Adult Learning

Adult Strings III

Instructor: Joseph Elworthy
Recommended for: RCM level 4-6
Class Time: Session 1: Mondays, 6:15-7:15pm (Sept-Nov, 7 weeks) Session 2: Mondays, 6:15-7:15pm (Jan-Mar, 7 weeks) Session 3: Mondays, 6:15-7:15pm (April-May, 7 weeks)
Class Description: Adult Strings III is an intermediate string ensemble designed for adults with previous experience playing in an ensemble. This ensemble explores advanced reduced arrangements of masterpieces, focusing on enhancing musical depth and ensemble proficiency. 24/25 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change) Cycle 1 September 9, 16, 23 October 7, 21, 28 Concert: November 4 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 2 January 20, 27 February 3, 10, 24 March 3 Concert: March 10 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 3 April 14, 28 May 5, 12, 26 June 2 Concert: Orchestra Festival – June 8 (Orpheum) 3pm

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Guitar Appreciation and Listening Class

Instructor: Alec Pearson
Recommended for: Mature guitar students of all levels
Class Time: Wednesdays, 7:00-8:15pm
Semester Fee:

$260

Class Description: This course is meant to be a fun group class and will appeal to amateur players or serious students who want to refine their knowledge further. We will look at the players, the composers, and the history associated with each lesson topic. The course will roughly follow “A Concise History of the Classical Guitar” by Graham Wade, with optional reading of about 20-30 pages each session. Participants will find the writing easy to follow and not overly “academic” or dense. The longer lesson time (approximately 75 minutes) will allow for more in-class listening and discussion. Music playlists will be given to the students for further self-study on each topic. Classes will run the 1st and 3rd Wednesday every month, starting January 8th, 2025 Fall: 7 classes Course syllabus available upon request.

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Adult Group Guitar II

Instructor: Alec Pearson
Recommended for: Continuing students of the Adult Group Guitar Program
Class Time: Thursdays, 7:30-8:30pm (January intake) Thursdays, 7:30-8:30pm (September intake)
Semester Fee:

$350

Class Description: This class is a 13-week continuation of the Adult Group Guitar level I class.

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Adult Group Guitar

Instructor: Alec Pearson
Recommended for: Those with little to no experience.
Class Time: Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm (September intake) Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:

$350

Class Description: In this introduction to classical guitar, you will receive instruction on developing proper fundamentals and technique. The class starts with elements such as “learning how to create a beautiful tone”. From there we will learn the basics of note reading and use that knowledge to explore some ensemble playing in a variety of genres; Classical, Latin American, Folk and Popular music. This class is great for those experiencing guitar for the first time. It will also be a refreshing motivator for anyone who may be a bit rusty and looking to revisit guitar after a long hiatus. This is a 13 week class with a September and January intake.

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Adult Strings I

Instructor: Tawnya Popoff
Recommended for: RCM prep to level 1
Class Time: Session 1: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm Session 2: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm Session 3: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm
Class Description:

Join our ensemble tailored for adults who have begun learning a string instrument and wish to enjoy playing in a supportive setting. Adult Strings Level I is a non-performing group that focuses on fostering confidence in reading music, acquiring fundamental ensemble skills, and enhancing technique. Whether you are starting out or refining your skills, our group provides a welcoming space to grow musically together without the pressure of public performances.

Requirements: ability to read notes & rhythms, knowledge of setting up instruments

24/25 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change)

Cycle 1 September 24 October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Concert appreciation: November 4 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 2 January 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 4 Concert appreciation: March 10 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 3 April 29 May 6, 13, 20, 27 June 3 Concert appreciation: Orchestra Festival – June 8 (Orpheum) 3pm

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Adult Cello Ensemble

Instructor: Alex Cheung
Recommended for: students hand-picked by the instructor
Class Time: Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00pm (8 consecutive weeks)
Semester Fee:

$190

Class Description: Join in with other beginner adult cellists in an ensemble setting and learn to listen outside of one's own playing while developing foundational ensemble skills.

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Adult Group Violin II

Instructor: Jonathan Na
Recommended for: Continuing students of the Adult Group Violin Program
Class Time: Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm (September intake) Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:

$350

Class Description: This class is a continuation of the Adult Violin class for Beginners or those with previous experience. This is a 13-week in-person class with a September and January intake.

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Adult Theory and Ear Training II

Instructor: Taka Shimojima
Recommended for: Adults who have completed Adult Theory & Ear Training, or those with basic knowledge
Class Time: Saturdays, 1:15-2:00pm (September intake) Saturdays, 1:15-2:00pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:

$265

Class Description: Designed for adults with continued interested in developing a strong foundation of musicianship, Adult Theory & Ear Training further introducing students to the fundamental skills of music theory, ear training, and appreciation. This class runs for 13 weeks. There is a September and January intake for this class.

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Adult Group Cello

Instructor: Alex Cheung
Recommended for: Beginner adult cello students (little to no experience)
Class Time: Tuesdays, 7:45-8:45pm (September intake, full year) Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (January intake) Tuesdays, 7:45-8:45pm (March - top up to FY)
Semester Fee:

$350
$207

Class Description: If you are curious and interested in learning how to play an instrument, come join VAM’s adult group classes! In this introduction to the cello, you will be introduced to the instrument and receive support in developing proper technique and ensemble playing skills in a small group setting. Beginners welcome! This is a 26-week in-person class (13 classes per term, starting in September. There is a 13-week option starting in January.)

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VAM Adult Harp Ensemble

Instructor: Rosanna Chiu
Recommended for: Harp students of all levels
Class Time: Thursdays, 7:00-8:30pm, 4 classes per term
Semester Fee:

$165

Class Description: Join VAM’s Harp Ensemble for adults and explore classical and popular arrangements. Focusing on harp techniques and ensemble playing skills, it is a small supportive group setting for harpists to exchange ideas and build friendships. Beginners are welcomed! The ensemble participates in events such as the VAM Harp Fest, and the Adult Learning Program Soirée Concert.

