This is the time of year for vacations and beach going. Some of you might have noticed that I’ve already been to the beach a few times this year. I’ve ben banking the relaxing ocean waves because my summer trips are educational, in the most fun way, and you just might like to join me!
CCM Institute
The Contemporary Commercial Music Vocal Pedagogy Institute at Shenandoah University has been like a 2nd home to me the last 10 years. It is an honor to be a part of the faculty presenting this year. The institute is the place to discover how the voice works anatomically, learn language and understanding around what is happening for all the various sounds we make. The third session is for exploring or discovering singing styles of various genres. Singers come to understand their voices better and explore musical styles, and voice teachers and choral directors come to become more knowledgeable and better at what they do! And teachers and singers come back every year to learn and be amongst the special energy that is created at this place. An exceptional staff of caring and brilliant artists, educators and scientists, led by the inspirational Matt Edwards, make the week the highlight of my year. Maybe yours too! You can still register!
Then, I’m off to the Augusta Heritage Center of Davis & Elkins College, where each summer they offer music and dance classes from many traditions. I’m excited to be joining the faculty this year during Vocal Week, teaching a general Get to Know your Voice class, as well as one focused on Jazz Standard Repertoire. This is going to be so fun! Check out the other classes here. From African-American Gospel trios and Meeting songs, to Ukranian folk and Pub singing, you are bound to find a class that will fill you. And, so much HARMONY!! You can still register!
Lastly, I’ll finish up at the Swannanoa Gathering at Warren Wilson College where I will be a student! Taking songwriting and guitar classes, and singing into the night, each night, for the third week in a row. I’m already tired! And, you guessed it! You can still register for classes! Check it out!
Before I start my summer teaching and learning journey, I’ll be playing around town with my Beauty & the Blues partner, Keith Serpa. If you’re local, come enjoy the first day evening of summer with us Friday, June 21st at Vitners Hill wine bar in Mint Hill. We’re playing on the patio 7-10pm! If you’re a member of River Run Country Club in Davidson, catch us on June 28th at dinner time, and if you like art and great wine deals, you’ll love visiting us Wed, July 10th at the uptown Mint Museum starting at 5:30, where you can shop and have $5 wine BOGO!
Happy Summer - here it comes!
julie
