Advanced Independent Music Studies

Applications are for September intake. Applicants will pay an application fee and submit an application form to the Victoria Conservatory of Music.

1. Pay Conservatory Application Fee

2. Complete Conservatory Application Form

A 500-word statement summarizing your career goals and expectations of what you intend to accomplish while enrolled in this program is required to complete the Application. Suggested topics to include: your proposed applied project for either individual terms or the whole year, the focus of your field of study, and your musical background.

Contact the Postsecondary department for questions and details.

The program is conducted over two terms (Fall/Winter) commencing with the first term starting in September. On a case-by-case basis, a student may be considered for Winter program commencement.

Submit proof for assessment of:

• Performance: Live audition demonstrating advanced ability on a principal instrument through performance of repertoire and technique in alignment with expressed professional goals; evidence of past music endeavours, including portfolio work, and personal/professional music experience will be considered.
• Teaching: Strong interest and/or demonstrated ability and past record of successful experience in teaching delivery; student and parent recommendations will be critically considered. Appropriate level of instrumental/vocal proficiency will be seriously considered before acceptance.
• Technology and Creativity: Stated interest and/or demonstrated experience with some of the following aspects of music creation: songwriting and recording, recording/producing/editing, sound generation, capture, creation, and manipulation equipment and software; previous portfolio work will be an asset in consideration of acceptance.
• Business: Stated interest and/or demonstrated experience in some of the following subjects pertaining to the business of music: contracting, event organizing, project production, touring, concert presentation, artist management and musical arts administration.
• Official transcripts demonstrating a grade of “C” in English, or an equivalent assessment.

Formal request for Fall 2024 admission must be received at the Music Department office by close of business on one of the two following:

• First Applicant Stage: January 15 for audition and assessment/interview held February 1-15.
• Second Applicant Stage: April 15 for application. Audition and assessment/interview held May 1-15.
• Third Applicant Stage: June 1 for application. Audition and assessment/interview held June15-30.
• Applications after June 30 will be considered if placement in the program is available.

The program is conducted over two terms (Fall/Winter) commencing with the first term starting in September. On a case-by-case basis, a student may be considered for Winter program commencement.

Base tuition is $8,500, plus $95 application fee. Some additional student expenses may be incurred, including and depending on Applied Project selection and details.

The Victoria Conservatory of Music supports your talent and financial investment. This year, we provided over $65,000 in entrance and continuing scholarships for students enrolled specifically in the Performance Diploma program, as well as over $100,000 in general scholarships.

Please see the Scholarship page for more information.

Courses are taught on the Victoria Conservatory of Music campus at 900 Johnson Street in downtown Victoria.

Policies include: EQA Fee and Tuition Compliance Standards; Dispute Resolution Policy; and Respectful Learning Environment (including Anti-Harassment and Sexual Harassment policies; Discrimination, Bullying, and Violence; Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement; and On Site Safety Program details).

“I’ve been very impressed with the quality of this inaugural edition of the Advanced Independent Music Study (AIMS) voice teacher program. The principal instructor is highly knowledgeable and well organized. Lesson plans and assignments are relevant and engaging. The practical application course, Guided Studio Teaching, is a great opportunity to put theory into practice with the support and supervision of an experienced voice teacher. A very recommendable program of study for aspiring teachers of singing.” -Eric

“The AIMS program has been invaluable for gaining experience in areas I have an interest in but know little about. The string quartet workshop with feedback from professional players was a great learning experience, having never heard one of my original compositions performed before.” – Eli

“I’m a middle-aged amateur largely-electronic composer who was seeking to revitalize my music and take it to the next level, out of ‘the box’ and into the acoustic and performance domains. AIMS provided the collaborative yet competitive educational environment I was looking for, providing opportunities to explore numerous pathways I hadn’t even considered, including jazz and blues improvisation, classical orchestration, film scoring, audio production and much more. Meanwhile I had accountability, assistance and advice regarding my own projects, giving me the confidence to push at the boundaries of my previous work, enhancing my musical voice and taking me from streaming to the stage. A variety of perspectives, a trove of knowledge and a wealth of inspiration await any musician or composer seeking to level-up their craft. AIMS is highly recommended.” – Melody

The AIMS program has helped me explore different sides of my musicianship. It allows me to figure out what I would love to pursue as a career afterwards, and lets me face dream projects hands-on with great help and security.- Essencia