Alison Crockett
Elevate Vocal Arts' Summer Institute is a groundbreaking, residency-based, five-week summer program designed for aspiring Vocal Arts Apprentices aged 18-25. Our Summer Institute unites distinguished vocal artists, conductors, instrumentalists, artist managers, and arts administrators to serve as faculty and mentors for our apprentices, equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in the vocal arts.
The 2026 Summer Institute features three specialized tracks to meet apprentices where they are in their artistic journey:
The program culminates in a public performance of solo and ensemble repertoire alongside members of Elevation, showcasing the unique contributions of each track.
| Vocal Artist Track | Conductor Track | Combo Track |
|
Perform solo and ensemble vocal repertoire across multiple genres Demonstrate competency of Black American Music vocal techniques and stylistic elements Develop proficiency in Anglican and Gregorian chant Build a professional portfolio including studio recordings, headshots, resume, and biography Perform confidently in liturgical, concert, and contemporary settings
|
Develop conducting technique Learn score study and rehearsal preparation strategies Build skills in vocal pedagogy to effectively coach singers Understand ensemble management and leadership Gain experience conducting diverse repertoire including sacred music, contemporary works, and Black American Music traditions When not conducting, participating as a vocal artist |
Develop the art of collaborating with vocalists across multiple styles Develop skills in chart reading and lead sheets Understand vocal-instrumental balance and collaboration Build proficiency in multiple genres (jazz, gospel, R&B, contemporary, sacred music) Learn to create supportive musical environments for singers
|
February 10th, 2026 at 7:00 PM ET: Online Information Session. Register here to learn more about SI and the application requirements.
March 9th, 2026 at 7:00 PM ET: Online Information Session. Register here to learn more about SI and the application requirements.
March 20th, 2026: Application closes at 11:59PM ET.
April 6th - 9th, 2026: Online Interviews with EVA staff. Times to be scheduled individually with each applicant.
April 13th, 2026: Notification. This is the anticipated date when applicants will be notified about program acceptance.
May 10th, 2026 at 7:00 PM ET: Online Orientation. Apprentices are required to attend the online orientation as part of this program.
May 18th, 2026: The full program and curriculum begins.
May 18th - June 12th, 2026: Online Sessions
Online Sessions will be held 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM ET.
Additional sessions will be offered virtually between May 18th - June 12th in:
June 12th - June 21st, 2026: In-Person Session in Bethany Beach, DE.
Friday, June 12th: Combo track ONLY begins in Wilmington, DE.
Saturday, June 13th: Vocal and Conducting Apprentices arrive in Wilmington, DE, and all apprentices travel to Bethany Beach, DE.
8:30am - Morning Meal
9:00am - Meditation, Daily Goal Setting, Vocal Warm-Up
9:30am - Ensemble Rehearsal
11:30am - Seminar: Financial Literacy for Artists
1:00pm - Lunch
2:00pm - Recording Session at MidSouth Audio Recording Studio
4:00pm - Dress Rehearsal for Choral Evensong
6:00pm - Dinner
7:30pm - Solo Vocal Masterclass
Throughout the program, apprentices will engage in daily coursework covering a wide range of topics, including:
Our innovative curriculum not only nurtures artistic talent but also strengthens and develops Delaware's upcoming workforce by instilling essential workplace skills desired by Delaware employers, such as:
At Elevate Vocal Arts (EVA), we believe that everyone can contribute to our mission of transforming lives through the power of vocal arts. Your support enables us to create and expand creative workforce development opportunities, inspire communities, and strengthen our democracy through the power of vocal arts.
Delaware Academy of Vocal Arts (DBA: Elevate Vocal Arts) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation.
This organization is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on DelawareScene.com.
