PEISO Announces Academy for Young Musicians

November 17, 2023 - Zoe Sullivan performing with the PEI Symphony Orchestra.

The PEISO Academy for Young Musicians aims to support young and aspiring musicians across PEI. The program focuses on developing chamber music ensemble skills for students aged 18 years and under. The program’s initial focus will be on developing small string ensembles, including piano, from two to approximately five players in a group. The program includes the following:

• When: Sunday afternoons from September 8, 2024 to April 27, 2025. Full schedule will be available once auditions are complete.

• Where: The Haviland, 2 Haviland Street, Charlottetown.

• Details: Students receive 2.5 hours of instruction each session, consisting of a group musicianship class (1 hr) followed by ensemble coaching (1.5 hrs).

• Teaching artists: - Natalie Williams Calhoun, cello
  - Madeline Kapp MacDonald, violin
  - Jeffrey Bazett-Jones, viola
  - Stephanie Cole, piano
  - Laura Ono, group musicianship

• Performances and Recitals: Students will receive performance opportunities throughout the program. This may include recitals, music festivals and community outreach initiatives such as performing in long-term care facilities, schools, etc.

• Added Benefits: Students will also receive a complimentary subscription to the 2024-25 PEISO concert season, and exclusive interactions with the PEISO Music Director and musicians.

• Tuition: $750 per student for 16 sessions (less than $20/hr of instructional time). Financial assistance is available to ensure that the program is accessible to all aspiring musicians, regardless of financial circumstances.
  
  Who Can Apply?
  This program is open to string and piano students aged 18 years and under, who reside in PEI.
  
  Audition Process – What to Expect
  Admission to the program is through audition; there are approximately 12-16 spots available. Auditions will take place in Charlottetown on the following dates:
  • Wednesday, June 26, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Kirk of St. James, 35 Fitzroy Street (piano and strings)
  • Sunday, June 30, 2024 from 1:00-4:00 pm at The Haviland, 2 Haviland Street (strings only)
  • Wednesday, July 3, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Kirk of St. James, 35 Fitzroy Street (piano and strings)
  
  Please prepare two contrasting selections of your choice that highlight your skill and musical abilities on your instrument. We recommend selections starting at RCM Level 6 for strings, and RCM Level 8 for piano. The auditions will be held in-person with the teaching artists forming the selection committee. Note: no accompanist required for string auditions. All candidates will be notified of their results within one month following the auditions.

How to Apply
If you are interested in being part of this dynamic music program, please complete the Request for Audition form here by Sunday, June 23, 2024.

Questions?
Please contact Laura Ono, Head of Operations, PEISO at 902-892-4333 or admin@peisymphony.com.