The Victoria Conservatory of Music is pleased to present CelloFest 2026, a three-day celebration of the cello featuring internationally acclaimed artists, dynamic public masterclasses, and a final concert showcasing the next generation of cellists.
Taking place May 22–24, 2026 in the Alix Goolden Performance Hall, CelloFest brings together renowned performers and pedagogues Desmond Hoebig and Dr. Minna Rose Chung, alongside distinguished guest artists Brian Yoon, Lorraine Min, and Laura Loewen, for an immersive weekend of performance and learning.
Opening Concert
Friday, May 22, 7:30–9:45 pm
Alix Goolden Performance Hall (entrance at 900 Johnson Street)
CelloFest opens with a dazzling concert featuring Desmond Hoebig, Minna Rose Chung, and Brian Yoon, joined by pianists Lorraine Min and Laura Loewen. The program spans centuries of cello repertoire, from Bach and Chopin to Debussy, Cassadó, Popper, Morlock, and more—showcasing the expressive range and versatility of the instrument.
This opening evening sets the tone for the festival, bringing together internationally recognized artists in a celebration of cello artistry at its highest level.
Learn more: https://vcm.bc.ca/event/cellofest-opening-concert/
Masterclass with Dr. Minna Rose Chung
Saturday, May 23, 9:30 am–12:30 pm
Alix Goolden Performance Hall (entrance at 900 Johnson Street)
By donation
Dr. Minna Rose Chung—Professor of Cello at the University of Manitoba and co-author of CelloMind: Intonation and Technique—leads an engaging public masterclass featuring selected young cellists.
Audiences are invited to observe the coaching process in real time, gaining insight into technical refinement, musical interpretation, and the collaborative relationship between teacher and student. This session offers a rare opportunity to experience the artistry behind performance development.
Repertoire includes works by Brahms, Schumann, Bruch, Boccherini, Kabalevsky, and Saint-Saëns.
Learn more: https://vcm.bc.ca/event/cellofest-masterclass-with-dr-minna-rose-chung/
Masterclass with Desmond Hoebig
Saturday, May 23, 2:00–5:00 pm
Alix Goolden Performance Hall (entrance at 900 Johnson Street)
By donation
Renowned cellist and educator Desmond Hoebig—former Principal Cello of the Cleveland, Houston, and Cincinnati Symphony Orchestras and longtime Professor at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music—brings decades of international performance and teaching experience to this public masterclass.
Selected participants will receive personalized coaching focused on technique, musical depth, and expressive interpretation. Audience members are invited to witness the artistry and detail that shape professional-level performance.
Featured repertoire includes works by Haydn, Mendelssohn, Bréval, Goltermann, Paganini, and Cassadó.
Learn more: https://vcm.bc.ca/event/cellofest-masterclass-with-desmond-hoebig/
Final Concert
Sunday, May 24, 1:00–3:00 pm
Alix Goolden Performance Hall (entrance at 900 Johnson Street)
Suggested donation: $10
CelloFest concludes with a celebratory final concert featuring participants from the masterclasses, showcasing the artistic growth developed over the course of the weekend.
The program culminates in a powerful cello ensemble of more than 20 performers, uniting festival participants in a final shared performance that highlights both individual achievement and collective musicianship.
Learn more: https://vcm.bc.ca/event/cellofest-final-concert/
A Celebration of Learning and Performance
CelloFest reflects the Victoria Conservatory of Music’s commitment to excellence in performance and education, bringing together emerging artists and world-class mentors in an inspiring and accessible setting. Audiences are invited to attend individual events or experience the full weekend of concerts and masterclasses—whether as devoted cello enthusiasts, students, educators, or curious listeners.
Join us for a weekend where artistry, learning, and community come together through the voice of the cello.
