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    • Academy FAQ

    Registration, Fees & Scholarships

    • Registration

      Who Can Register?

      Orford Music Academy is open to university-level students aged 18 to 30 (up to 35 for singers). Exceptionally, we accept individuals outside of this age group based on audition results.


      Registration and Audition Process

      The registration and audition process takes place in several steps. After your online registration and submission of all audition materials, we prepare for the auditions. Audition committees consist of multiple faculty members, which may change from year to year. The committee members’ names are confidential. You should receive a response from us three to four weeks after the registration deadline.


      Audition Material

      Instrumental Master Classes

      • High-quality video recording including two works of various styles, which must include a work from the standard virtuosic repertoire
      • Maximum 15 minutes in length
      • Recorded after July 1, 2023

      Voice Master Classes and Voice and Piano Duo Workshop

      • High-quality video recording of three pieces from the Art Song repertoire, including a German lied, a French melody and a piece of your choice. One opera or oratorio aria will be accepted
      • Total duration of approximately 15 minutes
      • Recorded after July 1, 2023

      Chamber music workshop (collectif9) and Orford Winds Workshop

      • High-quality video recording including two works of various styles, which must include a work from the standard virtuosic repertoire
      • Maximum 15 minutes in length
      • Recorded after July 1, 2023

      Composition and Contemporary Music Workshop

      For performers:

      • High-quality video recording including two works of various styles, which must include a work from the standard virtuosic repertoire
      • Maximum 15 minutes in length
      • Recorded after July 1, 2023

      For composers:

      • Recordings (audio or video) of two of your recent works, with a total duration of approximately 15 minutes (MIDI simulations will be accepted if audio recordings are not available)
      • Sheet music for the presented works
      • A cover letter briefly explaining your artistic approach and the aspects you wish to explore during the workshop (maximum 500 words)

       


      Registration Deadline

      February 1st, 2024

      First round (to be automatically considered for a scholarship)

      March 28, 2024

      Second round (to be considered for a scholarship, depending on available spots)


      Reserving Your Spot

      If you receive an acceptance, a detailed invoice, including the classes you have been accepted into and the total cost of your stay, will be sent to you. To secure your spot, you must make a payment of at least 50% of your invoice within 14 days of receiving the acceptance letter. Failure to do so may result in your spot being offered to someone on the waiting list.

      If you receive a rejection letter, no further steps are required, and we hope to see you next year.

      For any changes, please contact the Education coordinator at admissions@orford.mu.

    • Fees

      Registration Fees

      The registration fees are $100 for the Academy. They are non-refundable.


      Fees

      Masterclasses and Workshops

      • The rate for a one-week stay is $1,350.

      Tuition Fees Include:

      • Individual lessons lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes per week
      • Group activity (master class, Q&A sessions, technical course)
      • One student concert per week (or more)
      • Access to a collaborative pianist
      • Networking activities with various musicians
      • Access to conferences presented by artists and guests from diverse backgrounds on subjects related to a career in music, such as technique, finances, psychology, mental health, and more.
    • Scholarships

      Scholarship Allocation Policy

      Thanks to the Orford Music scholarship fund, all participants aged 30 and under have the opportunity to receive a partial scholarship by registering before the first deadline.


      Other Sources of Funding

      The following websites are sources that can provide financial assistance:

      Scholarships.com 
      Student Scholarships 
      Institute of International Education 
      NAFSA 
      Fast web(in Canada and US only) 
      CIEE 
      International Education Financial Aid 
      Fondation Marc Bourgie 
      Art Song Foundation of Canada 
      Goodcall(scholarship search engine) 
      Rotary : Rotary scholarships and grants are managed by local clubs and districts. Interested individuals must contact their local Rotary club before applying. Please follow this link to locate the club nearest to you and learn about application deadlines.


      University of Sherbrooke Study Credits

      In collaboration with the University of Sherbrooke’s School of Music, Orford Music offers its students a university-level training program that can lead to the attainment of credits. For more information on the educational activities offered in collaboration with the University of Sherbrooke, please refer to this following page (in french only). Please note that legal documents (birth certificate or permanent code) must be provided upon registration. To learn about the registration procedures, please contact admissions@orford.mu.

    • Policies

      Confidentiality

      The Personal Information Protection Act states that information related to an individual is confidential. Orford Music is committed to respecting this law. The institution will only disclose relevant information for academic activities and will use students’ photos only with their signed authorization for disclosure.

