▶ WATCH THE 2015 SMA MUSIC VIDEOThe Ithaca College Summer Music Academy (SMA)—held at the School of Music from July 12 to August 1—celebrated the conclusion of its fifth successful season this past week.
▶ WATCH THE 2015 SMA MUSIC VIDEO
The Ithaca College Summer Music Academy (SMA)—held at the School of Music from July 12 to August 1—celebrated the conclusion of its fifth successful season this past week.
Joining us from all over the United States and around the world, more than 370 participants took part in the academy’s orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz, and vocal programs. Students also experience two new components to this year’s programming: A composition track and an enhanced performance track.
Participants enjoyed numerous musical and non-musical opportunities, including large and small ensemble rehearsals, master classes, music theory classes, and over 20 elective topics. The high school division culminated in a special prism-style concert in the Athletic and Events Center.
“Our goal for the Summer Music Academy is to provide a transformative summer music experience in a fun, creative, and supportive environment, said Townsend Plant, assistant dean for summer and preparatory programs. “We also hope to provide attendees with an inside look at what life is like as an Ithaca College School of Music student."
Having employed more than 100 counselors, faculty, and staff this year—including over 20 current IC faculty members, 30 School of Music alumni, and more than 25 current IC students—SMA has also employed nine incoming freshmen (who are SMA alumni) in the role of “counselors in training.” A total of 23 SMA alumni will be enrolling this fall as School of Music freshmen.
Christine Gregory, assistant director of music admissions, noted that this fifth year of the SMA yielded a students who has come full circle, progressing from an SMA student at the first academy, to a counselor-in-training, to a current undergrad and SMA counselor.
Commenting on the heart of the academy’s success, Plant said, “We have an amazing team of faculty, staff, and counselors who have all worked tirelessly to give our students the best possible experience."
A highlight of the High School Division, students work together during the first week of the academy to develop a collaborative audiovisual project, which is presented to the families and students at the final performance. This year’s video featured the division in a custom arrangement of “You Can’t Stop The Beat” from the musical Hairspray. Students performed, recorded, and danced to this arrangement all within the first week of the academy.
▶ WATCH THE 2015 SMA MUSIC VIDEO
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20150805163815969