Get Schooled: In Chamber Music

Everyone had to start somewhere. The great composers and musicians of chamber music put in countless hours of practice before becoming household names. Even the naturally talented Beethoven studied with multiple teachers to master his technique and compositions. Whether you’ve been inspired to play an instrument for the first time, are coming back to it after years away, or are interested in honing your talents to perfection, we’ve compiled a list of the best schools in the Lower Mainland to study chamber music.

1. Study with the experts at the Vancouver Academy of Music’s Chamber Music Institute. Overseen by the award-winning Professor Andrew Dawes (Order of Canada), with coaches such as the ensemble-in-residence, the Koerner Quartet, the program is for ages 10+ (Suzuki 4+/RCM 6+). VAM has been educating students in their pursuit of musical excellence since 1969.
2. The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s School of Music offers an extensive variety of classes for all ages with an established faculty. Students benefit from proximity to the Orpheum Theatre through masterclasses with guest artists, and the opportunity to sit onstage with the VSO during rehearsal for unparalleled, hands-on education.
3. You could be part of the next great quartet with the Langley Community Music School’s team-based Chamber Music program. Students are placed in groups to practice the course repertoire and feel what it’s like to be part of an ensemble from the very beginning.
4. Think you might have the next Mozart on your hand? Nurture your little prodigy with Colourstrings Conservatory of Music. An innovative Finnish program combining the Kodály, Orff and Dalcroze methods, Colourstrings begins as young as 3 months of age to develop a taste–and ear–for music early on.

The FCM’s own Young Musicians Competition is our way of contributing to the next generation of talented Chamber Music enthusiasts. Our 62nd annual event was just held to great success, and we look forward to seeing what the recipients of our $5,000 in prizes do next!

Know any amazing teachers and inspiring programs for budding chamber musicians? Share with us below!

Photo courtesy of Visual Supply Co