Berkshire Choral International’s competitive Apprentice Program is designed for career-track singers, choral conductors, and accompanists enrolled in undergraduate or master’s degree level programs. Doctoral students or very recently graduated students may also apply.
In addition, BCI is piloting a a new Tenor/Bass Vocal Scholar Program for our 2024 Season. This program is designed for undergraduate music students who sing tenor or bass voice part with solid singing skills.
All Apprentice Program applicants should submit:
- a one-page cover letter addressing how participation in the Apprentice Program furthers your specific professional goals. Please also list which week(s) you wish to attend. Apprentices may apply for Amherst, Denver, and/or Vienna. The Apprentice program is not available for Lenox or Great Barrington.
- a current résumé or CV that includes musical and educational accomplishments
- a letter of recommendation from a teacher or music professional
- an audio or video recording of 3 contrasting art songs or arias sung in at least two languages. All applicants are expected to sing in the chorus and must provide vocal recordings.
- All applicants must meet BCI’s current COVID policies
Conductor apprentices should submit a video clip of a rehearsal or two (no more than 20 minutes total). A performance clip may be included, as well, but is not required.
Accompanist apprentices should include an audio or video recording of three contrasting pieces from recent recitals, along with a brief, honest assessment of sight-reading skills in the cover letter.
All Vocal Scholar Program applicants should submit:
- a one-page cover letter addressing how participation in the Vocal Scholar Program furthers your educational goals. Vocal Scholar applications for a single week will be considered, but preference will be given to singers who can participate in both the Amherst and Denver weeks. The Apprentice program is not available for Lenox, Great Barrington, or Vienna.
- a current résumé or synopsis of your musical and educational accomplishments
- a letter of recommendation from a teacher or music professional
- an audio or video recording of 3 contrasting art songs or arias sung in at least two languages.
- All applicants must meet BCI’s current COVID policies
Applications should be sent to Chorister Services Director Stephen Hager. One PDF file plus links to audio or video files preferred. Please indicate in the subject line if you are applying for an Apprentice or Vocal Scholar position.
Questions about the programs can be directed to Music Director Frank Nemhauser.
Due date is February 1, 2024.