Summer Intensive Program: Junior Strings
July 14-18 & August 25-29, 2025 at the University of Victoria
The Victoria Conservatory of Music Junior Strings Summer Camp gives young students ages 6-12 musical days filled with group classes, composition, chamber music, art, and outdoor fun! Students may sign up for one-, or two-weeks. Sibling and multi-week discounts will be applied during registration.
Within the weekly camps, we will have three individualized levels of learning inviting a wide range of abilities, from those students picking up the violin or cello for the very first time to those with several years of experience playing in chamber music ensembles. Our high ratio of faculty to students gives plenty of opportunities for individual attention, including mini-lessons throughout the week.
Students will be assigned to streams by the Junior Program Coordinator.
Three individualized levels of learning for students ages 6-12
Beginners
Inviting students to come to the camp and try the violin or cello for the very first time! Students will be introduced to basic skills on their instruments and take part in rhythm and ear training games, a group composition and perform in the final concert.
Music Readers
This level introduces students with some previous experience with their instruments to focus on basic music and rhythm reading, playing in rounds and enhancing chamber music skills. Music parts will be introduced and learned at the camp. No advance preparation is necessary.
Chamber Players
This level is for students with previous chamber music or orchestral experience. The focus will be on individual and ensemble skills. Repertoire will be more challenging. The recommended level is RCM Grade 3.
Early Bird registration deadline: May 1, 2025
Final registration and bursary application deadline: June 1, 2025
Learn more
How to Register
Online registration requires payment in full. Payment by credit card will incur a 3.07% convenience fee. If you do not wish to incur this fee, please contact our office for other payment methods.
Students interested in participating in chamber groups are asked to provide a video of a short performance of a recent piece and current scale to ensure accurate group placement. If you have difficulty uploading your video below, you may email it to gilker[at]vcm.bc.ca.
Fees and Deadlines
Early Bird: $425/week + $33 non-refundable application fee
After May 1, 2025: $485 + $55 non-refundable application fee
Students may sign up for one- or two-weeks. Sibling and multi-week discounts will be applied during registration.
Early Bird registration deadline: May 1, 2025
Final registration and bursary application deadline: June 1, 2025
Some bursary assistance may be available. Applicants must comply with all deadlines and requirements. Late applicants will not be considered for financial assistance.
Dates and Daily Schedule
All programs run full day 9:00am-3:00pm.
Daily Agenda: (except the final concert day)
8:45-9:00am – Arrival
9:00-9:10am – Group Warm-Up & Meetings
9:10-10:00am – Block #1: Technique Class/Rehearsal
10:00-10:20am – Snack break
10:20-11:10am – Block #2: Repertoire Class/Rehearsal
11:10-12:00pm – Lunch Break
12:00-1:00pm – Block #3: Group Activity/Composition
1:00-1:15pm – Recess
1:15-2:00pm – Block #4: Music Appreciation/Theory
2:00-2:15pm – Recess
2:15-3:00pm – Block #5: Review & Group Fun!
3:00-3:15pm – Dismissal
*Please note that the agenda is subject to change depending on the groups.
Location
University of Victoria, hosted by the School of Music, MacLaurin Building, 3800 Finnerty Road.
Faculty
Maria Wang, Junior Program Coordinator, Cello
Raina Saunders, Violin
Rose Spivack, Violin
Faculty subject to change
Concerts
On the last day of each camp there will be a concert open to family and friends.
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
Maria Wang, Junior Program Coordinator
mariawangtw[at]gmail.com