Summer academy buzzing

We are often asked: “Do you shut down for the summer?” or “What do you do all summer with all of the students on break?” In fact, summer is one of our busiest times of year, when we host over 300 students who converge at the Victoria Conservatory of Music (VCM) for the annual Summer Academy.

Students from all over Canada and the US participate in one- and twoweek intensives in disciplines such as piano, strings, guitar, voice, choral and music theory. Programs range from emerging-professional training to just-for-fun music camps for children and amateur adult musicians. Our youngest summer students are under 10, while the oldest would probably be unhappy with us if we were to reveal their age.

In addition to receiving top-level instruction, summer students have ample opportunity to showcase just how much they can learn in a week or two through the many performances that make up the Summer Academy Concert Series. The Concert Series features inspiring faculty performances where both local and internationally renowned guest artists present ambitious programs and crowd-pleasing favourites. Summer Academy Concerts are family-friendly and admission is by donation – an amazing opportunity to spend summer evenings listening to great music without breaking the bank. (vcm.bc.ca/music-programs/vcmsummer-academy).

Summer Academy programs are filling up fast and registrations are being accepted. VCM offers a billeting program and bursary assistance to eligible participants.

Vocal Oratorio Program: Jul. 14 to 28. Variety of courses designed for emerging professionals and advanced students, intermediate singers, adult soloists and choral singers.

Piano: Jul. 2 to 13. Junior, intermediate, senior, young artist (by audition) and adult programs available.

Strings: Jul. 3 to 13 & Aug. 27 to 31. Intensive program tailored to a variety of ages and levels. Junior and senior programs; one or two-week option. Theory: Jul. 3 to Aug 3. Classes and lessons for all levels of theory and ear-training. Prepare for exams, post-secondary studies, etc. Guitar: Jul. 24 to 28. Relaxed, focused and engaging program where guitarists expand and refine their skills. vcm.bc.ca | Tel: 250-386-5311