      We invite you to read our Privacy Policy.


      Cancellation Policy

      If you wish to cancel your participation, the following policy applies:

      • 1st payment (50% of the total amount): non-refundable
      • 2nd payment (remaining balance): refundable, minus the $85 administration fee, only if you notify the Education coordinator by email (admissions@orford.mu) at least 30 days before the first day of the session.

      If an unforeseen event (medical issue, visa problem, immediate family death) prevents you from participating in the Orford Music Academy, your deposit can be used for the following year. Proof is required for the deposit transfer to apply. However, you will need to go through the complete audition process again and be re-accepted. If a scholarship had been awarded, it is not transferable to the following year.

    Welcome, Services & Rules

    • Welcome

      Arrival & Orientation

      • Check-in at the reception: Sunday from 3PM to 9PM.

      If you plan to arrive outside these hours, notify the Academy office by phone at 1-800-567-6155, ext. 251, or by email at admissions@orford.mu. For last-minute changes, contact the reception at 1-800-567-6155, ext. 233.


      Identification Card

      You will receive an identification card that must be visible at all times. Your ID card allows you to:

      • Have meals in the cafeteria
      • Move around the Charles-Leblanc Pavilion
      • Access rehearsal studios
      • Attend master classes

      Consent Form

      Upon arrival, students must sign the Orford Music anti-harassment policy and the photo and video release form.

    • What to Bring

      • Concert attire (details below)
      • Portable music stand
      • Piano sheet music (for all pieces you will perform with the collaborative pianist)
      • Equipment and tools for instrument maintenance (e.g., spare strings; there is no music store nearby)
      • Lightweight summer clothes
      • Warm clothes
      • Raincoat and umbrella
      • Swimsuit
      • Toiletry kit (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.)
      • Insect repellent
      • Electrical adapter (if your devices are not compatible with 110 volts)
      • Pocket money and change for the laundry (the nearest ATM is in Magog, 8 km from Orford Music)

      Orford Music is not responsible for theft, loss, or damage to personal belongings. Found items on-site will be taken to reception.

      Concert Attire

      For the student concert series Rising Star Concert and Orford on the Road, please prepare concert attire. No specific dress code is required, but the following is suggested:

      • white shirt,
      • black pants, skirt or dress,
      • black tie or bow tie,
      • black shoes and black socks.
    • Accommodations

      Rooms

      A double occupancy room will be assigned to you based on availability. Bedding and bath towels will be provided. You are responsible for maintaining your room and furniture in the same condition as when you arrived. If you notice damage upon arrival or unintentionally damage equipment, notify the reception. Damage caused by negligence will be charged.

      It is forbidden to move the equipment. Students are not allowed to enter faculty members’ rooms, and vice versa. Please inform the Student Life office if you are aware of any violations of this policy.


      Room Change

      For security reasons, it is important for us to know the occupants of the rooms at all times. If, for valid reasons, you want to change rooms, you must request it through the Education coordinator at  admissions@orford.mu.


      Extending Your Stay

      If you want to extend your stay, contact the Education coordinator at admissions@orford.mu. Your request will be evaluated based on availability. However, you will be responsible for the associated tuition fees if your request is accepted.


      Curfew

      Your cooperation is required for a peaceful stay. Silence near the residences is mandatory between 11PM and 8AM. Thank you for restricting your movements during this period.


      Guests

      For security and tranquility reasons, guests will not be admitted to the residences between 11PM and 8AM.


      Security

      Security services will be available at all times for emergency situations. You can contact them by phone at any time during the Academy period.

    • Services

      Service Schedule

      (Subject to change without notice)

      • Charles-Leblanc Pavilion (practice studios)
        Every day: 6AM to 12AM
      • Documentation Center
        Sunday to Saturday: 8 AM to 5 PM
      • Student Life Service
        Monday to Friday: 9AM to 8PM
        Saturday and Sunday: 10AM to 5PM

      Meal Service

      Schedule:

      • Breakfast: 8AM to 9AM
      • Lunch: Noon to 1PM
      • Dinner: 5PM to 6:30PM

      Orford Music Academy provides three meals a day to participants (breakfast, lunch, dinner). No meals will be served outside of these periods. For lunches and dinners, a typical meal tray includes:

      • Coffee and tea
      • Soup or broth
      • Main course
      • Dessert

      If a particular situation arises, make your request to the Student Life office. If you have dietary restrictions, specify them at the time of your registration. For any change in your dietary requirements, contact the Education coordinator at  admissions@orford.mu.


