VAM Symphony Orchestra

Ian Parker, Music Director & Principal Conductor
leslie dala, conductor emeritus

The Orpheum Series consists of VAM’s four main stage concerts in downtown Vancouver’s iconic venue, the Orpheum Theatre. On stage is the VAM Symphony Orchestra (VAMSO), which consists of more than 100 students performing seminal works of the Western orchestral tradition.  Graduates have continued their training at leading conservatories and universities such as Juilliard, Yale University, the Curtis Institute of Music and Harvard University. Many VAMSO alumni populate the world’s finest orchestras: London Symphony Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonic, Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and Boston Symphony Orchestra.

VAM’s Orchestral Training Program is supported by:
The Edith Lando Charitable Foundation
The R & J Stern Family Foundation

 

VAM Symphony Orchestra: A Musical Storybook

2:00PM, Sun 23rd Nov 2025

Orpheum Theatre

Step into a musical storybook with a concert for all ages. The evening begins with The Composer is Dead, a hilarious and mysterious whodunnit that introduces the orchestra’s instruments as suspects in a musical crime. From there, travel through beloved cinematic worlds — from The Lion King to How to Train Your Dragon, Frozen, Up,… Read more »

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VAM Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky No. 6

2:00PM, Sun 01st Mar 2026

Orpheum Theatre

Join us for a luminous afternoon with the Vancouver Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra as we present Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6. Known as the Pathétique, this final masterwork stands as one of the most emotionally profound symphonies ever written.  Complemented by a performance from Forest Benson, winner of the 2025 Kay Meek Competition, performing Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No…. Read more »

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VAM Symphony Orchestra: Jaeden Izik-Dzurko Plays Rachmaninoff

2:00PM, Sun 26th Apr 2026

Orpheum Theatre

From the wild energy of Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals to the fiery drama of Bizet’s Carmen Suite, this program is a vibrant showcase of colour and character. Guest pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko joins VAMSO for Rachmaninoff’s towering Third Piano Concerto — a virtuosic tour de force that brings the season to a triumphant close. Program: Sibelius, Finlandia Rachmaninoff No. 3, Jaeden Izik-Dzurko (45… Read more »

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2026/27 VAM Symphony Season Pass

11:55 PM, Thu 15th Oct 2026

Orpheum Theatre

Experience the Magic of Music with the 2026/27 VAMSO Concert Series! Unlock a season of unforgettable musical moments with the Vancouver Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra. Our exclusive Season Pass offers a seamless way to enjoy all four concerts, with a 15% Early Bird discount. With one purchase, you’ll secure your favourite seat for every… Read more »

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VAM Symphony Orchestra: Ian Parker Plays Gershwin

2:00PM, Sun 18th Oct 2026

Orpheum Theatre

Experience an afternoon of wit, energy, and timeless melodies featuring the music of Bernstein and Gershwin. Bernstein’s sparkling Candide Overture sets the stage for Gershwin’s beloved An American in Paris, a colourful musical postcard inspired by the sights and sounds of the City of Light. The journey continues with Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F, performed by acclaimed pianist… Read more »

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VAM Symphony Orchestra: Legends of the Console

2:00PM, Sun 08th Nov 2026

Orpheum Theatre

From the heroic adventures of The Legend of Zelda and the whimsical charm of Animal Crossing, to the epic landscapes of Skyrim, the emotional storytelling of The Last of Us, and the timeless melodies of Super Mario, this concert celebrates some of the most beloved video game soundtracks ever created. Whether you grew up saving… Read more »

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VAM Symphony Orchestra: Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances

2:00PM, Sun 07th Mar 2027

Orpheum Theatre

Experience an afternoon of sweeping melodies, dazzling virtuosity, and symphonic brilliance. Enescu’s Romanian Rhapsody No. 1 opens the program with vibrant folk-inspired energy, celebrating the rich musical traditions of his homeland. The spotlight then turns to violinist Isabella Wang, winner of the Kay Meek Competition, performing Sibelius’ powerful Violin Concerto in D minor. Renowned for… Read more »

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VAM Symphony Orchestra: Kerson Leong Plays Tchaikovsky

2:00PM, Sun 02nd May 2027

Orpheum Theatre

Join us for the season finale as the Vancouver Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra celebrates the timeless music of Tchaikovsky. The afternoon opens with selections from the enchanting Swan Lake and the sweeping romance of Romeo and Juliet, showcasing the composer’s gift for unforgettable melody and dramatic storytelling. The season concludes with internationally acclaimed violinist Kerson… Read more »

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