The VCM offers education, performance and music therapy.

[1] Each year, over 4,500 students take part in an array of disciplines including woodwinds, brass, percussion, keyboard, strings, voice, jazz, theory and composition, and programs such as music therapy, teacher training, early children’s music programs and Summer Music Academies.

In addition, the VCM offers a two-year performance-oriented post-secondary diploma program in partnership with Camosun College, credits from which are transferable to every major university in Canada.

The VCM was once located at Craigdarroch Castle,[2] and also spent time in a building on the grounds of St. Ann's Academy,[3] but is now located at 900 Johnson Street, a building previously used as a church by the United Church of Canada.

Cambodian musician Hy Chanthavouth studied at VCM.