The Montreal Summer Choral Academy welcomes everyone! Whether you’re an experienced singer or simply looking to join in the joy of singing together, there’s a place for you here.

Conduct

Spend a week studying choral conducting with Dr. Jean-Sébastien Vallée, Director of Choral Studies at McGill University's Schulich School of Music and Artistic Director of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. You'll have the opportunity to conduct a professional chamber choir composed of Montreal's finest singers in masterclasses and studio sessions throughout the week, culminating in a concert performance. Enjoy valuable podium time, high-quality recordings, and insightful feedback from faculty, colleagues, and singers. When not conducting, participants will sing in the Academy Choir and gain additional hands-on experience by leading warm-ups and sectionals. Applications open October 15th!

Program Highlights

  • Daily Rehearsals: Conduct a professional chamber choir in repertoire of all eras and receive feedback from singers and Dr. Jean-Sébastien Vallée.
  • Final Concert: A public performance at the Schulich School of Music of McGill University.
  • Recordings: Receive recordings of your rehearsal segments and final performance for personal use following the Academy.

Application requirements:

  • Complete the Application Form, which will open on October 15th, including:
    • Roughly 20-minute video of yourself conducting a choir, including both rehearsal and performance footage (conductor-facing camera only)
    • Résumé/CV describing your musical and academic background
    • 200-300 word personal statement describing a meaningful experience you've had as a conductor

Tuition Fees

$500 CAD 

  • Tuition includes participation as a conductor, participation as a singer in the Academy Choir, and an all-access pass to the concerts and workshops as part of the week of the Academy. Processing fees apply.

Questions?

For more information about application and fees, contact Ryan Doyle Valdés (ryan.doyle [at] mcgill.ca (ryan[dot]doyle[at]mcgill[dot]ca)). 

 

Sing in the Academy Choir

The Academy Choir is the flagship chorus of the Montreal Summer Choral Academy, offering participants the chance to rehearse and perform a concert under the direction of Jean-Sébastien Vallée, Director of Choral Studies at McGill University and Artistic Director of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir.

Program Highlights

  • Daily Rehearsals: Focused preparation of Carl Orff's iconic Carmina Burana at the Schulich School of Music.
  • Final Concert: A public performance at the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul in downtown Montreal.
  • Workshops: Attend sessions covering vocal technique and repertoire and observe our daily masterclasses for conductors.
  • Concerts: Get an all-access pass to our opening concert with a professional choir, our mid-week Sing-Along Night, and a concert featuring our student conductors on the podium.
  • Time to Explore: Opportunities to enjoy Montreal’s summer atmosphere between rehearsals.

Who Can Join

Open to singers of all levels who are interested in enhancing their skills and participating in an intensive choral experience. At least one year of singing in a choir is required, and all participants must be over 18 years of age.

How to register

Check back on October 15th for the Academy Choir registration form!

Tuition fees

  • $300 (adults) 
  • $100 (students, 18+) *Student ID required

Tuition includes rehearsals, workshops, entrance to Academy concerts, and performance. Processing fees apply.

Questions?

For more information on registration and fees, contact Ryan Doyle Valdés (ryan.doyle [at] mcgill.ca (ryan[dot]doyle[at]mcgill[dot]ca)).