Intensive Summer Program 2021

MVP has two primary missions: to curate, preserve, and promote the finest traditions of opera and art song, and to confer the wisdom of living masters to the next generation of classical singers. Our 'old-world' tried-and-true methods of daily one-on-one lessons, coachings, and classes provide the tools singers need for success. Additionally, we bring artists with long careers to impart their knowledge through masterclasses, guest appearances, and interviews. The disciplines we uphold are technique, theory, history, and tenacity - but above all, we foster a passion for an aesthetic rarely achieved today.

Individual Voice Lessons

Daily, in-person, one-on-one technical vocal instruction from Catherine Mazzone. Each lesson is personally tailored to each singer's natural voice and stage of development.

Coaching

​Daily, in-person, one-on-one musical instruction for each singer with professional pianists and conductors. The focus is on language, diction, intonation, rhythm, style, and familiarity with the piano part.

Diction Classes

These are group sessions. All participants and auditors learn professional techniques to communicate clear words while maintaining beautiful, resonant solo singing. Emphasis will be on singing Italian, French, German, and English. Microphone techniques will not be taught.

Aural Training

These are group sessions. Also known as Ear Training, all participants and auditors will hone their abilities to read music, hear harmonies, and understand the relationship between the two.

Dramatic Preparation

These are classes on dramatic preparation for opera roles and characters in songs. The emotional expression comes alive through specific body language and gestures, in connection with the musical content.

Movement Classes

These classes designed to help participants and auditors express a wide range of characters and emotions through movement, dance, and other physical aspects of stage presence.

Concert - Art Songs, Opera Arias and Scenes

Each participant will appear in two public concerts at Saint John's In The Village. Professional audio and video recordings will be made.

Recording Sessions

Each participant will have access to make professional video and/or audio recordings in the performance space for their own use.

Masterclasses, Interviews and Lectures with Guest Speakers

Each participant and auditor will attend two sessions with guest speakers and two faculty lectures. Three masterclasses will be offered for full participants.