We’re thrilled to welcome Chiao-Rou Liu to our piano faculty! Chiao-Rou is a pianist and educator currently pursuing her Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance at the University of Arizona. She brings rich teaching experience from private studios, universities, and summer programs, and is passionate about creating inclusive, engaging learning environments. Learn more about her here.
You can also hear Chiao-Rou in her PGCM debut at our Grand Unveiling Concert 3pm on Sept. 14, when we reveal our brand-new grand piano, purchased thanks to last year’s incredible community fundraising campaign. This instrument is truly a gift from and for the community. Click here for details!
That same day, from 1-5pm, we’ll be hosting a Piano Silent Auction! Upright pianos donated by P.S. Pianos have been inspected by certified technician Peter Stevenson, who will be on site to answer questions. Starting bid: $500 (delivery included). All proceeds support the Conservatory. Click here for details!
If you've got children ages 5-9 (or know someone who does), you'll want to check out Maggie's musical storytime on Sept. 23rd 3:30-4:15pm at the Bob Harkins Branch.
A little further out, we’re excited to host a Songwriting Workshop on Oct. 17th-20th. This multi-day program, led by Corwin Fox and Kym Gouchie, will guide participants (ages 10–18) through songwriting, performance, improvisation, and lyric writing, culminating in a final concert. Thanks to generous support from Kiwanis, the fee is just $100, with bursaries available to ensure no one is turned away. Look for more details to come!
🎵 Other faculty performances to check out:
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Sept. 4–27: Elizabeth Klassen (piano) in Clue: On Stage with Theatre Northwest
- Sept. 7: Pops in the Park! Hear Ariane Jarosch (flute) and Shoshanna Godber (harp) just after noon, plus Allison Bell, Ariane Jarosch, and Erica Skowron with the PGSO, and Kayleigh Francis with the Big Enuff Big Band. Free event — visit our booth!
📅 Important dates for PGCM students:
- Aug. 25 Registration opens today! Please arrange your lesson time with your teacher and then fill out the appropriate form below (also found on our website). Please note that this must be done before your first lesson!
- Sept. 8 First week of lessons & bursary deadline (later applications considered if funds remain). Click here for the bursary application.
- Sept. 19 Music Party 🎉
- Sept. 30th The Conservatory will be closed to honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Looking for ways to help support the Conservatory? Have a green thumb (or just love to dig in the dirt)? The Conservatory is ready for a facelift, and we’d love your help sprucing up our outdoor space! Reply to this email if you’re up for the challenge and/or would like more information!