Vancouver Academy of Music

The Vancouver Academy of Music is a wonderful place for music lessons and programs. It’s also the 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 major concerts each year. The 2026/27 season features concerts in October, November, March and May. Tickets cost between about $14 and $19 per person.

Visit the vancouveracademyofmusic.com website for full details on tickets and upcoming events.

Click on any of the following links to skip to a specific section of this article:

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 such as 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 sits at 1270 Chestnut Street in Vancouver. The building is located in Vanier Park, where Bard on the Beach takes place during the summer. It’s also where you’ll find the Museum of Vancouver and HR MacMillan Space Centre. The Vancouver Maritime Museum is also nearby. The park is situated along the waterfront with beautiful views of English Bay and the city.

VAM Symphony Orchestra Shows in 2026

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 2026/27 season is below. All of the concerts are held at the Orpheum Theatre and begin at 2:00 pm.

VAM Symphony Orchestra: Ian Parker Plays Gershwin

October 18th, 2026

Pianist Ian Parker performs Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F, following performances of Bernstein’s Candide Overture and Gershwin’s An American in Paris. The concert takes place on October 18th, 2026.

VAM Symphony Orchestra: Legends of the Console

November 8th, 2026

A special event geared towards fans of video games of all ages, Legends of the Console is a celebration of music from games like Legend of Zelda, The Last of Us, World of Warcraft, Animal Crossing, and many others. The concert takes place on November 8th, 2026, following a family photo booth and kids face painting from 1:00 to 2:00 pm.

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

VAM Symphony Orchestra: Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances

March 7th, 2027

VAM Symphony Orchestra continues its season with Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances, featuring performances of works by Enescu, Sibelius and Rachmaninoff. The night includes a guest performance by violinist Isabella Wang, winner of the annual Kay Meek Competition. The concert takes place on October March 7th, 2027.

VAM Symphony Orchestra: Kerson Leong Plays Tchaikovsky

May 2nd, 2027

Kerson Leong Plays Tchaikovsky is the final concert of the 2026/27 VAM Symphony Orchestra season. Kerson Leong stars in the performance of the famous composer’s Violin Concerto in D major, following performances of the Swan Lake Suite and Romeo and Juliet. The concert takes place on May 2nd, 2027.