Orchestral Program

Performing in a symphony orchestra is an exhilarating experience that teaches essential life skills such as communication, respect, and working together as a team. VAM’s Orchestral Program is comprised of four ensembles that strike a balance between excellence and enjoyment.

VAM’s Orchestral Training Program is supported by:
Adrienne S. Chan
The Edith Lando Charitable Foundation
The R & J Stern Family Foundation
Vancouver Civic Theatres
The City of Vancouver

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Orchestral Program

VAM Friendly Philharmonic

Instructor: Joseph Elworthy
Recommended for: Suzuki 2-3/RCM 1-3
Class Time: Saturdays, 9:00-10:00am
Annual Fee:

$660

Class Description: Formerly the Pre-Junior Symphony, the Friendly Philharmonic offers the first level of orchestral training. It is ideal for string students with no prior ensemble experience beginning to learn sight-reading skills. Repertoire includes arrangements of familiar music ranging from popular songs to movie soundtracks.

VAM Junior Symphony

Instructor: Joseph Elworthy
Recommended for: Suzuki 3-4/RCM 4-6
Class Time: Saturdays, 10:15-11:30am
Annual Fee:

$730

Class Description: Junior Symphony focuses on repertoire from the Baroque and Classical periods. Fundamental orchestral skills such as bow techniques, phrasing, musical terms and creating a blended orchestral sound are explored.

VAM Intermediate Symphony

Instructor: Henry Shapard
Recommended for: Suzuki 4-7/RCM 7-9
Class Time: Saturdays, 11:45am-1:30pm
Annual Fee:

$850

Class Description: Intermediate Symphony performs a diverse range of repertoire spanning Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods. Independent preparation is highly emphasized as chair assignments are based on seating auditions at the beginning of each semester.

VAM Symphony Orchestra

Instructor: Ian Parker (Music Director and Principal Conductor)
Recommended for: Suzuki 7+/RCM 10+
Class Time: Saturdays, 2:00-5:00pm
Annual Fee:

$990

Class Description: VAMSO appears four times a year at the Orpheum Theatre, performing seminal masterpieces from symphonic repertoire. Recent performances include Beethoven's Emperor Concerto, Verdi's Requiem, and Brahms' Symphony No. 1.