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Music Leadership Apprenticeship Program
As part of its educational role, the VCC offers young emerging musicians an opportunity to develop their music leadership and conducting skills through mentored study.
The program also aids professional connections, and is an excellent addition to the young artist’s curriculum vitae.
Yvonne Van de Velde
Apprentice Conductor, Prelude choir, Concert Choir, & Youth Ensemble
Yvonne Van de Velde is an aspiring mezzo-soprano and conductor, born and raised in Vancouver, BC, with a Bachelor of Music from the University of Victoria. Currently in the final months of her post-degree Bachelor of Education program, she is preparing for a career as a school music teacher, as well as a private music teacher and aims to further her studies with a master’s degree in choral conducting. Passionate about both teaching and learning, Yvonne continuously hones her conducting and vocal skills while sharing her love of music with others. Specializing in voice and beginner piano, Yvonne has been a singer for over 20 years. Her 11-year experience with the BC Girls Choir inspired her to pursue music education. She has performed extensively in festivals, competitions, and workshops, and has been an active member of the UVic Chamber Singers and the UVic Chorus. Yvonne has also gained valuable experience as a guest conductor at the Vancouver Chamber Choir’s Conductor’s Symposium, the BC Choral Federation’s Choral Da Capo Summer Conducting Workshop, as well as being an Emerging Artist and singer with the Ensemble Laude Women's Choir
When not immersed in music, Yvonne enjoys the wonderful world of Disney, quality time with family and friends, and planning her next travel adventure. Yvonne can't wait for an exciting season with the Victoria Children's Choir!
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Joanna Zhang
Apprentice Conductor, Recital Choir
Joanna is a third-year chorister with the Victoria Children’s Choir and greatly enjoys working with children in a learning environment. With ten years of piano experience, she has always held a strong passion for music and is eager to pass the same enthusiasm on to the next generation of blossoming singers.
Oscar Webster
Apprentice Conductor, Recital Choir
Oscar is a passionate violinist, bassoonist, and vocalist. After joining prelude choir in its first year, Oscar has been singing ever since, and now is part of the choir’s youth ensemble. Over the years, Oscar has sung in two POV operas, has sung with the Victoria symphony on multiple occasions, and is now part of the VCC’s apprentice conductor program. Oscar is currently in 11th grade challenge program at Esquimalt high, and plays bassoon with their senior concert band. Whenever he isn’t singing, you might find him playing ultimate frisbee for the regional team, or practising his other instruments.