Audrey asked about several programs, including the Seagle Colony. I don't have direct experience with the others but I was a student at the Seagle Colony several years ago (when Stan and Eileen Cornett were running it) and loved it. I returned to sing on a benefit concert more recently (at the invitation of Darren Keith Woods, who now runs the program) and it was exciting to see the ways that the tradition is continuing and growing.
My experience as a student was wonderful: most of my colleagues were upper-level undergraduates and graduate students, and the level of performance was quite high. We functioned as a repertory company and there was little negative competition among us. With several shows over the summer (I think they do at least 4 now!) the work was spread around really equitably.
When I was there, we all pitched in to keep the place running. Not a lot of work or hard work, just things like washing the dishes, setting the table, etc. For me, that was a nice thing, as it created a feeling of community.
The setting is beautiful -- mountains, a lake, lots of open space for walking and thinking, wild raspberries growing on certain spots on the property (for a price, I'll tell you where!). I found that the setting was very conducive to artistic exploration. (Being in a beautiful setting is artistically important to me.)
Darren Keith Woods, who was a member of this list for a while, is a wonderfully energetic and creative administrator. He's a singer himself and understands the business very well. He's also a tremendously encouraging person who does his best to make everyone feel valued & comfortable. I haven't been a student in the program under him, but having met & worked with him in other contexts, I'm sure I would have enjoyed that experience, had it been available to me.
If you have other questions, Audrey, please feel free to contact me. I hope this information helps you! Naomi Gurt Lind -- http://naomigurtlind.net
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