally and professionally and it has definitely paid off.Mr. WordPress
I had a great experience – very hands-on, which is great for the Show Production program as this is the practical knowledge you need in order to be successful. The teachers were all extremely knowledgeable and fun, which made going to school for long hours much more enjoyable. I would recommend the school to others who are extremely passionate about music and will do the work it takes to become successful in the field.Mr. WordPress
I can honestly say I've used everything I ever learned at MWI.Mr. WordPress
The level expected from Metalworks is consistent with the level expected in my career. It was a tough school, and requires a high level of commitment to succeed in. This was perfect training for my career which demands the same level of commitment. Working with the professionals at Metalworks definitely prepared me for working with professionals today... these life lessons [I] learned have probably proven more important than even the technical education.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks gave me the knowledge that I needed to be able to pursue my passion in life. (They) gave us access to the studios in between classes, which helped me to polish my techniques. In addition, the encouraging spirit of the instructors gave me the ability I needed to communicate and to learn.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks really puts you to work, introduces you to a lot of key people, and teaches you basically all there is to know about the whole industry. However, once you get that diploma it’s not their job to get you one, it’s yours.Mr. WordPress
It is hard to say what has been the most helpful aspect of my Metalworks Education. I have taken so much out of my time at Metalworks. The program taught me a lot about different aspects of the music industry, especially in live music environments, which has helped me to stand out from other people. Having experience and knowledge in multiple avenues definitely makes you an asset … Thank you Metalworks for giving me the experience and knowledge I needed to succeed in my career.Mr. WordPress
My education has given me an abundance of useful knowledge for much of what I do at work. Not only did I gain an understanding of the recording process, I also received a solid foundation in Pro Tools which is a key component in my job. I use Pro Tools every day. The knowledge base I gained from Metalworks Institute was definitely a great help in landing me the job I currently have. In addition to the knowledge I gained from the Audio Production program, the school was also a haven for networking. I met many talented, hard working, and creative people during my time [at Metalworks Institute] who I will continue to stay in touch with. I also credit the presence of healthy competition within the Audio Production program for pushing me to be my best and preparing me to work at the level I currently work at. Mr. WordPress
The most helpful aspect of Metalworks education splits with the two programs I enrolled in. The Audio Production and Engineering Program taught me my way around a studio and proper studio etiquette. As well as how to use different DAW’s. The Music Mixing and Mastering Program taught me how to use my ears and listen. It enabled me to understand how sound and energy tie in together and how we can manipulate that in order to make music and exemplify emotion. Metalworks also gave me friends, connections and led me to a job I never thought I’d have. I couldn’t be more grateful.Mr. WordPress
I believe almost every class at Metalworks was useful – Music Theory, Recording Engineering, Music Production, MIDI & Synthesis, Intellectual Properties, Promotion & Publicity, and Music Publishing were all important classes to digest and understand. I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t have that knowledge.Mr. WordPress
I had a great experience learning at the Institute. The knowledge and hands on training I received from the school really expanded my understanding of sound and how all aspects of a live concert are created. The teachers were extremely knowledgeable and passionate and with all of their industry experience, they made the classes much more enjoyable and practical. My experience here was an invaluable part of my career training.Mr. WordPress
The classes covered a broad range of topics, all extremely relevant to what is going on in today’s music marketplace. Whether I’m working with a client, or I’m on show-site, the education that I received at Metalworks is helping every step of the way.Mr. WordPress
I think in any organization or company, it’s the people that really make or break it, and the instructors I had at Metalworks Institute, regardless of subject, were very knowledgeable and still active in the industry.Mr. WordPress
There is definitely something from each of my courses that I took at Metalworks that I still use on a daily basis. It is hard work and I work long hours, sometimes without breaks… Kind of like being in school again! I am thankful for my classes, for the instructors, the administrative staff, and for my classmates as everyone played a role in the decisions I made while in school and after graduating.Mr. WordPress