      Internet

      You will have access to a wireless internet network throughout the site. You can bring your laptop.


      Laundry

      A paid laundry service will be available (please bring $1 CAD coins for washer and dryer use).


      Music Library

      A music library will be available for you to borrow sheet music.


      Photocopies

      A photocopier is located in the Charles-Leblanc Pavilion and can be used for free.


      Student Activities

      To make the stay more enjoyable, the Student Life Service will organize various activities each week, such as dance classes, swimming, campfires, and karaoke nights.


      Transportation for Concerts

      Orford Music has a vehicle for transportation to concerts held outside the site. If you need to participate in one of these events, you must be present at the exact departure time at the designated meeting point with the responsible person.

    • Rules

      Curfew in Residences

      Your cooperation is required for a peaceful stay. Silence near the residences will be mandatory between 11PM and 8AM. Please limit your movements during this period.


      Cannabis

      Despite legalization, it is strictly forbidden to consume cannabis for anyone on the Orford Music site throughout the year. A violation in this regard may result in immediate expulsion from the Academy without a refund.


      Alcoholic Beverages

      The legal age for alcohol consumption in Quebec is 18 years.


      Drugs

      The use, possession, and sale of drugs are strictly prohibited. A violation in this regard will result in immediate expulsion from the Academy without a refund. This offense could also be reported to the police.


      Anti-Harassment

      Orford Music has established a policy promoting a healthy and safe environment based on the following principles:

      • Orford Music condemns all forms of incivility, harassment, and violence.
      • Orford Music promotes and encourages a culture of inclusion, respect, and civility, facilitating harmonious coexistence where everyone is responsible for maintaining a healthy and safe atmosphere.
      • Orford Music recognizes the right of its employees, volunteers, and individuals attending its Academy and artistic residences to be protected, assisted, and defended by appropriate mechanisms and remedies.

      It is the duty of all Academy participants, faculty members, and Orford Music employees to enforce this policy. Any report will be treated with respect and rigour.


       Disciplinary Measures and Dismissal

      Violations of behavior standards and Orford Music guidelines can result in a maximum of three infractions, after which your ID card will be confiscated, and you will be required to leave the site without a refund. We rely on your cooperation to avoid the use of disciplinary measures.

      Depending on the severity of the violation, Orford Music reserves the right to dismiss, without a refund, anyone who disrupts the functioning of the Academy or does not adhere to behaviour standards and current guidelines. Actions such as stealing, deliberately damaging property, forging or altering an official document, harassment, selling alcoholic beverages, consuming or selling drugs on the site can all lead to immediate dismissal.

    • Departure

      Please note that, with the exception of special cases, there are no educational activities on Saturdays. However, you are welcome to stay on the premises and enjoy the facilities until Sunday at 10AM.

      Allow 15 minutes to complete departure procedures at the reception. If you have a concert that day, your luggage can be stored at the reception until you leave the site. You will also need to return:

      • Your room key
      • Items borrowed from the music library
      • Your identification card

      A survey will be given to you upon departure. Your opinion is important so that we can constantly improve our services.

    Getting Here

    • Traveling From Within Canada

      Prices are in Canadian dollars and may vary.


      By Plane & Airport Shuttle

      You can book a shuttle from Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Orford Music with the company Aeroshuttle

      Price:

      One way: $109 plus taxes/person
      Round trip: $152 plus taxes/person


      By Plane & Bus

      From Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport (Montreal-Trudeau/Dorval, YUL), take the 747 shuttle to the Montreal Central Bus Station, located in downtown Montreal.

      Price: $11 per person (one way)

      At the Montreal Central Bus Station, take the bus (1-866-692-8899) to the town of Magog, select the arrival station Couche-Tard Exit 115.

      Price: 

      Student: Approximately $60 (round trip)
      Adult: Approximately $70 (round trip)

      Orford Music is about 8 km from the Magog bus station. You can take a taxi to get to Orford Music.

      Price: Approximately $25 per person (one way).

