Photo by Greg King Photography
George Vandikas
George Vandikas holds a Bachelor and a Master of Music degree in Piano Performance, and a Bachelor of Education degree from University of Toronto. He has studied and participated in master classes with such notable pianists as James Anagnoson, Boris Lysenko, William Aide, Patricia Parr, Greta Kraus, Eugene List, and Anton Kuerti.
From the age of 12, he has performed as a pianist and collaborative pianist for various musicians and music groups, including John McNally, Divas Plus, the Tapestry Chamber Choir, and the Encore Choir, the Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra, and the York Chamber Orchestra. He is equally adept in styles ranging from standard piano repertoire to jazz. He has been the music director of several musicals and music events and has appeared across Canada as both soloist and a collaborative pianist. Together with his wife, they have performed in several venues and events as the Vandikas-duo.
George has over 50 years of experience in the music education and performance field. He was a former music teacher and national consultant for Yamaha Canada Music's Corporate Schools. He is currently a retired teacher from the York Region District School Board, and a former member of the Ontario College of Teachers. George headed the music program at several local elementary schools and directed many extra-curricular band and choir groups.
An active member of the Newmarket and Area ORMTA branch, George currently teaches advanced piano and theory at their studio, and is in demand as a vocal and instrumental coach and collaborator. As an avid cyclist, he has been a member of several cycling clubs, including the Newmarket Eagles Cycling Club. George currently resides in Newmarket, with his wife Sheila, and their four musical children.