TRANSMISSION
CHAMBER ORCHESTRA COURSE
JAN. 4-9, 2027
A new intensive chamber orchestra course in Montreal.
TRANSMISSION is collectif9’s new program for emerging artists: a one-week intensive chamber orchestra course, combining rehearsals, workshops, and mentoring, culminating in a public concert at Espace Jax in Montréal. Participants will perform alongside 5 members of collectif9, gaining professional experience in rehearsal and in concert as well as a practical understanding of the ensemble’s creative priorities and preparation.
The final concert programme is based around two masterpieces infused with cultural richness. The self-led chamber orchestra will perform Zipangu, a seminal work by the iconic Quebec composer Claude Vivier, as well as Turkish pianist-composer Fazıl Say’s dramatic Chamber Symphony.
This is a pilot project, and in this context, the training course is exceptionally tuition-free.
Who
String players (6 violinists, 2 violists, 2 cellists, 1 double bassist)
Music students and young professionals
Candidates must:
- have been born before January 1, 2009;
- be available for the entire period from January 4 to 9, 2027.*
*Exceptions may be discussed on a case-by-case basis.
When
January 4–9, 2027
Repertoire
Claude Vivier – Zipangu
Fazıl Say – Chamber Symphony
Where
Rehearsals and workshops at Espace Ste-Hilda (6341 De Lorimier Ave., Montreal), January 4–8
Concert at Espace Jax (1439 Ste-Catherine St. West, Montreal), January 9
Submit an application
Please send the following by November 8, 2026:
- the completed registration form;
- a statement of motivation (100-150 words);
- your CV or biography;
- a video that demonstrates your playing (solo with piano or chamber ensemble recommended).
The results will be communicated in November 2026. ​
Tuition-free. Successful applicants will be required to make a deposit of $100 to confirm their participation. This deposit will be refunded at the end of the course, provided that the participant has taken part in all activities or, where applicable, has respected the previously established agreement.
For any questions, please write to info@collectif9.ca
collectif9
​
Recipient of a 2025 JUNO Award and “Performer of the Year” at the 2025 Prix Opus, Montreal string ensemble collectif9 is known for its innovative programming and distinctive approach to chamber music. For 15 years, the group has reimagined classical and contemporary music from a personal perspective, where new voices and interpretations are welcomed and encouraged. Performing “with an infectious energy and vigour that grabs an audience’s attention” (The WholeNote), collectif9 operates on the premise that a change of context can influence communication and experience.
The ensemble’s repertoire spans medieval to contemporary works, reflecting a spirit of curiosity and innovation. collectif9’s albums are released on the European label Alpha Classics as well as the Canadian label Analekta, and have earned several awards and nominations, along with critical praise for their spellbinding interpretations. Since its founding in 2011, the ensemble has firmly established itself as one of Canada’s most dynamic and forward-thinking musical forces.
​
Chloé Chabanole (violin) – Member of collectif9, concertmaster of Orchestre de l’Agora, member of Warhol Dervish, regular extra musician with the OSM
TJ Skinner (violin) – Member of collectif9, regular extra musician with the OSM, the National Arts Centre Orchestra, the Orchestre de l’Agora, and Ensemble Obiora
Cynthia Blanchon (viola) – Guest member of collectif9, professor at UdeM, member of Quatuor Vox Populi
Andrea Stewart (cello) – Associate Director of collectif9, course instructor at UdeS, member of Infusion Baroque and Arion Baroque Orchestra
Thibault Bertin-Maghit (double bass) – Artistic Director of collectif9, Artistic Director of Concerts aux Îles du Bic
PARTNERS
