CelloFest: Masterclass with Desmond Hoebig

Entrance to this event in Alix Goolden Performance Hall is at the Victoria Conservatory of Music at 900 Johnson Street.

Entrance: By donation

About the Masterclass

Join distinguished Canadian cellist and teacher Desmond Hoebig for a special masterclass presented as part of CelloFest at the Victoria Conservatory of Music.

Celebrated for his artistry as a soloist, chamber musician, principal cellist and longtime professor at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, Mr. Hoebig brings decades of performance and teaching experience to this inspiring session. In this public masterclass, selected participants will perform and receive personalized guidance, with a focus on refining technique and deepening musical interpretation.

Audiences are invited to observe the behind-the-scenes process that shapes expressive and polished performances. This masterclass provides a unique opportunity to experience world-class teaching and artistry up close.

Program (subject to change)

Haydn: Concerto in C major, Hob.VIIb:1, III. Finale. Allegro molto

Goltermann: Concerto in D minor, Op. 76, I. Allegro moderato

Bréval: Sonata in G major, I. Brillante

Mendelssohn: Sonata in B-flat major, Op. 45, I. Allegro vivace

Paganini: Variations on a Theme by Rossini

Cassadó: Requiebros

CelloFest 2026

CelloFest is a three-day event at the Victoria Conservatory of Music featuring renowned cellists and pedagogues Desmond Hoebig (former Professor at Rice University; former Principal Cello of Cincinnati, Houston and Cleveland orchestras) and Dr. Minna Rose Chung (Professor at the University of Manitoba; co-author of CelloMind).

CelloFest begins with the Opening Concert on Friday, May 22 at 7:30 pm in Alix Goolden Performance Hall. Following Friday’s concert, Dr. Chung and Mr. Hoebig will each lead a masterclass for young aspiring cellists on Saturday, May 23 on the stage of AGPH. CelloFest concludes with a Final Concert on Sunday, May 24 featuring the participants of the masterclasses and a cello choir.

CelloFest gratefully acknowledges the Gail O’Riordan Climate & the Arts Legacy Fund at Victoria Foundation for their generous support.

Venue Accessibility

The 900 Johnson Street entrance is wheelchair accessible at street level. There’s a drop-off zone out front, elevator access inside, and several accessible washrooms, including a gender-neutral washroom.

For priority seating or other accommodations, contact us in advance.

For full details, visit vcm.bc.ca/plan-your-visit