The “Singing Down the Barriers” Institute is a four-day adult summer intensive of the University of Michigan, School of Music, Theatre, and Dance and is offered in partnership with the Hampsong Foundation via the Classic Song Research Initiative. For 2021, this institute will be administered completely online.

“Singing Down the Barriers” is an intensive introduction to the repertoire of African American composers for the college student, apprentice, voice teacher, coach, choral conductor, or professional singer. In tandem with a directed curriculum of readings, resources, recordings, reflective exercises, and performance, the Institute seeks to help participants overcome the barriers that prevent successful engagement with and performance of African American concert repertoire including art song and spirituals.

Attendees will take part in lectures and panels with scholars and artists specializing in this repertoire, join in discussions on practical topics, and explore repertoire in small group breakout sessions. From poetry analysis and historical background to surveying the songs of contemporary African American composers today, attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of the cultural context and performance practices needed to successfully sing this repertoire.

Session Dates: June 28, 2021 – July 2, 2021
Application Open: December 2020
Application Deadline: June 1, 2021
Admissions Notification: June 10, 2021

Tuition
Performer Track: $500
Auditor Track: $300

More information here: Singing Down the Barriers Institute