Fall Term 2023

Winter Term 2024

Spring Term 2024

Summer Term 2024

Updated July 18, 2023

In addition to program fees, an annual Agency Membership ($25 plus HST per year) is required for all individuals participating in Music & Arts School programs at University Settlement.

Our exceptional faculty of professionally trained teachers and performers offer one of the best music education opportunities in Toronto. All have a bachelor’s degree in music and many have completed studies at the Master’s level. Each has a demonstrated commitment to the community.

Regular performances by students, teachers and special guests form an integral part of life at our School. Students of all levels have the opportunity to perform in a non-competitive environment. Past student recitals can also be viewed on the Music & Arts School YouTube channel.

The Music & Arts School awards a range of merit-based scholarships that are awarded through competitive auditions. Recipients perform in a special concert in November, which is always a highlight of the year.

Congratulations to our 2023 Scholarship Winners

• Aasta Levene Scholarship recipient: Iris He
• Jack Chang Scholarship recipient: Nolan Wu
• Laraine Herzog Scholarship recipient: Lily Yan MacDonald
• Mark Hill Music Award recipient: Audrey Cai
• Margaret Grant Music Award recipient: Antonio Lin
• Marshall Adam Golden Memorial Scholarship recipient: Aaron Laraby
• Paul Greenwood Strings Award recipient: Riley Do
• Shiu Shum Lo Memorial Award recipient: Allan Zhou
• Steinhauer Family Music Award recipients: Daisy Cardich-Soria and Sabrina Tse
• Sylvia Schwartz Music Award recipient: Wendy Xu
• W.G. Hall Strings Award recipient: Vivianne Hsu

Fee subsidies can help students age 18 or younger from families not able to afford the full cost of private lessons. Eligibility is based on the total household income, and the number of people in the family. Check the 2023/24 Program Guide for more information.

The Music & Arts School is pleased to offer affordable instrument rental to our string, flute, accordion and guitar students. Additionally, students may use our studios to practice free of charge. Non-students may rent studio space, pending availability, for $10 plus HST per hour. Please contact the Music & Arts School for more information.

What is the cancellation policy?

Regardless of the notice given, should you cancel your private lesson, a make-up lesson will be arranged, maximum of one make-up lesson per term. Should your teacher cancel a lesson, it will be rescheduled. Please note: Missed group classes are not eligible for make-up lessons.

What do I do if I can’t attend a lesson?

Please email us or call the Music & Arts School Office at 416-598-3444 ext. 243 or 244 to let us know that you are unable to attend.

What technical equipment do I need for online lessons?

It’s pretty simple. You need a device with video capabilities – a smartphone, tablet or laptop and a strong internet connection.

Does the Music & Arts School adhere to a specific system of learning?

Our teachers are trained in and familiar with many methods of teaching music. Should you wish, your teacher can offer you guided instruction in progressive methods, such as the RCM method. Some students, particularly adults, prefer to progress at their own pace, setting their own goals in consultation with their teacher. Music & Arts School faculty members are qualified to offer this type of individualized instruction.

Will I need to practice? May I practice at the School?

Yes, private practice is essential if you wish to progress in your studies. You can practice at the School during the School’s operating hours, so long as the studio is not reserved for private teaching. Please check the studio schedules next to the Music Office door for studio availability.

Will I need to buy a book or an instrument right away?

Students will be expected to purchase music books.

Purchasing an instrument immediately may not be necessary. The School has a variety of instruments available for rental at reasonable rates. We also keep a waitlist of students looking to either purchase or receive a donated piano. Please keep in mind that as you progress in your studies, purchasing an instrument will become necessary.

Is the School accessible?

Yes! An elevator provides access to all rooms used for private lessons and group classes.

Victoria Medeiros, Managing Director

Prior to becoming the Managing Director of the Music & Arts School in 2014, Victoria was a voice instructor in 2013. She received a Master of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music. Victoria has years of experience both as a performer and as a teacher.

Felix Flores, Program Assistant

Felix Flores is a violinist, composer and arranger who has experience performing in a wide variety of music genres including Classical, Jazz, Tango, Latin, and Contemporary music. A long-time teacher with experience in arts administration, he’s excited to take on this additional role at the Music & Arts School. View Felix’s artist bio

Lyf Stolte, Program Assistant

Lyf Stolte brings his passion for the arts to his role as Program Assistant. Having facilitated arts, storytelling and other workshops and events at his previous work, he is excited to bring these experiences with him to the University Settlement’s Music & Arts School. Lyf is married and has two sons, and two dogs!