Director/Instructor: Rosanna Chiu

Co-Director: Joy Yeh

Fall Semester: September 12, October 3, October 31, November 14.

Concert date: November 23, 7:00pm

Spring semester: February 27, March 13, April 3, May 15.

Concert dates: May 31, 7:00pm

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Adult Strings II

Instructor: Tawnya Popoff
Recommended for: RCM level 2-4
Class Time: Session 1: Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm (Sept-Nov, 7 weeks) Session 2: Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm (Jan-Mar, 7 weeks) Session 3: Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm (April-May, 7 weeks)
Class Description:

Adult Strings Level II is tailored for adults with some experience playing their instrument, reading music, and participating in an ensemble. This string ensemble focuses on advancing sight-reading skills, technique, and ensemble cohesion through reduced versions of beloved classical pieces.

24/25 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change)

Cycle 1 September 24 October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Concert: November 4 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 2 January 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 4 Concert: March 10 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 3 April 29 May 6, 13, 20, 27 June 3 Concert: Orchestra Festival – June 8 (Orpheum) 3pm

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Adult Group Cello Level II

Instructor: Alex Cheung
Recommended for: Continuing students of the Adult Group Cello Program or cellists with previous experience
Class Time: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (September Intake)
Semester Fee:

$350

Class Description: This class is a continuation of the Adult Group Cello class for Beginners. This is a 13-week in-person class with a Fall intake.

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Adult Group Violin

Instructor: Jonathan Na
Recommended for: Beginner adult violin students (little to no experience)
Class Time: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (September intake) Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:

$350

Class Description: If you are curious and interested in learning how to play an instrument, come join VAM’s adult group classes! In this introduction to the violin, you will be introduced to the instrument and receive support in developing proper technique and ensemble playing skills in a small group setting. Beginners welcome! This is a 13-week in-person class, with a Fall and January intake. Students will be required to rent or purchase a violin to participate in the program.

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Adult Group Piano

Instructor: Manuela Chao
Recommended for: Beginner adult piano students (little to no experience)
Class Time: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (September intake) Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (January intake) Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm (September intake) Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:

$350

Class Description: If you are curious and interested in learning how to play an instrument, come join VAM’s adult group classes! In this introduction to the piano, you will be introduced to the instrument and receive support in developing proper technique and ensemble playing skills in a small group setting. Beginners welcome! This is a 13-week in-person class, with a September and January start date.

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Adult Theory and Ear Training

Instructor: Taka Shimojima
Recommended for: Adults with little to no experience reading music
Class Time: Saturdays, 12:00-12:45pm (September intake) Saturdays, 12:00-12:45pm (January Intake)
Semester Fee:

$265

Class Description: Designed for adults who are interested in developing a strong foundation of musicianship, Adult Theory & Ear Training introduces students to the fundamental skills of music theory, ear training, and appreciation. This class runs for 13 weeks. There is a September and January intake for this class.

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Vanier Park Symphony

Instructor: Ian Parker
Recommended for: Intermediate to advanced adult string and wind players (no audition required)
Class Time: Session 1: Mondays, 7:30-9:00pm (Sept-Nov, 7 weeks) Session 2: Mondays, 7:30-9:00pm (Jan-Mar, 7 weeks) Session 3: Mondays, 7:30-9:00pm (Apr-May, 7 weeks)
Semester Fee:

$205

Class Description: Strike up new friendships and refine your technical skills in a vibrant ensemble that offers mentorship and a supportive group environment! Led by conductor Ian Parker and a team of faculty player-coaches, VAM's adult orchestra explores the performance practice of seminal masterpieces, fostering a deeper understanding of their musical significance.

Recommended for: Intermediate to advanced adult string and wind players (no audition required)

24/25 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change) Cycle 1 September 9, 16, 23 October 7, 21, 28 Concert: November 4 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 2 January 20, 27 February 3, 10, 24 March 3 Concert: March 10 (KRH) 7:30pm

Cycle 3 April 14, 28 May 5, 12, 26 June 2 Concert: Orchestra Festival – June 8 (Orpheum) 3pm

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Adult Chamber Music: Play with the Pros

Recommended for: Adult learners
Class Description: A unique ensemble experience, each chamber group in Play with the Pros will consist of one member of VAM's faculty, where you can enjoy the benefits of mentorship and collegiality that come from performing with a professional musician. Class time to be scheduled at the mutual convenience of students and teacher. Click the apply button below to begin the application process.

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Vanier Park Voices

Instructor: Cassie Luftspring (Director of Choral Studies)
Recommended for: Ages 18+
Class Description: VAM's adult choir is for those who wish to pursue their love of choral music with an open mind and a desire for challenge. The choir will perform diverse repertoire while developing vocal technique and musicianship in an encouraging and convivial setting. While some music experience is an asset, we welcome singers with varying degrees of music-reading ability.

Book a Free Placement Audition *

* required before registration

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VAM Schola Cantorum

Instructor: Cassie Luftspring (Director of Choral Studies)
Recommended for: Ages 18+
Class Time: Tuesdays, 5:45-6:45pm
Annual Fee:

$530

Class Description: This elite chamber ensemble performs challenging repertoire from the Renaissance and Baroque periods in addition to 20th- and 21st-century compositions. With fast-paced, challenging rehearsals, Schola Cantorum is perfect for the experienced chorister who seeks the highest standard of excellence. This class is full year, two semesters of 10 weeks.

Book a Free Placement Audition *

* required before registration

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