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. Faculty instruction led by world-renowned artists, mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung, tenor Paul Groves, actress Dietlinde Turban Maazel, are joined by collaborative pianists, and world percussion artist Tom Teasley.

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:

December 04 to December 16, 2023 – Participants should reserve Dec 03 and Dec 17 for travel

There are two main performances during the program:

German Lieder Recital, December 9, 2023 at 2:00 PM
Opera Arias & Scenes, December 16, 2023 at 2:00 PM

Audition Information:

Pre-screening:

Voice applicants should submit two Art Songs, two Arias (YouTube link as mp3 or video), application ticket, headshot, resume, and a short biography (program length bio).

Piano applicants should submit two Art Songs, two Arias (YouTube link as mp3 or video), application ticket, headshot, resume, and a short biography (program length bio).

Pre-Screening Materials are due by the end of the day AUGUST 01, 2023. 

ZOOM-LIVE Auditions:

After review, applicants will be selected for ZOOM-LIVE auditions. Applicants should expect to receive a 10-minute audition in this round. Applicants should bring two art songs and two contrasting arias, to accompany a brief interview. Detailed information will be sent via e-mail to the invited applicants.

The Zoom-Live auditions are TBA in September.

-Vocal applicants at this stage are expected to provide their own pianist.

-Piano participants at this stage are expected to provide a singer for at least one art song and one aria. The panel may ask to hear the pianist alone during the audition. 

Application Deadline:

Pre-screening materials are due AUGUST 01, 2023.
There is a nonrefundable application fee of $50.

Submit all materials to Jared Alan Yoakem, Administrative Assistant, Castleton Festival, via e-mail to JaredY@castletonfestival.org

Proof of Covid vaccination and at least one booster is required for all participants and is expected to be shown upon arrival to the program.