Vocal Immersion Program

Program Details:

The VOCAL IMMERSION PROGRAM at CASTLETON (ViP) is a professional performing arts mentoring program in the bucolic Piedmont Region. Established in 2020 by Paul Groves, Michelle DeYoung, and Dietlinde Turban Maazel for emerging professional artists, the program allows a select group of young singers to explore their artistic potential through two weeks of diverse lessons and classes culminating in performances of well-known opera arias, duets, and ensembles as well as German Lieder. The world-renowned teachers, mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung, tenor Paul Groves, actress Dietlinde Turban Maazel, and pianist-conductor Jeremy Frank are joined by collaborative pianists, and world percussion artist Tom Teasley.

2023 Guest Faculty include Susan Graham, Bryn Terfel, and Stephen Wadsworth.

The program is merit-based and tuition-free. Shared houses and meals in the rural farm area of Castleton permit full immersion and focus. The program’s mission is not only to hone skills but to encourage the young stars of tomorrow to find their path in their desire to communicate with audiences in a meaningful way and connect to the human spirit.

There are no age restrictions or limitations for applicants.

Program Cost:

Tuition, housing, and meals are covered for all participants. Participants are responsible for application and travel costs.

Program Dates:

January 9-21, 2023 – Participants should reserve January 8 and January 22 as travel dates.

There are two main performances during the program:

German Lieder Recital, January 14, 2023 at 2:00 PM
Opera Arias & Scenes, January 21, 2023 at 2:00 PM

Pre-screening:

Applicants should submit one Art Song, two Arias (mp3 or YouTube link), application ticket, headshot, resume, and short biography.

UPDATED DEADLINE: Pre-Screening Materials were due by the end of the day OCTOBER 1, 2022.

ZOOM-LIVE Auditions:

After review, applicants will be selected for ZOOM-LIVE auditions. Applicants should expect to receive a 15-minute window to perform an art song and two contrasting arias, alongside a brief interview. Specific information will be sent via e-mail to the invited applicants. Here is what applicants can expect at this stage:

The auditions are scheduled to take place on NOVEMBER 1, 2022 & NOVEMBER 2, 2022 from 10am-4pm Eastern Time on each day.

All applicants should be certain to minimize schedule conflicts on these days and times.

Participants at this stage are expected to provide their own pianist.