VOCAL ACADEMY

Each student will participate in two (2) hours of individual one-one instruction. During the session, the student works with a vocal coach or teacher, focusing on breath control, vocal placement, and resonance to achieve the power and clarity required for operatic singing. The teacher may also cover repertoire selection, diction in multiple languages (such as Italian, French, or German), and dramatic interpretation to bring the character and emotion of the piece to life.

Each student will participate in six (6) hours of group instruction. Led by a vocal coach or teacher, the session focuses on core elements such as breath control, vocal projection, and diction, while encouraging students to listen and harmonize with one another. Participants typically explore opera scenes, ensembles, and duets, honing their ability to blend voices, maintain pitch, and communicate dramatic intent as a group.

Each student will participate in two (2) hours session. Text and character class focuses on helping performers deeply connect with the written word and the characters they portray in opera, musical theatre, or dramatic works. In this class, students learn to analyze and interpret the text of librettos or scripts, exploring the nuances of language, subtext, and emotion behind each line.

An engaging, educational event where our vocal coaches—works with selected participants in front of an audience. Each participant performs a piece, whether an aria, song, or scene, and receives real-time feedback and personalized instruction from the expert.

Participating in two (2) free public performances held on the banks of the Avon River aboard Stratford Summer Music's MusicBarge offers students a unique and exciting opportunity to showcase their skills. These performances provide valuable real-world experience, allowing students to perform in front of a live audience in a picturesque outdoor setting.

Closing out Stratford Summer Music's 25th Anniversary Summer Season will be a lively "open-mic" style event at The Starlight. This relaxed, celebratory gathering gives students the chance to perform in a casual, supportive setting and mingle with audiences, fellow musicians, and arts lovers. The event provides an informal platform for students to showcase their talents, experiment with new material, and enjoy the camaraderie of the music community. 

INSTRUCTOR

Kimberly Barber has taught voice at Laurier since 2002 and is involved with Opera Laurier, where she shares her knowledge of the performing arts industry with students. She teaches Body Mapping for Musicians and co-authors the MMus C3 program, which fosters collaboration among innovative musicians. As Associate Dean, External Relations, Partnerships, and Graduate Studies, Kimberly builds community partnerships to create opportunities for students. 

With a Bachelor of Music and Opera Diploma from the University of Toronto, Kimberly has performed internationally in cities such as Paris, New York, and Tokyo. She recently performed the lead role in Three Decembers for the Winnipeg Little Opera Company. Kimberly is passionate about mentoring students and helping them grow artistically and personally through various workshops and performance opportunities. 

INSTRUCTOR

Kate is so happy to have joined the Faculty of Music at Laurier this fall as Opera Music Director and Assistant Conductor, and to be working alongside such a talented group of young people. Kate maintains a private studio in Toronto as a Vocal Coach and accompanist and has been a member of the music staff at the University of Toronto’s Opera Division for over twenty years. She has recently conducted and music directed productions for Toronto Operetta Theatre, Opera in Concert, and Summer Opera Lyric Theatre. Other positions have included Music Staff with the Canadian Opera Company, the voice program at the Chautauqua Institute in Chautauqua, New York, and the University of Montreal; as well as Music Director for Essential Opera, Maritime Concert Opera, and Opera by Request. Kate received her Bachelor and Masters degrees in Music from McGill University and studied in England at The Guildhall School of Music & Drama, the Britten-Pears School, and The National Opera Studio.