Summer Performing Arts Institute Expands to Vocal Offerings This Year
Buffalo State College will offer local middle and high school students the chance to immerse themselves in one week of music or theater instruction during the 10th annual Summer Performing Arts Institute.
During the four one-week camps that begin Monday, July 25, young musicians and thespians study with Buffalo State faculty members and local performing artists. All camps take place from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday in Rockwell Hall.
The institute provides a rich source of instruction for students entering seventh through 12th grade who want to hone their artistic talents over the summer, according to Rick Fleming, professor of music who founded and directs the institute.
New this year is a Vocal Camp, which joins the classical and jazz instrumental camps that give participants the opportunity to play in large ensembles, chamber groups, and small combos.
“Every summer, I’m amazed at the connections that students make with our faculty members and community musicians, as well as how much they learn and grow in just one week,” Fleming said. “This year, we wanted to add a separate camp for vocalists to give area students an opportunity to work with my amazing colleague Dr. Vicky Furby [chair and associate professor of music who directs the choral groups].”
The Classical Camp runs July 25–29 and is open to students from public and private schools who are proficient on instruments such as the flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion, violin, viola, cello, or bass.
The Vocal Camp will be offered the same week, July 25–29, allowing students to participate in traditional choral music ensembles and other vocal and foundational music experiences. In addition, students will study musical literacy and sight reading, and participate in movement courses including yoga and Dalcroze eurhythmics. All ability levels and voice types are welcome.
The Jazz Camp will run August 1–5. Intended for students who are proficient on their instruments, the Jazz Camp will provide the opportunity to explore songwriting, piano, jazz improvisation, jazz theory, and a jazz-rock combo experience.
The Musical Theater Camp will also run August 1–5 and immerse students in all aspects of a theater production. Student will participate in voice, dance, and acting lessons.
All four camps culminate with a public performance on the Friday evening at the end of each week in the Performing Arts Center and the Ciminelli Recital Hall at Rockwell Hall.
Each camp costs $200. Scholarships are available based on financial need.
For more information, contact Fleming, (716) 878-6504.
To register, please visit the Summer Performing Arts Institute web page.
Photo by Buffalo State Creative Services.
