We believe that kids are motivated to learn and grow as musicians when they are inspired by the music and the social setting where it happens. This is why our programs begin with Celtic music! At the heart of the Celtic music tradition is the idea of getting together and sharing music. What better way to make music fun?
Intro to FiddlingAges 7 to 12 and can play a simple melody and/or scale. We offer three Intro classes annually: Fall (Sep - Dec); Winter (Jan - Mar); and Spring (Apr - Jun).A fun and engaging music class. We learn what Celtic music is, practice learning by ear, and have fun playing as a group! Registration OPEN for children ages 5 - 12 years old and can play a simple melody and/or scale. Register separately for: Fall (Sep - Dec): 13 classes; Winter (Jan - Mar): 9 classes; Spring (Apr - Jun): 12 classes |
Strings & ThingsA group for kids who love music to get together, play, and have fun! Players learn how to be positive and engaging performers, play games each rehearsal, and perform in the community.North Vancouver - Age 9+ and have 2+ years of playing experience. Weekly private lessons recommended. |
Junior North Shore Celtic EnsembleAge 12+ and have 3+ years of playing experience. Weekly private lessons and audition required. If you are a committed young musician who loves exploring different genres, we welcome you to our Junior Ensemble. Players perform arrangements with harmonies and grooves that are fun to play. Performances include a feature role in our Community Concert Series. Learn more about Junior NSCEAudition required before registration. |
Senior North Shore Celtic EnsembleAge 13+ etc. Weekly privates and audition required.Our senior players are committed to and passionate about ensemble music. They want to be part of a high-level performance group and to explore new directions with their music. Players perform complex arrangements of traditional and contemporary fiddle tunes as well as original music that blends folk, jazz, and classical. Learn more about Senior NSCEAudition required before registration. |
**NEW** String Theory "Folkestra" (Adult Group)Adults only. No audition required. The NSCE’s String Theory Folkestra is a community of adult violinists, cellists, guitarists, mandolin, accordion, piano that gets together every other week to learn and play music. We focus on building arrangements together, with musicians of all levels... It's really quite fun and intended as a relaxing casual activity. The group rehearses on the North Shore. Learn more about String Theory |
Group | Description |
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Intro to Fiddling Wed, 6:15 to 7:15 pm, North Vancouver |
Registration OPEN Age 5 - 12 and can play a simple melody and/or scale Register separately for: Fall (Sep - Dec):13 classes; Winter (Jan - Mar): 9 classes; Spring (Apr - Jun): 12 classes Tuition: 2023-2024 NSCE Fee Schedule |
Strings & Things - North Vancouver Wed, 5:00 to 6:15 pm, North Vancouver |
Registration OPEN Age 9+ and have 2+ years of playing experience. Weekly private lessons recommended. Tuition: 2023-2024 NSCE Fee Schedule |
Junior NSCE Ensemble Junior Wed, 6:00 - 7:30 pm, North Vancouver |
Age 12+ and have 3+ years of playing experience. Private lessons and audition required. Tuition: 2023-2024 NSCE Fee Schedule |
Senior NSCE Ensemble Wed, 7:30 - 9:30 pm and Sat. 10 am - 12 noon, North Vancouver |
Age 13+ etc. Private lessons and audition required. View Audition Package Tuition: 2023-2024 NSCE Fee Schedule |
**NEW** String Theory (Adult Group) Mon, 7:00 - 9:00 pm every other week, North Vancouver | Adults only. No audition required. Register separately for: Fall (Sep - Dec): 7 sessions; Winter (Jan - Mar): 5 sessions; Spring (Apr - Jun): 6 sessions |
Registration Process
Registration is currently open for
Intro, Strings & Things, and Folkestra Programs. Regular Registration: Open year-round space permitting. Early Bird Registration will be open June 14, 2023 for Junior and Senior Ensemble! Audition permitting. |
How to ApplyPlease complete ALL of the following registration steps:
| Fees and DiscountsDiscounts available for early registration.. Fees can also be prorated for students who start after our season begins. We are very aware this past year has been particularly challenging for some families financially. 2023-2024 Fee ScheduleNew this year, we are offering student bursaries on a limited basis to offset tuition fees. Fill out our form to apply for a student bursary. | Meet & GreetIf you'd like to visit one of our rehearsals for a meet and greet and check us out, please email us. |
The NSCE relies with gratitude on parent volunteers to support our programs and performances. In addition to the basic expectation that each family helps to sell tickets to performances, everyone is asked to commit to at least ~10 hours over the course of the year. Exact roles and time commitments are described in the registration form. If you are unable to volunteer your time, an additional $250 fee is assessed on top of your program fees during the registration process.
We are building a student bursary fund on a limited basis to offset tuition fees. You will have the option of adding an amount to your registration fees to help us build the fund.
The Senior Ensemble has two retreats/year in September and January. The September retreat at Loon Lake costs approximately $250 and the January retreat at Camp Capilano costs approximately $175. This fee covers food, venue rental and payment of professional musicians who participate in the retreat. Registration and payment for retreats will occur separately from program registration.
Additional fees are assessed, on a cost recovery basis. Senior Ensemble tours are planned on a 3-year cycle; 2024: no major tour / 2025: Canadian tour / 2026: International tour. Please note local tours may be planned in addition to these major tours. Junior & Senior ensembles should expect optional workshops in either Nanaimo or Harrison in Spring 2024 (fees tbd from host organization).