Curtis Howell began playing piano at the age of eight. By twenty-two, he had earned both his ARCT Performers and Teachers diplomas from the Royal Conservatory of Toronto. In 1994, he enrolled at the University of Victoria, studying piano with Bruce Vogt and harpsichord with Dr. Erich Schwandt before transitioning to a Bachelor of Education program. He graduated with distinction in May 1999.
Currently, Curtis teaches piano to over fifty students annually and has been the principal harpsichordist for the Kamloops Brandenburg Orchestra since its inception in 2012. He is also a member of the Heritage Quartet, a professional ensemble that performs regularly with the Chamber Musicians of Kamloops. Since the early 1990s, he has directed summer piano programs at the Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music, focusing on classical music, jazz/contemporary improvisation, composition, and duets.
Curtis began his church music training at twelve when he started playing piano for evening services at the Kamloops Christian Reformed Church, a commitment he has maintained throughout his life. He has directed church choirs from Victoria to Kamloops and accompanied soloists ranging from beginners to professionals. A sought-after collaborative pianist and accompanist in the Kamloops area, he actively supports community-based musical events and musicians. In 2024, he accepted the position of music coordinator for St. Andrew’s Presbyterian.
Curtis believes that music is a gift from God and that creativity is a reflection of that gift. With this in mind, he strives to use his talents to the fullest and to inspire a love of music wherever he goes.
