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Oscar Peterson School of Music

  
273 Bloor Steet West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W2

  • Type:
    Day camp, After-school / weekend classes
  • Focus:
    Music (multi)
  • Cost:
    $500 to $1,000/week
  • Ages:
    4 to 17
  • Gender:
    Coed
  • Main language:
    English
  • Capacity:
    1 to 60
  • Programs:
Request more info
The Oscar Peterson School of Music
  • Summary

    Oscar Peterson School of Music answered our questions

    Who are you as an organization?

    The Oscar Peterson School of Music offers a range of in-person music classes for students ages 4-17. Register for March Break and Summer Camps, private lessons in any instrument, or join a group class and learn to play piano, guitar, violin, cello, and more! Find your class today at rcmusic.com/OscarPetersonSchool.

    • Special needs: Not available

    What do you do differently or uniquely well?

    "The Royal Conservatory of Music is one of the largest and most respected music education institutions in the world, providing the definitive standard of excellence in curriculum design, assessment, performance training, teacher certification, and arts-based social programs.

    The mission of The Royal Conservatory - to develop human potential through leadership in music and the arts - is based on the conviction that the arts are humanity's greatest means to achieve personal growth and social cohesion. Advancing the transformative effect that music and the arts have on society lies at the heart of everything The Royal Conservatory does."

    Who are your staff and counsellors?

    "Our camper to staff ratio is typically 5:1. Campers are instructed by Oscar Peterson School Faculty, who are professional musicians and educators throughout the GTA, along with 2-3 Camp Counsellors. Camp staff, are present with campers throughout the day and assist with supervising snacks, lunch, and washroom breaks. "

    What do families need to know about registration?

    "We welcome students as young as 4 years to our day camps. No musical experience is required for Instrument Exploration, Musicals and Singing, or Band Camp. Rock Band Camp students must submit demos; Piano Camp requires a minimum of Level 2 RCM Certificate Program; and Summer High School Vocal Intensive (Ages 14-18) requires auditions.

    Registration deadline is one week (7 days) prior to the first day of camp. All campers must meet the minimum age requirement as of the first day of camp."



    Upcoming Events

    June 09, 2024
    PLAY Day 2024

    10:00 am - 04:00 pm


    Oscar Peterson School of Music - profile photo
  • Programs, Rates & Dates

    Programs and Sessions Calendar

    Choose the right programs and sessions for your child; Oscar Peterson School of Music currently has 9 programs available; 1 TBD.

    Filter Activities


    Name
    Age
    Type (Gender)
    specialty
    Shortlist
    Musical instrument training|Percussion|Piano|Vocal Training / Singing
    Guitar|Musical instrument training|Percussion|Piano|Vocal Training / Singing
    Ages: 8 - 12
    Day Camp
    (Coed)
    Performing Arts (multi)
    $515 to $999
    Vocal Training / Singing|Musical Theatre|Set and Costume Design|Theatre Arts
    Ages: 8 - 12
    Day Camp
    (Coed)
    Musical instrument training, Piano
    $515
    Musical instrument training
    Ages: 14 - 18
    Day Camp
    (Coed)
    Vocal Training / Singing, Performing Arts (multi)
    $1,979
    Vocal Training / Singing|Theatre Arts
    Ages: 4 - 17
    Day Camp
    (Coed)
    Musical instrument training, String
    $289 to $699
    Musical instrument training|String
    Jam Camp|Musical instrument training|Vocal Training / Singing
    Ages: 6 - 8
    Day Camp
    (Coed)
    Performing Arts (multi)
    $515
    Vocal Training / Singing|Musical Theatre|Set and Costume Design|Theatre Arts
    Ages: 6 - 8
    Day Camp
    (Coed)
    Performing Arts (multi)
    $515
    Vocal Training / Singing|Musical Theatre|Set and Costume Design|Theatre Arts
    Jam Camp|Musical instrument training|Vocal Training / Singing



    Financial Aid & Payment Details

    Payment Options:

    Credit card payment Yes
  • Insider Reviews & Perspectives

    The Our Kids review of Oscar Peterson School of Music

    our take

    For many there's a sense of awe when they enter the Royal Conservatory, and, well, rightly so. It's the premier music school in Canada, and can feel like ground zero in music education which, in many senses, it actually is. So many great artists have learned and taught here, something that can make it all seem more than a bit intimidating. The camps, though, turn that all on its head. There are sessions for experienced musicians to work together with others of equal talent, but the program is about more than that. It's about having a significant, fun experience with music. Sessions are available for all levels of musician, including those who are just starting out. There are opportunities to hear instruments, and touch them, and learn about what they can do. The fact that there are professionals coming in and out of the building, and working in the practice halls, augments the experience of the environment. For many, it's magical. For all, it's a unique experience, one that will generate lots of great memories and, more often than not, some new friends, too. 


