FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What kind of music do you play?
We play music from Hollywood, Disney, Broadway, Video Games, Anime, and Popular Vocal Genres.
What kind of commitment is required?
Above all else, commitment is the number one priority. Commitment refers to attendance, punctuality, and personal study/practice. Being in an orchestra or choir is not a solo venture, and hence requires diligent personal practice and thorough rehearsals together as a group. If you miss a rehearsal, you will indeed miss a great deal of practice and perfecting, plus the group misses out on your part of the music. Try to avoid missing any rehearsals (don't think of rehearsals as optional), stay health-conscious, and if you must miss one, have a friend record the rehearsal or come in for a make up session with the director to catch up. Regardless of how skilled any one individual is, we expect everyone to work together as a team in order to succeed as a group.
Do you accept beginners?
Yes. At the VPOPS, we have a multi-level program that is designed to meet you where you are. However, if you are a complete beginner with zero experience in music, we suggest starting with our 1-1 coaching first to build some good foundational skills.
What is the difference between the levels?
The difference lies in the difficulty, quantity, and pace of the music. In terms of music genre, it is one and the same, combined for select pieces to form one large ensemble layered with one another.
How are the seatings and levels decided?
For level 2-5, seating is decided by the director of the ensemble. Based on your performance in rehearsals, we will assign you to a specific seat, or voice that would suit you best and fit the needs of the ensemble. If you are interested in a solo opportunity, these are decided through auditions. If you are interested in a Principal Seat, you may request a live audition and interview.
What is the age range of your ensembles?
The majority of our members sits around 20-30 years old, but the range extends from 10 - 65 years old across the board. We are a friendly community, and all who love music will feel welcomed here! If you feel a little shy because of your age, bring a friend and join together.
What should I do if my child is not yet 10 years old?
Unfortunately at this time, VPOPS does not have group options for children under the age of 10. If you have children in this age group, we can start them off with private 1-1 instruction. When they become of age, they can join an ensemble at the appropriate level.
How often do you have concerts?
VPOPS itself hosts at least 4 major concerts and 2 mini concerts each year. In addition, there are some performances done for charitable purposes or other events (plus some socials) that members can join on a voluntary basis.
What happens if I miss a rehearsal?
It is ok to miss rehearsals if you must. However, refunds are not issued for absence reasons. Performers are not allowed to miss more than 2 rehearsals within 10 weeks leading up to a performance. If you must be absence leading up to a performance, we may decide it’s best to pass on the performance if you cannot demonstrate readiness in the repertoire. Exceptions to this policy can be made only if the absences are pre-approved by the instructor/director. To be able to perform confidently in a group with a high level of quality, it will requires everyone to attend rehearsals.
What are your refund and transfer policies?
Registration fees are only refundable within first 7 days after payment. Registrants can transfer to other classes/ensembles within the same term free of charge. Refunds are not issued if registrants decide to drop out due to personal or unforeseen circumstances. Refunds are also not issued if registrants fail to attend sessions due to other obligations.
What do the fees cover?
Your registration fees pay for items like practice space rentals, sheet music, equipment (music stands, percussion, piano, audio/video), performance venue rental and production fees/labour, and staff (instructors and administrators) that run these programs.
What does it take to join one of your tours?
VPOPS hosts an international tour every 3-4 years. Touring as an ensemble is an exciting part of being a musician. You get to travel, meet new people, be inspired, and see the sights. However, going on tour takes months of dedication and commitment to practice, rehearsal, and performance. Participants must be involved with a VPOPS ensemble for a minimum of 3 terms and successfully perform in 3 VPOPS concerts prior to the tour to qualify. Participants are also responsible for registration fees, their own travel expenses, and ensuring they attend all rehearsals and keep up with the performance standards of the ensemble. All performers must pass their performance assessments to qualify for the tour performance. Failure to meet performance and attendance expectations may result in being withdrawn from performance/tour without refund.
What makes VPOPS unique from other organizations or community ensembles?
On the surface, our goal towards music and art is common to most other community orchestras, bands, or choirs. However, VPOPS differs in that we aim to do more than the average ensemble. First off, we pride ourselves in our repertoire focusing on fun and exciting music from Disney, Broadway, and Hollywood. The musicians love it, and we always have a big audience at the shows too! We provide well-equipped facilities, constructive feedback for improvement, and unique quality performance opportunities. In addition, VPOPS is made up of multiple ensemble groups and levels, giving members many opportunities to collaborate together and learn in different environments. At VPOPS, we strive to establish a safe and inviting social community where both locals and international visitors can connect. Ultimately, VPOPS is also a place where one can make new friends and build lasting relationships and memories with other musicians. Words can only express so much. You have to come and see for yourself!