Center for International Programs

Program Description: Shenandoah Conservatory students (choral, operatic, dance, theatre) present a new multi-disciplinary music-drama designed to amplify and celebrate the musical world, culture and heritage of the Native American spirit as invited guests at the 2022 Venice Biennale Festival.
 
This new work will center around Native American folktales drawing together its rich and unique musical and creative history and its intersection with contemporary classical music and opera. Specifically, it will amalgamate the world of Native American composers who have contributed to operatic and choral repertoire and dramas. With their insight and guidance, our goal is to bring their compositions together into one cohesive whole music-drama (of around 45min), enabling their collected music to give new life to Native American history and storytelling.

This work pushes the boundaries of vocal performance being performed entirely acapella with handheld percussion, and integrates music, theatre, and dance in order to explore the potential of what contemporary American music drama can be. 


Acceptance to this program is by audition only with BOTH Matt Oltman and Ella Marchment. 

Pre-program meetings and rehearsals will start mid August (exact dates to be determined- estimated to be roughly August 15) to continue throughout the semester until departure. Assistance with August housing on rehearsal dates can be offered.

Program Cost: $3,950 This includes round trip airfare from DC area airport to Venice, lodging, some meals (daily breakfast and 4-5 group dinners), local transportation, cultural activities and tours, and 1 SU credit.

Visa: No visa required for US citizens. Other nationalities should verify with the Italian Embassy regarding possible visa requirements. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination and booster is required for participation in GEL.