Adult Learning Program

Adult Debut Strings

Instructor: Tawnya Popoff
Class Time: Session 1: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm Session 2: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm Session 3: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm
Semester Fee:
  • $125
Class Description: An ensemble for adults who have begun learning a string instrument and would like to play with others in a welcoming environment. Emphasis will be on gaining confidence with reading music, learning basic ensemble skills and building technique.

Adult Cello Ensemble

Instructor: Alex Cheung
Class Time: Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00pm (bi-weekly)
Semester Fee:
  • $180
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.

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:
  • $335
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.

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)
Semester Fee:
  • $335
Class Description: This class is a 13-week continuation of the Adult Group Guitar level I class.

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:
  • $335
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.

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 (January intake) Saturdays, 1:15-2:00pm (September intake) Saturdays, 1:15-2:00pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:
  • $235
  • $250
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.

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)
Semester Fee:
  • $335
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.)

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:
  • $155
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
2023/2024 Class Dates:
September 28th
October 12th
October 26th
November 16th

Adult Beginner Strings

Instructor: Tawnya Popoff
Recommended for: Adult beginners with some experience
Class Time: Session 1: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00pm (Sept-Nov, 7 weeks) Session 2: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00pm (Jan-Mar, 7 weeks) Session 3: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00pm (April-May, 7 weeks)
Semester Fee:
  • $150
Class Description: A string orchestra for adults with some experience playing in an ensemble. The focus is on continued development of sight-reading skills, technique, and ensemble skills through playing reduced versions of beloved classics.  

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:
  • $335
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.