Education Programming of The Chorus of Westerly
Through its multi-generational approach to making music (involving singers ages 8 and up), the Chorus of Westerly's educational programming is multi-faceted. In the 54th concert season, the Chorus has invested heavily in an expansion of its education programming for both its singing membership and the general public. These programs will be expanding in the 2013-14 season to include more general public educational programming.
Currently, the Chorus educational ventures include:
1. The Children's Music Program for new and current Chorus children. The Children's Program includes two weekly rehearsals for the child members, the 'Training Choir' program for our youngest and brand new singers (to train them in pitch matching, solfege, basic score reading, and basic singing techniques in a small group environment - a new program that began in September 2012 with Andrew Howell), individualized sessions during rehearsal for "veteran" child singers to work on particular areas of the music or skill with a Chorus's Conducting Associate, and our children's Choir Camp prgram held each August in New Hampshire.
2. For current adult and teen singers: Music Education Classes. On Monday night's prior to adult rehearsal, the Chorus offers (for free to its current members) certain music "classes" designed to augment the singer's musical skills, knowledge, and vocal activitiy. A pilot program for 2012-13, currently the Chorus is offering a "Music Fundamentals" class for its members for three five week semesters and a "Group Voice Class" for members for three five week semesters as well. Other classes are being explored for later in the season. Chorus voice faculty member Eden Casteel directs the Voice Class and Andrew Howell the Music Fundamentals class. Plans are being developed to offer these classes to the general public (and more, different classes) starting sometime next year. Currently, the classes are completely free for Chorus members.
3. Pre-concert lectures are offered prior to November Britten concert, March American Music concert, and the May Mozart Requiem concert, free of charge, for current Chorus members and the general public. The lectures are offered typically the Saturday prior to the concert at noon by the Chorus maestro or specialized guest musicologists.
4. Choral Workshops at Ogontz - special week long choral singing workshops with some of the world's best choral conductors and voice faculty. Offered each August to any choral singer who wishes to attend.
5. Vocal Master Classes with Guest Artists
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