Vancouver Academy of Music

The Vancouver Academy of Music is a wonderful place for music lessons and programs. It’s also home base for the VAM Symphony Orchestra.

The Vancouver Academy of Music has programs for people of all ages and skill levels. Many of its students go on to study at some of the world’s top universities and conservatories. Some students also go on to perform in professional orchestras.

The VAM Symphony Orchestra puts on four main concerts each year.

Visit the vancouveracademyofmusic.com website for full details about the academy and its various concerts and programs.

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Vancouver Academy of Music

The Vancouver Academy of Music, or “VAM” for short, is a non-profit institution. Established in 1969, the academy offers a variety of programs for those of all ages to enroll in. They include Early Music Education for little kids, a collegiate program for high school students, and instrument lessons for groups of adults. Private lessons are also available both in-person and online.

The faculty at the Vancouver Academy of Music is not only supportive and inclusive, but also comprised of distinguished musicians who are alumni of world-renowned institutions. Some of the instructors are from places like the Juilliard School, Curtis Institute, Eastman School, and Royal Academy of Music (London). Additionally, many actively contribute to Vancouver’s vibrant musical landscape through their involvement with esteemed local organizations like the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and Vancouver Opera.

If you’re looking for a new hobby or want to build upon existing musical abilities, the Vancouver Academy of Music is a great place to do that! Students can try everything from the violin and guitar to the piano and percussion, all while learning from high quality instructors!

The Vancouver Academy of Music also puts on a variety of competitions and shows throughout the year. Some take place in-house, whereas others are held at larger venues in the city.

For more information about VAM Symphony Orchestra, visit vancouveracademyofmusic.com.

Academy Location

The Vancouver Academy of Music is located at 1270 Chestnut Street in Vancouver. The building is in Vanier Park, which is where Bard on the Beach takes place in the summer. It’s also where you’ll find the Museum of Vancouver and HR MacMillan Space Centre. The Vancouver Maritime Museum is also not too far away. The park is situated along the waterfront with beautiful views of English Bay and the city.

VAM Symphony Orchestra Shows

The Vancouver Academy of Music puts on over fifty concerts each year. There are recitals for current students, as well as other events with live orchestra, vocal theatre and chamber music.

The academy’s flagship series of events feature shows by the VAM Symphony Orchestra. There are usually multiple concerts to enjoy throughout the year.

The schedule of VAM Symphony Orchestra shows for the 2024/2025 season is below. General admission to each event typically costs around $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Unless stated otherwise, the concerts are held at the Orpheum Theatre and begin at 2:00 pm.

VAM Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky & Rachmaninoff

October 27th, 2024

The Tchaikovsky & Rachmaninoff concert is the official beginning of the VAM Symphony Orchestra 2024/25 season. It’s a tribute to romantic music featuring the works of Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff and Khatchaturian. The concert takes place on Sunday, October 27th in 2024.

VAM Symphony Orchestra: Music of John Williams

November 24th, 2024

The Music of John Williams concert happens on Sunday, November 24th in 2024. This show plays hits from some of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters ever. That includes music from Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, and more.

For more information about the programs and events, visit vancouveracademyofmusic.com.

VAM Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5

February 16th, 2025

Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony headlines this matinee performance, which takes place on Sunday, February 16th in 2025. The concert also features a piano performance by teenage musician Allen Ding, the winner of the 2024 Kay Meek Competition.

VAM Symphony Orchestra: The Planets

May 25th, 2025

The Planets takes the stage on Sunday, May 25th, 2025. The finale of the 2024/25 season features special guest Jonathan Crow, the concertmaster of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.