The biggest thing I got from Metalworks was that it put my head in the right place. It gave me a well-rounded perspective on what the industry is and what I should expect from it. I got a lot of career momentum from finding myself surrounded by so many like-minded people, and that momentum hasn’t stopped since.Mr. WordPress
I liked how versatile the classes were. You learn a large spectrum of the music business which helps you understand and interact easier in the real world. Also, the amount they stressed volunteering and getting your foot in the door at conferences and festivals really was the way [that] I made all of my connections. I took full advantage of the week off they gave us to volunteer at Canadian Music Week and that week changed my life. I can honestly say I would not be where I am today without that experience.Mr. WordPress
My time at MWI was very important to me. After my 2-year program, I walked away with a toolbox of tips and tricks in live and studio production and it was up to me to use those tools to make a career for myself (nothing falls in your lap in the music biz). A career in the industry is built on hard work, determination, and passion for the gig.Mr. WordPress
I was thankful for the passionate teachers and the insight they gave me into Audio Technologies as well as the Music Industry. It also provided me the opportunity to a great internship where I was able to learn a lot from people who work at the top levels in the industry and see first-hand what it takes to be there.Mr. WordPress
The biggest thing I learned after Metalworks was how entrepreneurial you have to be in this industry. You’ve really got to be passionate about this work and let the passion drive you forward in your career. It’s not the type profession that you can cruise through a predefined path on. You’ll likely have to make some tough decisions at a fork in the road somewhere, but you’ll definitely need to stay engaged and maintain your work connections and relationships with clientele. Keep in touch with your classmates and people in different programs, the ones that are able to stick it out for a few years will be golden connections later down the line.Mr. WordPress
The most helpful aspect of my Metalworks education has been the hands-on stuff…really, most of it has helped guide me through my music career thus far.Mr. WordPress
The most helpful aspect of my Metalworks education has been the contacts I made at the school… of course the radio and marketing classes came in super handy, but if I hadn’t been given the networking opportunities that Metalworks provided, I don’t know where I’d be!Mr. WordPress
I honestly think in some way or another, every aspect of Metalworks has helped me on this journey into the music industry. Aside from the immense amount of knowledge I felt I left with, I think it was even more so the teachers … and the support from them on a daily basis. Every teacher had a completely different way of teaching and supporting you [and] it led to some very valuable lessons from each of them. Metalworks was not a textbook school, it was a hands-on opportunity where you had the ability to do projects and tasks you would be faced with in the industry and got to put your skills into practice. I found one of the most helpful, underlying things for me at Metalworks was homing in on the skills that I really excelled at … I really started to strengthen those while building other skills in a safe learning environment.Mr. WordPress
I would have to say the most helpful resource I got out of Metalworks was the overall base knowledge that helped me excel my career in multiple different ways. The hands-on experience in the studio and depth of information in the classrooms gave me the platform from which to build on in this industry.Mr. WordPress
The most beneficial aspect of the curriculum was the studio aspect. Getting hands-on training with professionals who are able to answer all your questions. Another huge benefit was learning the law and licensing. It’s important to get paid for your work and Metalworks taught me how to legally make it happen through education [about] royalty societies and the process.Mr. WordPress
I took a chance on it and I knew I was passionate about this stuff [Music]; I didn’t know where it would take me necessarily, so I joined Metalworks and it was honestly one of the best years of my life, because I actually went to school for something I cared about.Mr. WordPress
The Audio Production & Engineering program at MWI was definitely key to me getting to where I am today. Through it I gained a solid fundamental education on sound – how it’s created, how to capture it & how to (try and) control it. But it was more than just a technical education – the variety of instructors was key in learning things that aren’t necessarily written down or on a course outline anywhere. They all brought their own personality and experience to the program which in turn taught me how to handle different situations and people I have since come across in my professional career.Mr. WordPress
Learning the fundamentals of recording and producing has enabled me to execute my creative ideas on and off the kit. I am able to visualize the bigger picture while writing drum parts and applying recording and mixing techniques. Ultimately, through acquiring and applying this knowledge, I am able to take creative liberties while working on music.Mr. WordPress
