Cape Breton University Welcomes Rose Morrison as the 2025 Artist in Residence

Cape Breton University is pleased to announce Rose Morrison as the University’s 2025 Artist in Residence. Born and raised in Cape Breton, Rose returned to the Island at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic after spending years touring the world to share her music. Since then, Rose has reconnected with her home, finding love and a new appreciation for the beauty that surrounds her.

“I have a deep desire to learn, connect and share with the students and community of Cape Breton University,” says Rose. “During my residency, with guidance and respect for the wisdom of those around me, I hope to create music with an emphasis on inclusion.”

Annually, a CBU committee selects that year’s Artist in Residence from a number of applicants. This initiative was created to help develop and strengthen relationships with artists who are passionate about enriching the campus and community life of CBU by supporting their research, development and practice-sharing. During the four-month residency, the artist pursues creative projects, connects with students and employees and engages with the Island community.

“In its fifth consecutive year, CBU is very excited to welcome RoseMorrison to the campus as the 2025 CBU Artist in Residence,” shares Boardmore Theatre Director, Todd Hiscock. “With her unique style of music making, Rose will bring mutually beneficial lines of exchange between students, faculty and artists who share an interest in enriching the campus and community life of CBU. We are looking forward to working with Rose to fill our Winter Term with music and song.”

First joining the music scene at the age of 11 as an original member of The Cottars, Rose has been performing across the world ever since. From North America to Europe and Japan, Rose has performed in iconic locations such as the New York City Winery, Carnegie Hall and the Grammy Museum in Mississippi. She has released three albums and has been the recipient of three East Coast Music Awards. In 2018, Rose was named the Artistic Creator and Director of the Celtic Colours special project Voices of the Naomhóg, which featured artists and musicians from Nova Scotia, Ireland and Scotland.

During her time at CBU, Rose will host three workshops highlighting Cape Breton step dancing, songwriting and composition, along with three songs and stories sharing circles and displaying a collection of lyrics, photos, music and art that inspired her latest work.

The CBU community is invited to participate in workshops, attend the sharing circles and enjoy Rose’s performances. Rose will be a guest speaker in a number of classes this semester, speaking with students and answering their questions, while also developing her own skills and knowledge. For a full list of community and on-campus events, visit cbu.ca/events.

For more information on the Artist in Residence program, visit cbu.ca/artist-in-residence.