Fiddelium Youth Ensemble

Advanced Ensemble Training | Ages 12–19 | Audition-Based | September–June

Fiddelium is the Nanaimo Fiddle Society’s premier youth string ensemble, designed for committed young musicians ages 12 to 19 who are passionate about fiddle and folk traditions and eager to grow as performers, collaborators, and leaders.

With both Junior and Senior ensembles, Fiddelium offers elite-level training in traditional and contemporary Canadian fiddle music, professional mentorship, and extensive performance opportunities. Participants receive expert instruction, develop ensemble and solo skills, and gain real-world experience on stage—while forming deep connections with peers and the wider community.

What to Expect

• Weekly Rehearsals: 90-minute ensemble sessions from September to June, with monthly sectional rehearsals and intensive workshops throughout the year.
• Performance Opportunities: 10–14 public concerts and community events annually, including showcases at local festivals, seniors' residences, and concert halls such as Nanaimo’s Port Theatre.
• Collaborative Experiences: Students participate in recording projects, contra dances, and mentorship activities, including peer-led sectionals.
• Fall & Winter Intensives: Focused weekend rehearsals help build cohesion, confidence, and concert readiness.

Professional-Level Training

Led by Artistic Director Trish Horrocks of Cross Canada Fiddle, Fiddelium provides rigorous, inspiring instruction that prepares students for high-level musical opportunities. The curriculum includes:

• Custom arrangements and original compositions tailored to ensemble needs
• A blend of ear training, phrasing, dynamic expression, and stage presence
• Optional private coaching and recorded assignments with personalized feedback

Past Fiddelium members have gone on to study music at post-secondary institutions and pursue careers as professional musicians, citing the program as a key influence in their development.

Recognized Excellence

• Winner of the 2023 Canadian Folk Music Award for Young Performers of the Year
• Three albums released, featuring ensemble recordings of Canadian and international fiddle repertoire
• Celebrated for its artistic excellence and meaningful contribution to youth music education on Vancouver Island

Accessibility & Inclusion

Fiddelium is committed to removing financial and logistical barriers. The program offers:

• Low registration fees and bursary support through the Audrey Hansen Memorial Bursary Fund
• Accessible venues and flexible learning support for neurodiverse participants
• A welcoming environment for youth of all genders, backgrounds, and abilities

Fiddelium prioritizes mentorship, belonging, and the mental wellness of its participants—providing not only exceptional musical training, but a safe and encouraging space where youth can grow as artists and as individuals.

Rooted in Community

Fiddelium strengthens community ties through performances at schools, long-term care homes, and public events, creating intergenerational connections and making high-quality live music accessible to all. Whether on stage at the Port Theatre or sharing tunes at a community gathering, Fiddelium brings people together through the joy of music.

Junior Option: For the first year, members are junior members, pay a reduced rate and only study a portion of the repertoire.

Instruments: Violin and other bowed strings

Pre-requisite: Audition and acceptance of Fiddelium Handbook

Co-requisite: Weekly private lessons & Nanaimo Fiddle Society Membership

Rehearsals: 

• Junior Fiddelium: 5:30 to 7:30pm weekly (includes a 15-minute break)
• Fiddelium: 7pm to 8:30 p.m. weekly plus monthly sectionals

Fees: Divided into two terms, payable in September and January.

Refunds: All fees are non-refundable, see our refund policy.

Faculty: Trish & Geoff Horrocks

2025-26 Fees (due July 1st of each year):

• Junior Fiddelium: $490/Term ($980 Annually)
• Fiddelium: $600/Term ($1,200 Annually)

Questions: Email our instructors at fiddelium@gmail.com

Want to audition? Auditions take place each summer. Contact us to learn more!

Once you've successfully auditioned and received an invitation to join Junior Fiddelium or Fiddelium, you’re ready to register and submit your program fees.

Bursaries are available for those that qualify - click here