The National Arts Centre Orchestra presents an extensive series of masterclasses the sessions of which fall into three categories: the "International Series", in collaboration with the University of Ottawa, consisting mainly of major guest soloists with the NAC Orchestra; the "NAC Orchestra Series", in collaboration with the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau; and "Manhattan on the Rideau", featuring prominent jazz faculty from the Manhattan School of Music linked to the NAC by broadband videoconference.

Dance Masterclasses

A masterclass is a one-on-one lesson in which a master musician teaches a selected student or ensemble under the watchful eyes of fellow students and members of the public. Thus the audience can learn from the master along with the talented student in the spotlight. Each masterclass involves 2 to 3 students in succession followed by question-and-answer.