Whistler Secondary Performing Arts

Conor Niwinski is the performing arts teacher and director at Whistler Secondary School, where he leads both the theatre company and contemporary music programs. An alumnus of the University of British Columbia, Conor holds a Bachelor of Education and a Graduate Diploma in Visual and Performing Arts Education, building on foundational undergraduate studies in music composition and physics at Simon Fraser University, where he also gained hands-on experience composing for instrument ensembles and voice, alongside training in digital audio workstation (DAW) recording and production.

His lifelong engagement with the arts began with formal foundational studies in piano starting at age 5 and drum set instruction at age 11, which he later blended with years of school-based training and self-directed practice. This deep-rooted background has been continually shaped through participation in high school, post-secondary, and adult community productions, wind ensembles, concert choirs, jazz bands, and vocal jazz ensembles. As a multi-instrumentalist and vocal performer, specializing in percussion, drums, piano, clarinet, and bass/baritone voice, alongside self-driven study and practical fluency in guitar and bass, he brings a uniquely versatile, well-rounded perspective to mentoring young artists.

Since taking the helm, Conor has directed four major annual musical productions at Whistler Secondary School: Fame (2023), Heathers (2024), Carrie (2025), and Mean Girls (2026).

As a director and mentor, Conor envisions the performing arts program as much more than just a school class; it is a vital space for student growth, creativity, and self-discovery. Rather than taking a rigid, top-down approach, he is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative environment where students are empowered to build self-advocacy, independence, and self-sufficiency. His approach challenges participants to rise to their fullest potential while cultivating essential real-world skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, compassionate resilience, and teamwork, that prepare them for success far beyond the stage or rehearsal room. Through shared storytelling and music-making, Conor aims to help students build confidence, find a profound sense of belonging, and make meaningful connections within the ensemble and throughout the wider community.