The most helpful aspect of my education from Metalworks is the broad variety of not only music production but also audio post-production, recording, mixing and technical skills that I acquired. I began the program with the thought that I only wanted to produce music and DJ, but the skills I gained have broadened my prospective career options. Before attending Metalworks, I was working solely in Logic Pro X. Upon completing the program, I can now comfortably work in Protools, Ableton, Reason, and Logic Pro X. This has opened many different doors for me in the music industry.Mr. WordPress
The business side of my education has been super helpful as a freelancer. Contract law and the intellectual property law aspects have been especially crucial.Mr. WordPress
I knew music production from a more 'Electronic Music' perspective, Attending Metalworks definitely helped me out with going deeper into some more advanced techniques and shortcuts in regards to music production.Mr. WordPress
I am thankful for Metalworks Institute to opening my eyes to this industry and giving me the tools to excel in my career. For now I get the privilege to work with such amazing talent while being able to continuously learning from some of the best in the industry.Mr. WordPress
I took the 1-year business course at Metalworks — It helped my career undeniably. I gained a deep knowledge about the music industry that had been previously unknown to me. My Metalworks knowledge was what helped to form the early incarnations of The Dreamboats— which is now my full-time job. The skills and connections gained in the business program allowed me and my fellow band mates to successfully self-manage our band, handle all bookings, and create a proper game plan to achieve our goals. I am constantly referencing my notes, knowledge, and connections for guidance on our path in the music business.Mr. WordPress
I was very fortunate to take the Two-Year Professional Sound & Business (Studio Production Major) [Diploma Program] at Metalworks. I would say the most helpful aspect of my education from Metalworks would have to be the fact that my knowledge of the music industry is spread over a broad spectrum... as opposed to being focused on one particular facet of the business. Having that knowledge on hand is incredibly beneficial, especially when you’re out in the field.Mr. WordPress
Some teachers teach with the expectation of just granting you education but [the teachers at Metalworks] always expected the best from you. They reminded me continually of the fact that the effort I was putting in on a daily basis within the education process must be equivalent to what I want in my career. I look back on my classes and the conversations we had and I am extremely grateful for them.Mr. WordPress
The program content has proved invaluable, but the faculty are what make Metalworks special. I lean on the skills I learned in Digital Technologies, Audio Post-Production, Digital Signal Processing, and Critical Listening on a daily basis. Dialogue editing is a big part of what I do. The techniques, tips and tricks I learned from the instructors are put to work every day. Metalworks helped lay the foundation to my career through exposure to proper studio protocols and etiquette. I engage with all types of professionals every day. Working with voice-over talent, mixing for a large group of clients in session, communicating with creatives, copywriters, producers, accounts execs, etc. Communication is key, and Metalworks really helped solidify that for me.Mr. WordPress
Everything I learned at Metalworks has come together to give me the skills I use everyday. If it wasn’t for Metalworks Institute I wouldn’t be where I am right now. Plain and simple.Mr. WordPress
The experience I gained at Metalworks put me at least five years ahead in the game and the contacts I made there are responsible for where I am now. Mr. WordPress
Now that I know how to record myself and produce, it has changed the game for me. I am able to get exactly what I want because I can either do it, or communicate it effectively to a producer or whoever I collaborate with. Since I produce my own demos now, before I hand it off, it gives me more creative control.Mr. WordPress
The most helpful aspect of our Metalworks education was the hands-on experience from the very experienced staff and teachers. Also, all the connections we have made just by simply being graduates of Metalworks has been very valuable.Mr. WordPress
I honestly think in some way or another, every aspect of Metalworks has helped me on this journey into the music industry. Aside from the immense amount of knowledge I felt I left with, I think it was even more so the teachers … and the support from them on a daily basis. Every teacher had a completely different way of teaching and supporting you [and] it led to some very valuable lessons from each of them. Metalworks was not a textbook school, it was a hands-on opportunity where you had the ability to do projects and tasks you would be faced with in the industry and got to put your skills into practice. I found one of the most helpful, underlying things for me at Metalworks was homing in on the skills that I really excelled at … I really started to strengthen those while building other skills in a safe learning environment.Mr. WordPress