    More reviews of Oscar Peterson School of Music

    Dawn, Parent

    Band Camp (Ages 9-17)

    Read review

    Anne, Parent

    Band Camp (Ages 9-17)

    Read review

    Amy, Parent

    What the Ladybird Heard (Ages 6-8)

    Read review

    Parent, Parent

    How to Make a Musical Camp (Ages 8-12)

    Read review

    Becky, Parent

    The Gruffalo Camp (Ages 6-8)

    Read review

    Parent, Parent

    Summer Strings Camp

    Read review

    Parent, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 4-5)

    Read review

    Parent, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 6-7)

    Read review

    Alessia, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 4-5)

    Read review

    Parent, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 4-5)

    Read review

    More reviews of Oscar Peterson School of Music


    Dawn, Parent

    Band Camp (Ages 9-17)

    My son liked the improvisations and the choice of songs. Playing music with others is such a fun endeavour: it improves your hand-eye coordination as well as your focus and attention.


    Anne, Parent

    Band Camp (Ages 9-17)

    The instructor was experienced, enthusiastic and fully engaged!!


    Amy, Parent

    What the Ladybird Heard (Ages 6-8)

    It's an absolute delight – not only is it incredibly enjoyable and engaging for my child, but it also presents an excellent learning opportunity. Her enthusiasm for it is evident as she returns home each day with a beaming smile. Moreover, we've truly relished the kids' show that concludes each session; it makes us feel wonderfully connected to the community ... Show More


    Parent, Parent

    How to Make a Musical Camp (Ages 8-12)

    This was my child's first day camp experience and they loved it!


    Becky, Parent

    The Gruffalo Camp (Ages 6-8)

    Meeting new friends and performing on the big stage on the final day!


    Parent, Parent

    Summer Strings Camp

    His favourite part was getting his own instrument for the week and playing music games during class.


    Parent, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 4-5)

    He loved all of it. Came home every day singing new songs and with new stories.


    Parent, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 6-7)

    My child found the drumming especially interesting. He also really enjoyed engaging with the teenagers that were supporting the process. The concert at the end was clearly a point of pride for him.


    Alessia, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 4-5)

    The summer camp instructors and volunteers were amazing!


    Parent, Parent

    Instrument Exploration (Ages 4-5)

    Frankie loved his music camp, it was the best one we did all summer.


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  • Location & Site Details

    Address

    273 Bloor Steet West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada


    Accommodations

    Is Oscar Peterson School of Music technology free? Yes Students are prohibited from bringing personal devices, including cellphones, tablets, and laptops, with them to day camp at The Oscar Peterson School.

    Rentals & Services

    Available for private rentals: Yes
    Toronto's Finest Event and Performance Venue This is the perfect venue for fundraising galas and silent auctions, weddings, parties, quiet preconcert dinners, performances, meetings, conferences, and corporate launch events. Visit https://www.rcmusic.com/about-us/rcm-venue-rentals for details.


  • What's New

    Director's Message

    Jeremy Trupp, Mr.
    Dean, Oscar Peterson School of Music

    It’s never too late to discover, or rediscover, the joy of studying music! 

    From one-on-one music lessons to group classes to theory and history, there's something for all ages and abilities — no auditions required!

    To discuss the best program for you or your child, please don't hesitate to call us at 416-408-2825 or send us an email at [email protected].



