Summer Intensive Program: Choral
August 17-22, 2026
This Intensive offers an immersive exploration of Canadian choral repertoire, bringing together singers for a concentrated week of study, rehearsal, and performance. The program focuses on music that reflects Canada’s rich choral tradition—combining contemporary concert works with folk-inspired repertoire that has become central to the national choral canon.
Through detailed rehearsal work, participants will engage deeply with text, tone, ensemble balance, and stylistic clarity, developing a refined approach to choral singing while working within a collaborative and supportive environment.
The repertoire has been selected to encourage musical independence, heightened listening, and expressive commitment. Featured works include:
- Feller from Fortune (traditional Newfoundland) by Harry Somers
- We Rise Again by Lydia Adams
- J’entends le moulin arr. Donald Patriquin
- The Stars Are with the Voyager by Eleanor Daley
- Hunker Down by Tobin Stokes
- Away from the Roll of the Sea by Allister MacGillivray, arr. D. Loomer
- Song for the Mira by Allister MacGillivray, arr. Stuart Calvert
- ‘Hope’ Is the Thing with Feathers by Sarah Quartel
- Grant Us Peace by David Archer
Designed for committed singers, the intensive welcomes a range of experience levels and emphasizes musical growth through thoughtful rehearsal, listening, and collaboration. Led by the esteemed instructor, Brian Wismath, the week culminates in a performance that highlights the distinctive voice of Canadian choral music.
Early Bird registration deadline: June 1, 2026
Final registration and bursary application deadline: July 15, 2026
Learn more
How to Register
Online registration requires payment in full. Payment by credit card will incur a 3.23% convenience fee. If you do not wish to incur this fee, please contact our office for other payment methods.
Fees and Deadlines
Early Bird Fee: $360 (including score package) + Library Resource Fee*
After June 1, 2026: $420 (including score package) + Library Resource Fee*
Early Bird registration deadline: June 1, 2026
Final registration and bursary application deadline: July 15, 2026
*A 1% Library Resource Fee is added to all Community School registrations to support the Victoria Conservatory Music Library and Archives, which is free to all students and the public. The library is in Room 113 and available online.
Some bursary assistance may be available. Applicants must comply with all deadlines and requirements. Late applicants will not be considered for financial assistance and additional application fees may apply.
Auditing
Auditing: $100 (including score package)
Registration deadline: July 15, 2026
Please note: Auditors observe, they do not sing.
Online registration requires payment in full. Payment by credit card will incur a 3.23% convenience fee. If you do not wish to incur this fee, please contact our office for other payment methods.
Repertoire
Repertoire to be announced.
Dates and Daily Schedule
Daytime Choir
Monday, August 17 – Friday, August 21
12:30-2:45pm
Evening Choir
Monday, August 17 – Friday, August 21
5:30-7:45pm
Both Choirs
Saturday, August 22
12:00-2:00pm – dress rehearsal
6:30pm – call time
7:00pm – concert
Location
All programs will take place onsite at the Victoria Conservatory of Music (900 Johnson Street) in downtown Victoria. There are many cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores within walking distance.
Faculty
Brian Wismath, Artistic Director and Conductor
Wendy Stofer, Accompanist
Faculty subject to change.
Concert
Saturday, August 22
7:00pm | Alix Goolden Performance Hall
Tickets on sale soon
The Fine Print
Please note: all fees must be paid in full by the registration deadline (excluding those waiting on the result of their bursary application).
Online registration requires payment in full. Payment by credit card will incur a convenience fee. If you do not wish to incur this fee, please contact our office for other payment methods.
Those awaiting acceptance (where applicable) or the results of their bursary application are encouraged to contact us directly to register.
Contact
Victoria Conservatory of Music Front Desk
250.386.5311 | info[at]vcm.bc.ca