Len VandeBurgt - ARCT
Len was born in Matsqui and lives in the farming community of Agassiz. Since starting lessons at the age of 6, Len has entered multiple festivals across the valley and obtained many awards and bursaries. He was awarded provincial runner-up for the Chilliwack Music Festival in 2010.
He has obtained his ARCT in piano performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music in 2011, and has participated in master-classes from pianists such as Ian Parker, Alice Enns, Dr. Susan Tang, Catherine Bundt, and Bruce Vogt.
Len is also an accomplished violinist, having played with the Chilliwack Symphony Orchestra, Chilliwack Metropolitan Orchestra, as well as the Chilliwack Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, helping out where needed, playing violin, viola and double bass.
He has attended the Reformed String Camp a number of years, where he has been awarded MVP, and won their concerto competition (on the piano.)
He has also been invited to perform at numerous local events, including weddings, memorials and benefit concerts, both as pianist and violinist.
Len keeps busy in the music world, mainly by accompanying. He has been a regular and substitute rehearsal accompanist for various choirs in the Upper Fraser Valley, and also enjoys accompanying local music students in festivals, exams, and recitals.
Since 2021, Len has had the privilege of accompanying the 'Behind the Gate Theatre Company', a small group based at Kilby's Historic Site. There they have produced Anne of Green Gables, and the Wizard of Oz.
Len has been the rehearsal accompanist for the Handel Society Choir from 2011-2016, and is happy to return in 2024!