Adult Learning Program Vancouver Academy of Music

Adult Group Violin III

Instructor: Jonathan Na
Recommended for: Students who have completed Adult Group Violin II
Class Time: Tuesdays, 8:30-9:30pm (January Intake) Tuesdays, 8:30-9:30pm (September Intake)
Semester Fee:

$435

Class Description: This class is a continuation of the Adult Violin II class. This is a 16-week in-person class with a September and January intake.

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Adult Group Viola

Instructor: Luci Barz
Recommended for: Beginner adult viola students (little to no experience)
Class Time: Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm (January intake) Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm (September intake)
Semester Fee:

$435

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 viola, 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 16-week in-person class, with a Fall and January intake. Students will be required to rent or purchase a viola to participate in the program.

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Adult Strings III

Instructor: Joseph Elworthy
Recommended for: RCM level 4-6
Class Time: 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:

$435

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) Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm (extra spring classes)
Semester Fee:

$435
$243

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 16 week class with a September and January intake with the option for extra classes late spring.

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Adult Strings I

Instructor: Tawnya Popoff
Recommended for: RCM prep to level 1
Class Time: 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) Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00pm (April-June)
Semester Fee:

$205
$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:

$435

Class Description: This class is a continuation of the Adult Violin class for Beginners or those with previous experience. This is a 16-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, 2:30-3:15pm (September intake) Saturdays, 2:30-3:15pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:

$335

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 16 weeks. There is a September and January intake for this class.

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