Ensembles Vancouver Academy of Music

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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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 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:

$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 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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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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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.

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