What makes the VSO School the best place to learn, play and connect with music?
When you become a VSOSoM student, you are welcomed into an artistic community like no other. Uniquely collaborative, diverse and inspiring, here, the JOY of learning music is our focus.
Our child’s teacher is an amazing human being, with an uncanny capacity for knowing how to approach teaching her to make her fall in love with her instrument every lesson.
I love the sense of community that is modelled by the teachers and staff through their genuine love for music and their heartfelt desire to make learning and performing music accessible and enjoyable to people of all ages and abilities.
The kindness and dedication shown by both staff and students fosters a wonderful environment conducive to learning. It is a musical family – we get what we pay for and more.
I took music lessons when I was younger but I was a little nervous about signing up again as an adult. I thought maybe I was too old or would feel out of place. All of my fears are gone now after spending a year at VSO School. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, the lessons are a joy and there are tons of other adult students too. I’ve learned so much more than I expected and look forward to continuing for many years to come!
It’s a place where your soul feels joy. Thank you!
The VSO School of Music is the only school in North America to be closely connected to a major Symphony Orchestra.
We have an incredible state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility in the heart of downtown Vancouver, next to the historic Orpheum Theatre, and featuring the acoustically-excellent Alan & Gwendoline Pyatt Hall.
We offer classical, jazz and world music from a faculty of over 130 world-class musicians & pedagogues, including many members of the VSO.
We welcome students of ALL ages, abilities and aspirations, starting from birth and continuing for as long as you like!
We believe in accessible learning, providing music education in person (both at our facility and community locations), online and even outdoors.
We remove barriers to participation with a thriving bursary & scholarship program, and by offering many free community events and performances.
VSO School of Music students enjoy advantages such as:
- FREE & discounted tickets to VSO concerts
- FREE tickets to International Master Teacher masterclasses; VSO Mentorship Program & other events
- FREE access to VSOSoM practice studios (open 7 days a week)
- Unparalleled performance opportunities in venues including Pyatt Hall; Vancouver Playhouse; Chan Centre for the Performing Arts; and on the Orpheum stage.
- Involvement in major events such as VSO Day of Music & Symphony at Sunset
- Exclusive interactions with VSO conductors and musicians, such as guest coachings, mentoring, masterclasses and side-by-side performances
- Reserved seating at select VSO Open Rehearsals
- Use of stunning, purpose-designed 25,000 sqft facility & recital hall
- Use of professional-level Steinway & Yamaha pianos, orchestral & world percussion instruments
- Private Lesson Student discount on ensemble and group class fees
- Pre-authorized payment plan for private lessons & full-year ensembles
- VSOSoM Students taking private lessons are eligible to participate in:
– Annual VSOSoM Future of Excellence competition
– Annual VSOSoM Festivals of Strings & Piano
– VSO Mentorship Events
– International Guest Artist Masterclasses