Ensembles Vancouver Academy of Music

Adult Strings III

Instructor: Luci Barz
Recommended for: RCM level 4-6
Class Time: Session 1: Mondays, 6:15-7:15pm (7 weeks) Session 2: Mondays, 6:15-7:15pm (7 weeks) Session 3: Mondays, 6:15-7:15pm (7 weeks) Fall Orchestra Workshop (4 weeks) Spring Orchestra Workshop (8 weeks)
Semester Fee:

$145
$85
$170

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. 25/26 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change) The Adult Strings Orchestra Workshop is designed to enhance and enrich your orchestral playing experience through focused, hands-on sessions that combine learning, discovery, and ensemble collaboration. Each class dives into the building blocks of confident orchestral performance - rhythmic precision, tone production, balance, and phrasing - through interactive group exercises such as rhythmic layering, sectional blend work, listening drills, and phrasing challenges. Participants will also gain insight into the conductor’s role: how gestures translate into sound, how cues shape timing and colour, and how players respond as a unified ensemble. These workshops offer a rare opportunity to slow down, observe, and truly understand how an orchestra works - from the inside out. Players will strengthen their ensemble intuition, refine their listening, and gain tools that lead to more expressive, confident orchestral playing. Welcoming adult string players of all levels, the workshops are offered in three different class levels, creating a relaxed and engaging environment for anyone looking to deepen their musicianship and rediscover the joy of playing together. 25/26 Orchestra Workshop Schedule (subject to change)

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Adult Strings I

Instructor: Luci Barz
Recommended for: RCM prep to level 1
Class Time: Session 1: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (7 weeks) Session 2: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (7 weeks) Session 3: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm (7 weeks) Fall Orchestra Workshop (4 weeks) Spring Orchestra Workshop (8 weeks)
Semester Fee:

$145
$85
$170

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 25/26 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change) The Adult Strings Orchestra Workshop is designed to enhance and enrich your orchestral playing experience through focused, hands-on sessions that combine learning, discovery, and ensemble collaboration. Each class dives into the building blocks of confident orchestral performance - rhythmic precision, tone production, balance, and phrasing - through interactive group exercises such as rhythmic layering, sectional blend work, listening drills, and phrasing challenges. Participants will also gain insight into the conductor’s role: how gestures translate into sound, how cues shape timing and colour, and how players respond as a unified ensemble. These workshops offer a rare opportunity to slow down, observe, and truly understand how an orchestra works - from the inside out. Players will strengthen their ensemble intuition, refine their listening, and gain tools that lead to more expressive, confident orchestral playing. Welcoming adult string players of all levels, the workshops are offered in three different class levels, creating a relaxed and engaging environment for anyone looking to deepen their musicianship and rediscover the joy of playing together. 25/26 Orchestra Workshop Schedule (subject to change)

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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:

$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 32-week in-person class (16 classes per term, starting in September. There is a 16-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:

$175

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: tbc

Spring semester: tbc

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Adult Strings II

Instructor: Luci Barz
Recommended for: RCM level 2-4
Class Time: Session 1: Tuesdays, 7:45-8:45pm (7 weeks) Session 2: Tuesdays, 7:45-8:45pm (7 weeks) Session 3: Tuesdays, 7:45-8:45pm (7 weeks) Fall Orchestra Workshop (4 weeks) Spring Orchestra Workshop (8 weeks)
Semester Fee:

$145
$85
$170

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.

25/26 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change) The Adult Strings Orchestra Workshop is designed to enhance and enrich your orchestral playing experience through focused, hands-on sessions that combine learning, discovery, and ensemble collaboration. Each class dives into the building blocks of confident orchestral performance - rhythmic precision, tone production, balance, and phrasing - through interactive group exercises such as rhythmic layering, sectional blend work, listening drills, and phrasing challenges. Participants will also gain insight into the conductor’s role: how gestures translate into sound, how cues shape timing and colour, and how players respond as a unified ensemble. These workshops offer a rare opportunity to slow down, observe, and truly understand how an orchestra works - from the inside out. Players will strengthen their ensemble intuition, refine their listening, and gain tools that lead to more expressive, confident orchestral playing. Welcoming adult string players of all levels, the workshops are offered in three different class levels, creating a relaxed and engaging environment for anyone looking to deepen their musicianship and rediscover the joy of playing together. 25/26 Orchestra Workshop Schedule (subject to change)

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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 (7 weeks) Session 2: Mondays, 7:30-9:00pm (7 weeks) Session 3: Mondays, 7:30-9:00pm (7 weeks)
Semester Fee:

$220

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. 25/26 Rehearsal and Concert Schedule (subject to change)

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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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