Sounds Global Composers’ Workshop 2025

The Vancouver Inter-Cultural Orchestra is pleased to present the 12th annual edition of this innovative workshop series. Led by VICO Artistic Director Farshid Samandari, the series 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 the instruments listed, to be workshopped by VICO musicians over the course of 4 sessions. Workshops will take place in person; however, online applicants are also welcome.  All completed pieces will receive a public performance, and composers will receive an archival recording. **UPDATE: as of Feb. 26, 2025 this program is now at capacity for this year, and registration is closed. We encourage composers to check out our Summer Academy as an alternative, more in-depth opportunity to develop new work.**

Instrumentation

Intercultural Wind Quintet:

  • Flute/alto/piccolo/bass flute
  • Oboe/oboe d’amore/English horn
  • Clarinet/bass clarinet
  • Persian ney (different tunings)
  • Sheng

For background information about traditional instruments presented in this program, please visit https://vi-co.org/resources-study/instrument-corner/.

Schedule

Session #1 (ONLINE): Composition Masterclass on Instrumentation. March 9, 2025 |10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Session #2: Workshop with full ensemble. March 16, 2025 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Session #3: Workshop with full ensemble. April 13, 2025 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Session #4: Workshop with full ensemble. May 18, 2025 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

In-person workshops will take place in Vancouver; location TBA.

Final Rehearsal with full ensemble. May 29, 2025 | 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at VSO School of Music, Vancouver, BC.

Concert: May 30, 2025 | 7:00 pm St. Andrews United Church, 1044 St Georges Ave, North Vancouver, BC

 

Application Procedure & Registration Fee

Participating composers must register by March 6, 2025. Priority will be given to the first 8 applicants. **UPDATE: as of Feb. 26, 2025 this program is now at capacity for this year, and registration is closed. We encourage composers to check out our Summer Academy as an alternative, more in-depth opportunity to develop new work.**