      Taxi Gendron: 819 446-4440
      Magog-Orford Taxi: 819 843-3377 


      By Car

      For GPS usage, click here.

      From Montréal

      Take the Samuel-De-Champlain Bridge, then Highway 10 East (Eastern Townships Highway) to exit 118 (Magog-Orford). Orford Music is located along Route 141, in the heart of Mont-Orford National Park.


      Carpooling

      Visit the Orford Music Academy Facebook page to coordinate availability and requests with other students. You can also come to Orford Music with the help of Amigo Express, a carpooling service that connects drivers and passengers who want to share gas costs for medium and long-distance travel.

    • Traveling From Outside of Canada

      Prices are in Canadian dollars and may vary.


      By Plane & Airport Shuttle

      You can book a shuttle from Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Orford Music with the company Aeroshuttle

      Price:

      One way: $109 plus taxes/person
      Round trip: $152 plus taxes/person


      By Plane & Bus

      From Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport (Montreal-Trudeau/Dorval, YUL), take the 747 shuttle to the Montreal Central Bus Station, located in downtown Montreal.

      Price: $11 per person (one way)

      At the Montreal Central Bus Station, take the bus (1-866-692-8899) to the town of Magog, select the arrival station Couche-Tard Exit 115.

      Price: 

      Student: Approximately $60 (round trip)
      Adult: Approximately $70 (round trip)

      Orford Music is about 8 km from the Magog bus station. You can take a taxi to get to Orford Music.

      Price: Approximately $25 per person (one way).

      Taxi Gendron: 819 446-4440
      Magog-Orford Taxi: 819 843-3377 


      By Car

      For GPS usage, click here.

      From the United States (Vermont)

      Take I-91 North to the border. Continue on Highway 55 North to exit 34 for Highway 10 West. Go to exit 118 (Magog-Orford) and turn right. Orford Music is located along Route 141, in the heart of Mont-Orford National Park.


      Carpooling

      Visit the Orford Music Academy Facebook page to coordinate availability and requests with other students. You can also come to Orford Music with the help of Amigo Express, a carpooling service that connects drivers and passengers who want to share gas costs for medium and long-distance travel.


      Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

      Canada now requires foreign travellers without a visa taking a flight to Canada or transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). However, citizens of the United States and travellers with a valid Canadian visa are exempt. Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and those with dual citizenship do not need to apply for an eTA.

      The eTA costs travellers $7 CAD and is usually approved within minutes of submitting the application. It is recommended to apply for the eTA before purchasing your plane tickets. However, the eTA is not necessary for entering Canada by land or sea.

      Here is the link to apply for an eTA: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta-start.asp


      Visa

      You can find the list of all nationalities requiring a visa to enter Canada by clicking on this link. If you request it, the staff at Orford Music can provide you with a letter to assist you in obtaining your visa. For Orford Music Academy, you will need a tourist visa. You will not need a study permit.


      Travel and Health Insurance

      It is the responsibility of the student to have the necessary insurance. Note that Orford Music disclaims any responsibility for personal insurance.


      Passport

      You will need your passport, regardless of the mode of transportation, to enter the country.

    Concerts & Rehearsals

    • Rehearsals

      Collaborative Pianists

      For all masterclasses other than piano, the services of a collaborative pianist will be provided for the duration of the class. You will need to provide your pianist with the sheet music for the repertoire you wish to work on during your stay.


      Rehearsal Rooms

      Practice rooms will be available every day until midnight. It will also be possible to practice in the residences every day between 8AM and 9PM.

    • Concert Opportunities

      Student Concerts

      To give students the opportunity to experience a professional music career, Orford Music Academy will organize concerts in which the student community can participate.

      • Rising Star Concerts
        These concerts will be open to the public at the Gilles-Lefebvre Hall every Thursday at 4:30PM and 7:30PM.
      • Orford on the Road
        On Wednesday evenings, Orford Music Academy will organize concerts in collaboration with municipalities throughout the Eastern townships. These concerts will take place at locations chosen by the municipalities. Inquire upon your arrival on-site.

      Transportation for Concerts

      Orford Music has a vehicle for transportation to concerts held outside the site. If you need to participate in one of these events, you must be present at the exact departure time at the designated meeting point with the responsible person.

    • Attending Festival Concerts

      Orford Music Festival Concerts

      Students will receive free tickets for Orford Music Festival concerts (subject to availability).