Musicologist wins translation prize at McGill

Musicologist Jeffrey Freedman was awarded the McGill Associates Prize in Translation (French to English) at the 2008 Spring Convocation. This prize is awarded annually to the student with the best academic record over the entire Certificate in Translation Program.

Freedman graduated from Laval University in 1980 with a first degree in French. Following his graduation, he was involved in a number of activities - all linked with his love of language, culture and communication. After an initial stint with the Montreal YMCA as the Director of International Programs, Freedman took on a new challenge as one of the founding members of Traqu’enArt Productions along with Patrick Darby. Through their efforts, this non-profit organization brought musical traditions from all over the world to Montrealers’ ears. His interest in the arts never abated as he then went on to coordinate public programs at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

All the while, he was working toward a Masters Degree in Musicology at the University of Montreal which he obtained in 1989. Language and culture still remained high on his list of priorities in his work in a variety of cultural institutions including the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the Canadian Centre for Architecture.

This heady mix of interests fueled his desire to perfect his translation skills, so he decided to add a new proof of competency to his portfolio by enrolling in and completing with brio the McGill Certificate in Translation.

“Freedman is a part of a new breed of cultural activists who will surely enhance the quality of the English translation industry in this country”, commented Translation Studies Director, James Archibald.

McGill University offers a Certificate and a Graduate Diploma in Translation for apprentice translators interested in the language professions.