Orchestral Program

The Vancouver Academy of Music’s Orchestral Program offers a carefully structured, four-level curriculum designed to guide young musicians through every stage of their ensemble development, from their first orchestral experience to advanced symphonic performances.

Each orchestra level is tailored to the age, technical ability, and ensemble readiness of the student, with a strong emphasis on musical growth, teamwork, and artistic expression. As students progress, they are introduced to increasingly sophisticated repertoire, diverse instrumentation, and professional rehearsal practices.

Rather than accelerating advancement, the program emphasizes music maturity at each stage, ensuring students build the core skills necessary for long-term success and enjoyment in orchestral playing.

Program Structure:

VAMFP (First Performers): Strings-only ensemble for beginners (ages 5-11), focused on foundational ensemble skills.
VAMJS (Junior Symphony): Strings and winds (ages 8-14), developing balance, phrasing, and early orchestral literacy.
VAMIS (Intermediate Symphony): Full orchestra (ages 13-17), transitioning to original repertoire and deeper musical understanding.
VAMSO (Symphony Orchestra): Advanced full orchestra (ages 14-18), performing major symphonic works at a pre-professional level.

Through four annual concert cycles, students explore a wide variety of musical styles while building the confidence, communication, and musical discipline that serve them in all areas of life.

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: Caitlin Wong
Recommended for: Age 6-11 ; Strings Only; Level: Beginner (Orchestra Level 1-2.5); Suzuki 2-4/RCM 1-3
Class Time: Saturdays, 9:00-10:00am
Annual Fee:

$690

Class Description: VAMFP is the ideal starting point for young string players who are new to ensemble music. This program emphasizes foundational skills, such as playing in time with others, basic bowing techniques, postures, and listening within a orchestral setting. Students are introduced to the joy of making music together in a fun, encouraging environment. Repertoire includes simple 2-4 parts pieces, folk songs, and thematic music to build ensemble confidence and musical imagination. Expected learning goals: Developing rhythmic stability, ensemble awareness, and readiness for more complex group playing.

VAM Junior Symphony

Instructor: Alana Chan
Recommended for: Age: 8-14; Strings and Winds Only; Level: Early Intermediate (Orchestra Level 2-3.5); Suzuki 4-5/RCM 4-6
Class Time: Saturdays, 10:15-11:30am
Annual Fee:

$770

Class Description: VAMJS is designed for young musicians who have acquired basic proficiency on their instruments and are ready to explore the fundamentals of orchestral performance. With the addition of wind players, students learn to balance sound across instrument families, follow conductor and coaches, and play in multi-parts arrangements. The repertoire includes accessible orchestral adaptations and seasonal music, allowing students to develop phrasing, articulation, and dynamic contrast. Expected Learning Goals: To strengthen ensemble integration, tone control, and interpretive skills, while preparing students for full orchestral setting in VAMIS.

VAM Intermediate Symphony

Instructor: Ian Parker
Recommended for: Age: 13-17; Full Orchestra; Level: Intermediate to advanced (Orchestra Level: 3.5-5); Suzuki 6-7/RCM 6-9
Class Time: Saturdays, 11:45am-1:30pm
Annual Fee:

$890

Class Description: VAMIS is a full orchestra experience for students who are ready to perform original works and develop deeper orchestral fluency. The ensemble tackles standard symphonic repertoire, and light classical pops, offering a broad musical education. Emphasis is placed on score awareness, harmonic understanding, and independent musicianship. Students learn to navigate the complexities of orchestral colour, balance, and leadership within sections. Expected Learning Goals: To introduce full symphonic playing, encourage musical independence, and prepare students for advanced ensemble demands in VAMSO.

VAM Symphony Orchestra

Instructor: Ian Parker
Recommended for: Age: 14-18; Full Orchestra; Level: Advanced (Orchestra Level: 5-6+); Suzuki 8+/RCM 10+
Class Description: VAMSO offers a pre-professional orchestral experience for advanced young musicians. Members study and perform full-length works from the standard repertoire, develop nuanced interpretative skills, and engage in ensemble leadership. The program stimulates the rigor of professional rehearsals, encouraging students to think critically, lead within their sections, and interpret music with stylistic awareness. Participation often includes collaborations with solo artists and public performances in major venues, such as the Orpheum and the Kay Meek Arts Centre. Expected Learning Outcomes: To refine artistry, build performance resilience, and prepare students for post-secondary music study or young professional ensembles.