Learning the differences between music production and songwriting was eye-opening for me and made me approach the creation of my music in an entirely different way. Once I really got a distinct understanding of the two, I started writing much better songs and had a much clearer handle on producing them.Mr. WordPress
Learning how to use Pro Tools allowed me to take full control of my music, sound design, and recording.Mr. WordPress
The most helpful thing I learned from Metalworks is attention to detail. From setting up microphones to edits. Having a good work ethic is one of the most important aspects in the music industry... Also, learning how to network was very important! Talking to teachers and past students helped me a lot in trying to navigate where I want to go in my career.Mr. WordPress
Hands down the most helpful aspect of my Metalworks education has been the networking... You never know who one of your classmates will become or the real-world knowledge a professor might share. Don’t just do the assignments and leave. Take as much initiative [as you can] and offer to help out when you can. Reach out to people and make the most of the networking opportunities available to you.Mr. WordPress
The most helpful aspect of my Metalworks education was the hands-on experience and volunteer opportunities. I am a tactile learner, so having the opportunity to volunteer at many events throughout the school year and having projects which include producing/recording full songs in the studio was very helpful. I am very thankful for the connections that I have made throughout my time spent at Metalworks Institute, and I am glad to see that the hard work I put into my schooling is beginning to pay off in the music industry.Mr. WordPress
Metalworks was the most beneficial year of my life – there were endless opportunities and it opened so many doors. I look back now and wish I could go back, because it goes by so fast.Mr. WordPress
[By] putting into practice what I learned about electronics at Metalworks, I was able to provide what was needed and take my knowledge and experience to the next level.Mr. WordPress
Despite a heavy course workload, I loved every second of being a student at MWI. The collective wealth of knowledge plus the amazingly creative and supportive atmosphere, due to the faculty and students alike, was extraordinary. It completely changed the way I see the everyday world, and I truly miss being a part of it.Mr. WordPress
When I started going there, I had no idea what I really wanted to do. During my time at MWI, I took part in a lot of different music-related events including Canadian Music Week, JUNOfest, Big Music Fest and MIAC (Music Industry Association of Canada). I didn’t realize what I wanted to do until I had the Event Production & Venue Management class. This class kind of put the pieces of the puzzle together for me and made me realize, ‘Oh…maybe I can actually do this.’
MWI is what you make of it. Use your knowledge, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. You may just end up exactly where you are supposed to be.Mr. WordPress
Being around like-minded, focused and goal-oriented peers and instructors helped me understand the work ethic of a successful producer and musician. I am very grateful to have been a part of this institute and all the experiences that came along with it.Mr. WordPress
The teachers are easy to talk to and have the benefit of relevant real-life experience in the fields that they teach in. I always liked that method of teaching, rather than just teaching from a text book.Mr. WordPress
About our Educational Partnerships
Metalworks Institute collaborates with a select group of educational partners who assist us in maintaining the highest degree of currency in our technical protocols and curriculum content for our students. Learn more about our educational partners.
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EXPLORE OUR DIPLOMA PROGRAMS
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Students are prepared for leadership roles and are taught about lifelong learning through innovative instruction techniques and exceptional learning resources.
Our unique educational concept is all about uniting faculty and students in the acquisition and application of technical, artistic and business knowledge in a real-world professional environment. The Faculty at Metalworks Institute have been carefully selected for their industry expertise, awards, achievements and teaching skills. The Metalworks group of companies is always on the cutting edge of industry developments. Adapting our programs to these developments and the latest available technologies is crucial in maintaining our state of the art facilities and providing a unique hands-on educational experience.
Metalworks Institute’s ever-expanding campus will support future programs as we continue to explore creative ways of producing exceptionally skilled graduates in all areas of the entertainment industry.
All of Metalworks Institute’s full-time diploma programs are approved as vocational programs under the Private Career Colleges Act 2005.