    In the News

    November 6, 2023
    20 Students and Alumni on CBC Top 30 List of Young Classical Musicians

    Two-Thirds of CBC Top 30 List of Young Classical Musicians Comprised of RCM Students and Alumni... Read More

    November 6, 2023
    Introducing Alexander Brose, President & CEO Designate of The RCM

    Mr. Brose has begun his yearlong transition with Dr. Peter Simon who will retire on August 31, 2024.... Read More

    September 30, 2021
    The Royal Conservatory of Music Renames School

    The Royal Conservatory of Music Renames School in Honour of Alumnus Oscar Peterson, including scholarship program for underserved youth.... Read More



    Stories

    • Music And The Happiness Curve — Slapping The Djembe At The RCM Wide Open House

      At this year’s Royal Conservatory Wide Open House Ludwig Van’s Robin Roger puts her learning to the test by signing up for demo classes in instruments she doesn’t play.

      You’ve probably noticed that life seems to go sideways for a lot of folks in those years between 40 and 60.  The so-called mid-life crisis, fodder for entertainment and literature, is portrayed as an inevitability, as real as adolescence or the terrible twos.  But social science has pretty well proven this to be false, and replaced the myth of the mid-life crisis with the fact of a mid-life slump.

      As dispiriting as this prolonged mid-life malaise may be, it wreaks far less destruction than a crisis, and after it gradually dissipates, life starts to turn around.  Social science has virtually verified the existence of a U curve of human development that produces an upturn in life around the end of middle age.  This appears to occur in most cultures and countries, and even seems to be the case for our fellow primates, Orangutans and Chimpanzees.  This may present a paradox:  when our bodies sag our spirits lift.

      With increased longevity, this late phase of the life cycle can be a long one.  So we should make the most of it by doing everything we can to maximize our health and well being as much as possible for as long as possible.  One critical component of that is continuing to learn new things.

      Learning something new is emphatically not the same thing as becoming more advanced in a field you already know.  If bridge is your game, moving up the ranks is definitely worthwhile, but it’s not the same as starting a new project in a different learning domain.  Graduating from conventional crossword puzzles to cryptic crosswords would no doubt pose a challenge, but still won’t deliver the benefit of starting from zero on a different brain task.  Learning something completely new forces you to pay very close attention in a different way, because there is no embedded knowledge on which to draw.  It delivers brain benefits you can only get through such intense focus.

      As few adults play more than one musical instrument, if that, learning to play a new instrument is a great option.  I know that many adults think that learning to play an instrument has to begin in childhood but this is only true if the goal is professional performance.  As my snail-paced progress at piano proves, with practice it’s possible to learn.  My attitude is that it’s the ongoing sense of continuously learning a little bit more that is gratifying, rather than achieving a particular level of virtuosity.

      At this year’s Royal Conservatory Wide Open House I put this attitude to the test by signing up for demo classes in instruments I don’t play:  cello, Carnatic violin, flute and percussion.  In each case, I found it really difficult to impossible to produce a decent sound but found it gratifying nonetheless, because I was so intrigued by all the minute nuances I was being taught by the Conservatory faculty.  For example, the truly encouraging cello instructor, Tova Rosenberg, couldn’t get me to make the fingers of my bow hand “clingy” enough to properly maneuver the bow.  Even so, she managed to lead me through a short rhythmic phrase on each of the strings, while tactfully guiding my bow hand with her hand so that it didn’t hit two strings at the same time.  Rosenberg also encouraged me to beat the cello with my knuckles, using a wide-circled, King-Kong like gesture that felt delightfully playful.

      When Subhadra Vijaykumar told me to take off my shoes in order to try playing the Carnatic violin, I was taken by surprise, briefly wondering if I was going to be using my toes.  It turned out that this South Indian approach to the western violin entails sitting cross-legged on the ground, resting the scroll of the violin in the crook of the ankle and leaning the body of the instrument against your torso.  In this position, the arm moves the bow across the strings with the elbow held away from the body.  Trying to balance the violin, keep my elbow away from my body, look down at the strings without crossing my eyes, and pull the bow across a single string without letting it drop on an adjacent string, while feeling painfully stiff hips, proved to be more than I could manage.  Subhadra also had to hold my hand and arm and move it for me to give me any sense of a decent sound.

