Interplay 2025 will provide early-career opera, music and theatre professionals the unique opportunity to be part of a fully produced opera, The Handmaid’s Tale, or to workshop new chamber works currently in development. With mentorship by internationally renowned faculty, you will help reimagine both traditional and contemporary works in bold, new ways, enhancing your artistic vision and advancing your career.
Musicians & Composers
July 1 – 26, 2025 | Apply by January 15th
We welcome the following instrumentalists to apply: flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, piano and percussion.
Interplay will offer a unique opportunity for chamber musicians to perform in an opera production and chamber music workshops in an environment that mirrors professional working conditions and timelines. This innovative program offers all participants:
- Mentorship by internationally renowned faculty (soon to be announced).
- Sessions on producing opera, masterclasses and coaching.
- Ensemble coaching and one-on-one mentorship from renowned chamber, orchestral and opera musicians
- Dedicated time to Focus on artistic development, communication, collaboration, interpretation, and innovative performance practices.
- In-depth insights into the composer-performer creative process of chamber operas and new chamber works in development.
- Opportunities to Present new works in concert and workshop settings
Assignments to Opera, chamber orchestra and chamber music (ensembles) will be based on skill level. Note: Not every instrumentalist will participate in The Handmaid’s Tale and/or compositions by participant composers. Due to the specific instrumental needs, some participants will only participate in chamber ensembles. Efforts will be made for all instrumentalists to have an equivalent workload and pedagogical insights.
This program is designed for classically trained instrumentalists and composers. We welcome applications from individuals and ensembles who meet the following criteria:
- Completed or are currently pursuing post-secondary studies in a related field.
- Demonstrated experience and commitment to chamber music composition and/or performance.
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application 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.
We are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in our program. Below are details regarding the scholarship amount and how they are applied.
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Standard scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, and 50% of meals and accommodation costs.
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Canadian Indigenous scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, meals, and accommodation costs.
Banff Centre offers a range of scholarship and funding opportunities for each residency. If you would like to be considered, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials through the application portal.
Please visit the Fees & Financial Aid section of the program page to learn more about individual program's specific fees and funding availabilities.