Spoleto Study Abroad

Italy — the land of song. What better place to pursue a program of vocal study with an emphasis on Italian language and repertoire, than right in the heart of Umbria? Enjoy daily individualized instruction with soprano/voice teacher Courtenay Budd, and collaborative pianist/coach Erika Switzer. Voice lessons focus on matters of vocal technique such as posture, breath management, and registration, while coaching sessions will stress musical style, diction, and interpretation. Further instruction will include acting, movement, and stage comportment, and performance experience will come in the form of masterclasses with instructors and peers. Bring or request music of particular interest, and set individual goals to work toward for the duration of the program, such as preparing for college auditions, for the upcoming high school musical, or an honors chorus. You’ll polish your best repertoire (emphasizing Italian songs and arias) to be performed in a final concert for your peers. Practicing classical singing with an emphasis on the Italian language will set you up for success as you prepare for college auditions.

Enjoy free time exploring the town of Spoleto, taking in the beauty and culture that it offers. The rich cultural, historical, musical, sacred, and artistic traditions of Italy will inspire you toward new heights in your own work. Your artistic development will be enriched by new friends making discoveries right along with you. It will be the experience of a lifetime.