Vocal Academy

The Vocal Academy for High School Students is a nine-day, rigorous workshop for dedicated high school voice students who want to explore the many facets involved in developing the singer’s art. Students age 15 through their junior year in high school (entering their senior year the following fall semester) pondering a career in vocal performance or vocal music education should consider this specialized program. Technical work will include the development of posture, breathing, phonation, resonance, and articulation. Daily master classes in performance will deal with performance practice, diction, style, phrasing, and textual communication. Classes will cover such topics as preparation for auditions, stage deportment, characterizations, presentation of songs, and analysis and understanding of texts. Students will have private lessons and coaching sessions. Acting classes will focus heavily on song interpretation. We will encourage students to develop more freedom of movement and gesture while singing. Improvisational exercises will create awareness of non-verbal communication skills and help develop spontaneous creativity. Evening workshops will include discussion of what is expected at a college audition and techniques for more effective auditions. Students will receive feedback on auditions performed during the workshop. College and career options for the singer-actor will be discussed. Following registration, the workshop will begin with a performance by a guest artist. The academy is ideal for students who want to explore the many facets and opportunities available to singers, as well as learn important techniques and strategies applicable for auditions, performances, and collaborative experiences. To apply for the Vocal Academy, please complete the online application along with a $55 application fee. In addition, you will be asked to include a short resume of your musical accomplishments, a repertoire list, and a recommendation letter. You will also be asked to submit a YouTube link to a video recording of two Classical art songs.