The Canadian International Arts & Music Society was founded on a dream. Vancouver piano teacher Lynn (Yingying) Liu launched the non-profit organization in 2017 with a goal of hosting an international music competition in Vancouver. With the help of volunteers, she succeeded brilliantly. And this year, the Vancouver International Music Competition has added woodwinds to its existing piano, strings, and voice categories.
As a result of the society’s efforts, Vancouver city council has designated August 18, 2026, as Vancouver International Music Day. The proclamation by Mayor Ken Sim notes that the Canadian International Music Society “is dedicated to fostering cultural diversity, community connection, and artistic excellence through the universal language of music”.
“We extend our sincere thanks to Mayor Ken Sim and the Vancouver City Councillors for recognizing the importance of music, arts, and cultural exchange, and for proclaiming this special day,” Liu stated in an email. “Your support demonstrates the City’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and creative community.”
The society presents its juried competition every three years. This year’s international jury includes Royal Conservatory of Music president Alexander Brose, Eastman School of Music director of opera Timothy Long, University of Washington piano professor and pianist Robin McCabe, Canadian classical pianist Ian Parker, UBC School of Music associate professor of piano and piano pedagogy Mark Anderson, and flautist Brenda Fedoruk.
The final in-person round is scheduled for October 9 and 10 in Pyatt Hall at the VSO School of Music. On October 11, the society will present its awards ceremony at a gala concert at the Orpheum Theatre. The finalists for this year’s competition are listed on the website.
Society stages concerts and offers music masterclasses
In each of the two off years, the society hosts the Vancouver International Music Festival. This event includes concerts and masterclasses presented by virtuosos.
The City of Vancouver proclamation points out that the Vancouver International Music Festival “serves as a premier platform showcasing exceptional local and international music talent, enriching the cultural fabric of the city”.
“This festival promotes cross-cultural understanding and harmony by bringing together artists and audiences from diverse backgrounds to celebrate creative expression,” the proclamation states.
Liu was born and raised in the Chinese city of Wuxi, which is about 140 kilometres east of Shanghai. She began playing piano around the age of 10. Then she took up the pipa as an undergraduate at Nanjing Normal University.
In 2002, Liu moved to Canada to attend graduate school at the University of Brandon. After graduating, she spent a year in Toronto before moving to Vancouver.
For more information on the Vancouver International Music Competition, visit the website. Follow Pancouver on X @PancouverMedia and Instagram @PancouverMedia.