Already an award winning musician and songwriter before the age of 30, Calgary-based fiddler Lizzy Hoyt didn't intend to pursue a musical career.

Hoyt actually has a degree in sociology, something she doesn't regret doing because it helped "stretch my brain," she said Tuesday.

But music has always been a part of her life. Hoyt's parents are classical musicians and she's been performing since she was 15, providing backup fiddle and mandolin for other musicians and bands.

Then it dawned on her — music had chosen her and there was no point in fighting it anymore.

"I'm glad I did that (the degree) but I knew it's not what I was supposed to be doing," she said.

She performs a free concert at the Alumni Theatre in the Thompson Rivers University Clock Tower building from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Hoyt set out on her own in 2007, launching a solo career in folk and celtic music that's earned her many accolades, including a 2012 International Acoustic Music Award for best female artist and a nomination for a Canadian Folk Music Award in 2011.

Now she's a one-woman show, managing and promoting a full-time musical career and touring as often as she can to build a fan base.

"Everything I do is for my music," she said.

She has three CDs under her belt, including a Christmas album. And her song Vimy Ridge was recently turned into a music video that will screen at the Edmonton International Film Festival.

Hoyt is glad her music has been well received. She sets out to the do the best work she can, she said. But, like any artist, she never knows what the response will be.

"You put it out there and you hope people like it," said Hoyt.