Education is a pillar of the VICO’s mandate. We are proud to offer a range of unique learning opportunities, including:

• Sounds Global Composers Workshop: Led annually each spring by VICO Artistic Director Farshid Samandari, this program offers composers unique opportunities to learn about and write for traditional instruments from all over the world. Registered participants are encouraged to bring sketches of works in progress for an intercultural chamber ensemble, to be workshopped by VICO musicians over the course of 4 sessions.  All completed pieces receive a public performance, and composers receive an archival recording. 

• VICO Summer Academy: offered on alternating years (coming up next in May/June 2027!), this innovative 2-week intensive program offers hands-on experience in creating and performing intercultural music. Activities include master classes and workshops, rehearsals and concert performances, all focused around the development of new works. The Summer Academy is open to composers and musicians aged 15 and up, of all nationalities and of every musical background.  Watch this space for registration info, coming soon for the 2027 Academy!

• Music of the Whole World: free lecture-performance series presented at public libraries and other venues such as Roedde House in Vancouver’s West End )

• Professional development workshops for established musicians and composers, on topics such as “Bridging the Aural-Written Divide”