Ross Nykiforuk recently completed composing over 50 hours of music across 10 seasons for the APTN supernatural series The Other Side.
“That’s more music than a no-repeat work week on a radio station,” he laughs, adding he’s pleased to have the opportunity to continue creating while also serving as a Saskatchewan Polytechnic instructor.
Nykiforuk joined the Sask Polytech Media Production faculty nine years ago, as he looked for consistent work between contracts. His production experience has spanned from composing for animated TV series to feature-length movies. Nykiforuk says it’s important to tailor the music score to match the feel of the program. An adaptability he now teaches his students.
“We always need to have an open mind and be ready to try new ideas,” he says.
Currently working on the APTN animated series Chums, his duties include composing music, recording dialogue in English and Cree, sound effects and delivering mixes in 5.1 surround sound. His work was recognized at the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards, with a nomination in the Best Original Music category for the song Let’s Go Chums. Last year he was also nominated for Music Producer of the Year with the Sask Music Awards.
“It gives me the satisfaction of knowing I’m still doing a good job. It’s encouraging,” he says.
In addition to teaching students about audio recording for production, he also teaches visual design.
“Being an instructor is sort of like performing, and I'm breaking down audio and design concepts for the students,” Nykiforuk says. “When you become really good at what you do, you don't think about those concepts but you always apply them. It’s a good reminder to go back to basics.”
Students have the opportunity to visit his personal home studio to explore alternative studio workspaces. There he works as a screen composer and produces albums. His experience in the music industry is extensive. A multi-instrumentalist, he plays keyboards, saxophone and percussion. Between 1990 and 1993, he toured as keyboardist for the Northern Pikes. After opening Cosmic Pad Studios in 2000, he continued his relationship with the band and recorded their album It’s a Good Life. He also worked with The Sheepdogs on their early albums, and his recording talents helped earn the band a Juno award for Song of the Year in 2012.
As a music producer, Nykiforuk is used to providing feedback—a skill that translates well into his role as an instructor.
“I'm constantly evaluating what someone does in the studio and recommending alternatives. I transfer this to the classroom and communicate tips with students to help improve their skills,” Nykiforuk says.
Starting in January, he’ll return to work on the second season of the APTN show Searchers, creating music for the program. Pending funding, he may also be composing music with the creator of Chums on a new movie next year.
Sask Polytech is proud to employ industry leaders as instructors to teach the next generation of media professionals. Learn more about Sask Polytech’s Media Production program.