      Every instrument I tried made me aware of the centrality of a different body part or system that would no doubt be improved by practicing properly.  The cello requires a strong core to support the instrument, the Carnatic violin demands limber hips, which Westerners lose from chair sitting.  After I managed to blow enough air across the flute embouchure hole to produce a sustained audible note, Dianne Aitken told me that it takes more air to play flute than tuba.  Making the sound required organizing my jaw and tongue muscles, taking a full breath, and releasing the air evenly.  It took Aitken several patient tries to coach each student in the group.  After one student produced a long, resonant note with her first try Aitken correctly guessed that she’d been a swimmer.

      My day ended with a bang — pun intended — when percussionist Ed Reifel spent 15 minutes teaching me to play the Djembe, a West African drum.  After demonstrating how to strike the skin with the heel and the palm of the hand, Reifel taught me a couple of rhythms and then had me play them back to him in a variety of patterns, culminating in a call-and-response sequence that demanded careful listening on my part to detect the signal that triggered the reply I was supposed send back.  I went from feeling mildly self-conscious to deeply absorbed and slightly elated and reminded me of how powerfully social playing music can be.

      Group musical performance, instrumental or vocal, is another great pursuit for adults on the upswing of the U curve.

      In part two of this series, I’ll describe another program for adult music learners, The Toronto Summer Music Festival.

      For further information on group classes and private lessons at the RCM consult their website: rcmusic.ca

      For part two of this article, see here.

    • Voice Intensive was "highlight of my summer"

      The one-week RCM High School Voice Intensive has been a highlight of my summer for two years in a row. The expert faculty create an excellent learning environment and it was a lot of fun to interact with like-minded students from across Canada.  I would highly recommend this program to any student interested in improving all aspects of their singing. Next year I plan on taking the 2 week course.

    • Band Camp inspired "regular lessons the upcoming season"

      Band camp was the perfect step into seeing the personable RCS staff and their organized practices, just getting a feel for how things are done there. My daughter had a great time at camp so will start regular lessons the upcoming season.

    • Instrument Exploration 6-8 "showcasing what the kids learned in just a few days"

      My son really enjoyed working towards the concert on the last day and I, the parent, completely enjoyed seeing the results of all the hard work put into showcasing what the kids learned in just a few days!

    • Instrument Exploration Ages 5-6 "inspired her to pursue further studies in piano"

      My child has been wanting to learn a musical instrument, but wasn't sure which one. Instrument Exploration camp captured her imagination and inspired her to pursue further studies in piano. The instructors left her feeling like anything is possible.

    • The Royal Conservatory Video Camp "hands-on experience"

      This camp is amazing. I would definitely recommend this camp to my friends and family. The hands-on experience is like no camp I have ever been to. My favorite part of the camp was when I used Garage Band to produce my very own sound track. 

    • The Royal Conservatory Rock Camp

      My daughter was very engaged for the entire week. There was wide range of ages among campers but the participants really came together as a team. Absolutely loved the performance and video presentations. The maturity level among participants was impressive. The chance to perform in a beautiful concert hall made the camp finale that much more special.

    • The Royal Conservatory Video Camp "...learned a perfectly integrated combination of skills"

      I appreciated that my child learned a perfectly integrated combination of skills: social skills (team-building and trust), artistic/creative skills and technical skills. There was an extremely supportive atmosphere, where the social environment was considered and tended to as well as the artistic and instructional content, creating a truly comfortable and fun creative space for each child across differences.



    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does Oscar Peterson School of Music have good reviews?
    We've collected reviews from past attendees. Read 10 reviews of Oscar Peterson School of Music here.

    What types of programs does Oscar Peterson School of Music offer?
    Oscar Peterson School of Music runs: day camps. Programming specializes in: Musical instrument training, Vocal Training / Singing, Performing Arts (multi), Piano, String, Jam Camp, Guitar. Browse the program calendar for rates and dates.

    What age does Oscar Peterson School of Music start?
    Oscar Peterson School of Music has programs for children aged 4 to 17.

    How much does is cost to attend Oscar Peterson School of Music?
    Fees to attend Oscar Peterson School of Music range from $500 to $1,000/week.

    Does Oscar Peterson School of Music offer support for children with special needs?
    Oscar Peterson School of Music does not offer support for children with special needs.

    Does Oscar Peterson School of Music offer busing?
    No, Oscar Peterson School of Music does not offer transportation.




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