January 4, 2018 – OTTAWA (Canada) — As of Friday, December 1, the National Arts Centre Orchestra is accepting applications for the twentieth season of the Young Artist Program (YAP). Seventy exceptionally talented, classically trained young artists from around the world will be selected to study with an internationally renowned faculty. The comprehensive program takes place in Ottawa in June 2018 and applications close on February 5, 2018.

“I have learned so much from this program. Chamber music is my dream, and having daily rehearsals and coaching lessons has been an incredible experience for me. [They] have allowed me to grow as an individual and as a musician,” said Serena Hsu (USA), violist and alumna of the 2017 YAP cohort.

Blythe Allers, violin, YAP 2016

TWENTY YEARS OF EVOLUTION SHAPES ELITE –CALIBRE MUSIC EDUCATION PROGRAM

Founded in 1999 by Pinchas Zukerman, the NAC Orchestra’s Conductor Emeritus, the YAP has sought to deliver rigorous training to the most promising young classical musicians in the world in preparation for a successful career in music. With a foundation of private instruction and chamber music coaching, the YAP also includes career-related mentoring, and performance opportunities including public chamber music concerts, masterclasses, and recitals. Alumni include NAC Orchestra musicians Jessica Linnebach (associate concertmaster), Jethro Marks (principal viola), Sean Rice (second clarinet) and Paul Casey (Section Viola). 

The NAC Young Artists Program is hosted by the University of Ottawa School of Music, which is outfitted with world-class performance venues, studios and a music library. YAP students stay in residence at the University of Ottawa, just a brief walk to the School of Music and the NAC.

Applications are to be submitted online by February 5, 2018. Applicants are required to create audition videos, write a brief biography and provide a resumé and headshot. Applicants can choose to apply to the Precollege Level or Senior Level of the YAP.

ABOUT THE NAC

The National Arts Centre, home of the world-renowned National Arts Centre Orchestra, is a multi-disciplinary bilingual performing arts venue, presenting the best in music, English and French theatre, dance and variety. Vitally important to the National Arts Centre is its ability to innovate by recruiting world-class musicians, touring regularly and using broadband technology to expand our reach across the world. Each year the NAC reaches thousands of students from all levels with innovative programs.

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