“Drs. Capaldo and McMurray brought a supportive, thoughtful approach that made the environment feel safe and constructive. I especially appreciated the generous amount of podium time, which gave me the chance to apply ideas in real time and reflect meaningfully on my development.”

“An amazing ensemble to practice with. Such an honour and inspiration. Not all conducting symposiums have such amazing musicians to practice their craft.”

“The amount of podium time each conductor received was incredible, and having a high-quality, responsive ensemble like the Naden Band to conduct in a wonderful hall like The Farquhar makes for a truly phenomenal artistic/educational experience.”

WHAT WILL THE SYMPOSIUM COST?

FULL PARTICIPANT: CAD$675 (approx. US$495)

Includes:

• Full day of workshops and chamber music conducting
• Over 1 hour of podium conducting time with a professional wind band and clinicians
• 30 minutes of video review time with clinicians
• Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea

AUDITOR: from CAD$60

• Friday – CAD$60 (approx. US$45), and/or
• Saturday and Sunday – CAD$75 (approx. US$55) for both days
• Includes morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea

WHAT WILL WE DO OVER THE THREE DAYS?

Working with the clinicians, participants will engage in a variety of activities.

FRIDAY

A day of interactive sessions with the clinicians including:

• 1 x 15-min conducting session with the Naden Chamber Wind ensemble
• Internalizing and Externalizing the Score
• Conducting Techniques and Approaches
• Movement and Gesture Development 

SATURDAY

Conducting with the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy

• 2 x 15-min conducting sessions where participants will work with one clinician in The Farquhar
• 2 x 15-min video review sessions with the other clinician reviewing the session you just finished 

SUNDAY

Both clinicians will work with the participants in an extended session with the Naden Band

• 1 x 20-minute conducting session where participants will receive feedback by both clinicians
• We will provide participants with an SD card for them to record all their conducting at the Symposium

HOW DOES THE REFLECTIVE COMPONENT WORK?

Group reflective inquiry and journaling sessions led by the clinicians will also occur over the three days. Guided questions will be asked during the program to help focus participant learning.

WHAT’S THE REPERTOIRE?

Participants will lead the Naden Band through high-quality repertoire chosen for artistic and musical development and growth. From the list below, conductors will select ONE multi-movement work, ONE single movement work, and ONE movement from the Jacob Old Wine in New Bottles. 2026 Repertoire:

• HOLST First Suite in E-flat
• GRAINGER Lincolnshire Posy (mvts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6)
• BERNSTEIN Slava!
• FUCIK Florentiner March
• BLACKSHAW Peace Dancer
• TICHELI Rest
• JACOB Old Wine in New Bottles

WHY IS IT DESIGNED THIS WAY?

With a strong focus on both educator development and growth of artistry, this workshop is designed to examine and refocus the work undertaken on the podium, and explore improving both verbal and non-verbal communication within the large ensemble setting. Through decades of experience, both Dr. McMurray and Dr. Capaldo have prepared experiences that will assist to examine and explore the techniques and approaches to participants’ conducting to maximize the potential learning across the program.

WILL THERE BE TIME TO SOCIALIZE?

Yes! We will have a Symposium Dinner on the first night (Friday) at 6pm for all those who wish to attend.

WHERE CAN I STAY?

Victoria is known for its beautiful boutique and international brand hotels. Student residence rooms are also available for the weekend though space is limited and they will book fast due to other summer events. Please book as early as possible as all room space during the summer fills up quickly!