Chamber Music 2026

Application Deadline November 26, 2025

Program Dates Jul 13, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026

Overview

This collaborative residency is for classically trained string, woodwind, and brass musicians, pianists, percussionists and composers committed to chamber music. Join the esteemed Parker Quartet, lead faculty Joel Brennan and acclaimed guest faculty from around the globe.

Explore the rich history and contemporary evolution of chamber music, from classical compositions to bold new works, including pieces composed in collaboration with participant composers. 

Take part in masterclasses, workshops, and performance opportunities that inspire growth and artistic risk-taking, by reimagining both traditional and contemporary repertoire to refine your artistic voice and advance your career.

Description

Embrace this unique opportunity for musicians to perform in chamber music workshops and concerts, in an environment that mirrors professional working conditions and timelines.

This innovative program offers all participants:

  • One-on-one mentorship by internationally renowned faculty: Parker Quartet, Joel Brennan, Lee Allen, Dai Fujikura, Nicolas Baldeyrou and Andrew Johnson.
  • Masterclasses and workshops.
  • Collaboration opportunities with composers.
  • Small ensemble rehearsals and performances with peers.
  • Sight-reading sessions and opportunities to present new works in concert and workshop settings.
  • 24-hour access to one of Banff Centre's Performing Arts studios.
  • Multiple performances alongside renowned faculty and public engagement performance opportunity within the community of Banff.
  • Dedicated time to for artistic development, communication, collaboration, interpretation, and innovative performance practices.
  • In-depth insights into the composer-performer creative process of  new chamber works in development.

Requirements

We welcome both individual musicians and established chamber ensembles ready to dive into an inspiring, immersive experience. This program is ideal for:

  • Classical musicians and composers eager to expand their artistry in a collaborative chamber music setting.
  • Strings, woodwinds, brass, pianists, percussionists with a passion for working closely with peers and faculty.
  • Current post-secondary students or recent graduates looking to grow, perform, and connect with world-class mentors.
  • Two spots will be reserved for these roles aspiring composers.
Deadline
Residency Length
5 days - 6 months
Languages
English
Average Number of Artists in Residence at a Time
15
Collaborative Residency
Must apply and be accepted individually
May apply as a team
Discipline
Acting
Choreography
Dance
Music
Opera
Performance Art
Playwriting
Screenwriting
Symphony
Theater
Companions
N/A
Country of Residence
Open to artists based anywhere in the world
Family Friendly
N/A
Stage of Career
Any stage of career
Additional Expectations/Opportunities
Participate in public programming
Participate in open studio with fellow residents
Give artist talk or presentation
Accessible Housing
ADA Compliant
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Meals Provided
Some meals (at least 2 meals provided)
Studios/Special Equipment
Performance/Presentation Facilities
Theater
Dance Studio With Sprung Floor
Dance Studio Without Sprung Floor
Piano
Studios/Facilities Accessibility
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Type of Housing
Private bedroom in a shared housing facility on campus
Additional Eligibility Information

Eligibility

Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. 

Domestic and international applications are welcome.

Visa Eligibility Information: 

  • Please note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa.
  • If you are accepted into our program, you must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada. Accepted participants are responsible for identifying and complying with the immigration requirements to enter Canada as a visitor from their country of origin. If you require a Visitor Visa please check the current expected processing times well in advance of applying.

Inclusivity Statement

We welcome applicants of all ages (18+), backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply. Artists from historically underrepresented and equity deserving groups are especially welcome.

Number of Artists Accepted in Most Current Year
30
Artist Stipend
Travel Stipend/Material Stipends
Residency Fees
5730
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Fee Details

Total fee before scholarships per person (tuition, accommodation, and meal plan)

$5 730.90

Tuition amount per person covered by 100% scholarship, made possible through endowments and donations

$3 276.00

Maximum cost per person of accommodation and meal plan (including GST) before any additional scholarship is applied (see scholarships section below)

$2 454.90

Application Fee

$65 for individuals or groups, $35 for applicants who identify as Indigenous.

This non-refundable fee covers the full cost of processing your application, including the SlideRoom fee

 

Grant/Scholarship/other Funding Support
Grant/Scholarship/Other Funding Support Details

Scholarships

We are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in our program. Below are details regarding the scholarship amounts and information on how to apply.

  • Scholarship covering 100% of tuition cost is awarded to all arts participants, made possible through endowments and donations.
  • To apply for additional scholarship towards accommodation and a meal plan, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials. With additional scholarship applied, participants should still expect to pay a minimum of 50% towards their accommodation and a meal plan (refer to amount listed above).
  • Canadian Indigenous scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, a meal plan, and accommodation costs.

 

Application Fee
65
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Application Type
Open application