Amanda Quist Will Lead Westminster's 2011 Vocal Institute

Amanda Quist, associate professor of conducting at Westminster Choir College, will lead Westminster’s 2011 Vocal Institute.  Held on the Westminster Choir College campus in Princeton July 3 through 16, Vocal Institute is one of the nation’s most highly regarded summer programs for high school musicians and was the first Westminster experience for many Westminster alumni.

Open to students entering the 10th grade through those who have just completed their senior year, it focuses on college-level choral singing of major choral works.  Students receive daily voice lessons and study solo singing in music theater and performance classes.  The program also includes such electives as audition/performance techniques, beginning piano, conducting, yoga and music theory, as well as evening social activities.  Joining Dr. Quist on the faculty are Westminster voice faculty members Elem Eley, Thomas Faracco, Julia Kemp, Sharon Sweet and Rochelle Ellis.

"I’m very excited to direct the Vocal Institute this summer,” says Dr. Quist. “This program is an excellent opportunity for high school students to experience Westminster Choir College as if they are college-level music majors. Whether students are interested in pursuing a career in music, want to sharpen their skills, or simply enjoy making music with other motivated singers, Vocal Institute promises to be a wonderfully fulfilling summer experience.”

Reflecting on the rich history of the program, which was founded as Westminster Vocal Camp, she continues. “After speaking with people from the area who had attended Vocal Institute previously, it was clear that the program was meaningful for them. Statements such as "life-changing", "pushed me to achieve more than I ever have", and "I formed friendships with people from around the world that I still talk to today" were common among the VI alumni. I know the VI tradition will continue as students have the opportunity to work with our voice and choral faculty, as well as experts from the area who are all dedicated to a successful experience for the students. We’ll perform a wide variety of excellent choral repertoire sure to engage the performer and listener, and our final concert will be presented in the beautiful and historic Princeton University Chapel."

There is no audition or application deadline for the Westminster Vocal Institute, but space is limited, and students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.  To learn more about this and all of Westminster’s summer programs, go to www.rider.edu/woce or call 609-924-7416.