Ensembles

Adult Strings Summer Ensemble

Instructor: Luci Barz
Recommended for: Adult strings players, RCM Level 2 or above
Class Time: Class dates and time: July 7, 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11 | 6:30–8:45pm (including a 15-minute break)
Semester Fee:

• $270

Class Description: The Adult Strings Summer Ensemble is a program designed for adult string musicians with prior experience playing their instrument, reading music, and participating in a string ensemble. This ensemble provides an engaging and supportive environment for beginner and intermediate players to further develop their ensemble skills. Through six 2-hour rehearsals, participants will focus on strengthening sight-reading, refining technique, and deepening musical and ensemble cohesion through reduced arrangements of beloved classical masterpieces. The program will culminate in a final performance on Tuesday, August 18 at 7:30 PM in Koerner Recital Hall, showcasing the ensemble’s musical growth and collaborative work over the summer.  

Adult Strings Workshop

Instructor: Luci Barz
Recommended for: RCM Prep level or above (Adult Strings I, II & III members)
Class Time: Session 1 - Tuesdays, September 8, 15 & 22, 2026 | 6:30-8:45 pm (including a 15-minute break) Session 2 - Tuesdays, January 5, 12 & 19, 2027 | 6:30-8:45 PM (including a 15-minute break) Session 3 - Tuesdays, March 30; April 6 & 13, 2027 | 6:30-8:45 PM (including a 15-minute break) 
Semester Fee:

• $130

Class Description: The Adult Strings Workshop is designed to develop fundamental orchestral and ensemble skills that are useful to musicians at a variety of playing levels. Through a combination of practical exercises, ensemble playing, and selected repertoire, participants will explore the musical and technical skills involved in playing effectively as part of an orchestra. Areas of focus will include rhythm and pulse, intonation, sound production, articulation, bow control, ensemble listening, balance, phrasing, musical communication, and responding to the conductor. Participants will also explore how individual parts function within the larger ensemble and how to listen and adjust to other musicians while playing. Selected passages from upcoming Adult Strings Regular Cycles’ repertoire may be introduced throughout the workshops, allowing participants to apply these concepts in a musical context while also becoming familiar with repertoire from the upcoming cycle. Exercises, repertoire, and specific areas of focus will be adapted to accommodate different playing levels and the needs of each group. The overall goal is to develop practical orchestral skills that participants can carry into the regular Adult Strings cycles and apply to ensemble playing more broadly.

• Session 1 - Tuesdays, September 8, 15 & 22, 2026 | 6:30-8:45 pm (including a 15-minute break)
• Session 2 - Tuesdays, January 5, 12 & 19, 2027 | 6:30-8:45 PM (including a 15-minute break)
• Session 3 - Tuesdays, March 30; April 6 & 13, 2027 | 6:30-8:45 PM (including a 15-minute break) 

Adult Strings I

Instructor: Luci Barz
Recommended for: RCM prep to level 1
Class Time: Cycle 1: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (7 weeks) Cycle 2: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (4 weeks) Cycle 3: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (7 weeks) Cycle 4: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (7 weeks)
Semester Fee:

• $150
• $85

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 26/27 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change) Extension class for Adult Strings Program: Adult Strings Workshop | Tuesdays 6:30-8:45 PM (including a 15-minute break)

• Session 1 - Tuesdays, September 8, 15 & 22, 6:30-8:45 pm (including a 15-minute break)
• Session 2 - Tuesdays, January 5, 12 & 19 | 6:30-8:45 PM (including a 15-minute break)
• Session 3 - Tuesdays, March 30; April 6 & 13 | 6:30-8:45 PM (including a 15-minute break)

Link to Adult Strings Workshop Information and Registration Page: https://vancouveracademyofmusic.com/semester-courses/adult-strings-workshop/

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 (September intake, full year) Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (January intake)
Semester Fee:

• $375
• $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 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.)