FAQs
1. Is there an application deadline, and if so, when is it?
Audition Applications for our 2026/2027 Year have now closed. Audition Applications for our 2027/2028 Year will open July 2027, more information will be posted closer to then.
2. How many spots are available in this program?
For our inaugural year we are able to welcome up to 8 students into the program.
3. Do you know who the students might work with in terms of the master classes, private coaching, workshops, etc.?
We already have several faculty members confirmed for our 2026/2027 Year. Students will have the opportunity to work with Jimmy Brière, Meagan Milatz, Jenna Richards, Michael Esch, Curtis Perry (photography), Mike Mullin (recording). We have agreements with Honens, Chamberfest and others which provide additional opportunities to work with masters over course of the year as they bring in their artists.
The workshops covering business development, networking, speaking, branding, etc. will primarily be led by Jennifer and Mackenzie, with guest presenters covering topics such as social media and grant writing.
4. If a student is not accepted into the program, is there still opportunity to be selected to take part in community performance opportunities (for example, the Governor General's event, Music and Beyond, etc.)?
While we never want to take opportunities and experiences away from students, the purpose of this program is to ensure that participating students receive the highest-quality performance opportunities available. This past years were spent building relationships with presenting organizations such as Music and Beyond, DOMS, Rideau Hall, etc. with the intention of building these opportunities into OVATION.
Students in OVATION will also have the opportunity to audition for Steinway's Advanced Performance Competition at no charge. In addition, they will receive a guaranteed place in the March Break Piano Artistry Camp (although competition and camp registration fees will still apply).
5. Will the private coaching be focused purely on piano teaching, or might it include public speaking or other related activities?
Private piano instruction remains entirely the responsibility of each student's private piano teacher. It is also the teacher who determines the student's artistic and repertoire programming.
Our role is to support the "business" side of being a young artist. While the program includes master classes, these are intended to complement—not replace—private lessons. Students are expected to continue studying with their private teachers throughout the program.
6. What is the time commitment and schedule
Most workshops and master classes will take place on the last Sunday of each month, with the exception of December (due to the holidays) and March (because of the March Break Piano Artistry Camp).
Master classes and workshops are typically scheduled for 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. There will also be occasional additional workshops, field trips, and excursions throughout the year. These have not yet been scheduled, but participants will receive ample advance notice.
Scheduled performance opportunities will begin in May 2027, although some may arise earlier and may reach into the following season, depending on opportunity. Concerts will be scheduled well in advance to allow families to plan around school, sports, and other commitments.
7. Will students be required to learn new repertoire specifically for this program?
Repertoire and programming will be entirely up to each student's teacher.
8. Is there any Financial Assistance?
We recognize that OVATION is a significant investment, and we understand that every family's financial situation is different. Our goal is to make the program accessible to talented young artists, and we never want finances to be the reason an invited student is unable to participate. There is a section on the application form regarding Financial Assistance. This is kept completely confidential between you, your parents/guardians and OVATION.
9. When I am finished OVATION, will there continue to be opportunities to perform?
Yes! OVATION Artists have the opportunity to join our OVATION Artists Management for continuing agency and concert performances.