Need-based scholarships are available. Don’t let cost prevent you from sending in an application!
Classes/Seminars
SFYCA strives to develop the whole musician; consummate musicians have comprehensive knowledge of theory, history, vocal technique, aural and sight-reading skills, conducting, and even familiarity with the orchestra! Your days at SFYCA focus on developing these skills, deepening your artistry as a versatile musician. Sessions take place on the beautiful University of Oregon campus and at the Hult Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Eugene, nestled in the Willamette Valley between the Pacific Coast and the Cascade Mountains.
2025 Repertoire and Concert Schedule (full repertoire will be announced in early 2025)
- Bach Cantata: Gelobet sei der Herr, mein Gott, BWV 129 featuring members of the OBF Orchestra and vocal guest soloists from OBF
- Dilworth: Weather based on the poem by Claudia Rankine in response to the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer
Other 2025 Highlights:
- Attend two special OBF choral performances
- On the House performance featuring SFYCA Soloists
- Q&A with new Artistic Partner, Jos van Veldhoven
- Perform at The Prefontaine Classic now part of the World Athletics Wanda Diamond League at the historic Hayward Field
Sample Daily Schedule
8:30 – 9:15 am: BodySinging
9:15 – 9:45 am: Vocal Technique
10:00 – 11:30 am: Musicianship
11:30 am – 12:30 pm: Rehearsal
2:30 – 5:00 pm: Rehearsal
7:30 – 10:00 pm: Social Activity or OBF Concert
What is BodySinging?
Choral music is a full-body art form, so we start every day with BodySinging, led by Dr. Therees Hibbard. The voice is an instrument, and like any other instrument, it has very specific physical components that contribute to its function. These components must be developed and taught to work in a coordinated manner. Breathing exercises, stretching, and full-range movement are incorporated into a physical and vocal warm-up routine that sets you on the path to healthy singing and continuous growth. The techniques you explore in this class carry through the day’s rehearsals as Dr. Armstrong and the rest of the faculty help you practically integrate them into your singing.
See BodySinging in Action – video of SFYCA Class of 2012
Vocal Technique and Musicianship Workshops
Preparing your voice for a full day of singing requires much more than a warm up. In daily Vocal Technique classes, you will explore the anatomy and physiology of the vocal mechanism, technical aspects of healthy sound production, aural skills, and ear-training. This is a warm up for the brain, the ears, and the vocal cords that will promote the development and expand your knowledge of your personal vocal instrument. Then, enjoy a refreshing approach to aural skills, theory, history, and sight-reading during our innovative Musicianship classes! This fun, active approach to music uses conducting, kinesthetic learning, and even composition and improvisation to help you develop holistic skills as a musician.
Rehearsals
SFYCA Program Director, Dr. Anton Armstrong, SFYCA Associate Director Dr. Therees Hibbard, and OBF Chorus Director Kathy Romey guide you through a rigorous two week rehearsal schedule. Rehearsals are divided between SFYCA showcase concert rehearsals, soloist rehearsals, and rehearsals with the OBF Festival Orchestra and Chorus.
Concerts, Social Activities, and Living at OBF
As part of the SFYCA experience, you will attend major OBF concerts, featuring some of the world’s best choral singers, orchestral players, vocal soloists, and guest artists. Tickets are included with your fee and we make multiple trips each year to watch concerts as a group. We also offer plenty of time to socialize with your new friends in SFYCA and enjoy the amenities that the University of Oregon has to offer. Whether it’s time at the sports complex, leisurely meals, or the extremely popular open mic night, you’ll have a great summer social experience. Males and females reside on different floors, with staff Activity Directors on each floor. Activity Directors are adults who were once SFYCA participants, so they are here to help you through the program while providing supervision and guidance.
Program Fees
The cost to attend SFYCA is $995. Tuition for the SFYCA includes a shared room in Barnhart Hall plus three meals per day, tickets to OBF concerts, all sheet music, downloadable digital practice recordings, and an official SFYCA t-shirt and messenger bag. Individuals are responsible for their own transportation to and from Eugene. We provide transportation from the Eugene airport to OBF for out-of-state students.
Need-based scholarships are available. Don’t let cost prevent you from sending in an application!